bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactions of IrHCl2(PPh3)2{P(OEt)3} with Organic Azides: Formation of Aminophosphonium Salts
Authors: Albertin Gabriele , Antoniutti Stefano , Castro Jesús
Published: October 2013

Aminophosphonium salts [Ph3PN(H)R]BPh4 (1) [R = C6H5CH2 (1a), 4‐CH3C6H4CH2 (1b), C6H5 (1c)] were obtained by allowing hydride IrHCl2(PPh3)2{P(OEt)3} to react first with triflic acid and then with the organic azide RN3. The compounds were characterized spectroscopically and by X‐ray crystal structure determination of [Ph3PN(H)CH2C6H4‐4‐CH3]BPh4 (1b). A reaction path for the formation of aminophosphonium cations is also proposed.
Utilizing a Metal Melt of Gallium for the Synthesis of the Homoleptic 1, 2,4‐Triazolate Dense Framework 3∞[Ga(Tz)3]
Authors: Rybak Jens‐Christoph , Rekawka Adam , Müller‐Buschbaum Klaus
Published: October 2013

The low melting element gallium was utilized as a metal melt together with the azole 1, 2,4,‐1H‐triazole for the synthesis of the homoleptic framework 3∞[Ga(Tz)3], Tz– = 1, 2,4‐triazolate. The framework is formed at 180 °C at the phase border of two liquid phases, gallium and the azole, which do not mix with one another. Thus, 1, 2,4,‐1H‐triazole is also in molten state. The homoleptic triazolate adopts the CoAs3 structure and a (4, 6) net topology, exhibiting good thermal stability of 440 °C.
Two New Cesium Thiotellurates: Cs2[TeS2] and Cs2[TeS3]
Authors: Babo Jean‐Marie , Wolff Klaus K. , Schleid Thomas
Published: October 2013

Thermal decomposition of cesium azide (CsN3) leaves elemental cesium behind, which was in‐situ produced and used for the syntheses of the two new cesium thiotellurates Cs2[TeS2] and Cs2[TeS3] along with appropriate amounts of tellurium and sulfur. The first compound crystallizes orthorhombically in space group Cmc21 with the lattice parameters a = 783.39(4), b = 1126.72(8), c = 823.04(5) pm (Z = 4) and the second one monoclinically in space group P21/n with the lattice parameters a = 997.12(6), b = 1269.71(8), c = 1410.23(9) pm, β = 91.218(3)° (Z = 8). While ψ1‐tetrahedral complex thiotellurate(IV) anions [TeS3]2– are found as pyramids in Cs2[TeS3], Cs2[TeS2] comprises ψ2‐tetrahedral thiotellurate(II) units [TeS2]2– as boomerangs and both occur isolated in the corresponding structures. In each of the title compounds, the anionic part of the structures is arranged layer‐like with Cs+ cations sitting in between the layers. The cesium cations in the sulfur‐rich compound Cs2[TeS3] exhibit coordination numbers of seven and eight, while in the Cs2[TeS2] these cations are surrounded by only six sulfide anions. But even the lone‐pair electrons at the central Te4+ and Te2+ cations help to complete the Cs+ coordination spheres in both cases.
Crystal Structure of Apo‐ and Metalated Thiolate containing RNase S as Structural Basis for the Design of Artificial Metalloenzymes by Peptide‐Protein Complementation
Authors: Genz Maika , Singer David , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie , Hoffmann Ralf , Sträter Norbert
Published: October 2013

Ribonuclease S (RNase S) is a versatile model system to introduce non‐canonical amino acids into a protein scaffold by self‐assembly of the protein complex from S‐protein and S‐peptide. We have introduced two cysteines into the S‐peptide replacing lysine‐7 and glutamine‐11 of the α‐helical region of this peptide. The crystal structure of this variant was determined in the apo state and in complex with HgII ions. These structures serve as a template for the construction of artificial hybrid catalysts based on RNase S, e.g. for phosphanyl amino acids complexing transition metal ions for organometallic catalysis.
The Synthesis, Structure, and Tunable Emission Spectra of A New Phosphor Sm(IO3)3·2H2O
Authors: Pan Chun‐Yang , Mai Hai‐Deng , Chen Wu‐Zhou , Zhao Feng‐Hua , Yang Hong‐Mei
Published: October 2013

A new phosphor Sm(IO3)3·2H2O was synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions. The structure was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray powder diffraction analysis. It crystallizes in the triclinic system with space group P$\bar{1}$ (No.2), a = 7.1570Å, b = 7.4306Å, c = 10.6367Å, α = 95.205°, β = 104.844°, γ = 109.958°. Some characterizations were performed such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA), and luminescence spectroscopy. The overall structure of the title compound is two‐dimensional. The adjacent iodate layers are further linked with each other by hydrogen bonds to form a three‐dimensional supramolecular network. The luminescent properties of Sm(IO3)3·2H2O were studied, the exhibit tunable emission spectra by means of heating treatment.
Elasticated retractors in tracheostomy
Authors: Steele P R C , Mountain R E
Published: October 2013

We present a novel way of providing and improving retraction whilst performing tracheostomies, using elasticated retractors. The benefits of this method include an improved surgical field and the facility for use by a single surgeon. This type of retraction could potentially be used in a variety of other head and neck procedures.
Endonasal, transmaxillary, transpterygoid approach to the foramen ovale: radio-anatomical study of surgical feasibility
Authors: Kantola V E , McGarry G W , Rea P M
Published: October 2013

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the feasibility of an endonasal, transmaxillary, transpterygoid approach to the foramen ovale by examining key anatomical, radiological and surgical landmarks.

