bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrodynamic persistence within very dilute two-dimensional suspensions of squirmers
Authors: Clarke R. J. , Finn M. D. , MacDonald M.
Published: May 2014

In this study, we consider suspensions of swimming microorganisms in situations where we might expect the promotion of two-dimensional flow, such as within thin fluid films. Given that two-dimensional, inertialess flows are notoriously long-ranged (although not afflicted by Stokes paradox in the case of self-motile bodies), this raises interesting questions around the care which must be taken with the semi-dilute assumption in such situations. Adopting the prototype squirmer as a model of a swimming microorganisms of the type previously considered, we find that although the flowfield decays algebraically with the characteristic separation distance between microorganisms, there remains a finite interaction between the squirmers even at asymptotically large distances. This finding is further borne out by asymptotic analysis, which confirms that the limiting form of the far-field interaction depends solely upon the relative orientation between the microorganisms. Those which swim in the same general direction are seen to experience very large lateral displacements (many times the size of the displacements experienced owing to interactions between less well-aligned swimmers). This clearly has potential implications for very dilute suspensions in which squirmers become broadly aligned in their swimming direction (e.g. during chemotaxis). We show that hydrodynamically enhanced cell spreading, previously reported for denser suspensions, can persist even at extreme dilutions. Moreover, we demonstrate that this induced spreading can continue in the presence of potentially decohering Brownian effects.
A cross-culture, cross-gender comparison of perspective taking mechanisms
Authors: Kessler Klaus , Cao Liyu , O'Shea Kieran J. , Wang Hongfang
Published: May 2014

Being able to judge another person's visuo-spatial perspective is an essential social skill, hence we investigated the generalizability of the involved mechanisms across cultures and genders. Developmental, cross-species, and our own previous research suggest that two different forms of perspective taking can be distinguished, which are subserved by two distinct mechanisms. The simpler form relies on inferring another's line-of-sight, whereas the more complex form depends on embodied transformation into the other's orientation in form of a simulated body rotation. Our current results suggest that, in principle, the same basic mechanisms are employed by males and females in both, East-Asian (EA; Chinese) and Western culture. However, we also confirmed the hypothesis that Westerners show an egocentric bias, whereas EAs reveal an other-oriented bias. Furthermore, Westerners were slower overall than EAs and showed stronger gender differences in speed and depth of embodied processing. Our findings substantiate differences and communalities in social cognition mechanisms across genders and two cultures and suggest that cultural evolution or transmission should take gender as a modulating variable into account.
Density of mushroom body synaptic complexes limits intraspecies brain miniaturization in highly polymorphic leaf-cutting ant workers
Authors: Groh Claudia , Kelber Christina , Grübel Kornelia , Rössler Wolfgang
Published: May 2014

Hymenoptera possess voluminous mushroom bodies (MBs), brain centres associated with sensory integration, learning and memory. The mushroom body input region (calyx) is organized in distinct synaptic complexes (microglomeruli, MG) that can be quantified to analyse body size-related phenotypic plasticity of synaptic microcircuits in these small brains. Leaf-cutting ant workers (Atta vollenweideri) exhibit an enormous size polymorphism, which makes them outstanding to investigate neuronal adaptations underlying division of labour and brain miniaturization. We particularly asked how size-related division of labour in polymorphic workers is reflected in volume and total numbers of MG in olfactory calyx subregions. Whole brains of mini, media and large workers were immunolabelled with anti-synapsin antibodies, and mushroom body volumes as well as densities and absolute numbers of MG were determined by confocal imaging and three-dimensional analyses. The total brain volume and absolute volumes of olfactory mushroom body subdivisions were positively correlated with head widths, but mini workers had significantly larger MB to total brain ratios. Interestingly, the density of olfactory MG was remarkably independent from worker size. Consequently, absolute numbers of olfactory MG still were approximately three times higher in large compared with mini workers. The results show that the maximum packing density of synaptic microcircuits may represent a species-specific limit to brain miniaturization.
Streptomyces
graminifolii sp. nov., isolated from bamboo (Sasa borealis) litter
Authors: Lee Hyo-Jin , Whang Kyung-Sook
Published: May 2014

The taxonomic position of strain JL-22T, isolated from litter of a bamboo (Sasa borealis) forest, was determined using a polyphasic approach. The organism had phenotypic and morphological properties consistent with it being a member of the genus

Streptomyces

. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that strain JL-22T was closely related to

Streptomyces prunicolor

NRRL B-12281T (99.2 %),

Streptomyces galilaeus

JCM 4757T (99.0 %) and

Streptomyces chartreusis

NBRC 12753T (99.0 %). However, the results of DNA–DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests showed that strain JL-22T could be differentiated from its closest phylogenetic relatives both genotypically and phenotypically. Based on phenotypic and genotypic data, strain JL-22T represents a novel species of the genus

Streptomyces

, for which the name Streptomyces
graminifolii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is JL-22T ( = KACC 17180T = NBRC 109806T).
Lipomyces chichibuensis sp. nov., isolated in Japan, and reidentification of the type strains of Lipomyces kononenkoae and Lipomyces spencermartinsiae
Authors: Yamazaki Atsushi , Kawasaki Hiroko
Published: May 2014

