bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A perylene bisimide derivative with pyrene and cholesterol as modifying structures: synthesis and fluorescence behavior
Authors: Wang Gang , Wang Weina , Miao Rong , Shang Congdi , He Meixia , Peng Haonan , He Gang , Fang Yu
Published: March 2016

Intramolecular singlet–singlet excitation energy transfer from pyrene to perylene bisimide via Dexter mechanism and aggregate emission of perylene bisimide.
Nearly atomic precise gold nanoclusters on nickel-based layered double hydroxides for extraordinarily efficient aerobic oxidation of alcohols
Authors: Wang Shuai , Yin Shuangtao , Chen Gaowen , Li Lun , Zhang Hui
Published: March 2016

Nearly atomic precise Au25/NixAl-LDH catalysts obtainedviaadsorption of Au25Capt18onto predispersed NixAl-LDH following proper calcination show extraordinary alcohol oxidation property due to ultrafine Au cluster, ordered LDH layer and strong Au25–LDH synergy.
Anisotropic lanthanide-based nano-clusters for imaging applications
Authors: Yang Xiaoping , Wang Shiqing , King Tyler L. , Kerr Christopher J. , Blanchet Clement , Svergun Dmitri , Pal Robert , Beeby Andrew , Vadivelu Jamuna , Brown Katherine A. , Jones Richard A. , Zhang Lijie , Huang Shaoming
Published: March 2016

We have developed a new class of lanthanide nano-clusters that self-assemble using flexible Schiff base ligands. Cd–Ln and Ni–Ln clusters, [Ln8Cd24(L1)12(OAc)39Cl7(OH)2] (Ln = Nd, Eu), [Eu8Cd24(L1)12(OAc)44], [Ln8Cd24(L2)12(OAc)44] (Ln = Nd, Yb, Sm) and [Nd2Ni4(L3)2(acac)6(NO3)2(OH)2], were constructed using different types of flexible Schiff base ligands. These molecular nano-clusters exhibit anisotropic architectures that differ considerably depending upon the presence of Cd (nano-drum) or Ni (square-like nano-cluster). Structural characterization of the self-assembled particles has been undertaken using crystallography, transmission electron microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering. Comparison of the metric dimensions of the nano-drums shows a consistency of size using these techniques, suggesting that these molecules may share similar structural features in both solid and solution states. Photophysical properties were studied by excitation of the ligand-centered absorption bands in the solid state and in solution, and using confocal microscopy of microspheres loaded with the compounds. The emissive properties of these compounds vary depending upon the combination of lanthanide and Cd or Ni present in these clusters. The results provide new insights into the construction of novel high-nuclearity nano-clusters and offer a promising foundation for the development of new functional nanomaterials.
SBP2 plays an important role in the virulence changes of different artificial mutants of Streptococcus suis
Authors: Yu Yanfei , Qian Yunyun , Du Dechao , Xu Chenyang , Dai Chen , Li Quan , Liu Hanze , Shao Jing , Wu Zongfu , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2016

Comparative proteomics analysis using the proteomes of the two mutants with different virulence found a promising putative virulence factor, SBP2, which can bind fibronectin and laminin.
Insights into the degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenol in aqueous solution by α-MnO2 nanowire activated persulfate: catalytic performance and kinetic modeling
Authors: Zhao Yan , Zhao Yongsheng , Zhou Rui , Mao Yan , Tang Wen , Ren Hejun
Published: March 2016

α-MnO2 nanowires were synthesized through a hydrothermal method. Sulfate and hydroxyl radicals were produced in α-MnO2-activated persulfate system to degrade 2,4-dichlorophenol.
Preparation and dielectric properties of polymer composites incorporated with polydopamine@AgNPs core–satellite particles
Authors: Zhang Liang , Gao Ranran , Hu Penghao , Dang Zhi-Min
Published: March 2016

Polydopamine@AgNPs (PDA@AgNPs) core–satellite particles were fabricated by self-polymerization of dopamine and in situ reduction of Ag+ on the as-formed PDA surface.
Pd cocatalyst on Sm-doped BiFeO3nanoparticles: synergetic effect of a Pd cocatalyst and samarium doping on photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Sen , Chen Da , Niu Feng , Zhang Ning , Qin Laishun , Huang Yuexiang
Published: March 2016

In this work, novel Pd cocatalyst-loaded and Sm-doped BiFeO3composite photocatalysts were successfully prepared, and for the first time the synergetic effect of Pd cocatalyst and Sm doping on the photocatalytic activity of BiFeO3was investigated.
Molecular mobility in cellulose and paper
Authors: Kuttich Björn , Grefe Ann-Kathrin , Kröling Henri , Schabel Samuel , Stühn Bernd
Published: March 2016

We study the dielectric relaxation in paper of different density and in microcrystalline cellulose in a broad temperature range. Quantitatively changes induced by confinement and orientation due to the processing into cellulose fibres are found.
An unusual one-donor-two-acceptor interaction in a pair of covalently bridged naphthalenediimide dimers
Authors: Sao Soumik , Samanta Bibek R. , Chaudhuri Debangshu
Published: March 2016