Method:

Measurements were taken from 183 patients' computed tomography scans using BrainLAB iPlan 1.1 Cranial software. Endoscopic dissection was then carried out on a cadaver to assess surgical viability.

Results:

We found that the distances from the posterior maxillary wall to the foramen ovale and from the anterior nasal spine to the foramen ovale were statistically significantly larger in men than women. The distance from the base of the lateral pterygoid plate to the foramen ovale, and the angle between the foramen ovale, the anterior nasal spine and the sphenoid rostrum, were constant between the sexes. The importance of the lateral pterygoid plate in locating the foramen ovale was demonstrated.

Conclusion:

With the increasing popularity of image guidance and assisted navigation in endoscopic surgery, these findings increase anatomico-radiological understanding of the surgical approach investigated.
Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease and ENT
Authors: Sethi N , Kane J , Condon L
Published: October 2013

Objective:

This review addresses Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease in the context of ENT, and aims to summarise the relevant history, pathophysiology and implications for contemporary practice.

Overview:

Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease is a rare, fatal, neurodegenerative disorder. It is a prion disease with four different subtypes that can only be definitively diagnosed post-mortem. The main implications for the ENT surgeon lie in the risk of iatrogenic transmission. The three facets of assessing individual patient risk are: patient history; tissue infectivity; and procedure infectivity.

Conclusion:

This is a controversial area in medicine, and ENT in particular. This review highlights a clinically applicable approach for everyday use.
Language Outcomes at 12 Years for Children Exposed Prenatally to Cocaine
Authors: Lewis Barbara A. , Minnes Sonia , Short Elizabeth J. , Min Meeyoung O. , Wu Miaoping , Lang Adelaide , Weishampel Paul , Singer Lynn T.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

In this study, the authors aimed to examine the long-term effects of prenatal cocaine exposure (PCE) on the language development of 12-year-old children using a prospective design, controlling for confounding prenatal drug exposure and environmental factors.

Method

Children who were exposed to cocaine in utero (PCE;
n
= 183) and children who were not exposed to cocaine (i.e., no cocaine exposure [NCE];
n
= 181) were followed prospectively from birth to 12 years of age and were compared on language subtests of the Test of Language Development—Intermediate, Third Edition (Hammill & Newcomer, 1997b), and phonological processing as measured by the Comprehensive Test of Phonological Processing (Wagner & Torgesen, 1999). The authors evaluated the relationship of PCE to language development through a multivariate analysis of covariance and regression analyses while controlling for confounders.

Results

Results show that PCE has small effects on specific aspects of language, including syntax and phonological processing. The caregiver variables of lower maternal vocabulary, more psychological symptoms, and a poorer home environment also had consistent effects on language and phonological processing scores.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that PCE continues to have small, subtle effects on specific aspects of language at age 12 years. Phonological processing skills were significantly related to the reading outcomes of letter–word identification, reading fluency, and reading comprehension, indicating that PCE also has small but lasting effects on the language skills that are related to later literacy skills.
Insights into Sensory World of NonVerbal Individuals With Autism
Authors: Grandin Temple
Published: October 2013

Therapists often become frustrated because a nonverbal individual with autism does not quickly learn how to use an augmentative communication device. Two individuals who can type independently describe chaotic sensory experiences with fragmented perception. Screening out background stimuli is difficult and they may perceive shape and color separately. To understand the cause and effect, that pressing a key produces a letter, or touching a picture gets a desired food, may take many repetitions. It may take time for patients to learn how the device works. Some of the sensory symptoms resemble stroke patients.
Modeling single arm electron scattering and nucleon production from nuclei by GeV electrons
Authors: Lightbody J. W. , O’Connell J. S.
Published: October 2013

Nuclear reaction data for the doubly differential cross sections of inelastic electron scattering and of electronucleon and electropion production are parametrized by analytic models of the major reaction mechanisms. Predictive FORTRAN codes for the yields of reaction products have been developed for all nuclei interacting with electrons and bremsstrahlung beams in the energy range 0.5–5 GeV. Comparison with a variety of electromagnetic reaction data is shown.
Spreadsheets for physics
Authors: Dory R. A.
Published: October 2013

