bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical dimension metrology by through-focus scanning optical microscopy beyond the 22 nm node
Authors: Attota Ravikiran , Bunday Benjamin , Vartanian Victor
Published: June 2013

We present results using simulations and experiments to demonstrate metrological applications of the through-focus scanning optical microscopy (TSOM) down to features at and well below the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors' 22 nm node. The TSOM method shows the ability to detect sub-nanometer, three-dimensional shape variations such as line height, sidewall angle, width, and pitch in fins of fin-shaped field effect transistor structures using conventional optical microscopes. In addition, the method requires targets substantially smaller than the conventional target size. These results provide insight into the applicability of TSOM for economical critical dimension and yield enhancement metrology.
Investigation of the steady engulfment regime in a three-dimensional T-mixer
Authors: Fani Andrea , Camarri Simone , Salvetti Maria Vittoria
Published: June 2013

The steady engulfment regime in a fully three-dimensional micro T-mixer is investigated. This regime is of significant interest for applications since it implies high mixing between the flow streams entering the device. Direct numerical simulations are first used to characterize this regime. In particular, the main vortical structures typical of the engulfment regime and their effects on mixing are investigated. Three-dimensional linear stability analysis is successively applied to the characterization of the instability leading to the engulfment regime. The critical Reynolds number and the global unstable mode are first computed for a configuration characterized by fully-developed inlet velocity conditions. The sensitivity of this instability to a generic modification of the base flow is then investigated, thanks to the computation of the mode adjoint to the direct unstable one. Finally, this kind of analysis is specialized to investigate the effect of a perturbation of the velocity distribution at the inlet of the T-mixer. Sensitivity analysis shows that non-fully developed inlet velocity conditions lead to an increase of the critical Reynolds number. More generally, the sensitivity maps can be used for the design of control strategies aimed at promoting or inhibiting the engulfment. An example is provided for a control based on blowing/suction through the mixer walls.
Intrinsic spin-relaxation induced negative tunnel magnetoresistance in a single-molecule magnet
Authors: Xie Haiqing , Wang Qiang , Xue Hai-Bin , Jiao HuJun , Liang J.-Q.
Published: June 2013

We investigate theoretically the effects of intrinsic spin-relaxation on the spin-dependent transport through a single-molecule magnet (SMM), which is weakly coupled to ferromagnetic leads. The tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) is obtained by means of the rate-equation approach including not only the sequential but also the cotunneling processes. It is shown that the TMR is strongly suppressed by the fast spin-relaxation in the sequential region and can vary from a large positive to slight negative value in the cotunneling region. Moreover, with an external magnetic field along the easy-axis of SMM, a large negative TMR is found when the relaxation strength increases. Finally, in the high bias voltage limit the TMR for the negative bias is slightly larger than its characteristic value of the sequential region; however, it can become negative for the positive bias caused by the fast spin-relaxation.
Spermatogenesis recovery in protein-restricted rats subjected to a normal protein diet after weaning
Authors: Melo Michelle C. , Almeida Fernanda R. C. L. , Caldeira-Brant André L. , Parreira Gleydes G. , Chiarini-Garcia Hélio
Published: June 2013

This study investigated the pre- and postnatal effects of protein restriction (8% vs 20% crude protein) on different parameters of spermatogenesis in adult rat offspring. Body and testis weights as well as the seminiferous tubular diameter were reduced in those animals that received the protein-restricted diet after weaning, although these parameters recovered when a 20% protein diet was offered subsequently. The numbers of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and Leydig cells were reduced in undernourished animals, whilst the Sertoli cell number did not change. Prenatal programming effect was observed only in the spermatogonial or proliferative phase of spermatogenesis. However, the intake of the normal protein diet after weaning brought many of the testicular parameters evaluated back to normal in 70-day-old rats. A significant reduction of the meiotic index, Sertoli cell supporting capacity and spermatogenic efficiency was observed in animals subjected to protein undernutrition throughout their lives. The data presented show that protein restriction impairs the normal development of the testis in different ways, depending on the period during which the restriction was imposed, and the negative effects on spermatogenesis are more severe when undernutrition occurs from conception to adulthood; however, the return to a normal protein diet after weaning recovers the spermatogenic process.
Responses of vegetation to different land-use histories involving grazing and fire in the North-east Patagonian Monte, Argentina
Authors: Peter Guadalupe , Funk Flavia Alejandra , Robles Silvia Susana Torres
Published: June 2013

