bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating optical feedback from a chalcogenide fiber in mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers
Authors: Jumpertz L. , Caillaud C. , Gilles C. , Ferré S. , Schires K. , Brilland L. , Troles J. , Carras M. , Grillot F.
Published: October 2016

The amount of optical feedback originating from a chalcogenide fiber used to couple light from a mid-infrared quantum cascade laser is evaluated experimentally. Threshold reduction measurements on the fibered laser, combined with an analytical study of a rate equations model of the laser under optical feedback, allow estimating the feedback strength between 11% and 15% depending on the fiber cleavage quality. While this remains below the frontier of the chaotic regime, it is sufficient to deeply modify the optical spectrum of a quantum cascade laser. Hence for applications such as gas spectroscopy, where the shape of the optical spectrum is of prime importance, the use of mid-infrared optical isolators may be necessary for fibered quantum cascade lasers to be fully exploited.
Thermal analysis of continuous and patterned multilayer films in the presence of a nanoscale hot spot
Authors: Juang Jia-Yang , Zheng Jinglin
Published: October 2016

Thermal responses of multilayer films play essential roles in state-of-the-art electronic systems, such as photo/micro-electronic devices, data storage systems, and silicon-on-insulator transistors. In this paper, we focus on the thermal aspects of multilayer films in the presence of a nanoscale hot spot induced by near field laser heating. The problem is set up in the scenario of heat assisted magnetic recording (HAMR), the next-generation technology to overcome the data storage density limit imposed by superparamagnetism. We characterized thermal responses of both continuous and patterned multilayer media films using transient thermal modeling. We observed that material configurations, in particular, the thermal barriers at the material layer interfaces crucially impact the temperature field hence play a key role in determining the hot spot geometry, transient response and power consumption. With a representative generic media model, we further explored the possibility of optimizing thermal performances by designing layers of heat sink and thermal barrier. The modeling approach demonstrates an effective way to characterize thermal behaviors of micro and nano-scale electronic devices with multilayer thin film structures. The insights into the thermal transport scheme will be critical for design and operations of such electronic devices.
Assessing change in perceived community leadership readiness in the Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle program
Authors: Kostadinov Iordan , Daniel Mark , Jones Michelle , Cargo Margaret
Published: October 2016

Issue addressed

The context of community‐based childhood obesity prevention programs can influence the effects of these intervention programs. Leadership readiness for community mobilisation for childhood obesity prevention is one such contextual factor. This study assessed perceived community leadership readiness (PCLR) at two time points in a state‐wide, multisite community‐based childhood obesity prevention program.

Methods

PCLR was assessed across 168 suburbs of 20 intervention communities participating in South Australia's Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle (OPAL) program. Using a validated online PCLR tool, four key respondents from each community rated each suburb within their respective community on a nine‐point scale for baseline and 2015. Average PCLR and change scores were calculated using the general linear model with suburbs nested in communities. Relationships between demographic variables and change in PCLR were evaluated using multiple regression. Ease of survey use was also assessed.

Results

Average PCLR increased between baseline (3.51, s.d. = 0.82) and 2015 (5.23, s.d. = 0.89). PCLR rose in 18 of 20 intervention communities. PCLR was inversely associated with suburb population size (r2 = 0.03, P = 0.03, b = −0.25) and positively associated with intervention duration (r2 change = 0.08, P = 0.00, b = 0.29). Only 8% of survey respondents considered the online assessment tool difficult to use.

Conclusions

PCLR increased over the course of the OPAL intervention. PCLR varied between and within communities. Online assessment of PCLR has utility for multisite program evaluations.

So what?