Modern spreadsheet programs can provide a remarkable capability for quick and easy solutions to a broad range of small—and possibly large—physics, engineering, and astronomy problems. This usage can go far beyond the original applications of spreadsheets as accounting aids. However, sharp instruments can cut both ways, and these programs can be dangerous to the unwary user in providing quick and pretty collections of incorrect answers. Several spreadsheet techniques are shown by example; advantages and drawbacks are discussed.
Experimental computational physics using an inexpensive microcomputer
Authors: Peters R. D.
Published: October 2013

The laboratory for the computational physics course at Texas Tech University has been designed around the Radio Shack TRS-80 Color Computer. The nominal price of about $100 and the flexibility of its Motorola components make this microcomputer well suited to pedagogical experiments involving data acquisition and processing. An impressive amount of real time computing can be performed using the machine’s internal clock. An example laboratory case is described in which period and amplitude of a simple pendulum are measured sequentially using a machine language timing routine. During the time interval between measurements, a BASIC routine corrects the period of the pendulum for amplitude departure from isochronism. This ‘‘zero amplitude’’ period is printed between measurements, and a ‘‘running’’ estimate of its mean value is maintained and printed after the last measurement.
Simulation programs
Authors: Good R. H.
Published: October 2013

This paper describes several fast-animation simulations for Apple II and discusses some aspects of the programming techniques involved.
Computing nuclear properties in the fcc model
Authors: Cook Norman D.
Published: October 2013

A computer program for calculating fundamental properties of nuclei in the face-centered-cubic (fcc) nuclear model is presented. The program generates nucleon coordinate values in agreement with the empirical build-up sequence and then calculates three nuclear properties for any specified nucleus: the rms radial value, the total Coulomb repulsion, and the total binding energy.
Computer interfacing of a microwave resonant cavity for temperature measurements during dielectric relaxation
Authors: Dahiya J. N. , Freeman R. W.
Published: October 2013

A temperature probe attached to a microwave resonant cavity is interfaced to a microcomputer. The microcomputer allows temperature data to be taken very rapidly as a dielectric undergoes a phase change over a small temperature interval. This technique is shown to improve temperature measurements during dielectric relaxation studies in polar molecules near their phase transition temperatures.
Time-dependent quantum-mechanical scattering in two dimensions
Authors: Sweeney Christopher J. , De Vries Paul L.
Published: October 2013

While scattering phenomena are discussed in most quantum mechanics textbooks, the analysis is usually performed using time-independent techniques. These techniques have certainly been successful in predicting the results of scattering events but fail to present an intuitive picture of what happens to the physical system during a collision. A remedy to this situation could be affected by the introduction of time-dependent techniques, utilizing the conceptually simple idea of a wavefunction evolving over time, but these methods have traditionally been computationally unmanageable. This paper describes a novel numerical technique, the split-operator Fourier transform method, which greatly reduces the amount of computational effort required to accurately solve the time-dependent Schrödinger equation. This method is applied to the Rutherford scattering problem in two dimensions and it is shown that the method is not only efficient enough to yield results in less than 15 min when implemented on a standard personal computer, but is also simple enough to be employed by an advanced undergraduate. The method also has the advantage of reinforcing the quantum-mechanical formalism in the student’s mind; both the evolution operator and the complementary relationship between operators and wavefunctions in coordinate and momentum space are exploited. The results of the calculations are presented as color graphs portraying the magnitude and phase of wave packets as they evolve through time.
Computer algebra in modern physics
Authors: Ogilvie J. F.
Published: October 2013

After an illustrative definition of computer algebra, the common capabilities of modern processors are outlined. The systems that have been used for applications in physics are briefly described. A summary of the uses of algebraic processors in several branches of physics is presented. The different approaches to algebraic and numerical processing are discussed and sources of further information are surveyed.
Solving coupled, nonlinear differential equations with commercial spreadsheets
Authors: Enloe C. L.
Published: October 2013

Commercial spreadsheet programs are an ideal tool for solving systems of coupled, nonlinear differential equations. Since the spreadsheet provides ready-made structure, the physicist can concentrate on the problem at hand rather than on programming, and models may be developed quickly. Immediate access to graphic output facilitates an intuitive grasp of the solution.
Inexpensive microcomputer-based system for solar cell I-V characterization
Authors: Morales-Acevedo Arturo , Herrera Eduardo , Valencia Heriberto
Published: October 2013

A simple solar cell measurement system is described. The instrument is based on an inexpensive microcomputer with a single bidirectional 8-bit I/O port, in addition to 4 output bits taken from the joystick port. Currents up to 1.5 A and voltages up to 0.7 V can be measured with this system. The temperature of the cell is also measured. Solar cell parameters like open circuit voltage (Voc), short circuit current (Isc), series resistance (Rs), shunt resistance (Rsh), and filling factor (F.F.) are determined by a high-level language program that also displays the I-V curve on the monitor screen and stores the data on disk files.
A least-squares method for extracting phase shifts
Authors: Sebhatu Mesgun , Gettys W. Edward
Published: October 2013