In arid and semiarid lands around the world, vegetation is distributed in patches within a bare soil matrix. Vegetation in the North-east Patagonian Monte, Argentina is a shrubland steppe, and patches are dominated by shrubs, with grasses, forbs and cryptogams under their canopy. It was hypothesised that grazing increases patchiness; and fires and wind erosion homogenise the distribution of vegetation. It was predicted that there would be: (1) greater cover, specific frequency and richness of shrubs in grazed sites; (2) greater cover, specific frequency and richness of herbs and preferred grasses in ungrazed sites; and (3) a random pattern of distribution in burnt areas. Aerial cover of all perennial species was measured at six sites with different land-use histories: heavily grazed, medium grazed, ungrazed, long exclosure from grazing followed by grazing, burnt and then ungrazed, and burnt and then grazed. Species were grouped into five functional types: shrubs, sub-shrubs, preferred grasses, non-preferred grasses and forbs. The results showed significant differences in the cover of preferred and non-preferred grasses, forbs and total cover with previous grazing but there was no evidence of shrub encroachment. Species frequency and richness decreased especially with increased grazing intensity. The pattern of spatial distribution changed from aggregated in grazed sites to random in ungrazed and burnt sites for all plant functional types. At the population level, the cover of the grass, Poa ligularis, was greatest on ungrazed sites whereas the cover of the shrub, Chuquiraga erinacea, was greatest on burnt sites. It is concluded that, after applying a heterogeneous patchwork of disturbance, such as grazing, or with fire, followed by periods of rest, the plant diversity is increased.
Kangaroo gene mapping and sequencing: insights into mammalian genome evolution
Authors: Graves Jennifer A. Marshall
Published: June 2013

The deep divergence of marsupials and eutherian mammals 160 million years ago provides genetic variation to explore the evolution of DNA sequence, gene arrangement and regulation of gene expression in mammals. Following the pioneering work of Professor Desmond W. Cooper, emerging techniques in cytogenetics and molecular biology have been adapted to characterise the genomes of kangaroos and other marsupials. In particular, genetic and genomic work over four decades has shown that marsupial sex chromosomes differ significantly from the eutherian XY chromosome pair in their size, gene content and activity. These differences can be exploited to deduce how mammalian sex chromosomes, sex determination and epigenetic silencing evolved.
Target inference from collections of genomic intervals
Authors: Krasnitz Alexander , Sun Guoli , Andrews Peter , Wigler Michael
Published: June 2013

Significance

Recent innovations facilitate collecting genome-wide data from organisms, tissues, or individual cells. Analysis of the data commonly produce long lists of genomic intervals whose meaning is context-dependent. For example, an interval may signify a genomic region of cancer-related DNA copy number variation. We propose a method of explaining such data in terms of a much smaller number of fundamental recurrent intervals called “cores.” Cores are useful, first, as a basis for studying subpopulation structure in a given primary tumor or metastasis; and, second, in delineating patterns of copy number aberrations in a given cancer type.
Memory and identity: intergenerational narratives of violence among refugees in Serbia
Authors: Dragojević Mila
Published: June 2013

This article examines the role of the intergenerational memory of the Second World War (WWII) in identity formation and political mobilization. An existing explanation in the ethnic-conflict literature is that strategic political leaders play a crucial role in constructing and mobilizing ethnic identities. However, based on 114 open-ended interviews with individuals born in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia, conducted in Serbia during 2008–2011, nearly a third of the respondents make spontaneous references to WWII in their statements, usually drawing parallels between the cycle of violence in the 1990s and that in the 1940s. The question this article asks, then, is why some respondents make references to WWII spontaneously while others do not. It is argued that intergenerational narratives of past cycles of violence also constitute a process of identity formation, in addition to, or apart from, other processes of identity formation. The respondents mention WWII violence in the context of the 1990s events because they “recognize” elements, such as symbols, discourse or patterns of violence, similar to those in the intergenerational narratives and interpret them as warning signs. Hence, individuals who had previously been exposed to intergenerational narratives may be subsequently more susceptible to political mobilization efforts.
Why has research in face recognition progressed so slowly? The importance of variability
Authors: Mike Burton A.
Published: June 2013

Despite many years of research, there has been surprisingly little progress in our understanding of how faces are identified. Here I argue that there are two contributory factors: (a) Our methods have obscured a critical aspect of the problem, within-person variability; and (b) research has tended to conflate familiar and unfamiliar face processing. Examples of procedures for studying variability are given, and a case is made for studying real faces, of the type people recognize every day. I argue that face recognition (specifically identification) may only be understood by adopting new techniques that acknowledge statistical patterns in the visual environment. As a consequence, some of our current methods will need to be abandoned.
Partially overdetermined problem in some integral equations
Authors: Lv Boqiang , Li Fengquan , Zou Weilin
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we consider the partially overdetermined problem in integral equations as follows:
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="StartLayout 1st Row StartLayout Enlarged left-brace 1st Row 1st Column u left-parenthesis x right-parenthesis equals upper A integral Underscript normal upper Omega Endscripts StartFraction 1 Over StartAbsoluteValue x minus y EndAbsoluteValue Superscript n minus alpha Baseline EndFraction u Superscript p Baseline left-parenthesis y right-parenthesis d y plus upper B comma 2nd Column a m p semicolon x element-of normal upper Omega comma 2nd Row 1st Column u greater-than 0 comma 2nd Column a m p semicolon x element-of normal upper Omega comma 3rd Row 1st Column u equals upper C comma 2nd Column a m p semicolon x element-of normal upper Gamma subset-of-or-equal-to partial-differential normal upper Omega comma EndLayout EndLayout">