We isolated two strains of a novel Lipomyces species from soil collected in Chichibu forest, Saitama prefecture, Japan. Based on their morphological and biochemical characteristics, along with multilocus sequence typing using the D1/D2 domain of the large-subunit (LSU) rRNA gene, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and the translation elongation factor 1 alpha gene (EF-1α), the two strains were shown to represent a novel species of the genus Lipomyces, described as Lipomyces chichibuensis sp. nov. (type strain CB08-2T = NBRC 109582T = CBS 12929T; Mycobank no. MB808164). In addition, we reidentified the type strains of Lipomyces kononenkoae and Lipomyces spencermartinsiae maintained in culture collections based on phenotypic characters and/or DNA–DNA hybridization to ensure correct future identification of species of the genus Lipomyces. The correct type strains of L. kononenkoae and L. spencermartinsiae are NBRC 107661T ( = CBS 2514T) and NBRC 10376T ( = CBS 5608T), respectively.
Sphingorhabdus
arenilitoris sp. nov., isolated from a coastal sand, and reclassification of Sphingopyxis rigui as Sphingorhabdus
rigui comb. nov. and Sphingopyxis wooponensis as Sphingorhabdus
wooponensis comb. nov.
Authors: Park Ja-Min , Park Sooyeon , Jung Yong-Taek , Kim Hyangmi , Lee Jung-Sook , Yoon Jung-Hoon
Published: May 2014

A Gram-stain-negative, strictly aerobic, non-flagellated and rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated GJR-7T, was isolated from coastal sand of the South Sea of South Korea. Strain GJR-7T grew optimally at 30 °C, at pH 7.0–7.5 and without NaCl. Phylogenetic trees based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain GJR-7T clustered with the type strains of

Sphingopyxis wooponensis

,

Sphingopyxis rigui

and

Sphingorhabdus planktonica

, with which it exhibited 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity values of 96.0–96.3 %. Sequence similarities to the type strains of other recognized species were less than 95.5 %. Strain GJR-7T contained Q-10 as the predominant ubiquinone and C18 : 1ω7c, 11-methyl C18 : 1ω7c and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c and/or C16 : 1ω6c) or C14 : 0 2-OH. The major polar lipids were sphingoglycolipid, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and one unidentified glycolipid. The DNA G+C content of strain GJR-7T was 55.5 mol%. Differential phenotypic properties, together with phylogenetic distinctiveness, revealed that strain GJR-7T is separated from the type strains of

Sphingopyxis wooponensis

,

Sphingopyxis rigui

and

Sphingorhabdus planktonica

. On the basis of the data presented, strain GJR-7T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus

Sphingorhabdus

, for which the name Sphingorhabdus arenilitoris sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is GJR-7T ( = KCTC 42051T = CECT 8531T). It is also proposed that

Sphingopyxis wooponensis

and

Sphingopyxis rigui

should be reclassified as members of the genus

Sphingorhabdus

.
The Arabidopsis ZINC FINGER PROTEIN3 Interferes with Abscisic Acid and Light Signaling in Seed Germination and Plant Development
Authors: Joseph Mary Prathiba , Papdi Csaba , Kozma-Bognár László , Nagy István , López-Carbonell Marta , Rigó Gábor , Koncz Csaba , Szabados László
Published: May 2014

Seed germination is controlled by environmental signals, including light and endogenous phytohormones. Abscisic acid (ABA) inhibits, whereas gibberellin promotes, germination and early seedling development, respectively. Here, we report that ZFP3, a nuclear C2H2 zinc finger protein, acts as a negative regulator of ABA suppression of seed germination in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Accordingly, regulated overexpression of ZFP3 and the closely related ZFP1, ZFP4, ZFP6, and ZFP7 zinc finger factors confers ABA insensitivity to seed germination, while the zfp3 zfp4 double mutant displays enhanced ABA susceptibility. Reduced expression of several ABA-induced genes, such as RESPONSIVE TO ABSCISIC ACID18 and transcription factor ABSCISIC ACID-INSENSITIVE4 (ABI4), in ZFP3 overexpression seedlings suggests that ZFP3 negatively regulates ABA signaling. Analysis of ZFP3 overexpression plants revealed multiple phenotypic alterations, such as semidwarf growth habit, defects in fertility, and enhanced sensitivity of hypocotyl elongation to red but not to far-red or blue light. Analysis of genetic interactions with phytochrome and abi mutants indicates that ZFP3 enhances red light signaling by photoreceptors other than phytochrome A and additively increases ABA insensitivity conferred by the abi2, abi4, and abi5 mutations. These data support the conclusion that ZFP3 and the related ZFP subfamily of zinc finger factors regulate light and ABA responses during germination and early seedling development.
Dichlorido(4,4′-di-tert-butyl-2,2′-bipyridine-κ2N,N′)palladium(II) dimethyl sulfoxide monosolvate monohydrate
Authors: Gutiérrez-Márquez Ricardo A. , Crisóstomo-Lucas Carmela , Reyes-Martínez Reyna , Hernández-Ortega Simón , Morales-Morales David
Published: May 2014