A least-squares method for extracting phase shifts due to central potentials from numerical solutions to the radial Schrödinger equation is presented. The method provides a measure of ‘‘goodness of fit’’ that is important in checking how well the asymptotic region has been reached. The least-squares method is useful at all energies, but it is particularly valuable at low energies when the asymptotic wavefunction is slowly varying. The method is illustrated by calculating S-wave phase shifts for the exponential potential.
Least-squares fitting of parametrized Hamiltonians to energy levels: An investigation into alternative strategies
Authors: Chan F. L. , Lau K. M. , Li C. L. , Mok H. M. , Newman D. J. , Ng Betty
Published: October 2013

Many phenomenological models involve fitting parametrized Hamiltonians to experimentally determined energy levels. It is not uncommon to obtain highly deviant sets of parameters. While this may be due to poor empirical data, it can also result from the use of unstable least-squares fitting procedures. A specific example is examined in some detail, and it is shown that the instabilities inherent in the standard approach can be easily overcome. An optimal strategy is proposed.
Analysis of high-perveance electron guns
Authors: Calitz M. F. , du Toit A. G. , Drijfhout W.
Published: October 2013

High-power microwave tubes such as traveling wave tubes and klystrons still make use of electron guns as the main source of current. The design of these guns can become complicated, and the use of computer-aided design (CAD) techniques will ease and enhance their design. A CAD system based on a supermicrocomputer with an integrated array processor was used to analyze the electric fields in the electron gun of a traveling wave tube. The analysis of the fields was motivated primarily to assess the sensitivity of the space-charge and current distributions to the focus and anode electrode structures and the applied electric field. The space charge has a great influence on the formation of the electron beam and as such on overall device performance. An iterative procedure based on the boundary-element method (BEM) was used to determine the space-charge distributions and the electrostatic fields. The method and its underlying assumptions will be discussed in detail. Electron trajectories are determined by solving the equation of motion using Hamming’s predictor–corrector method, allowing for the effects of space charge. Due to the computational demands of these methods, the inclusion of an array processor in the workstation was essential to accelerate the calculations. The algorithms had to be vectorized to make optimal use of the array processor. The analysis of the electron gun is mainly concerned with shaping the focus and anode electrodes to optimize the electron-beam current entering the interaction area of the tube where amplification takes place. Focusing of the electron beam in the interaction area is taken over by a parallel magnetic field. The optimization of the beam in the electron gun includes finding the correct perveance of the beam, minimizing the interception current to the anode, and finding the correct current distribution of the electron beam where it enters the interaction area. The above CAD analysis techniques allow an accurate design of these parameters, and modifications are easily made.
The object-oriented programming paradigm (OOPP) and FORTRAN programs
Authors: Wampler K. Dean
Published: October 2013

The object-oriented programming paradigm (OOPP) is discussed and how it can be applied to FORTRAN software development is shown. The resulting programs are easier to debug, modify, and reuse, thereby reducing software development time. It is argued that application of OOPP is especially important for major projects that will see extended use or be used by more than one person. The new, proposed ANSI standard (‘‘FORTRAN-90’’) contains many features that implement OOPP ideas, but many of these ideas can also be incorporated into FORTRAN-77 projects. An example program is presented.
A fast data smoothing algorithm
Authors: Jacobson L. A.
Published: October 2013

A simple, fast, noniterative and real-time data smoothing algorithm is described based on the sensors’ system function. The technique features near optimum noise suppression consistent with preservation of the intrinsic sequential detail in the data. For sensors with Gaussianlike impulse response functions, a simple technique for computing the sequential domain filter coefficients is illustrated.
How to use MACSYMA to write long FORTRAN codes for noncompact simulations of gauge theories
Authors: Cahill Kevin
Published: October 2013

This paper shows how to use the symbol manipulator MACSYMA to do arbitrarily long calculations and how to translate the typically lengthy results into FORTRAN so that they can be tested, appreciated, and used. This procedure is illustrated by its application to the task of writing the code for a noncompact lattice simulation of a nonabelian gauge theory.
Imaging by convergent tiling
Authors: Welch Daniel W.
Published: October 2013

Convergent tiling is an alternative technique for exploring fields by using pixel graphics displays. Instead of using pixel by pixel scans to fill an empty frame slowly, it presents the field as a fully tiled frame whose resolution gradually increases through the introduction of successively smaller interstitial tiles. It produces the same final picture as pixel scanning, but supports much earlier recognition of the field region properties. This is particularly useful in interactive visualization where there is a good chance of abandoning the present picture version in favor of another with altered parameters. Convergent tiling allows an abort decision to occur earlier during the development of the field on the display, thus promoting exploration of the field. A two-dimensional frame quartering algorithm is presented to demonstrate the convergent tiling concept.
Monoallelic loss of tumor suppressor GRIM-19 promotes tumorigenesis in mice
Authors: Kalakonda Sudhakar , Nallar Shreeram C. , Jaber Sausan , Keay Susan K. , Rorke Ellen , Munivenkatappa Raghava , Lindner Daniel J. , Fiskum Gary M. , Kalvakolanu Dhananjaya V.
Published: October 2013