An unusual donor–acceptor (D–A) state is reported in a pair of regioisomeric xylylene-bridged naphthalenediimide (NDI) dimers.
Stable and magnetically reusable nanoporous magnetite micro/nanospheres for rapid extraction of carcinogenic contaminants from water
Authors: Pawar Rajendra C. , Park Tae Joon , Choi Da-Hyun , Jeon Kwang-won , Ahn Sung Hoon , Lee Caroline S.
Published: March 2016

Schematic shows the overall experimental details of hydrothermal process and formation of porous structures with magnetic separability test.
All electrochemical fabrication of MoS2/graphene counter electrodes for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Li Shengli , Min Huihua , Xu Feng , Tong Ling , Chen Jing , Zhu Chongyang , Sun Litao
Published: March 2016

Exploring inexpensive, high-efficiency counter electrodes (CEs) that rival the traditional platinum (Pt) CEs for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is a great challenge.
Thiophene-S,S-dioxidized indophenine (IDTO) based donor–acceptor polymers for n-channel organic thin film transistors
Authors: Deng Yunfeng , Quinn Jesse , Sun Bin , He Yinghui , Ellard Jackson , Li Yuning
Published: March 2016

Two donor–acceptor (D–A) conjugated polymers,PIDTOBTandPIDTOBTz, based on thiophene-S,S-dioxidized indophenine (IDTO) as the acceptor building block are synthesized for solution processed organic thin-film transistors.
Novel polyester diol obtained from PET waste and its application in the synthesis of polyurethane and carbon nanotube-based composites: swelling behavior and characteristic properties
Authors: Shamsi Ramin , Mir Mohamad Sadeghi Gity
Published: March 2016

Novel PUs and PU/CNTs were prepared from PET bottle waste and were characterized by a wide range of characterization methods.
Cathodic voltage-dependent composition, microstructure and corrosion resistance of plasma electrolytic oxidation coatings formed on Zr-4 alloy
Authors: Wang Yu , Tang Hui , Wang Rui , Tan Yongqiang , Zhang Haibin , Peng Shuming
Published: March 2016

We innovatively regulated the content of t-ZrO2 and m-ZrO2 in the plasma electrolytic oxidation coatings by adjusting the cathodic voltage.
Polymer nanopillar array with Au nanoparticle inlays as a flexible and transparent SERS substrate
Authors: Zhao Wenning , Liu Xiaoguang , Xu Yebin , Wang Shuangbao , Sun Tangyou , Liu Sisi , Wu Xinghui , Xu Zhimou
Published: March 2016

A polymer nanopillar array with Au nanoparticle inlays is fabricated via a nanoimprinting method for use as a flexible and transparent SERS substrate.
WO3 nanoflowers with excellent pseudo-capacitive performance and the capacitance contribution analysis
Authors: Qiu Meijia , Sun Peng , Shen Liuxue , Wang Kun , Song Shuqin , Yu Xiang , Tan Shaozao , Zhao Chuanxi , Mai Wenjie
Published: March 2016

WO3 nanoflower based negative electrodes demonstrate excellent balance between areal and gravimetric specific capacitances.
A ‘one pot’ gel combustion strategy towards Ti3+ self-doped ‘black’ anatase TiO2−x solar photocatalyst
Authors: Ullattil Sanjay Gopal , Periyat Pradeepan
Published: March 2016

The first one pot gel combustion synthetic strategy towards ‘black TiO2−x’ using Ti butoxide, diethylene glycol and water as the only precursors.
A facile color-tuning strategy for constructing a library of Ir(iii) complexes with fine-tuned phosphorescence from bluish green to red using a synergetic substituent effect of –OCH3 and –CN at only the C-ring of C^N ligand
Authors: Jiao Yan , Li Ming , Wang Ning , Lu Tao , Zhou Liang , Huang Yan , Lu Zhiyun , Luo Daibing , Pu Xuemei
Published: March 2016

–OCH3 and –CN will show a favorable synergetic substituent effect on the color-tuning direction when they are grafted at the meta- and para-sites of the C-ring of the C^N ligand.
The Five Systems of Dysphagia: MCI to the AD Spectrum of Disorders
Authors: Winchester Jeanna , Winchester Carol G.
Published: March 2016

In order to swallow safely and effectively, there are five bodily systems that must work in coordination: Muscular, Respiratory, Neurological, Cognitive, and Gastrointestinal. Previously, these systems were established as the Five Systems of Dysphagia (5SysDys). Additionally, there exists an array of diseases/disorders that are linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease, and the current perspective proposes that these diseases/disorders can be referred to as the Alzheimer's Spectrum of Disorders (AD Spectrum). The current perspective proposes that the breakdown of the 5SysDys among patients suffering from the AD Spectrum is observable at the amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI) stage. Further, this perspective elucidates this relationship and distinguishes among the AD Spectrum, as well as proposes, for the first time in the literature, what types of 5SysDys breakdown is observable at the aMCI stage; aMCI is subdivided into the single and multiple domain diagnoses (SDaMCI & MDaMCI, respectively). We propose literature-driven conclusions and illustrate the importance of considering effective Dysphagia Management in the aMCI and AD Spectrum populations.
Multi‐layer neural network for received signal strength‐based indoor localisation
Authors: Dai Huan , Ying Wen‐hao , Xu Jiang
Published: March 2016