The title compound, [PdCl2(C18H24N2)]·(CH3)2SO·H2O, the PdIIion is in a distorted square-planar geometry. The Pd—N bond distances are 2.022 (2) and 2.027 (2) Å, the Pd—Cl bond distances are 2.2880 (7) and 2.2833 (7) Å, and the ligand bite angle is 80.07 (9)°. The dimethyl sulfoxide and water molecules form linear chains along [100] by O—H...O and O—H...S hydrogen bonds, generating eight- and 12-membered rings. C—H...Cl interactions link the chains, forming a three-dimensional arrangement. In addition, the 4,4-di-tert-butyl-2,2′-bipyridine ligand exhibits π–π stacking interactions [centroid–centroid distances = 3.8741 (15) and 3.8353 (15) Å]. The DMSO solvent is disordered and was refined with an occupancy ratio of 0.866 (3):0.134 (3).
[μ-Butane-1,4-diylbis(diphenylphosphane)-κ2P:P′]bis{[butane-1,4-diylbis(diphenylphosphane)-κ2P,P′]copper(I)} bis(hexafluoridophosphate) diethyl ether disolvate
Authors: Nishikawa Michihiro , Akiyama Asumi , Tsubomura Taro
Published: May 2014

In the centrosymmetric dinuclear copper(I) complex cation of the title compound, [Cu2(C28H28P2)3](PF6)2·2C4H10O, the CuIatom is bonded to three P atoms of two butane-1,4-diylbis(diphenylphosphane) (dppb) ligands with a triangular coordination geometry. One of these P atoms belongs to a bridging dppb ligand [Cu—P = 2.2381 (5) Å] and two belong to a chelating dppb ligand [Cu—P = 2.2450 (6) and 2.2628 (5) Å]. The bridging dppb ligand lies on an inversion centre. In the crystal, the cation and the PF6−anion are linked by C—H...F interactions, forming a tape along [110]. The cation and the diethyl ether solvent molecule are also linked by a C—H...O interaction.
3-Chloro-2-methylanilinium chloride monohydrate
Authors: Maroua Arbi , Lamia Khederi , Ahmed Hamdi , Mohamed Rzaigui
Published: May 2014

In the title hydrated salt, C7H9ClN+·Cl−·H2O, the organic cations, anions and water molecules are connected by N—H...Cl, N—H...O and O—H...Cl hydrogen bonds. These interactions lead to the formation of layers parallel to theacplane.
A new polymorph ofN-(2-{N′-[(1E)-2-hydroxybenzylidene]hydrazinecarbonyl}phenyl)benzamide
Authors: Mohamed Shaaban K. , Mague Joel T. , Akkurt Mehmet , Potgieter Herman , Albayati Mustafa R.
Published: May 2014

The title compound, C21H17N3O3, is a new polymorph of an already published structure [Shashidharet al.(2006).Acta Cryst.E62, o4473–o4475]. The previously reported structure crystallizes in the monoclinic space groupC2/c, whereas the structure reported here is in the tetragonal space groupI41/a. The bond lengths and angles are similar in both structures. The molecule adopts an extended conformationviaintramolecular N—H...O and O—H...N hydrogen bonds; the terminal phenyl ring and the hydroxylphenyl ring are twisted with respect to the central benzene ring by 44.43 (7) and 21.99 (8)°, respectively. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...O hydrogen bonds, weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds and weak C—H...π interactions into a three-dimensional supramolecular network.
(Z)-1-[(2E)-3,4-Diphenyl-2,3-dihydro-1,3-thiazol-2-ylidene]-2-[1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethylidene]hydrazinium bromide including an unknown solvate
Authors: Mague Joel T. , Mohamed Shaaban K. , Akkurt Mehmet , Hassan Alaa A. , Albayati Mustafa R.
Published: May 2014

In the title compound, C23H20N3OS+·Br−, the dihydrothiazole ring (r.m.s. deviation = 0.015 Å) is twisted with respect to each of the C- and N-bound phenyl rings and the hydroxybenzene ring, making dihedral angles of 76.0 (2), 71.2 (2) and 9.8 (2)°, respectively. In the crystal, inversion-related molecules are linked by association of the bromide ions with the cationsviaN—H...Br and O—H...Br hydrogen-bonding interactions. These molecules run in channels parallel to theaaxis through face-to-face π–π stacking interactions between the hydroxybenzene rings [centroid–centroid distances = 3.785 (3) Å] which, in turn, are connected into layers parallel to (110) by weak C—H...π interactions. A small region of electron density well removed from the main molecule and appearing disordered over a center of symmetry was removed withPLATONSQUEEZE [Spek (2009).Acta Cryst.D65, 148–15] following unsuccessful attempts to model it as plausible solvent molecule. The nature of the solvent was not known and hence, this is not taken into account when calculatingMrand related data.
N-(1-Allyl-3-chloro-4-ethoxy-1H-indazol-5-yl)-4-methylbenzenesulfonamide
Authors: Chicha Hakima , Rakib El Mostapha , Bouissane Latifa , Saadi Mohamed , El Ammari Lahcen
Published: May 2014

In the title compound, C19H20ClN3O3S, the benzene ring is inclined to the indazole ring system by 51.23 (8)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by pairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers which stack in columns parallel to [011]. The atoms in the allyl group are disordered over two sets of sites with an occupancy ratio of 0.624 (8):0.376 (8).
Kirkpatrick–Baez mirrors to focus hard X-rays in two dimensions as fabricated, tested and installed at the Advanced Photon Source
Authors: Kujala Naresh , Marathe Shashidhara , Shu Deming , Shi Bing , Qian Jun , Maxey Evan , Finney Lydia , Macrander Albert , Assoufid Lahsen
Published: May 2014