Use of a novel, resource‐efficient online tool to measure the key contextual factors of PCLR has enabled a better understanding of the success and generalisability of the OPAL program.
Improving the translation of health promotion interventions using effectiveness–implementation hybrid designs in program evaluations
Authors: Wolfenden Luke , Williams Christopher M. , Wiggers John , Nathan Nicole , Yoong Sze Lin
Published: October 2016

Bridging the gap between research‐based evidence and public health policy and practice is a considerable challenge to public health improvement this century, requiring a rethinking of conventional approaches to health research production and use. Traditionally the process of research translation has been viewed as linear and unidirectional, from epidemiological research to identify health problems and determinants, to efficacy and effectiveness trials and studies of strategies to maximise the implementation and dissemination of evidence‐based interventions in practice. A criticism of this approach is the considerable time it takes to achieve translation of health research into practice. Hybrid evaluation designs provide one means of accelerating the research translation process by simultaneously collecting information regarding intervention impacts and implementation and dissemination strategy. However, few health promotion research trials employ such designs and often fail to report information to enable assessment of the feasibility and potential impact of implementation and dissemination strategies. In addition to intervention effects, policy makers and practitioners also want to know the impact of implementation strategies. This commentary will define the three categories of effectiveness‐implementation hybrid designs, describe their application in health promotion evaluation, and discuss the potential implications of more systematic use of such designs for the translation of health promotion and evaluation.

So what?

Greater use of effectiveness‐implementation hybrid designs may accelerate research translation by providing more practice‐ and policy‐relevant information to end‐users, more quickly.
The effect of ramp slope and surface type on the climbing success of shortfin eel (Anguilla australis) elvers
Authors: Jellyman Phillip G. , Bauld Joshua T. , Crow Shannan K.
Published: October 2016

Instream structures such as dams, weirs and culverts reduce diadromous fish (e.g. freshwater eels) biodiversity and abundance by restricting upstream migrations. Fish passes are used to facilitate fish passage around instream structures, but limited information is available about design aspects that influence the ability of fish to negotiate the structures. We used experimental ramps to evaluate the effects of surface type and slope on the climbing success of shortfin eel (Anguilla australis) elvers (total length <155mm). Climbing success was examined for three surface types (smooth plastic, sand and gravel, Miradrain) at slopes of 30, 50 and 70°. Elver climbing ability differed among substrates, with the highest success observed on the Miradrain surface (a moulded plastic drainage product). Climbing success decreased with increasing ramp slope. The mean length of elvers successfully negotiating the ramps was longer than that of elvers that failed to climb because only larger elvers could climb the Miradrain surface as ramp slope increased. Results indicated that the optimal ramp-designed passage for climbing species would be lined with Miradrain and set at an angle close to 30° and not exceeding 50°. Elver passage will be detrimentally affected by steep surfaces, which will be exacerbated if suboptimal ramp-surface types are used.
Effects of freezing and activation on membrane quality and DNA damage in Xenopus tropicalis and Xenopus laevis spermatozoa
Authors: Morrow S. , Gosálvez J. , López-Fernández C. , Arroyo F. , Holt W. V. , Guille M. J.
Published: October 2016

There is growing concern over the effect of sperm cryopreservation on DNA integrity and the subsequent development of offspring generated from this cryopreserved material. In the present study, membrane integrity and DNA stability of Xenopus laevis and Xenopus tropicalis spermatozoa were evaluated in response to cryopreservation with or without activation, a process that happens upon exposure to water to spermatozoa of some aquatic species. A dye exclusion assay revealed that sperm plasma membrane integrity in both species decreased after freezing, more so for X. laevis than X. tropicalis spermatozoa. The sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test showed that for both X. tropicalis and X. laevis, activated frozen spermatozoa produced the highest levels of DNA fragmentation compared with all fresh samples and frozen non-activated samples (P < 0.05). Understanding the nature of DNA and membrane damage that occurs in cryopreserved spermatozoa from Xenopus species represents the first step in exploiting these powerful model organisms to understand the developmental consequences of fertilising with cryopreservation-damaged spermatozoa.
High production of a class III lantipeptide AmfS in Streptomyces griseus
Authors: Takano Hideaki , Matsui Yuhei , Nomura Junpei , Fujimoto Masahiro , Katsumata Naoto , Koyama Takafumi , Mizuno Isamu , Amano Shoichi , Shiratori-Takano Hatsumi , Komatsu Mamoru , Ikeda Haruo , Ueda Kenji
Published: October 2016