In received signal strength (RSS)‐based indoor wireless localisation system, radio pathloss model or radio map must be readily obtainable. However, the unpredictability of wireless channel makes it difficult to achieve high accuracy localisation in practice. In this study, the authors employed a multi‐layer neural network (MLNN) for RSS‐based indoor localisation without using the radio pathloss model or comparing the radio map. The proposed MLNN localisation system integrate the RSS signals transforming section, the raw data denoising section and the node locating section into a deep architecture. Furthermore, a boosting method is designed to promote location accuracy of the MLNN effectively. Experiment results demonstrate the feasibility and suitability of the proposed algorithm.
Inverse Gaussian‐based composite channel model and time series generator for land mobile satellite systems under tree shadowing
Authors: Kourogiorgas Charilaos , Kvicera Milan , Panagopoulos Athanasios D. , Pechac Pavel
Published: March 2016

In this study, a new composite channel model for land mobile satellite (LMS) systems under tree shadowing is proposed utilising the inverse Gaussian (IG) distribution to model the shadowing component. Using the experimental data of received power under tree shadowing at L‐band, which were carried out at Stromovka Park in Prague, the Czech Republic, the assumption of the IG distribution for the description of the first‐order statistics of large‐scale effects is investigated and validated. A new LMS channel model is developed as a sum of a signal experiencing IG shadowing and a signal under Rayleigh multipath effects. Moreover, a methodology to generate accurate time series of the received signal envelope using the IG distribution is presented. Such methodology and generally time series generators can be used for the evaluation of system's performance and for end‐to‐end simulations. Finally, it is shown that the proposed time series generator reproduces the first‐order and second‐order statistics of the LMS channel model with a very good accuracy.
Preparation of Pd–B/palygorskite amorphous catalyst for the selective hydrogenation of o ‐chloronitrobenzene to o ‐chloroaniline
Authors: Wu Mei , Xu Ying , Jang Jinlong , Ju Jingxi , Zeng Qingyun , Duanmu Chuansong , Gu Xu
Published: March 2016

Pd–B amorphous alloy was successfully supported on the surface of natural nanoclay palygorskite (PAL) via a simple chemical reduction method. Compared with the conventional supported Pd catalyst, the Pd–B/PAL amorphous catalyst possessed the ultra‐high selectivity (100%) to o ‐chloroaniline (o ‐CAN) in the hydrogenation of o ‐chloronitrobenzene (o ‐CNB) to o ‐CAN and avoided the dechlorination of o ‐CNB. XPS analysis results indicated that PAL support could reduce the electron density of Pd atoms and suppressed the hydrogenolysis of C–Cl bond. Meanwhile, the Pd–B/PAL amorphous catalyst exhibited a good stability and is a prospective catalyst for the selective hydrogenation of CNB to CAN.
Columnar recombination for X-ray generated electron-holes in amorphous selenium and its significance in a-Se x-ray detectors
Authors: Bubon O. , Jandieri K. , Baranovskii S. D. , Kasap S. O. , Reznik A.
Published: March 2016

Although amorphous selenium (a-Se) has a long and successful history of application in optical and X-ray imaging, some of its fundamental properties are still puzzling. In particularly, the mechanism of carrier recombination following x-ray excitation and electric field and temperature dependences of the electron-hole pair creation energy (Wehp) remain unclear. Using the combination of X-ray photocurrent and pulse height spectroscopy measurements, we measure Wehp in a wide range of temperatures (218–320 K) and electric fields (10–100 V/µm) and show that the conventional columnar recombination model which assumes Langevin recombination within a column (a primary electron track) fails to explain experimental results in a wide range of electric fields and temperatures. The reason for the failure of the conventional model is revealed in this work, and the theory of the columnar recombination is modified to include the saturation of the recombination rate at high electric field in order to account for the experimental results in the entire range of fields and temperatures.
Dye-sensitized solar cell scale-up: Influence of substrate resistance
Authors: Escalante R. , Pourjafari D. , Reyes-Coronado D. , Oskam G.
Published: March 2016