Significance

Gene-associated with retinoid-interferon induced mortality-19 (GRIM-19) is an interferon-retinoid–regulated growth suppressor that inhibits cell growth by targeting the transcription factor STAT3 for inhibition. In primary human tumors
GRIM-19
is suppressed or mutated, leading to constitutive STAT3 activity and indicating the tumor-suppressive function of GRIM-19. To understand the in vivo role of Grim-19 in tumor development, we generated a
Grim-19
conditional knockout mouse. We found that deletion of even a single
Grim-19
allele is sufficient to augment skin tumorigenesis in mice, thus establishing a critical role for Grim-19 as a tumor suppressor. Tumors that developed in the absence of
Grim-19
exhibited mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction, elevated glycolysis, and Stat3-responsive gene expression.
Regulation of IL-1β–induced NF-κB by hydroxylases links key hypoxic and inflammatory signaling pathways
Authors: Scholz Carsten C. , Cavadas Miguel A. S. , Tambuwala Murtaza M. , Hams Emily , Rodríguez Javier , Kriegsheim Alex von , Cotter Philip , Bruning Ulrike , Fallon Padraic G. , Cheong Alex , Cummins Eoin P. , Taylor Cormac T.
Published: October 2013

Significance

Oxygen-sensing hydroxylases are a family of enzymes that control the cellular adaptive response to hypoxia. Hydroxylase inhibitors reduce inflammation in vivo; however, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of action remains unclear. IL-1β is a cytokine that potently promotes inflammation through activation of the transcription factor NF-κB. Here, we demonstrate that hydroxylase inhibition leads to a suppression of IL-1β–induced NF-κB activity and provide insight into the underlying mechanism involved. This work develops our understanding of how hydroxylase inhibition regulates IL-1β–induced inflammation and sheds light on our understanding of the association between hypoxic and inflammatory signaling pathways, underscoring the potential use of hydroxylase inhibitors for the treatment of inflammatory disease.
Metallofullerene and fullerene formation from condensing carbon gas under conditions of stellar outflows and implication to stardust
Authors: Dunk Paul W. , Adjizian Jean-Joseph , Kaiser Nathan K. , Quinn John P. , Blakney Gregory T. , Ewels Christopher P. , Marshall Alan G. , Kroto Harold W.
Published: October 2013

Significance

We experimentally study the processes that result in fullerene formation in oxygen- and hydrogen-rich carbon gas. Metallofullerenes are found to form as readily as empty cages and thus, like fullerenes, should be important constituents of (circum)stellar/interstellar space. Element trapping by metallofullerene formation is shown to be selective and rapid, which can explain long-standing astrophysical puzzles such as the anomalous element enrichment of stardust. Infrared spectroscopic signatures are simulated to provide an observational test for metallofullerenes in space. Further, energetic reactions between larger polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and fullerenes are established form stable classes of complex molecules that hold high astrochemical importance. Bottom-up fullerene growth is also demonstrated to result from PAH processing, another potentially important extraterrestrial formation mechanism.
Hyperammonemia in cirrhosis induces transcriptional regulation of myostatin by an NF-κB–mediated mechanism
Authors: Qiu Jia , Thapaliya Samjhana , Runkana Ashok , Yang Yu , Tsien Cynthia , Mohan Maradumane L. , Narayanan Arvind , Eghtesad Bijan , Mozdziak Paul E. , McDonald Christine , Stark George R. , Welle Stephen , Naga Prasad Sathyamangla V. , Dasarathy Srinivasan
Published: October 2013

Significance

Loss of skeletal muscle mass, or sarcopenia, is nearly universal in cirrhosis and adversely affects the outcome of these patients. There are no established therapies to prevent or reverse sarcopenia because the mechanisms are not known. We show that the expression of myostatin, a negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass, is increased in the cirrhotic muscle and is mediated by increased ammonia concentration. Skeletal muscle ammonia concentrations are significantly increased in cirrhosis, resulting in activation of the transcription factor NF-κB, which in turn increases the expression of myostatin. Given the high prevalence of cirrhosis, these studies are of broad general interest because ammonia-lowering strategies, NF-κB antagonists, and myostatin blocker are potential therapies to reverse sarcopenia of cirrhosis.
Implicit large eddy simulation of shock-driven material mixing
Authors: Grinstein F. F. , Gowardhan A. A. , Ristorcelli J. R.
Published: October 2013

Under-resolved computer simulations are typically unavoidable in practical turbulent flow applications exhibiting extreme geometrical complexity and a broad range of length and time scales. An important unsettled issue is whether filtered-out and subgrid spatial scales can significantly alter the evolution of resolved larger scales of motion and practical flow integral measures. Predictability issues in implicit large eddy simulation of
under-resolved mixing of material scalars driven by under-resolved velocity fields and initial conditions
are discussed in the context of shock-driven turbulent mixing. The particular focus is on effects of resolved spectral content and interfacial morphology of initial conditions on transitional and late-time turbulent mixing in the fundamental planar shock-tube configuration.
Some peculiarities of turbulent mixing growth and perturbations at hydrodynamic instabilities
Authors: Nevmerzhitskiy N. V.
Published: October 2013