AmfS, a class III lantipeptide serves as a morphogen in Streptomyces griseus. Here, we constructed a high production system of AmfS in S. griseus. We isolated S. griseus Grd1 strain defective in glucose repression of aerial mycelium formation and found it suitable for the overproduction of AmfS. Two expression vectors carrying the strong and constitutive ermE2 promoter were constructed using a multicopy number plasmid, pIJ702. The use of the Grd1 strain combined with the expression vectors enabled high production of AmfS by S. griseus into its culture broth. The expression system was also effective for the generation of abundant AmfS derived from Streptomyces avermitilis. In addition, site-directed mutagenesis revealed the amino acid residues essential for the morphogen activity of AmfS. These results indicate that the constructed system enables efficient production of class III lantipeptides by Streptomyces.
The (oxalato)aluminate complex as an antimicrobial substance protecting the “shiro” of Tricholoma matsutake from soil micro-organisms
Authors: Nishino Katsutoshi , Shiro Misao , Okura Ryuki , Oizumi Kazuya , Fujita Toru , Sasamori Takahiro , Tokitoh Norihiro , Yamada Akiyoshi , Tanaka Chihiro , Yamaguchi Muneyoshi , Hiradate Syuntaro , Hirai Nobuhiro
Published: October 2016

Tricholoma matsutake, a basidiomycete, forms ectomycorrhizas with Pinus densiflora as the host tree. Its fruiting body, “matsutake” in Japanese, is an edible and highly prized mushroom, and it grows in a circle called a fairy ring. Beneath the fairy ring of T. matsutake, a whitish mycelium-soil aggregated zone, called “shiro” in Japanese, develops. The front of the shiro, an active mycorrhizal zone, functions to gather nutrients from the soil and roots to nourish the fairy ring. Bacteria and sporulating fungi decrease from the shiro front, whereas they increase inside and outside the shiro front. Ohara demonstrated that the shiro front exhibited antimicrobial activity, but the antimicrobial substance has remained unidentified for 50 years. We have identified the antimicrobial substance as the (oxalato)aluminate complex, known as a reaction product of oxalic acid and aluminum phosphate to release soluble phosphorus. The complex protects the shiro from micro-organisms, and contributes to its development.
Tumor macrophages are pivotal constructors of tumor collagenous matrix
Authors: Afik Ran , Zigmond Ehud , Vugman Milena , Klepfish Mordehay , Shimshoni Elee , Pasmanik-Chor Metsada , Shenoy Anjana , Bassat Elad , Halpern Zamir , Geiger Tamar , Sagi Irit , Varol Chen
Published: October 2016

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor development, invasion, and dissemination by various mechanisms. In this study, using an orthotopic colorectal cancer (CRC) model, we found that monocyte-derived TAMs advance tumor development by the remodeling of its extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and structure. Unbiased transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of (a) TAM-abundant and -deficient tumor tissues and (b) sorted tumor-associated and -resident colonic macrophage subpopulations defined a distinct TAM-induced ECM molecular signature composed of an ensemble of matricellular proteins and remodeling enzymes they provide to the tumor microenvironment. Remarkably, many of these ECM proteins are specifically increased in human CRC versus healthy colon. Specifically, we demonstrate that although differentiating into TAMs, monocytes up-regulate matrix-remodeling programs associated with the synthesis and assembly of collagenous ECM, specifically collagen types I, VI, and XIV. This finding was further established by advanced imaging showing that TAMs instruct the deposition, cross-linking, and linearization of collagen fibers during tumor development, especially at areas of tumor invasiveness. Finally, we show that cancer-associated fibroblasts are significantly outnumbered by TAMs in this model and that their expression of collagen XIV and I is reduced by TAM deficiency. Here, we outline a novel TAM protumoral function associated with building of the collagenous ECM niche.
Complement pathway amplifies caspase-11–dependent cell death and endotoxin-induced sepsis severity
Authors: Napier Brooke A. , Brubaker Sky W. , Sweeney Timothy E. , Monette Patrick , Rothmeier Greggory H. , Gertsvolf Nina A. , Puschnik Andreas , Carette Jan E. , Khatri Purvesh , Monack Denise M.
Published: October 2016