{

u
(
x
)
=
A

∫

Ω

1

|

x
−
y

|

n
−
α

u
p

(
y
)
d
y
+
B
,
 
 

a
m
p
;
x
∈
Ω
,

u
>
0
,
 
 

a
m
p
;
x
∈
Ω
,

u
=
C
,
 
 

a
m
p
;
x
∈
Γ
⊆
∂
Ω
,

\begin{align} \begin {cases} u(x)=A \int _{\Omega }\frac {1}{|x-y|^{n-\alpha }}u^p(y)dy+B,~~&x\in \Omega ,\\ u>0, ~~&x\in \Omega , \\ u=C,~~&x\in \Gamma \subseteq \partial \Omega ,\notag \end{cases} \end{align}

where

0
>
α
>
n
,
 
p
>

n

n
−
α

,
 
A
,
 
B
,
 
C

0>\alpha >n, ~p>\frac {n}{n-\alpha }, ~A,~ B,~ C

are positive constants,

Ω
⊂

R
n

 
(
n
≥
2
)

\Omega \subset R^n\ (n\geq 2)

is a bounded domain with

∂
Ω
∈

C
1

\partial \Omega \in C^1

, and

Γ
\Gamma

is a proper open set of

∂
Ω

\partial \Omega

. Under some assumptions on the geometry of

Γ
\Gamma

, we prove that

Ω
\Omega

must be a ball and

u
u

is radially symmetric and monotone decreasing with respect to the radius.
REDItools: high-throughput RNA editing detection made easy
Authors: Picardi Ernesto , Pesole Graziano
Published: June 2013

Summary: The reliable detection of RNA editing sites from massive sequencing data remains challenging and, although several methodologies have been proposed, no computational tools have been released to date. Here, we introduce REDItools a suite of python scripts to perform high-throughput investigation of RNA editing using next-generation sequencing data.

Availability and implementation: REDItools are in python programming language and freely available at http://code.google.com/p/reditools/.

Contact:  ernesto.picardi@uniba.it or graziano.pesole@uniba.it

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
WhichCyp: prediction of cytochromes P450 inhibition
Authors: Rostkowski Michał , Spjuth Ola , Rydberg Patrik
Published: June 2013

Summary: In this work we present WhichCyp, a tool for prediction of which cytochromes P450 isoforms (among 1A2, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6 and 3A4) a given molecule is likely to inhibit. The models are built from experimental high-throughput data using support vector machines and molecular signatures.

Availability: The WhichCyp server is freely available for use on the web at http://drug.ku.dk/whichcyp, where the WhichCyp Java program and source code is also available for download.

Contact:  pry@sund.ku.dk

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
GSATools: analysis of allosteric communication and functional local motions using a structural alphabet
Authors: Pandini Alessandro , Fornili Arianna , Fraternali Franca , Kleinjung Jens
Published: June 2013

Motivation: GSATools is a free software package to analyze conformational ensembles and to detect functional motions in proteins by means of a structural alphabet. The software integrates with the widely used GROMACS simulation package and can generate a range of graphical outputs. Three applications can be supported: (i) investigation of the conformational variability of local structures; (ii) detection of allosteric communication; and (iii) identification of local regions that are critical for global functional motions. These analyses provide insights into the dynamics of proteins and allow for targeted design of functional mutants in theoretical and experimental studies.

Availability: The C source code of the GSATools, along with a set of pre-compiled binaries, is freely available under GNU General Public License from http://mathbio.nimr.mrc.ac.uk/wiki/GSATools.

Contact:  alessandro.pandini@kcl.ac.uk or jkleinj@nimr.mrc.ac.uk

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Development and Evaluation of a TaqMan Real-Time PCR Assay for Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae
Authors: Okubara P. A. , Harrison L. A. , Gatch E. W. , Vandemark G. , Schroeder K. L. , du Toit L. J.
Published: June 2013