The author presents a review of some experimental works devoted to the research of evolution of large-scale perturbations and turbulent mixing (TM) in liquid and gaseous media during the growth of hydrodynamic instabilities. In particular, it is shown that growth of perturbations and TM in gases is sensitive to the Mach number of shock wave; character of gas front penetration into liquid is not changed as the Reynolds number of flow increases from 5×10
5
to 10
7
; and change of the Atwood number sign from positive to negative causes stopping of gas front penetration into liquid, but mixing zone width is expanded under inertia.
Entrepreneurs’ decision making under different levels of uncertainty: the role of emotions
Authors: Brundin Ethel , Gustafsson Veronika
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate entrepreneurs’ investment decisions under uncertainty in continued investments where the authors test the role of emotions to continue or discontinue the investment.

Design/methodology/approach

– A conjoint analysis is carried out on 101 entrepreneurs’ 3,232 investment decisions. The entrepreneurs were provided with a scenario of an investment where the dependent variable was the entrepreneur's propensity to allocate further resources to the described investment. They assessed their willingness to allocate further resources to the investment on a seven-point Likert-type scale. The independent variables in the experiment were the experienced emotions of the entrepreneur each of which was described by the two levels of high and low.

Findings

– It was found that self-confidence, challenge, and hope increase the propensity to continue investments as do increased level of uncertainty. Embarrassment and strain do not increase this propensity, however, high uncertainty decreases the propensity to continue investments. In contrast to the escalation of commitment theory, embarrassment does not make entrepreneurs more prone to invest under uncertainty. Frustration does not yield significant results, which runs contrary to the theory and the hypothesis finds no support.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper focussed on a limited number of emotions, and also on one specific moderating factor that impacts the effect of these emotions on the investment decision.

Practical implications

– To understand the role of their emotions in investment decisions under different levels of uncertainty may help entrepreneurs to improve the quality of their decision making.

Originality/value

– This study is an experiment where practitioner entrepreneurs participate which increases the ecological validity of the study. Emotions can explain, partly, why entrepreneurs persist with some underperforming projects, but not others. Uncertainty is a powerful moderating variable in the decision-making process. The results enhance existing knowledge about the emotive side of entrepreneurs’ propensity to make investment decisions under uncertainty. The results also supplement and refine existing theories on self-justification.
Using LSS to improve the efficiency and quality of a refund process in a logistics center
Authors: Lee Kuo-liang , Tai Cheng-Ting , Sheen Gwo-Ji
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This study aims to demonstrate a service quality improvement project implemented by the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology to achieve dramatic improvements with respect to service quality and speed in the refund process of the logistics center in Amway Company, Taiwan. It describes in detail how the LSS methodology was applied and how various qualitative and quantitative tools and techniques within the define, measure, analyze, improve and control (DMAIC) logic roadmap have been employed.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper adopts the case study methodology to illustrate how to use LSS approach to increase the efficiency of refund process.

Findings

– The DMAIC scheme with logical analysis, qualitative tools and statistical verification, were employed to identify the key process input variables (KPIVs) that affect the key process output variables (KPOVs) in the refund process. The project team also successfully eliminated non-valued-added (NVA) activities and redesigned the refund process. The most significant improvement is to increase customer satisfaction substantially by reducing the credit voucher waiting time from 14 days to 14 min and the error rate in the refund process is down to almost zero. The results prove that combining the tools of Six Sigma and lean production effects successful improvement of service activities as well as the improvement of manufacturing sectors.

Research limitations/implications

– The case study method limits the generalization of the findings, but provides a novel way to solve problems for the logistics center.

Originality/value

– This is one of the rare studies to utilize LSS approach to increase service quality of logistics centers. For the logistics center of Amway Taiwan, the financial benefit of the project was about NT$1,200,000 in annual savings. Numerous invisible gains from the LSS projects are more important for the organization, for example providing customers excellent service, increasing customer satisfaction, training the employees of the company, enhancing the reputation of Amway Taiwan and establishing continuous improvement culture.
Emerging personal intelligence in collective goals: data analysis on the bottom-up approach from PKM to OKM
Authors: Ismail Shahrinaz , Sharifuddin Ahmad Mohd , Hassan Zainuddin
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– A pattern of personal intelligence is seen emerging from the concept of agent-mediated personal knowledge management (PKM) in achieving collective organisational goals. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of surveys undertaken to prove this emergence.

Design/methodology/approach

– A quantitative analysis supported by a qualitative analysis was conducted across three main industries in Malaysia, namely manufacturing, service and education. The triangulation of analysis is based on the four proposed hypotheses.

Findings

– From these analyses, it was discovered that the emergence of personal intelligence is embedded within the collaborative interactions amongst software agents, and between agents and human knowledge workers. All the hypotheses are supported by the results of the surveys which manifest organisational knowledge management (OKM) practices as a consequence of the agent-mediated PKM processes.