Cell death and release of proinflammatory mediators contribute to mortality during sepsis. Specifically, caspase-11–dependent cell death contributes to pathology and decreases in survival time in sepsis models. Priming of the host cell, through TLR4 and interferon receptors, induces caspase-11 expression, and cytosolic LPS directly stimulates caspase-11 activation, promoting the release of proinflammatory cytokines through pyroptosis and caspase-1 activation. Using a CRISPR-Cas9–mediated genome-wide screen, we identified novel mediators of caspase-11–dependent cell death. We found a complement-related peptidase, carboxypeptidase B1 (Cpb1), to be required for caspase-11 gene expression and subsequent caspase-11–dependent cell death. Cpb1 modifies a cleavage product of C3, which binds to and activates C3aR, and then modulates innate immune signaling. We find the Cpb1–C3–C3aR pathway induces caspase-11 expression through amplification of MAPK activity downstream of TLR4 and Ifnar activation, and mediates severity of LPS-induced sepsis (endotoxemia) and disease outcome in mice. We show C3aR is required for up-regulation of caspase-11 orthologues, caspase-4 and -5, in primary human macrophages during inflammation and that c3aR1 and caspase-5 transcripts are highly expressed in patients with severe sepsis; thus, suggesting that these pathways are important in human sepsis. Our results highlight a novel role for complement and the Cpb1–C3–C3aR pathway in proinflammatory signaling, caspase-11 cell death, and sepsis severity.
Preventing tumor escape by targeting a post-proteasomal trimming independent epitope
Authors: Textor Ana , Schmidt Karin , Kloetzel Peter-M. , Weißbrich Bianca , Perez Cynthia , Charo Jehad , Anders Kathleen , Sidney John , Sette Alessandro , Schumacher Ton N.M. , Keller Christin , Busch Dirk H. , Seifert Ulrike , Blankenstein Thomas
Published: October 2016

Adoptive T cell therapy (ATT) can achieve regression of large tumors in mice and humans; however, tumors frequently recur. High target peptide-major histocompatibility complex-I (pMHC) affinity and T cell receptor (TCR)-pMHC affinity are thought to be critical to preventing relapse. Here, we show that targeting two epitopes of the same antigen in the same cancer cells via monospecific T cells, which have similar pMHC and pMHC-TCR affinity, results in eradication of large, established tumors when targeting the apparently subdominant but not the dominant epitope. Only the escape but not the rejection epitope required postproteasomal trimming, which was regulated by IFN-γ, allowing IFN-γ–unresponsive cancer variants to evade. The data describe a novel immune escape mechanism and better define suitable target epitopes for ATT.
A Cytoscape app for motif enumeration with ISMAGS
Authors: Van Parys Thomas , Melckenbeeck Ine , Houbraken Maarten , Audenaert Pieter , Colle Didier , Pickavet Mario , Demeester Piet , Van de Peer Yves
Published: October 2016

We present a Cytoscape app for the ISMAGS algorithm, which can enumerate all instances of a motif in a graph, making optimal use of the motif’s symmetries to make the search more efficient. The Cytoscape app provides a handy interface for this algorithm, which allows more efficient network analysis.