The micro-focusing performance for hard X-rays of a fixed-geometry elliptical Kirkpatrick–Baez (K–B) mirrors assembly fabricated, tested and finally implemented at the micro-probe beamline 8-BM of the Advanced Photon Source is reported. Testing of the K–B mirror system was performed at the optics and detector test beamline 1-BM. K–B mirrors of length 80 mm and 60 mm were fabricated by profile coating with Pt metal to produce focal lengths of 250 mm and 155 mm for 3 mrad incident angle. For the critical angle of Pt, a broad bandwidth of energies up to 20 keV applies. The classical K–B sequential mirror geometry was used, and mirrors were mounted on micro-translation stages. The beam intensity profiles were measured by differentiating the curves of intensity data measured using a wire-scanning method. A beam size of 1.3 µm (V) and 1.2 µm (H) was measured with monochromatic X-rays of 18 keV at 1-BM. After installation at 8-BM the measured focus met the design requirements. In this paper the fabrication and metrology of the K–B mirrors are reported, as well as the focusing performances of the full mirrors-plus-mount set-up at both beamlines.
Folded conformations due to arene interactions in dissymmetric and symmetric butylidene-linker models based on pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine, purine and 7-deazapurine
Authors: Avasthi Kamlakar , Shukla Lakshmi , Kant Ruchir , Ravikumar Krishnan
Published: May 2014

The butylidene-linker models 1-[2-(2,6-dimethylsulfanyl-9H-purin-9-yl)-2-methylidenepropyl]-4,6-bis(methylsulfanyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine, C18H20N8S4, (XI), 7,7′-(2-methylidenepropane-1,3-diyl)bis[3-methyl-2-methylsulfanyl-3H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(7H)-one], C20H22N6O2S2, (XIV), and 7-[2-(4,6-dimethylsulfanyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-1-yl)-2-methylidenepropyl]-3-methyl-2-methylsulfanyl-3H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(7H)-one, C19H21N7OS3, (XV), show folded conformations in solution, as shown by1H NMR analysis. This folding carries over to the crystalline state. Intramolecular π–π interactions are observed in all three compounds, but only (XIV) shows additional intramolecular C—H...π interactions in the solid state. As far as can be established, this is the first report incorporating the pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine nucleus for such a study. In addition to the π–π interactions, the crystal structures are also stabilized by other weak intermolecular C—H...S/N/O and/or S...N/S interactions.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of proximal thread matrix protein 1 (PTMP1) fromMytilus galloprovincialis
Authors: Suhre Michael H. , Scheibel Thomas , Steegborn Clemens , Gertz Melanie
Published: May 2014

In order to deal with the dynamic ocean environment, blue mussels adhere to various surfacesviatheir collagenous byssal threads. PTMP1 (proximal thread matrix protein 1) is one identified matrix protein residing in the proximal thread and is capable of collagen binding. Its sequence comprises two von Willebrand factor type A-like repeats. In order to characterize the structure and domain architecture of PTMP1, recombinant protein was crystallized by vapour diffusion. The obtained crystals diffracted to 1.95 Å resolution and belonged to space groupP21, with unit-cell parametersa= 62.0,b= 62.3,c= 122.6 Å, β = 102.2°. The Matthews coefficient suggested the presence of two monomers in the asymmetric unit and 48.3% solvent content.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of AntE, a crotonyl-CoA carboxylase/reductase fromStreptomycessp. NRRL 2288
Authors: Zhang Lihan , Chen Jing , Mori Takahiro , Yan Yan , Liu Wen , Abe Ikuro
Published: May 2014

AntE fromStreptomycessp. NRRL 2288 is a crotonyl-CoA carboxylase/reductase that catalyzes the reductive carboxylation of various α,β-unsaturated acyl-CoAs to provide the building block at the C7 position for antimycin A biosynthesis. Recombinant AntE expressed inEscherichia coliwas crystallized by the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. The crystals belonged to space groupI222 orI212121, with unit-cell parametersa= 76.4,b= 96.7,c= 129.6 Å, α = β = γ = 90.0°. A diffraction data set was collected at the KEK Photon Factory to 2.29 Å resolution.
Expression, purification and preliminary crystallographic analysis ofMycobacterium tuberculosisCysQ, a phosphatase involved in sulfur metabolism
Authors: Erickson Anna I. , Sarsam Reta D. , Fisher Andrew J.
Published: May 2014

CysQ is part of the sulfur-activation pathway that dephosphorylates 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-monophosphate (PAP) to regenerate adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP) and free phosphate. PAP is the product of sulfate-transfer reactions from sulfotransferases that use the universal sulfate donor 3′-phosphoadenosine 5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS). In some organisms PAP is also the product of PAPS reductases that reduce sulfate from PAPS to sulfite. CysQ fromMycobacterium tuberculosis, which plays an important role in the biosynthesis of sulfated glycoconjugates, was successfully purified and crystallized in 24% PEG 1500, 20% glycerol. X-ray diffraction data were collected to 1.7 Å resolution using a synchrotron-radiation source. Crystals grew in the orthorhombic space groupP212121, with unit-cell parametersa= 40.3,b= 57.9,c= 101.7 Å and with one monomer per asymmetric unit.
Characterization, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of the Uba5 fragment necessary for high-efficiency activation of Ufm1
Authors: Xie Shutao
Published: May 2014