Dye-sensitized solar cells can be considered as a future candidate to complement current photovoltaic systems; however, scaling-up the dye-sensitized solar cell is a complicated issue. One of the challenges is the module resistance, which includes the resistance of the transparent conducting oxide substrate. By increasing the substrate area, the internal module series resistance increases, resulting in a decrease of the fill factor; hence, charge collectors must be introduced in the module. In this work, silver lines are incorporated in a mini-module design and the dependence of distance between the two silver current collectors, on the working and counter electrode sides, respectively, and the module series resistance is illustrated. A module of 7 cells with 0.60 mm silver lines, and 23.8 cm2 of active surface area reached an efficiency of 4.8%.
Spatial dynamics of high current turn-on in low-voltage AlGaAs/GaAs phototransistors
Authors: Slipchenko S. O. , Podoskin A. A. , Soboleva O. S. , Pikhtin N. A. , Bagaev T. A. , Ladugin M. A. , Marmalyuk A. A. , Simakov V. A. , Tarasov I. S.
Published: March 2016

Dynamic characteristics of low-voltage AlGaAs/GaAs heterostructure N-p-N phototransistors operating in the high-current mode have been studied. It was found that, above critical voltages, the turn-on process of a phototransistor consists of two phases separated in space and time. It is shown that the power of an optical-activation source affects the turn-on delay of the phototransistor and has no effect on the maximum current. An analysis of the spatial current dynamics in the plane of the collector p-n junction demonstrated that the first phase of the turn-on process is localized in the optical activation (optical window) region. In this case, the region of current localization during the first phase may be smaller than the optical-activation region. It was found that the whole current during the second phase is localized at the boundary between the optical window and the ohmic contact. The turn-on delay of the second phase is associated with the carrier transport in the base layer from the optical-activation region to the boundary with the ohmic collector contact.
Influence of Ficoll on urea induced denaturation of fibrinogen
Authors: Sankaranarayanan Kamatchi , Meenakshisundaram N.
Published: March 2016

Ficoll is a neutral, highly branched polymer used as a molecular crowder in the study of proteins. Ficoll is also part of Ficoll-Paque used in biology laboratories to separate blood to its components (erythrocytes, leukocytes etc.,). Role of Ficoll in the urea induced denaturation of protein Fibrinogen (Fg) has been analyzed using fluorescence, circular dichroism, molecular docking and interfacial studies. Fluorescence studies show that Ficoll prevents quenching of Fg in the presence of urea. From the circular dichroism spectra, Fg shows conformational transition to random coil with urea of 6 M concentration. Ficoll helps to shift this denaturation concentration to 8 M and thus constraints by shielding Fg during the process. Molecular docking studies indicate that Ficoll interacts favorably with the protein than urea. The surface tension and shear viscosity analysis shows clearly that the protein is shielded by Ficoll.
The pore-load modulus of ordered nanoporous materials with surface effects
Authors: Liu Mingchao , Wu Jian , Gan Yixiang , Chen C. Q.
Published: March 2016

Gas and liquid adsorption-induced deformation of ordered porous materials is an important physical phenomenon with a wide range of applications. In general, the deformation can be characterized by the pore-load modulus and, when the pore size reduces to nanoscale, it is affected by surface effects and shows prominent size-dependent features. In this Letter, the influence of surface effects on the elastic properties of ordered nanoporous materials with internal pressure is accounted for in a single pore model. A porosity and surface elastic constants dependent closed form solution for the size dependent pore-load modulus is obtained and verified by finite element simulations and available experimental results. In addition, it is found to depend on the geometrical arrangement of pores. This study provides an efficient tool to analyze the surface effects on the elastic response of ordered nanoporous materials.
Fragile-to-strong transition in liquid silica
Authors: Geske Julian , Drossel Barbara , Vogel Michael
Published: March 2016

We investigate anomalies in liquid silica with molecular dynamics simulations and present evidence for a fragile-to-strong transition at around 3100 K-3300 K. To this purpose, we studied the structure and dynamical properties of silica over a wide temperature range, finding four indicators of a fragile-to-strong transition. First, there is a density minimum at around 3000 K and a density maximum at 4700 K. The turning point is at 3400 K. Second, the local structure characterized by the tetrahedral order parameter changes dramatically around 3000 K from a higher-ordered, lower-density phase to a less ordered, higher-density phase. Third, the correlation time τ changes from an Arrhenius behavior below 3300 K to a Vogel-Fulcher-Tammann behavior at higher temperatures. Fourth, the Stokes-Einstein relation holds for temperatures below 3000 K, but is replaced by a fractional relation above this temperature. Furthermore, our data indicate that dynamics become again simple above 5000 K, with Arrhenius behavior and a classical Stokes-Einstein relation.
Non‐linear resistance training reduces inflammatory biomarkers in persons living with HIV: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zanetti Hugo Ribeiro , da Cruz Lucas Gonçalves , Lourenço Camilo Luís Monteiro , Neves Fernando de Freitas , Silva‐Vergara Mário Leon , Mendes Edmar Lacerda
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study is to analyse the effect of 12 weeks of non‐linear resistance training (NLRT) on anthropometry, muscle strength and inflammatory biomarkers in persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus (PIHIV). Thirty previously sedentary PIHIVs were randomized into the NLRT (n = 15) and control (CON, n = 15) groups. NLRT group were submitted to 12 weeks of training, whereas the CON group maintained their daily habits. At baseline and after 12 weeks, both groups underwent anthropometric evaluations and blood sampling for the analysis of inflammatory biomarkers. Analysis of covariance using preintervention values as covariate was performed to determine the effects of exercise on anthropometry, muscle strength, cytokines levels and T cells. Significance was set at p < 0.05. After 12 weeks of intervention, there was a decrease in subcutaneous body fat (p < .0001), neck, abdomen and waist circumferences (p < .05), waist‐to‐hip ratio (p = .009), blood levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β (p = .029), IL‐6 (p = .005), IL‐8 (p = .010), and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α (p = .001) and an increase in muscle strength (p < .0001), IL‐10 levels (p = .030) and CD4+ (p = .004) and CD8+ (p < .0001) counts in the NLRT compared to CON group. Twelve weeks of NLRT promoted positive changes in the body fat, body circumferences, muscular strength and inflammatory profile in PIHIV.
Local-global questions for tori over 𝑝-adic function fields
Authors: Harari David , Szamuely Tamás
Published: March 2016