Availability and Implementation

The Cytoscape app for ISMAGS can be freely downloaded from the Cytoscape App store http://apps.cytoscape.org/apps/ismags. Source code and documentation for ISMAGS are available at https://github.com/biointec/ismags. Source code and documentation for the Cytoscape app are available at https://gitlab.psb.ugent.be/thpar/ISMAGS_Cytoscape.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Pathway Inspector: a pathway based web application for RNAseq analysis of model and non-model organisms
Authors: Bianco Luca , Riccadonna Samantha , Lavezzo Enrico , Falda Marco , Formentin Elide , Cavalieri Duccio , Toppo Stefano , Fontana Paolo
Published: October 2016

Pathway Inspector is an easy-to-use web application helping researchers to find patterns of expression in complex RNAseq experiments. The tool combines two standard approaches for RNAseq analysis: the identification of differentially expressed genes and a topology-based analysis of enriched pathways. Pathway Inspector is equipped with ad hoc interactive graphical interfaces simplifying the discovery of modulated pathways and the integration of the differentially expressed genes in the corresponding pathway topology.

Availability and Implementation

Pathway Inspector is available at the website http://admiral.fmach.it/PI and has been developed in Python, making use of the Django Web Framework.
Ageing bias and precision for deep-water snappers: evaluating nascent otolith preparation methods using novel multivariate comparisons among readers and growth parameter estimates
Authors: Wakefield Corey B. , O’Malley Joseph M. , Williams Ashley J. , Taylor Brett M. , Nichols Ryan S. , Halafihi Tuikolongahau , Humphreys Robert L. , Kaltavara Jeremie , Nicol Simon J. , Newman Stephen J.
Published: October 2016

Tropical deep-water snappers (Etelinae) support valuable fisheries across the Indo-Pacific, with stock assessments reliant on age-based information in the absence of reliable catch and effort statistics. These long-lived species have been considered notoriously difficult to age. However, nascent developments in ageing protocols, particularly thinner transverse sections of otoliths (∼180–200 µm), are providing improvements in growth zone clarity, interpretation and repeatability of annuli counts. At a recent international workshop, thin sectioned otoliths from three deep-water snappers were read under reflected light by eight fisheries scientists from across the Indo-Pacific, with various levels of fish-ageing experience. Precision and bias were assessed using traditional ageing precision metrics (index of average percent error, IAPE; and coefficient of variation, CV), and a novel approach using multivariate analyses (metric multidimensional scaling, mMDS) based on Euclidean dissimilarity among readers’ counts and subsequent von Bertalanffy (vB) growth parameter estimates. Annuli counts between the primary reader and all other readers were within two for 80% of estimates, with uniform variation across a wide age range for Etelis carbunculus (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.924, n = 20, 3–25 annuli) and Etelis sp. (ICC = 0.933, n = 15, 2–27 annuli). In contrast, annuli counts for Pristipomoides filamentosus (n = 14, 4–49) were less precise (i.e. ICC = 0.835, 66% of counts within two of primary reader) with a bias toward greater variation in younger, pre-maturational life stages (≤5 annuli). Traditionally accepted ageing precision (IAPE ≤ 5.5%, CV ≤ 7.6%) was achieved for each species, but was commensurate with reader experience. The multivariate mMDS ordination was more informative in identifying both distance (i.e. dissimilarity) and direction (i.e. form) of variations in annuli counts and vB growth parameter estimates among readers. The acceptable level of ageing precision and bias achieved among most readers indicated that deep-water snappers can be aged precisely when appropriate otolith preparation methods are used. This study contributes towards ageing protocols that can be used to (i) interrogate bias and precision of age data for stock assessments, and (ii) standardise comparisons of age-based life history characteristics across a species range.
Characterization of RNA-Binding Proteins Using Protein Microarrays
Authors: Song Guang , Neiswinger Johnathan , Zhu Heng
Published: October 2016

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), along with target RNA, play a vital role in the regulation of cellular processing and are especially important in gene transcription and posttranscriptional regulation. Here, we present a high-throughput method for rapid identification of RBPs for a given RNA using protein microarray technology. This protocol includes preparation of Cy5-labeled RNA probes, probe denaturing and refolding, and an RNA-binding assay as performed on a yeast protein microarray.
Analysis of Schizosaccharomyces pombe Heterochromatin-Associated Short Interfering RNAs
Authors: Zhang Ke
Published: October 2016