Uba5 is the smallest ubiquitin-like molecule-activating enzyme and contains an adenylation domain and a C-terminal region. This enzyme only exists in multicellular organisms. The mechanism through which the enzyme recognizes and activates ubiquitin-fold modifier 1 (Ufm1) remains unknown. In this study, Uba5 adenylation domains with different C-terminal region lengths were cloned, expressed and purified. The results of anin vitrotruncation assay suggest that Uba5 residues 57–363 comprise the minimal fragment required for the high-efficiency activation of Ufm1. Crystallization of Uba5 residues 57–363 was performed at 277 K using PEG 3350 as the precipitant, and crystals optimized by microseeding diffracted to 2.95 Å resolution, with unit-cell parametersa=b= 97.66,c= 144.83 Å, α = β = 90, γ = 120°. There is one molecule in the asymmetric unit; the Matthews coefficient and the solvent content were calculated to be 2.93 Å3 Da−1and 58.1%, respectively.
Complex assembly, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of the bovine CD8αα–BoLA-2*02201 complex
Authors: Wang Zhenbao , Chen Rong , Tariq Mansoor , Jiang Bo , Chen Zhaosan , Xia Chun
Published: May 2014

In order to clarify the structural characteristics of the bovine MHC class I molecule (BoLA-I) complexed with CD8αα (CD8αα–BoLA-I), bovine CD8αα, BoLA-I (BoLA-2*02201) and β2m were expressed and purified, and were then assembled with a peptide derived fromFoot-and-mouth disease virus(FMDV-VP1YY9) and crystallized. The crystal diffracted to 1.7 Å resolution and belonged to space groupP21, with unit-cell parametersa= 53.9,b= 103.8,c= 61.8 Å, α = γ = 90, β = 96°. The asymmetric unit contained one complex, with a Matthews coefficient of 2.41 Å3 Da−1and a solvent content of 48.9%. The rotation-functionZ-score and translation-functionZ-score for molecular replacement were 3.4 and 8.9, respectively. In addition, SDS–PAGE analysis of CD8αα–BoLA-I crystals showed three bands corresponding to the molecular weights of BoLA-I heavy chain, β2m and CD8α. The structure of the CD8αα–BoLA-I complex should be helpful in obtaining insight into the interaction between bovine CD8αα and MHC class I molecules. Structure determination of BoLA-2*02201–FMDV-VP1YY9will be useful in the design of vaccines for foot-and-mouth disease.
The elements of parametrical regulation theory for computable general equilibrium models
Authors: Ashimov Abdykappar , Sultanov Bahyt , Adilov Zheksenbek , Borovskiy Yuriy , Borovskiy Nikolay , Ashimov Askar
Published: May 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present some results of the development of parametrical regulation theory elements for computable general equilibrium models (CGE models), taking into consideration their peculiarities.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical results have been obtained by means of applying geometrical methods for variational problems and methods of the theory of discrete dynamic systems. These results have been used for solving concrete practical problems.

Findings

The authors proved a statement on the existence of solution for variational calculus problem on the choice of the optimal laws of parametrical regulation within the given finite set of algorithms for discrete dynamic systems. A statement has been proved on sufficient conditions for the existence of an extremal's bifurcation point of variational calculus problem on the choice of the optimum laws of parametrical regulation within the given finite set of algorithms for discrete dynamic systems. Optimal laws of parametrical regulation (on the level of one and two parameters) of economic system evolution on the basis of the examined mathematical model have been defined. The bifurcation line was constructed for the given area of uncontrolled parameter values.

Practical implications

The research results can be applied for the choice and realization of an effective state budget and tax policy.

Originality/value

The paper elaborates the elements of parametrical regulation theory of economic system development on the basis of CGE models and shows the effectiveness of parametrical regulation theory application on the example of one CGE model.
Research and Evaluation in the Field of Primary Prevention: A Problem Area?
Authors: Uhl Alfred
Published: May 2014

Confusion over definitions, and particularly between everyday and scientific meanings, are a problem for all those working in the health prevention field. So are methodological shortcomings common in research in this area. Drawing on work done in the EC‐funded COST‐A6 project: evaluation of primary prevention in the field of illicit drugs, this paper sorts out some muddles and proposes some solutions.
The ‘Health Promoting University’ as a Framework for Promoting Positive Mental Well‐Being: A Discourse on Theory and Practice
Authors: Dooris Mark
Published: May 2014

The University of Central Lancashire's ‘Health Promoting University’ initiative has adopted a ‘settings‐based’ approach to health promotion, aimed at embedding within the organisation an understanding of and commitment to holistic health and to development of its healthpromoting potential. Action to promote mental well‐being is one of the initiative's priority foci, overseen by a multidisciplinary inter‐agency working group. Experience to date suggests that the university is an important setting for the protection, promotion and maintenance of mental well‐being. It also suggests that the Health Promoting University offers a robust theoretical framework that can enable the practical development and implementation of a holistic, comprehensive and integrative approach to promoting mental well‐being. This paper provides an overview of the Health Promoting University initiative, describes work carried out on mental well‐being and explores the challenges and opportunities involved in seeking to use the Health Promoting University framework to promote mental well‐being.
Are Mental Health Promotion Strategies the Answer?
Authors: Stansfield Jude
Published: May 2014