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae, causal agent of spinach Fusarium wilt, is an important soilborne pathogen in many areas of the world where spinach is grown. The pathogen is persistent in acid soils of maritime western Oregon and Washington, the only region of the United States suitable for commercial spinach seed production. A TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was developed for rapid identification and quantification of the pathogen, based on sequencing the intergenic spacer (IGS) region of rDNA of isolates of the pathogen. A guanine single-nucleotide polymorphism (G SNP) was detected in the IGS sequences of 36 geographically diverse isolates of F. oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae but not in the sequences of 64 isolates representing other formae speciales and 33 isolates representing other fungal species or genera. The SNP was used to develop a probe for a real-time PCR assay. The real-time PCR assay detected F. oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae at 3–14,056 CFU/g of soil in 82 soil samples collected over 3 years from naturally infested spinach seed production sites in western Washington, although a reliable detection limit of the assay was determined to be 11 CFU/g of soil. A significant (P < 0.05), positive correlation between enumeration of F. oxysporum on Komada's agar and quantification of the pathogen using the TaqMan assay was observed in a comparison of 82 soil samples. Correlations between pathogen DNA levels, Fusarium wilt severity ratings, and spinach biomass were significantly positive for one set of naturally infested soils but not between pathogen DNA levels, wilt incidence ratings, and spinach biomass for other soil samples, suggesting that soilborne pathogen population is not the sole determinant of spinach Fusarium wilt incidence or severity. The presence of the G SNP detected in one isolate of each of F. oxysporum ff. spp. lageneriae, lilii, melongenae, and raphani and reaction of the real-time PCR assay with 16 of 22 nonpathogenic isolates of F. oxysporum associated with spinach plants or soil in which spinach had been grown potentially limits the application of this assay. Nonetheless, because all isolates of F. oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae tested positive with the real-time PCR assay, the assay may provide a valuable means of screening for resistance to Fusarium wilt by quantifying development of the pathogen in spinach plants inoculated with the pathogen.
Effect of Sanitation Treatments on Leaf Litter Density and Leaf Spot Incidence in Integrated and Organic Sour Cherry Orchards
Authors: Holb Imre J.
Published: June 2013

A 3-year study was conducted to determine the effect of five sanitation treatments on leaf litter density (LLD), leaf spot incidence, and percent defoliation on two cultivars (‘Újfehértói fürtös’ and ‘Érdi bőtermő’) in two sour cherry orchards: one managed by integrated pest management principles with conventional fungicides and the other managed organically. The following sanitation treatments were compared: sprays of urea or lime sulfur in autumn, removing fallen leaves after leaf fall, straw mulch cover in late winter, sprays of urea or lime sulfur followed by mulch cover, removing fallen leaves followed by mulch cover, and a nonsanitized control. In both orchards and all years, LLD decreased by 2 to 28% in all treatment plots from early December to mid-May. LLD reduction was two to four times higher in the organic orchard compared with the integrated orchard. All treatments, except the lime sulfur or urea treatment alone, resulted in significant (P < 0.05) reduction of LLD in both the integrated and organic orchards compared with nonsanitized plots. Only leaf removal alone or in combination with mulch significantly (P < 0.05) reduced cherry leaf spot incidence and percent defoliation (by 11 to 70% and 15 to 72%, respectively) compared with nonsanitized plots. The application of these sanitation treatments in orchard management practices is discussed.
Risk Factors, Morbidity, and Treatment of Thrombosis in Children and Young Adults With Active Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Zitomersky Naamah L. , Levine Anne E. , Atkinson Benjamin J. , Harney Kathy M. , Verhave Menno , Bousvaros Athos , Lightdale Jenifer R. , Trenor Cameron C.
Published: June 2013

Objectives:

Pediatric inpatients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are rarely considered for thromboprophylaxis because of concerns about safety and underappreciation of thrombotic risk. We characterized thromboembolism (TE) in children and young adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at a single tertiary care hospital.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of an inpatient billing database for all IBD admissions with colonic involvement and an anticoagulation database for thrombotic complications from 2006 to 2011.

Results:

Of 532 patients admitted with IBD with colonic involvement, 10 (1.9%) had TE (9 venous, 1 arterial), 2 of whom had recurrent thrombosis. Many of the events resulted in considerable morbidity, including 4 cerebrovascular events and 2 pulmonary emboli. Established risk factors in IBD colitis inpatients with TE included: indwelling catheter (4/10), first‐degree family member with TE (2/10), hereditary thrombophilia (3/10), smoking (1/10), oral contraceptive (1/5 females), and thalidomide (1/10). Additionally, most (8/10) patients had acquired thrombophilia, mostly elevation of factor VIII and anticardiolipin antibodies. Patients with IBD and TE received therapeutic anticoagulation without significantly increased bleeding. Thrombus resolution was documented in 7 cases, persistence in 2 cases and recurrence in 2 cases.

Conclusions:

Pediatric inpatients hospitalized with IBD with colonic involvement have increased risk of TE, including complications of pulmonary embolism, recurrence, persistence, and indefinite long‐term anticoagulation. Therapeutic anticoagulation in patients with IBD with active colitis appears safe. We identified both inherited thrombophilias and acquired risk factors in patients with IBD and TE. We presently use risk stratification and recommend prophylactic anticoagulation in high‐risk patients.
Correlations of Plasma Citrulline Levels With Clinical and Endoscopic Score and Blood Markers According to Small Bowel Involvement in Pediatric Crohn Disease
Authors: Lee Eun Hye , Ko Jae Sung , Seo Jeong Kee
Published: June 2013

Objective:

Several studies have indicated that plasma citrulline levels reflect the extent of mucosal injury of the small intestine. This study was performed to determine whether plasma citrulline levels correlate with the disease activity in pediatric patients with Crohn disease (CD).