An important aspect of RNAi-mediated heterochromatin assembly is the production of short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) in cis at the heterochromatic target. These populations of small RNAs (20–30 nt) can be detected via northern blot analysis with radiolabeled RNA probes corresponding to the siRNAs. Most heterochromatin-associated siRNAs originate from both strands of the pericentromeric dg and dh repeats. Thus, production of RNA probes by in vitro transcription utilizes a DNA template with sequences corresponding to either dg or dh repeats. Alternatively, radiolabeled DNA probes, which are somewhat easier to prepare, may be used. A control probe against a small RNA, such as a tRNA, may also be prepared for loading. More recently genome-scale analysis using next-generation sequencing platforms has enabled the detection of rare siRNAs at sites other than the major heterochromatin domains. This protocol describes procedures for the extraction of small RNAs from Schizosaccharomyces pombe and their detection by northern blot analysis.
The complete classification of five-dimensional Dirichlet–Voronoi polyhedra of translational lattices
Authors: Dutour Sikirić Mathieu , Garber Alexey , Schürmann Achill , Waldmann Clara
Published: October 2016

This paper reports on the full classification of Dirichlet–Voronoi polyhedra and Delaunay subdivisions of five-dimensional translational lattices. A complete list is obtained of 110 244 affine types (L-types) of Delaunay subdivisions and it turns out that they are all combinatorially inequivalent, giving the same number of combinatorial types of Dirichlet–Voronoi polyhedra. Using a refinement of corresponding secondary cones, 181 394 contraction types are obtained. The paper gives details of the computer-assisted enumeration, which was verified by three independent implementations and a topological mass formula check.
Quantitative theory of diffraction by ordered coaxial nanotubes: reciprocal-lattice and diffraction pattern indexing
Authors: Khalitov Zufar , Khadiev Azat , Valeeva Diana , Pashin Dmitry
Published: October 2016

A quantitative theory of diffraction by right- and left-handed coaxial nanotubes with an ordered structure is developed. Their reciprocal lattices, including pseudo-orthogonal nodes, are studied. The explicit formulas that govern relations between direct and reciprocal lattices of a nanotube are achieved and a simple descriptive tool for diffraction pattern indexing is proposed.
Residue-based scattering factors
Authors: Xu Hongliang
Published: October 2016

A glob is defined as a group of atoms in the crystal which can be chosen in various ways. Globs themselves can be used as scattering elements in the theory of structure determination, just as atoms are used at present. In this paper, amino-acid residues are chosen to form globs and empirical formulas for residue-based scattering factors have been developed.
Direct observation of incommensurate structure in Mo3Si
Authors: Gulec Ahmet , Yu Xiaoxiang , Taylor Matthew , Perepezko John H. , Marks Laurence
Published: October 2016

Z-contrast imaging, electron diffraction, atom-probe tomography (APT) and density functional theory calculations were used to study the crystal structure of the Mo3Si phase which was previously reported to have an A15 crystal structure. The results showed that Mo3Si has an incommensurate crystal structure with a non-cubic unit cell. The small off-stoichiometry in composition of the sample which was revealed by APT and atomic resolutionZ-contrast imaging suggested that site substitution caused the development of split atomic positions, disorder and vacancies.
Towards atomistic understanding of polymorphism in the solvothermal synthesis of ZrO2nanoparticles
Authors: Dippel Ann-Christin , Jensen Kirsten M. Ø. , Tyrsted Christoffer , Bremholm Martin , Bøjesen Espen D. , Saha Dipankar , Birgisson Steinar , Christensen Mogens , Billinge Simon J. L. , Iversen Bo B.
Published: October 2016