This article suggests some dilemmas in producing local mental health promotion strategies, as experienced by a mental health promotion specialist in England. It argues that, because of the misconceptions and misunderstandings associated with mental health and mental health promotion (MHP), some groundwork is needed to communicate a common and clear understanding. The author explains how she has communicated MHP among organisations in her locality. This includes exploring definitions of mental health and its relationship to mental illness, the rationale and effectiveness of promoting mental health and the use of a framework to plan or assess mental health promotion.
Multi‐agency Work in Practice: The Evaluation of a Primary Care‐based Mental Health Promotion Project
Authors: Watson Hazel
Published: May 2014

This article reports the evaluation of the Choices Project, an initiative which was developed to address health inequalities and was piloted in a medical centre in an area of multiple deprivation. The article reports an evaluation of the pilot. The Project was found to have achieved its aims of addressing the mental, social and emotional health needs of clients living in a deprived area, and facilitating a multi‐agency approach to primary care health promotion. In addition to running a consultation clinic, the Project workers set up advice services, such as a welfare benefits and debt counselling service, and provided information about local resources. The results of the evaluation demonstrated the approach to be valued by the staff of the medical centre and effective for a significant number of clients who presented with a variety of problems which had serious consequences for health, but which were not caused by problems traditionally viewed as medical.
Perceived Versus Actual Susceptibility to Normative Influence in the Presence of Defaulting
Landlords
Authors: Seiler Michael J. , Harrison David M.
Published: May 2014

Using an instant response device within the context of a controlled experiment, we find that people’s self‐assessment of susceptibility to normative influence (SNI) differs substantially from the actual, or true, degree to which they are influenced by the actions of others. Actual SNI, a subconscious reaction to the behavior of those around us, can be altered when participants (falsely) believe their peers differ in their willingness to sign a new lease under various rental reduction incentives when their landlord has defaulted on his mortgage. The results are insensitive to eight alternative measures of actual SNI. This study supports the behavioral finance literature relating to herding in that we show people are very much willing to follow the lead of their peers, even in situations where information gain is not the likely derived benefit. Instead, people appear to herd in our study for social reasons.
Plurality within contemporary organizations
Authors: E. Khilji Shaista , F. Murphy Edward , A. Greenwood Regina , G. Mujtaba Bahaudin
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to expand the burgeoning research, which provides evidence relating to the influence of religion upon work-related values.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors employed a survey methodology to collect data across seven countries and six religions.

Findings

– The study provides evidence of differences as well as similarities in the way people belonging to different religions rank personal values. Thus, on the one hand, the authors can argue that religion helps shape our behavior and attitudes in the workplace, whilst at the same time, however, accepting the converging influence of globalization and/or the universality of some values that they include in their analysis. This finding leads the authors to focus upon a complex pattern of value variations and similarities across religions.

Originality/value

– Overall, the findings provide a glimpse into what the paper interprets as (just one dimension of) plurality within contemporary organizations to support the paradox perspective, popularized by Lewis and Smith and Lewis, who contend that organizations embed multiple tensions and dilemmas in an ongoing cyclical process. Hence the paper argues that the similarities and differences across religious affiliations are not “either/or” choices but dualities that must be dynamically balanced in order to simultaneously meet multiple employee needs. The paper concludes that managers and employees need to articulate and embrace paradoxes related to religion, in order to create an awareness of the influence of religion that leads to being inclusive.
A computational method for evaluating the damage in a solder joint of an electronic package subjected to thermal loads
Authors: Johansson Jonas , Belov Ilja , Johnson Erland , Leisner Peter
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to introduce a novel computational method to evaluate damage accumulation in a solder joint of an electronic package, when exposed to operating temperature environment. A procedure to implement the method is suggested, and a discussion of the method and its possible applications is provided in the paper.

Design/methodology/approach

– Methodologically, interpolated response surfaces based on specially designed finite element (FE) simulation runs, are employed to compute a damage metric at regular time intervals of an operating temperature profile. The developed method has been evaluated on a finite-element model of a lead-free PBGA256 package, and accumulated creep strain energy density has been chosen as damage metric.

Findings

– The method has proven to be two orders of magnitude more computationally efficient compared to FE simulation. A general agreement within 3 percent has been found between the results predicted with the new method, and FE simulations when tested on a number of temperature profiles from an avionic application. The solder joint temperature ranges between +25 and +75°C.

Practical implications

– The method can be implemented as part of reliability assessment of electronic packages in the design phase.

Originality/value

– The method enables increased accuracy in thermal fatigue life prediction of solder joints. Combined with other failure mechanisms, it may contribute to the accuracy of reliability assessment of electronic packages.
Comparison of dermatoscopic diagnostic algorithms based on calculation: The ABCD rule of dermatoscopy, the seven‐point checklist, the three‐point checklist and the CASH algorithm in dermatoscopic evaluation of melanocytic lesions
Authors: Unlu Ezgi , Akay Bengu N. , Erdem Cengizhan
Published: May 2014