Methods:

A total of 63 CD and 23 ulcerative colitis (UC) patients were included in this study. Disease severity was assessed by pediatric CD activity index (PCDAI), pediatric UC activity index, simplified endoscopic activity score for CD, C‐reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The correlations among these variables and plasma citrulline levels were evaluated. We performed subgroup analysis whether correlations between plasma citrulline levels and disease activity depend on small bowel involvement in patients with CD.

Results:

The plasma citrulline levels correlated negatively with CRP (r = −0.332, P = 0.008), ESR (r = −0.290, P = 0.022), and PCDAI (r = −0.424, P = 0.001) in patients with CD. The plasma citrulline levels were significantly lower in patients with jejunal involvement than in those without (P = 0.027). In subgroup analysis, patients with CD with jejunal involvement showed significantly negative correlations of plasma citrulline levels with CRP (r = −0.628, P = 0.016) and PCDAI (r = −0.632, P = 0.015); however, patients with CD without jejunal involvement revealed no correlations of plasma citrulline levels with CRP and PCDAI. There were no significant correlations between plasma citrulline levels and simplified endoscopic activity score for CD. There were no significant correlations of plasma citrulline levels with CRP, ESR, and pediatric UC activity index in patients with UC.

Conclusions:

Plasma citrulline levels correlated with disease severity as measured by PCDAI, CRP, and ESR in pediatric patients with CD with jejunal involvement.
Network properties derived from deep sequencing of human B-cell receptor repertoires delineate B-cell populations
Authors: Bashford-Rogers Rachael J.M. , Palser Anne L. , Huntly Brian J. , Rance Richard , Vassiliou George S. , Follows George A. , Kellam Paul
Published: June 2013

The adaptive immune response selectively expands B- and T-cell clones following antigen recognition by B- and T-cell receptors (BCR and TCR), respectively. Next-generation sequencing is a powerful tool for dissecting the BCR and TCR populations at high resolution, but robust computational analyses are required to interpret such sequencing. Here, we develop a novel computational approach for BCR repertoire analysis using established next-generation sequencing methods coupled with network construction and population analysis. BCR sequences organize into networks based on sequence diversity, with differences in network connectivity clearly distinguishing between diverse repertoires of healthy individuals and clonally expanded repertoires from individuals with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and other clonal blood disorders. Network population measures defined by the Gini Index and cluster sizes quantify the BCR clonality status and are robust to sampling and sequencing depths. BCR network analysis therefore allows the direct and quantifiable comparison of BCR repertoires between samples and intra-individual population changes between temporal or spatially separated samples and over the course of therapy.
(E)-4-[(2-Carbamoylhydrazinylidene)methyl]-3-hydroxy-5-hydroxymethyl-2-methylpyridin-1-ium nitrate
Authors: Novaković Sladjana B. , Bogdanović Goran A. , Leovac Vukadin M. , Rodić Marko V. , Vojinović-Ješić Ljiljana S. , Ivković Sonja
Published: June 2013

The title compound, C9H13N4O3+·NO3−, is the first structurally characterized Schiff base derived from semicarbazide and pyridoxal. Unusually for an unsubstituted semicarbazone, the compound adopts asynconformation, in which the carbonyl O atom is in acisdisposition relative to the azomethine N atom. This arrangement is supported by a pair of hydrogen bonds between the organic cation and the nitrate anion. The cation is essentially planar, with only a hydroxymethyl O atom deviating significantly from the mean plane of the remaining atoms (r.m.s. deviation of the remaining non-H atoms = 0.01 Å). The molecules are linked into flat layers by N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds. O—H...O hydrogen bonds involving the hydroxymethyl group as a donor interconnect the layers into a three-dimensional structure.
(E)-Ethyl 3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoate: a natural polymorph extracted fromAristotelia chilensis(Maqui)
Authors: Paz Cristian , Moreno Yanko , Becerra José , Silva Mario , Burgos Viviana , Freire Eleonora , Baggio Ricardo
Published: June 2013

The natural title compound, C11H12O4, extracted from the Chilean native treeAristotelia chilensis(Maqui), is a polymorph of the syntheticEform reported by Xia, Hu & Rao [Acta Cryst.(2004), E60, o913–o914]. Both rotational conformers are identical from a metrical point of view, and only differ in the orientation of the 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl ring with respect to the rest of the molecule, which leads to completely different crystal structure arrangements and packing efficiencies. The reasons behind both reside in the different hydrogen-bonding interactions.
Tm2.22Co6Sn20and TmLi2Co6Sn20stannides as disordered derivatives of the Cr23C6structure type
Authors: Stetskiv Andrij , Rozdzynska-Kielbik Beata , Pavlyuk Volodymyr
Published: June 2013