Research limitations/implications

– This research focused on the PKM in Malaysia, where the level of KM implementation varies among the organisations. The results may not reflect other developing countries due to the socio-cultural differences amongst the knowledge workers.

Practical implications

– The results from this paper can be used either to relook and reanalyse the existing organisational KM system or to plan and design a KM system for organisations that have not implemented any.

Originality/value

– The focus on personal intelligence and agent-mediated PKM contribute to further development of agent-based system that animates these theories in the real working environment.
Towards ERP success in SMEs through business process review prior to implementation
Authors: Christofi Maria , Nunes Miguel , Chao Peng Guo , Lin Angela
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– ERP systems are not the exclusive concern of large companies anymore. More and more small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are now engaging with the implementation and exploitation of this type of system. However, reports of ERP failure are numerous and frequent. Very often, this failure results from technical and implementation problems. But even more frequently, it is due to lack of preparation, by the companies themselves, for the implementation process. The purpose of the study reported in this paper was to identify and explore ways in which SMEs may need to prepare themselves before implementing ERP systems.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research took a Cypriot SME as a case study and adopted an inductive approach supported by in-depth interviews as the main method of data collection. The qualitative data collected were analysed by using a thematic analysis approach. Subsequently, a rich picture and concept maps were used to represent the findings generated.

Findings

– The study identified that business deficiencies and problems, which can impact potential ERP adoption and usage in SMEs, can be localised across business processes boundaries, such as sales order processing, stock control, and bill of materials management, etc. These business problems were found to be attributed to a variety of organisational, technical and human-related reasons. Therefore, this study established that in order to implement ERPs successfully, organisations may require changes in people's work practices and understanding of technology, ownership and control of business processes, as well as organisational wide policies.

Research limitations/implications

– This study contributes to the knowledge of ERP preparation and business process improvement in SMEs.

Practical implications

– The findings of the paper provide useful insights for both academic and practitioners who are thinking of implementing ERP systems. The paper contributes to the body of literature on issues that SMEs may need to reflect upon before embarking in a costly and resource intensive process of ERP implementation.

Originality/value

– Business process improvement is traditionally considered as the result of an ERP project phase. This is how the large majority of the academic literature and the totality of marketing information by ERP vendors portray it. In fact, the reality of practice shows a different scenario with frequent reports of failure and inadequate ERP implementation. This paper aims at breaking with this myth, by proposing that ERPs cannot resolve the large variety of deficient business processes and internal problems that may exist in SMEs. Therefore, this study argues that SMEs need to prepare in advance by engaging in business process reviews prior to the ERP implementation that is engaging in a pre-implementation or preparation phase.
Preliminary Study on Diffuse Axonal Injury by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Histopathology Imaging
Authors: Yang Tiantong , He Guanglong , Zhang Xiang , Chang Lin , Zhang Haidong , Ripple Mary G. , Fowler David R. , Li Ling
Published: October 2013

The objective of this study was to evaluate the application of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for detecting diffuse axonal injury (DAI) in a mouse model. Brain tissues from DAI mouse model were prepared with H&E, silver, and β‐amyloid precursor protein (β–APP) immunohistochemistry stains and were also studied with FTIR. The infrared spectrum images showed high absorption of amide II in the subcortical white matter of the experimental mouse brain, while there was no obvious expression of amide II in the control mouse brain. The areas with high absorption of amide II were in the same distribution as the DAI region confirmed by the silver and β‐APP studies. The result suggests that high absorption of amide II correlates with axonal injury. The use of FTIR imaging allows the biochemical changes associated with DAI pathologies to be detected in the tissues, thus providing an important adjunct method to the current conventional pathological diagnostic techniques.
Increased neural activity during high working memory load predicts low relapse risk in alcohol dependence
Authors: Charlet Katrin , Beck Anne , Jorde Anne , Wimmer Lioba , Vollstädt‐Klein Sabine , Gallinat Jürgen , Walter Henrik , Kiefer Falk , Heinz Andreas
Published: October 2013

Working memory (WM) impairments are often observed in alcohol‐dependent individuals, especially in early abstinence, which may contribute to an increased relapse risk after detoxification. Brain imaging studies on visuospatial WM in alcohol‐dependent patients compared to controls indicate that information processing requires compensatory increased neural activation to perform at a normal level. However, to date, no study tested whether such increased neural WM activation patterns or the lack thereof predict relapse behavior in alcohol‐dependent individuals, and whether such differences persist when adequately correcting for individual grey matter differences. We combined analyses of neural activation during an n‐back task and local grey matter volumes using Biological Parametric Mapping in 40 detoxified alcohol‐dependent patients and 40 matched healthy controls (HC), and assessed prospective relapse risk during a 7‐month follow‐up period. Despite equal task performance, we found increased functional activation during high versus low cognitive WM load (2‐back–0‐back) in bilateral rostral prefrontal cortex (BA10) and bilateral ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (BA45,47) in prospective abstainers versus relapsers, and further in left/right lateral/medial premotor cortex (BA6,8) in abstainers versus HC. In prospective abstainers, but not relapsers, subtle cognitive impairment was associated with increased neural task activity in the premotor cortex. These findings suggest that in prospective abstainers, higher functional engagement of presumably less impaired neural resources in executive behavioral control brain areas (BA10, 45, 47, 6, 8) may constitute a resilience factor associated with good treatment outcome.
A systematic review of infant feeding experience and hospitalisation in developed countries
Authors: Williams Lesley A , Davies Peter SW , Boyd Roslyn , David Michael , Ware Robert S
Published: October 2013