We study local-global questions for Galois cohomology over the function field of a curve defined over a

p
p

-adic field (a field of cohomological dimension 3). We define Tate-Shafarevich groups of a commutative group scheme via cohomology classes locally trivial at each completion of the base field coming from a closed point of the curve. In the case of a torus we establish a perfect duality between the first Tate-Shafarevich group of the torus and the second Tate-Shafarevich group of the dual torus. Building upon the duality theorem, we show that the failure of the local-global principle for rational points on principal homogeneous spaces under tori is controlled by a certain subquotient of a third étale cohomology group. We also prove a generalization to principal homogeneous spaces of certain reductive group schemes in the case when the base curve has good reduction.
Oms1 associates with cytochromecoxidase assembly intermediates to stabilize newly synthesized Cox1
Authors: Bareth Bettina , Nikolov Miroslav , Lorenzi Isotta , Hildenbeutel Markus , Mick David U. , Helbig Christin , Urlaub Henning , Ott Martin , Rehling Peter , Dennerlein Sven
Published: March 2016

The mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase assembles in the inner membrane from subunits of dual genetic origin. The assembly process of the enzyme is initiated by membrane insertion of the mitochondria-encoded Cox1 subunit. During complex maturation, transient assembly intermediates, consisting of structural subunits and specialized chaperone-like assembly factors, are formed. In addition, cofactors such as heme and copper have to be inserted into the nascent complex. To regulate the assembly process, the availability of Cox1 is under control of a regulatory feedback cycle in which translation of COX1 mRNA is stalled when assembly intermediates of Cox1 accumulate through inactivation of the translational activator Mss51. Here we isolate a cytochrome c oxidase assembly intermediate in preparatory scale from coa1Δ mutant cells, using Mss51 as bait. We demonstrate that at this stage of assembly, the complex has not yet incorporated the heme a cofactors. Using quantitative mass spectrometry, we define the protein composition of the assembly intermediate and unexpectedly identify the putative methyltransferase Oms1 as a constituent. Our analyses show that Oms1 participates in cytochrome c oxidase assembly by stabilizing newly synthesized Cox1.
Impacts of large-scale restoration efforts on black bear habitat use in Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona, United States
Authors: Tredick Catherine A. , Kelly Marcella J. , Vaughan Michael R.
Published: March 2016

Impacts of large-scale changes in habitat due to human development, invasive species, and climate change are important considerations for wildlife management. Likewise, as efforts increase to recover and restore human-altered landscapes, indirect consequences on nontarget components of the restored ecosystem also must be considered. Currently, efforts are underway to eradicate nonnative Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) and tamarisk (Tamarix spp.) in Canyon de Chelly National Monument (CACH), United States, yet impacts to native wildlife, including the American black bear (Ursus americanus), which relies on these species for escape cover and foraging habitat, are not fully understood. Further, these efforts have the potential to impact sociopolitical aspects of the ecosystem, namely human–bear interactions (e.g., raiding of crops and livestock). We used occupancy modeling to evaluate black bear foraging ecology and habitat use in CACH to better understand how bears are using native and nonnative habitat resources and how restoration efforts may impact bears and human–bear interactions. We found that black bears rely heavily on Russian olive for food and that habitat use is driven by both native and nonnative (i.e., Russian olive) food resources; thus, restoration of native habitat in CACH may have negative impacts on bears through loss of a primary nonnative food source and escape cover. Furthermore, bear–human interactions may temporarily increase in the short term as bears adjust to this loss. Evaluating habitat use in an occupancy modeling framework provides an effective means for gauging nontarget impacts of restoration efforts on wildlife species, an essential step in effective wildlife management.
Temperature-driven directional coalescence of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Yan Shi , Sun Dongbai , Gong Yu , Tan Yuanyuan , Xing Xueqing , Mo Guang , Chen Zhongjun , Cai Quan , Li Zhihong , Yu Hongying , Wu Zhonghua
Published: March 2016