A new ternary dithulium hexacobalt icosastannide, Tm2.22Co6Sn20, and a new quaternary thulium dilithium hexacobalt icosastannide, TmLi2Co6Sn20, crystallize as disordered variants of the binary cubic Cr23C6structure type (cF116). 48 Sn atoms occupy sites ofm.m2 symmetry, 32 Sn atoms sites of .3msymmetry, 24 Co atoms sites of 4m.msymmetry, eight Li (or Tm in the case of the ternary phase) atoms sites of \overline{4} 3m symmetry and four Tm atoms sites of m \overline{3} m symmetry. The environment of one Tm atom is an 18-vertex polyhedron and that of the second Tm (or Li) atom is a 16-vertex polyhedron. Tetragonal antiprismatic coordination is observed for the Co atoms. Two Sn atoms are enclosed in a heavily deformed bicapped hexagonal prism and a monocapped hexagonal prism, respectively, and the environment of the third Sn atom is a 12-vertex polyhedron. The electronic structures of both title compounds were calculated using the tight-binding linear muffin-tin orbital method in the atomic spheres approximation (TB–LMTO–ASA). Metallic bonding is dominant in these compounds, but the presence of Sn—Sn covalent dumbbells is also observed.
Hydrogen-bonded dimers in 3-amino-4-anilino-1H-isochromen-1-one and a hydrogen-bonded sheet in 3-amino-4-[methyl(phenyl)amino]-1H-isochromen-1-one
Authors: Vicentes Daniel E. , Rodríguez Ricaurte , Cobo Justo , Glidewell Christopher
Published: June 2013

The molecules of 3-amino-4-anilino-1H-isochromen-1-one, C15H12N2O2, (I), and 3-amino-4-[methyl(phenyl)amino]-1H-isochromen-1-one, C16H14N2O2, (II), adopt very similar conformations, with the substituted amino group PhNR, whereR= H in (I) andR= Me in (II), almost orthogonal to the adjacent heterocyclic ring. The molecules of (I) are linked into cyclic centrosymmetric dimers by pairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, while those of (II) are linked into complex sheets by a combination of one three-centre N—H...(O)2hydrogen bond, one two-centre C—H...O hydrogen bond and two C—H...π(arene) hydrogen bonds.
A solid-state oxidation of 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidinium 4-methylbenzenesulfinate to 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidinium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate
Authors: Kaupang Åsmund , Görbitz Carl Henrik , Bonge-Hansen Tore
Published: June 2013

The organic acid–base complex 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidinium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate, C5H14N3+·C7H7O3S−, was obtained from the corresponding 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidinium 4-methylbenzenesulfinate complex, C5H14N3+·C7H7O2S−, by solid-state oxidation in air. Comparison of the two crystal structures reveals similar packing arrangements in the monoclinic space groupP21/c, with centrosymmetric 2:2 tetramers being connected by four strong N—H...O=S hydrogen bonds between the imine N atoms of two 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidinium bases and the O atoms of two acid molecules.
Use of games in training: interactive experiences that engage us to learn
Authors: Ballance Chanin
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to introduce the benefits of game‐based learning in the corporate business environment. Corporations and other organizations around the world are recognizing that games promote cognitive reasoning and information retention. These days, games are much more advanced, immersive and engaging.

Design/methodology/approach

VIA Learning works with global Fortune 500 companies. The article is based on customer needs and technical expertise of VIA Learning instructional designers.

Findings

Game‐based learning is a viable option for global businesses.

Originality/value

The article introduces the benefits of game‐based learning in the corporate business environment.
Participation in decision making: a case study of job satisfaction and commitment (part one)
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Louis Damien , Makarenko Dmitry , Saluja Jasleena , Meleshko Olga , Kulbashian Sevag
Published: June 2013

Purpose

When employees believe in and trust their management it motivates and encourages employees' participation in decision making which improves employees' efforts, benefits their job satisfaction and commitment to work. All of these factors, in turn, contribute to a trustworthy manager‐employee relationship. While the literature supports this premise, there is little empirical evidence that patterns of causal inference in the relationship are clearly understood. This three part empirical case aims to focus on studying the relations between employee trust in management in a Quebec manufacturing company and their job satisfaction, intention to quit, level of employee participation in decision making and their commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical case will test five hypothesis regarding seven variables influencing the level of employee engagement and commitment, employee turnover, employee participation in decision making processes and job satisfaction.

Findings

The article finds that employee trust in management is an important determinant of their willingness to participate in decision making. Insufficient employee participation in decision making in turn leads to low level of employee job satisfaction and employee commitment. Lack of employee commitment and engagement affects the employee's intention to quit.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size of the office workers was not sufficient in order to have statistically significant results of the correlations between the variables for the production department employees, and for the office/administrative staff. This could have helped to determine the level of internal communication specifically, but also the level of all of the other variables for the two different groups of employees.

Practical implications

This article offers useful insights for management in relation to strengthening interpersonal trust within an organization and introducing employee empowerment practices.

Social implications

Owing to lack of trust in management, there will be high employee turnover. This in its turn will have a negative effect on both the performance of management and employees’ welfare, job satisfaction and commitment.