Dermatoscopic analysis of melanocytic lesions using the CASH algorithm has rarely been described in the literature. The purpose of this study was to compare the sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy rates of the ABCD rule of dermatoscopy, the seven‐point checklist, the three‐point checklist, and the CASH algorithm in the diagnosis and dermatoscopic evaluation of melanocytic lesions on the hairy skin. One hundred and fifteen melanocytic lesions of 115 patients were examined retrospectively using dermatoscopic images and compared with the histopathologic diagnosis. Four dermatoscopic algorithms were carried out for all lesions. The ABCD rule of dermatoscopy showed sensitivity of 91.6%, specificity of 60.4%, and diagnostic accuracy of 66.9%. The seven‐point checklist showed sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of 87.5, 65.9, and 70.4%, respectively; the three‐point checklist 79.1, 62.6, 66%; and the CASH algorithm 91.6, 64.8, and 70.4%, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first study that compares the sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of the ABCD rule of dermatoscopy, the three‐point checklist, the seven‐point checklist, and the CASH algorithm for the diagnosis of melanocytic lesions on the hairy skin. In our study, the ABCD rule of dermatoscopy and the CASH algorithm showed the highest sensitivity for the diagnosis of melanoma.
Coexistence and relative abundance in plant communities are determined by feedbacks when the scale of feedback and dispersal is local
Authors: Mack Keenan M. L. , Bever James D.
Published: May 2014

Negative plant–soil feedback occurs when the presence of an individual of a particular species at a particular site decreases the relative success of individuals of the same species compared with those other species at that site. This effect favours heterospecifics thereby facilitating coexistence and maintaining diversity. Empirical work has demonstrated that the average strengths of these feedbacks correlate with the relative abundance of species within a community, suggesting that feedbacks are an important driver of plant community composition. Understanding what factors contribute to the generation of this relationship is necessary for diagnosing the dynamic forces that maintain diversity in plant communities.

We used a spatially explicit, individual‐based computer simulation to test the effects of dispersal distance, the size of feedback neighbourhoods, the strength of pairwise feedbacks and community wide variation of feedbacks, community richness, as well as life‐history differences on the dependence of relative abundance on strength of feedback.

We found a positive dependence of relative abundance of a species on its average feedback for local scale dispersal and feedback. However, we found that the strength of this dependence decreased as either the spatial scale of dispersal and/or the spatial scale of feedback increased. We also found that for spatially local (i.e. relatively small) scale interaction and dispersal, as the mean strength of feedbacks in the community becomes less negative, the greater the increase in abundance produced by a comparable increase in species‐specific average feedback. We found that life‐history differences such as mortality rate did not generate a pattern with abundance, nor did they affect the relationship between abundance and average feedback.

Synthesis. Our results support the claim that empirical observations of a positive correlation between relative abundance and strength of average feedback serve as evidence that local scale negative feedbacks play a prominent role in structuring plant communities. We also identify that this relationship depends upon local scale plant dispersal and feedback which generates clumping and magnifies the negative feedbacks.
Reflections on the challenges of understanding racial, cultural and sexual differences in couple relationship research
Authors: Gabb Jacqui , Singh Reenee
Published: May 2014

In the field of systemic psychotherapy there has been much recent interest in the areas of culture and reflexivity, and in working with couples. In this article we reflect on the process of conducting research in these areas. Drawing on findings from a large, national, empirical mixed‐methods study on long‐term relationships, we use two examples from the data to illustrate the complexity of researching across racial, cultural and sexual differences, in terms of research design and sampling, fieldwork and research practice, and making sense of multidimensional data. We point to findings that suggest that notions of coupledom are culturally constructed and thus challenge straightforward ideas of the procreative, sexually active couple dyad, separate from intergenerational extended families. The clinical significance of the findings for both lesbian, gay, bisexual or queer and culturally diverse couples and families are discussed.

Practitioner points

Cultural or racial matching is not a sufficient condition for engagement and empathy with couples and families.

Critical reflexivity about similarity and difference is essential in cross‐cultural systemic practice.

‘The couple’ and its distance from the extended family may be defined differently in different cultures.

One research tool used in this project, the emotion map, appears to have utility in clinical practice with couples and families.
Analysis for the mechanism between the small cell lung cancer and non‐small cell lung cancer combing the miRNA and mRNA expression profiles
Authors: Zhang Weisan , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Mingpeng , Zhang Yun , Li Fengtan , Lei Ping
Published: May 2014

Background

We investigated the relationship between small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) based on micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA) and messenger (m)RNA expression profiles.

Methods

Utilizing the differentially expressed mRNAs and the targeting miRNAs, the mRNA‐miRNA network for the two cancers was constructed. By integrating the miRNA expression profile, drug, and drug targets, miRNA‐drug target‐drug networks were established and the mechanisms in drug therapy efficacy were compared between SCLC and NSCLC.

Results

Drug targets of different expressed miRNAs of SCLC are mainly located in the organelle, act in the electron carrier activity, and consist of the synapse; while drug targets of NSCLC are the membrane‐enclosed lumen, mainly distributed in the extracellular region and synapse, and function in the binding. Drug targets of miRNA expressed commonly in the two cancers are involved in the reproduction multi‐organism process. In SCLC, the miR‐16 in the miRNA‐drug target‐drug network is significant and follows the result of the mRNA‐miRNA network. The pigmentation and rhythmic process of SCLC is different from NSCLC, while the process of cellular component biogenesis and cellular component organization are important for the occurrence of NSCLC. miR‐16 in the miRNA‐mRNA‐drug network of SCLC is significant and we acquired 11 potential drugs, such as dexamethasone and budesonide. The miR‐124 for NSCLC is important in the network and 17 potential drugs were screened, including dexamethasone and budesonide.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that miR‐16 and miR‐124 might be novel diagnostic and prognostics markers for SCLC and NSCLC, respectively.
Overview of fundamental study of pazopanib in cancer
Authors: Zhao Hong‐Lin , Yang Fan , Huang Xin , Zhou Qing‐Hua
Published: May 2014