Silver nanoparticles were synthesized with a chemical reduction method in the presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone as stabilizing agent. The thermal stability behavior of the silver nanoparticles was studied in the temperature range from 25 to 700°C. Thermal gravimetric analysis was used to measure the weight loss of the silver nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy were used to observe the morphology and the change in shape of the silver nanoparticles.In situtemperature-dependent small-angle X-ray scattering was used to detect the increase in particle size with temperature.In situtemperature-dependent X-ray diffraction was used to characterize the increase in nanocrystal size and the thermal expansion coefficient. The results demonstrate that sequential slow and fast Ostward ripening are the main methods of nanoparticle growth at lower temperatures (<500°C), whereas successive random and directional coalescences are the main methods of nanoparticle growth at higher temperatures (>500°C). A four-stage model can be used to describe the whole sintering process. The thermal expansion coefficient (2.8 × 10−5 K−1) of silver nanoparticles is about 30% larger than that of bulk silver. To our knowledge, the temperature-driven directional coalescence of silver nanocrystals is reported for the first time. Two possible mechanisms of directional coalescence have been proposed. This study is of importance not only in terms of its fundamental academic interest but also in terms of the thermal stability of silver nanoparticles.
Hydrogen-bonding patterns in 5-fluorocytosine–melamine co-crystal (4/1)
Authors: Mohana Marimuthu , Muthiah Packianathan Thomas , Sanjeewa Liurukara D. , McMillen Colin D.
Published: March 2016

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, 4C4H4FN3O·C3H6N6, comprises of two independent 5-fluorocytosine (5FC) molecules (AandB) and one half-molecule of melamine (M). The other half of the melamine molecule is generated by a twofold axis. 5FC moleculesAandBare linked through two different homosynthons [R22(8) ring motif]; one is formedviaa pair of N—H...O hydrogen bonds and the secondviaa pair of N—H...N hydrogen bonds. In addition to this pairing, the O atoms of 5FC moleculesAandBinteract with the N2 amino group on both sides of the melamine molecule, forming aDDAAarray of quadruple hydrogen bonds and generating a supramolecular pattern. The 5FC (moleculesAandB) and two melamine molecules interactviaN—H...O, N—H...N and N—H...O, N—H...N, C—H...F hydrogen bonds formingR66(24) andR44(15) ring motifs. The crystal structure is further strengthened by C—H...F, C—F...π and π–π stacking interactions.
Crystal structure offac-aquatricarbonyl[(S)-valinato-κ2N,O]rhenium(I)
Authors: Piletska Kseniia O. , Domasevitch Kostiantyn V. , Shtemenko Alexander V.
Published: March 2016

In the molecule of the title compound, [Re(C5H10NO2)(CO)3(H2O)], the ReIatom adopts a distorted octahedral coordination sphere defined by one aqua and three carbonyl ligands as well as one amino N and one carboxylate O atom of the chelating valinate anion. The carbonyl ligands are arranged in afac-configuration around the ReIion. In the crystal, an intricate hydrogen-bonding system under participation of two O—H, two N—H and one C—H donor groups and the carboxylate and carbonyl O atoms as acceptor groups contribute to the formation of a three-dimensional supramolecular network.
Reflections on the so-called value-free ideal
Authors: Tsui Anne
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Value-free science is an ideal that is neither possible nor desirable, especially for social sciences. The subject of social sciences is individuals and groups; hence social, moral, ethical, or political values are inherent and unavoidable in all steps of the scientific process. Further, the authority of science requires the scientist to be responsible experts in ensuring the reliability of knowledge and in assessing the risks in applying the research findings in social policies and practices. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the role of values in business school research.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author explains the two primary types of values relevant for science: epistemic – norms and standards to ensure good science – and social – criteria not relevant for discovering the truth of knowledge but may influence decisions related to science especially in evaluating the cost of wrongful conclusions from the research evidence. Based on an analysis of published criticisms of business school research and the author’s own analysis, the author describes how business school research is infused with social and political values, undermining the objectivity and quality of science by business scientists.

Findings

– The author endorses the idea of responsible science – science that recognizes the mutual dependence between science and society, and that aims to satisfy both epistemic and social values. The author offers a modest proposal to encourage transformation of business school research to meet both rigor (valid and reliable knowledge) and relevance (useful for practice) – the hallmark of responsible science.

Research limitations/implications

– The ideas in this essay have implications for further work on identifying the relevant epistemic and social values to guide business school research.

Originality/value

– The idea of responsible science can potentially transform business school’s research to become both scientifically rigorous and societally relevant.
Sustainability insights from the mission statements of leading Brazilian Universities
Authors: Deus Rafael Mattos , Battistelle Rosane Aparecida Gomes , Silva Gustavo Henrique Ribeiro da
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mission statements from 30 leading Brazilian universities, evaluating the statements based on a sustainable model that involves an environmental management system, public participation and social responsibility, and sustainable education and research.