Originality/value

The findings provide empirical evidence to support theoretical models that link employee trust in management, participation in decision making, job satisfaction, commitment, turnover intentions and highlight the impact of these factors on organizational performance.
The strategic value and transaction effectiveness of HRD
Authors: Alagaraja Meera
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to outline the role of human resource development (HRD) in Lean strategy as the context for assessing interactions with internal customers. Identifying the perceived gap in role expectations and fulfillment emphasizes important priorities and offers tangible measures for assessing HRD contributions. A focus on business strategies such as Lean enhances HRD's strategic value. Central to the study is the proposition that HRD value and effectiveness revolves around the perceptions of key internal stakeholders in the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores internal customer perceptions of HRD in a select organization using a qualitative case study method. Key stakeholders responsible for Lean implementation were identified as internal customers. Further, the focus on Lean helped to narrow the scope of the investigation. Interactions between key stakeholders and HRD professionals during Lean implementation were assessed.

Findings

The findings from the study suggest that effectively performing transactional responsibilities (reducing employee relations incidences, errors in processing routines) not only strengthen transactions effectiveness, but also enhance HRD's capacity for strategic involvement in the organization. Involvement in Lean strategy was considered critical as it highlights opportunities for increased strategic involvement for HRD. A new finding from the study suggests that a focus on HRD's strategic value also enhances transaction effectiveness. Further, ignoring, excluding or undervaluing HRD role and involvement in business strategy adversely affects organizational effectiveness.

Practical implications

Communication of role expectations between organizational group members (HRD and internal customers) would reduce the level of disagreement, reduce potential conflict and enhance the value and effectiveness of HRD. In order to pursue this line of thinking in practice, the study recommends HRD practitioners to become intentional about the selection and development of potential business partners in the organization.

Originality/value

The study suggests that HRD's transactional responsibilities influence customers' perceptions of HRD's capacity for a strategic role in the organization. Effectively performing transactional responsibilities not only enhances HRD effectiveness but also offers opportunities for increasing HRD's added value to the organization. A new finding from the study also suggests that a focus on the strategic value enhances HRD effectiveness in organizations.
Developing a global mindset: learning of global leaders
Authors: Cseh Maria , Davis Elizabeth B. , Khilji Shaista E.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this qualitative research study was to explore the requirements of leading in a global environment as perceived by the leaders participating in this study as well as the way these leaders learn and develop their global mindset.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology informed by social constructivism included in‐depth interviews with 24 global leaders that were analyzed using constant comparative and content analysis. The findings presented in this paper are part of a larger study on the meaning of global leadership and mindset. The framework for this research was guided by the Global Leadership Mindset (GLM) model developed by the authors and their colleagues.

Findings

Transcendence, plasticity of the mind (flexibility, thinking differently, rebalancing, openness, having multiple frames of reference), mindfulness, curiosity, and humility emerged as requirements of leading in the global environment. The global leaders' learning journeys were characterized by informal learning during everyday work and life experiences including learning from mistakes, and from and with others. Self‐reflection leading to the “self‐awareness of otherness” as well as reflection with others were at the core of learning and developing the global mindset of these leaders.

Practical implications

The findings of this study highlight the role of human resource development (HRD) professionals in facilitating self‐reflection and reflection with others – core processes for the learning and development of global mindset. HRD professionals are called to address both the “you don't know what you don't know” phenomenon by offering cross‐cultural training programs and experiential learning opportunities and the “you know what you don't know” daily challenges of global leaders and their team members. Initiatives that will incorporate self‐reflective and reflective processes will allow the participants to make meaning of their learning.

Originality/value

This is an initial attempt to explore the development of a global leadership mindset as informed by the GLM model with a focus on its learning component. The findings of this study could inform leaders preparing to work in global environments and HRD professionals called to develop learning environments and a learning culture in global workplaces.
Managing brands and customer engagement in online brand communities
Authors: Wirtz Jochen , den Ambtman Anouk , Bloemer Josée , Horváth Csilla , Ramaseshan B. , van de Klundert Joris , Gurhan Canli Zeynep , Kandampully Jay
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Given the dramatic technology‐led changes that continue to take place in the marketplace, researchers and practitioners alike are keen to understand the emergence and implications of online brand communities (OBCs). The purpose of this paper is to explore OBCs from both consumer and company perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The study provides a synthesis of the extant OBC literature to further our understanding of OBCs, and also puts forth future priorities for OBC research.

Findings

A conceptual framework is provided that extends our understanding of OBCs and consumer engagement. Four key OBC dimensions (brand orientation, internet‐use, funding and governance) are identified and three antecedents (brand‐related, social and functional) are proposed of consumer‐OBC engagement.