The review examines whether mode of feeding is associated with risk of hospitalisation for illness during infancy in developed countries. Databases were searched for published studies that included the terms ‘infant feeding’ and ‘hospitalisation’. Six studies were included. Breastfeeding was associated with a reduced risk of hospitalisation and adjusted analyses showed mixed results.

Conclusion

There is no clear relationship between mode of feeding and reduction of infant hospitalisation for illness in developed countries.
Internet communication of outpatients with Asperger's disorder or schizophrenia in Japan
Authors: Watabe Takashi , Suzuki Kunifumi
Published: October 2013

Introduction

There is insufficient information about the Internet usage of psychiatric patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the usage of Internet communication among subjects with Asperger's disorder (AD) or schizophrenia.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was carried out in Japan among 29 outpatients with AD, 32 outpatients with schizophrenia, and 97 age‐matched normal volunteers. This study limited the participants to young male adults (20‐ to 39‐year‐olds) using the Internet.

Results

People with a diagnosis of AD prefer personal computers to mobile phones as their Internet terminal, have an inclination to use anonymous media, and tend to think that they can communicate more correctly through the Internet than face‐to‐face communication. People with a diagnosis of schizophrenia employ the Internet to a degree almost similar to controls, and tend to rely on unknown persons, but also sometimes feel hurt when communicating on the Internet. Moreover, their sensitivity to the risks of the Internet tends to decrease with the aggravation of their psychotic symptoms.

Discussion

It may be important to pay attention to the excessive use of some limited media by people with a diagnosis of AD. Providing people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia with sufficient information about the risks of the Internet is also important.
Managing the uncertain earth: geophysical hazards in the risk society
Authors: Donovan Amy , Oppenheimer Clive
Published: October 2013

We discuss the current challenges facing volcanologists and seismologists in the risk society, recently highlighted by the trial and conviction of six scientists and a public official in Italy. We argue that the nature of the uncertainty surrounding natural hazards, particularly earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, coupled with their relative rarity, creates a major challenge for scientists that is as much socially and culturally derived as it is scientific. Scientists have responsibility for giving advice in many circumstances, but in this context they are particularly vulnerable to criticism because the stakes are very high and the decisionmakers are very dependent on their advice and may use it for political ends or with more corrupt motives. We discuss some of the implications of this for scientists, officials and publics, arguing that scientific advice regarding geophysical hazards should be a dialogical process with legal protection and social scientific support.
Geodynamic evolution of a forearc rift in the southernmost Mariana Arc
Authors: Ribeiro Julia M. , Stern Robert J. , Martinez Fernando , Ishizuka Osamu , Merle Susan G. , Kelley Katherine , Anthony Elizabeth Y. , Ren Minghua , Ohara Yasuhiko , Reagan Mark , Girard Guillaume , Bloomer Sherman
Published: October 2013

The southernmost Mariana forearc stretched to accommodate opening of the Mariana Trough backarc basin in late Neogene time, erupting basalts at 3.7–2.7 Ma that are now exposed in the Southeast Mariana Forearc Rift (SEMFR). Today, SEMFR is a broad zone of extension that formed on hydrated, forearc lithosphere and overlies the shallow subducting slab (slab depth ≤ 30–50 km). It comprises NW–SE trending subparallel deeps, 3–16 km wide, that can be traced ≥ ∼30 km from the trench almost to the backarc spreading center, the Malaguana‐Gadao Ridge (MGR). While forearcs are usually underlain by serpentinized harzburgites too cold to melt, SEMFR crust is mostly composed of Pliocene, low‐K basaltic to basaltic andesite lavas that are compositionally similar to arc lavas and backarc basin (BAB) lavas, and thus defines a forearc region that recently witnessed abundant igneous activity in the form of seafloor spreading. SEMFR igneous rocks have low Na8, Ti8, and Fe8, consistent with extensive melting, at ∼23 ± 6.6 km depth and 1239 ± 40°C, by adiabatic decompression of depleted asthenospheric mantle metasomatized by slab‐derived fluids. Stretching of pre‐existing forearc lithosphere allowed BAB‐like mantle to flow along the SEMFR and melt, forming new oceanic crust. Melts interacted with pre‐existing forearc lithosphere during ascent. The SEMFR is no longer magmatically active and post‐magmatic tectonic activity dominates the rift.