Design/methodology/approach

– Content analysis was conducted on the mission statements. The points used were based on the campus sustainability model of Alshuwaikhat and Abubakar. After grading, the Pearson correlation was verified for indicator and ranking points.

Findings

– The authors find few universities with clear sustainability aspects in their mission statements; just 10 percent of institutions achieve five points out of a maximum of nine points.

Research limitations/implications

– This study analyses only mission statements, which do not provide substantiated real sustainable action as much as reporting does.

Practical implications

– Higher education managers should review the universities’ mission statements in terms of a sustainability overview and improve the statements.

Social implications

– The authors criticize the real mission stated by leading Brazilian universities and their true role in society.

Originality/value

– Studies frequently focus on reporting and this work instead focusses on mission statements, which are important for guiding reporting and acting as a strategic tool. The results highlight aspects that have only been rarely addressed by Brazilian universities.
Product development in higher education marketing
Authors: Durkin Mark , Howcroft Barry , Fairless Craig
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– During the last 20 years or so the changing environment in which universities operate has meant that commensurately more emphasis has been placed on marketing principles. In light of this emphasis, it is perhaps a little surprising that relatively little attention has been directed towards the processes by which universities develop their products, and the extent to which module and programme development processes are market informed and customer oriented. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper adopts a case study methodology to examine early stage new product development (NPD) processes in UK higher education (HE) institutions.

Findings

– The findings reveal some potential shortcomings in the early stages or fuzzy front end of NPD in universities. In particular, there appears to be a lack of staff incentives, financial or otherwise, to innovate and introduce new ideas relating to module and programme development.

Research limitations/implications

– The issue of sample bias needs to be factored into however, given that these six institutions proactively engaged with this process possibly indicating a recognition or impetus on their part to learn how new programme development could be better understood. That the vast majority of the sample were teaching dominant institutions is also an interesting consideration as this will have an impact on the imperative to improve new programme development processes in an increasingly competitive HE environment.

Practical implications

– The paper discussed some of the implications for the corporate governance structures of universities and also emphasized the need for cultural change. In this respect, one of the biggest challenges facing universities is to break down or erode the barriers, which exist between academic and non-academic staff and create a “level playing field”.

Originality/value

– As the authors enter an era of higher student fees, the question of value for money combined with an associated increase in the expectations of university stakeholders, will have potentially quite marked implications for universities. Accordingly, the future viability of some degree programmes and, perhaps, even the long-term survival of some institutions may be dependent on the adoption of the sort of changes identified in this paper.
Assessing general education learning outcomes at Qatar University
Authors: Al-Thani Shaikha Bint Jabor , Abdelmoneim Ali , Cherif Adel , Moukarzel Dalal , Daoud Khaled
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to assess the effectiveness of a new general education program at Qatar University (QU) in achieving English writing and critical thinking outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

– Collegiate Assessment of Academic Proficiency (CAAP) test was used as direct assessment tool to identify the extent to which QU students are making progress with respect to general education outcomes, and how well QU students perform compared to US students on general education outcomes that are measured by the CAAP test.

Findings

– Findings show evidence that students make progress in English and critical thinking during their QU educational careers. However, QU students lag well behind their US counterparts in writing skills, but they performed relatively better in critical thinking and essay writing.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample of students tested was limited to students who met certain criteria. Therefore, the sample was neither representative nor random and does not reflect the performance of the entire student body. English is a second language for most QU students, and cultural differences as well as students’ high school preparation and quality of faculty at QU add to the complexity of the study.

Practical implications

– Research finding may have implication on the general education program curriculum plan, assessment process, assessment plan and tools. It may also trigger comprehensive review of courses addressing writing and critical thinking skills. Moreover, the findings will have impact on institutional total approach and support to retain and enhance some of the cornerstone skills that general education program promise to achieve. The pilot study, results and findings can have implications on similar GCC general educations programs that focus on English writing and critical thinking skills.

Originality/value

– This original pilot study indicates a need for improvement of internal assessment processes and reconsideration of general education program courses contributing to skills examined. It also provides evidence on students’ performance on two important generic skills, both are important for QU and its stakeholders. The study’s findings are of broad interest to assess the efficacy of internal assessment at international institutions using an internationally available standardized test.
Academics who tweet: “messy” identities in academia
Authors: Budge Kylie , Lemon Narelle , McPherson Megan
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the growing use of Twitter in academic and artist practices. The authors explore commonalities, overlaps and differences within the reflections on the initial and ongoing motivations, usage and learnings the authors have encountered whilst immersed in this environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors locate the particular inquiry by drawing on the literature surrounding digital identities, academic literacies and digital scholarship. Departing from other studies, the focus is on a narrative inquiry of the lived experiences as academics and as artists using Twitter.

Findings

– Academics use of Twitter plays a distinctly social role enabling communication that connects, and fostering accessible and approachable acts. It enables a space for challenging norms of academic ways of being and behaving. In addition, the authors draw conclusions about the “messiness” of the interconnected space that incorporates multiple identities, and highlight the risk taking the authors associate with using Twitter.