Originality/value

This study is the first to explore key dimensions of OBCs, and the differing but related perspectives of the consumers and organizations involved.
Strategies for impact: enabling e‐learning project initiatives
Authors: Csete Josephine , Evans Jennifer
Published: June 2013

Purpose

The paper aims to focus on institutional initiatives to embed e‐learning in a university in Hong Kong, from 2006‐12, through large‐scale funding of 43 e‐learning projects. It outlines the guiding principles behind the university's e‐learning development and discusses the significance of various procedures and practices in project planning, development and implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This longitudinal study combines historical perspectives with process description, analysis and personal observations. Its approach is based in action research. The authors are engaged both as participants/learning designers in particular projects and in management, administration and evaluation of the projects at the institutional level.

Findings

It is proposed that e‐learning projects need careful planning, scaffolding and managing. Also that piloting, evaluation and formal reporting as well as the availability of professional, technical and instructional design support are significant factors in success.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is preliminary work. Further findings and analysis are expected at the final completion of all projects. A wealth of data is available in accumulated project documentation and reports, including individual project evaluations with quantitative and qualitative data.

Originality/value

Given the commonly acknowledged difficulties in helping e‐learning projects continue to completion and actually be implemented, this study can offer strategies that may be widely applied in different contexts. The scale and timeframe of the study and the amount of funding available in one institution are unusual so emerging implications are potentially significant.
Complex educational design: a course design model based on complexity
Authors: Freire Maximina Maria
Published: June 2013

Purpose

This article aims at presenting a conceptual framework which, theoretically grounded on complexity, provides the basis to conceive of online language courses that intend to respond to the needs of students and society.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is introduced by reflections on distance education and on the paradigmatic view underlying a large component of language courses in Brazil. From these considerations, it is reasoned that the complex paradigm offers a foundation to conceive a unique design concept. The complex educational design is then described in its constructs and features. To conclude, reflections and implications of this original, conceptual model are taken into account.

Findings

An online language course design – although aiming at schematizing a series of learning situations and defining target teaching contents – needs to contemplate unpredictability and instability which prevent it from having a pre‐established fixed design. Instead, it should be based on an open syllabus, structured according to learning situations that, suggested/selected by students, respond to their interests, and through which linguistic items will be introduced and discussed.

Originality/value

This paper presents a conceptual framework which, theoretically grounded on complexity, provides the basis to conceive of online language courses that are responsive to the needs of students and society. While the complex paradigm is emerging and winning followers and complex thinkers over, we have the continuing education segment to open up trial areas and spread out the paradigmatic novelty. The conceptual framework presented and theoretically articulated is now open to be operationalized and interpreted in its potentiality.
Understanding the needs of vulnerable prisoners: the role of social and emotional wellbeing
Authors: Maxwell Yvonne , Day Andrew , Casey Sharon
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) is a term used to refer to the state of an individual's overall wellbeing. This review aims to consider the importance of understanding and assessing SEWB in prisoner populations, and identify potentially important differences between groups of prisoners, including those who identify as from minority cultural backgrounds (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in Australia), protective custody prisoners, remand prisoners, prisoners identified with an intellectual disability, and prisoners with an acquired brain injury.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a general review of the published literature, with a specific focus on work conducted with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia.

Findings

Eight domains of SEWB are identified across which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners, along with those in protection units, remandees, and prisoners with intellectual disabilities or acquired brain injuries are likely to experience particularly low levels of functioning. Few programs have been developed to address these needs, although attending to low levels of SEWB has the potential to make a positive contribution to prisoner health, prison management, and offender rehabilitation.

Originality/value

Relatively little literature has considered this topic previously and, as a result, the paper is necessarily descriptive. Nonetheless, issues of SEWB appear to warrant further consideration, particularly in relation to those prisoners who identify with minority cultural groups.
HIV‐related knowledge and attitudes among Indonesian prison officers
Authors: Hinduan Zahrotur R. , Suherman Harry , Lucas Pinxten W.J. , Alisjahbana Bachti , Hospers Harm J.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Prison officers have a vital role in running a secure and healthy living environment for the inmates. The purpose of this article is to examine the relationship between HIV/AIDS‐related knowledge and attitude towards inmates living with HIV among the officers in an Indonesian narcotics prison.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 93 officers from a narcotics prison in Bandung, Indonesia voluntarily participated in this cross‐sectional study by completing a self‐reported questionnaire. A Prior focus group discussion was also held among selected participants.

Findings

Statistical data analyses indicate that all domains of HIV/AIDS‐related knowledge, i.e. knowledge of HIV‐transmission, general HIV/AIDS knowledge and knowledge of HIV‐prevention, have substantial positive correlations with the prison officers' attitude towards inmates living with HIV. These results show that the more knowledgeable the officers are, the less likely they are to respond in an unfavourable manner to inmates living with HIV and vice versa.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the limited participants involved in this study, the knowledge gaps that are identified in this study should be the starting point for the development of educational interventions for prison officers.

Practical implications

Sufficient educational programs and the latest materials need to be made available within the prison.

Social implications

Commitment from prison authorities as well as a proper policy are also needed.

Originality/value

This study helped prison authorities to identify areas for knowledge development of the officers. Hopefully the positive attitude towards inmates living with HIV will be developed.