Angiogenesis is an indispensible process for tumor growth and metastasis. Anti‐angiogenesis based therapy is one of the most promising treatments for inhibiting cancer progression. Through the exploration of inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)‐2, deemed as the major angiogenesis pathway, pazopanib was found as a small molecular pan‐VEGFR and pan‐platelet‐derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) inhibitor, with suitable pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic parameters to be an oral drug. In an vitro study, pazopanib exerted anti‐tumor effect through mechanisms including the Raf‐MAPK/ERK (MEK)‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) pathway, and directly targeted on v‐raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (B‐raf) as well. It inhibited the proliferation of cell lines, such as DU‐145 and HRC‐45 in hepatocellular carcinoma, through mechanisms like “cell cycle arrest.” In vivo xenograft studies and phase I/II clinical trials revealed a series of plasma cytokine and angiogenic factors, such as interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐12, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and soluble VEGFR2, which have significant association with clinical curative effect. Pazopanib has been shown to be effective in solid tumors and some hematological malignancies. Future studies should focus on the exploration of biomarkers to screen sensitive patients and concomitant or metronomic dosage with other kinds of medicines.
Confirmation of insecticide resistance in Cimex lectularius Linnaeus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) in Australia
Authors: Lilly David G , Zalucki Myron P , Orton Christopher J , Russell Richard C , Webb Cameron E , Doggett Stephen L
Published: May 2014

Insecticide resistance in the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius Linnaeus has been suspected in Australia with anecdotal reports of poor product performance. To investigate this possibility, LD50 values were determined via topical application of technical grade permethrin, deltamethrin, bendiocarb, pirimiphos‐methyl and imidacloprid serially diluted in acetone to a suspected resistant field‐collected strain and a susceptible laboratory strain. All compounds tested against the susceptible strain were efficacious. However, for the field strain, only pirimiphos‐methyl and imidacloprid showed high levels of activity. Resistance was confirmed in the field‐collected strain to the pyrethroids and bendiocarb, but not to pirimiphos‐methyl or imidacloprid. Resistance factors (‘resistant’ LD50/susceptible LD50) for each compound were: permethrin ≈ 1.235 million, deltamethrin ≈ 370 000, bendiocarb ≈ 250, pirimiphos‐methyl = 2.6, imidacloprid = 2.6. Bendiocarb, permethrin and deltamethrin all failed to return greater than 60% mortality at the maximum dose of 100 μg/μL. This research has significant operational implications for bed bug control and the registration process of new products in Australia.
Electoral Manipulation as Bureaucratic Control
Authors: Gehlbach Scott , Simpser Alberto
Published: May 2014

Bureaucratic compliance is often crucial for political survival, yet eliciting that compliance in weakly institutionalized environments requires that political principals convince agents that their hold on power is secure. We provide a formal model to show that electoral manipulation can help to solve this agency problem. By influencing beliefs about a ruler's hold on power, manipulation can encourage a bureaucrat to work on behalf of the ruler when he would not otherwise do so. This result holds under various common technologies of electoral manipulation. Manipulation is more likely when the bureaucrat is dependent on the ruler for his career and when the probability is high that even generally unsupportive citizens would reward bureaucratic effort. The relationship between the ruler's expected popularity and the likelihood of manipulation, in turn, depends on the technology of manipulation.
Efficacy of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the supine position with manual displacement of the uterus vs lateral tilt using a firm wedge: a manikin study
Authors: Butcher M. , Ip J. , Bushby D. , Yentis S. M.
Published: May 2014

Prevention of aortocaval compression is essential for effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation in late pregnancy. This can be achieved by either lateral maternal tilt or lateral uterine displacement. Results from a previous manikin study show that a firm foam‐rubber wedge allowed successful chest compressions whilst providing stable and reliable lateral tilt. However, it did not investigate resuscitation in the supine position with manual uterine displacement. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of chest compressions in a manikin in the supine position vs lateral tilt using a foam‐rubber wedge, both on the floor and on a typical patient bed. Overall, we found that compressions were easier to perform in the supine position (p = 0.007 (bed) and 0.048 (floor)), and with greater stability in the supine position on the floor (p = 0.011). The effectiveness of chest compressions was similar in both the supine/uterine displacement and the lateral tilt positions, suggesting that either method may be suitable for CPR.
Fetal scalp blood sampling during labor: an appraisal of the physiological basis and scientific evidence
Authors: Chandraharan Edwin , Wiberg Nana
Published: May 2014

Fetal cardiotocography is characterized by low specificity; therefore, in an attempt to ensure fetal well‐being, fetal scalp blood sampling has been recommended by most obstetric societies in the case of a non‐reassuring cardiotocography. The scientific agreement on the evidence for using fetal scalp blood sampling to decrease the rate of operative delivery for fetal distress is ambiguous. Based on the same studies, a Cochrane review states that fetal scalp blood sampling increases the rate of instrumental delivery while decreasing neonatal acidosis, whereas the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence guideline considers that fetal scalp blood sampling decreases instrumental delivery without differences in other outcome variables. The fetal scalp is supplied by vessels outside the skull below the level of the cranial vault, which is likely to be compressed during contractions. The self‐regulated redistribution of oxygenated blood from peripheral to central organs causes peripheral ischemia, thus theoretically bringing into question the scalp capillary bed as representative of the central circulation.