Research limitations/implications

– Academic practice is ever changing in the contemporary university. This initial study of academic and artist practices and the use of Twitter suggests future developments including participants using similar questions to elicit notions of practice to engage in a deeper understanding of motivations and behaviours.

Practical implications

– In using social media tools such as Twitter, individual academics and their practices are modified; the impact of this practice is visible.

Originality/value

– The authors contribute to emerging discussions and understandings about academics, social media and identity. The authors argue that by participating in the use of Twitter, the authors are part of the collective process of challenging what it means to be an academic and artist.
Aging and the motivation to stay employable
Authors: Froehlich Dominik Emanuel , Beausaert Simon , Segers Mien
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The demographic shift and the rapid rate of innovations put age and employability high on policy makers’ and human resource managers’ agenda. However, the authors do not sufficiently understand the link between these concepts. The authors set out to investigate the relationship between age and employability and aim to identify motivational mediators of this relationship. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the roles of future time perspective and goal orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors conducted quantitative, cross-sectional survey research (n=282) in three Dutch and Austrian organizations. The authors used structural equation modeling to investigate the relationships between chronological age, future time perspective, goal orientations, and employability.

Findings

– Future time perspective and goal orientation strongly relate to employability. The authors found indirect relationships between age and employability via perceived remaining opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

– The results question the often simplistic use of chronological age in employability and human resource management research. Therefore, the authors call for more research to investigate the relationship between age and employability more deeply.

Practical implications

– The findings contribute new insights for the career development issues of an increasingly older workforce. This shifts the focus from age, a factor outside our control, to motivation.

Originality/value

– This study contributes evidence for the relationships of chronological age, future time perspective, and goal orientation with employability. It extends literature by criticizing the prevalent use of chronological age and investigating mediation effects.
A model of idiosyncratic deal-making and attitudinal outcomes
Authors: Ho Violet T. , Tekleab Amanuel G.
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to disentangle the relationship between the request of idiosyncratic deals (i-deals) and the receipt of such deals, and investigate the moderating roles of human capital (gender and industry experience) and social capital (leader-member exchange (LMX)) in this relationship. Attitudinal outcomes of i-deals receipt are also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected from 244 alumni of a Midwestern public university.

Findings

– The positive relationship between i-deals request and receipt was stronger at higher than at lower levels of LMX. Receiving i-deals was related positively to job satisfaction and affective commitment, and negatively to turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

– The authors provide a nuanced perspective of i-deals by separating employees’ request from their receipt of i-deals, and identifying contingent factors that determine whether i-deal requests are successful.

Practical implications

– For employees, cultivating a strong relationship with one’s supervisor can yield benefits that extend to i-deals negotiation. Providing i-deals to deserving workers can boost employees’ work attitudes.

Originality/value

– Previous studies have operationalized the i-deals construct as requesting and receiving the deal, thereby excluding the possibility that employees may have requested but did not receive the i-deal. This is one of the first studies to disentangle these two concepts, thereby providing a more balanced and representative view of i-deal-making in organizations.
The possibilities and perils of academic social networking sites
Authors: Williams Ann E , Woodacre Melissa A.
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is twofold: the first aim is theoretical – to review extant literature on academic social networks, while considering current limitations and potential avenues for future research; the second objective is practical – to introduce an illustrative comparison guide that researchers can use to identify and distinguish between the functionalities of popular academic social networking sites (ASNSs), including Academia.edu,Mendeley.com, ResearchGate.net, Zotero.org, and Google Scholar.

Design/methodology/approach

– The review of research is descriptive and conceptual.

Findings

– The overarching outcomes of the review suggest that research on academic social networks falls into two primary arenas – promises (i.e. potential benefits to the academic community) and perils (i.e. reservations expressed by scholars). The authors recommend that a greater focus on the unique characteristics and utilities of specific sites and a more robust understanding of scholars’ use preferences and practices is warranted in future and ongoing research.

Originality/value

– This is the first review of ASNSs to provide comparative descriptions for scholars to utilize when making decisions about adoption, use, and research.
Kicked out and let down: breakdown-driven organizational research
Authors: Wegener Charlotte , Aakjær Marie Kirstejn
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a model and some practical considerations for breakdown-driven organizational research.

Design/methodology/approach

– The analysis is based on a two-case narrative from two studies of innovation in public welfare organizations. Inspired by Dewey’s pragmatic philosophy, the paper abductively builds a model for reflective practice when research plans break down.

Findings

– A breakdown-driven approach to organizational research can open up to new insights about both the empirical field and organizational research methodology. In the present paper, breakdowns serve as pivotal points for reflective practice that not only offer new perspectives on innovation, but also the paper makes use of innovation theory to inform research methodology.

Originality/value

– This paper advocates more narrative self-reflecting research that reveals processes of confusion and uncertainty. These narratives are worth sharing as research in its own right as they hold the power to intensify the researcher’s perceptual and reflective skills.