Varying atomic short-range order is correlated with the ratio of the monoclinic (m) to tetragonal (t) phase in ZrO2nanoparticle formation by solvothermal methods. Reactions from Zr oxynitrate in supercritical methanol and Zr acetate in water (hydrothermal route) were studiedin situby X-ray total scattering. Irrespective of the Zr source and solvent, the structure of the precursor in solution consists of edge-shared tetramer chains. Upon heating, the nearest-neighbor Zr—O and Zr—Zr distances shorten initially while the medium-range connectivity is broken. Depending on the reaction conditions, the disordered intermediate transforms either rapidly intom-ZrO2, or more gradually into mixedm- andt-ZrO2with a concurrent increase of the shortest Zr—Zr distance. In the hydrothermal case, the structural similarity of the amorphous intermediate andm-ZrO2favors the formation of almost phase-purem-ZrO2nanoparticles with a size of 5 nm, considerably smaller than the often-cited critical size below which the tetragonal is assumed to be favoured. Pair distribution function analysis thus unravels ZrO2phase formation on the atomic scale and in this way provides a major step towards understanding polymorphism of ZrO2beyond empirical approaches.
Flexibility or ethical dilemma: an overview of the work from home policies in modern organizations around the world
Authors: Timsal Ahmad , Awais Mustabsar
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The primary purpose of this paper is to highlight the pros and cons associated with the work from home policies and how these policies differ across countries and cultures. The main question to be answered is that why a perk or benefit is now being considered as an ethical issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Opinions of practitioners and examples of some leading controversial work from home policies have been discussed in detail. Examples from the developed countries have been compared with those of less developed countries, to present a cross country analysis.

Findings

Culture has a significant impact on the flexible work arrangement policies. Although many companies endorse some degree of flexibility for working mothers or parents in general, working from home as a universal policy is still debatable. The decision to offer this facility to employees majorly depends upon the geographic location of that organization.

Originality/value

All the discussions and views expressed solely belong to the authors. This paper can be extended by adding some empirical evidences from the companies who actually offer this facility to their employees.
The quality of equality: thinking differently about gender inclusion in organizations
Authors: Adamson Maria , Kelan Elisabeth K. , Lewis Patricia , Rumens Nick , Slíwa Martyna
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to suggest a shift in thinking about how to improve gender inclusion in organizations, as well as offering a number of practical action points.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes a perspective based on the authors’ own ongoing research, as well as synthesis of existing insights into gender inclusion in organizations.

Findings

To retain top talent and improve organizational climate, the authors need to re-think how the authors measure the success of organizational inclusion policies. Specifically, the paper suggests moving from numbers and targets to looking at the quality of gender inclusion in the workplace. The paper explains why this shift in thinking is important and how to approach it in practice.

Practical implications

The paper provides strategic insights into and practical thinking about ways in which progressive organizations can continue to improve gender equality.

Originality/value

The paper makes a provocative call for a change of perspective on gender inclusion in organizations based on cutting-edge research and puts forward action points in an accessible format.
The intersection of radiotherapy and immunotherapy: Mechanisms and clinical implications
Authors: Spiotto Michael , Fu Yang-Xin , Weichselbaum Ralph R.
Published: October 2016

Radiotherapy and immunotherapy cooperate to generate antitumor immune responses for therapeutic gain.
Phlebitis as a consequence of peripheral intravenous administration of cisatracurium besylate in critically ill patients
Authors: Meeder Annelijn M , van der Steen Marijke S , Rozendaal Annemieke , van Zanten Arthur R H
Published: October 2016

This case report series describes 3 cases of cisatracurium besylate associated phlebitis after an infusion period of 14–20 hours. No similar cases have been reported in the literature. Association of phlebitis with another neuromuscular blocking agent, atracurium, has been described in the literature. The acidity of atracurium is thought to be the main cause. It is recommended that atracurium is administered only via central venous catheters when indicated to infuse over prolonged periods of time due to the acidity. Cisatracurium is a stereoisomer of atracurium and as such has the same molecular weight. Although cisatracurium also has a similar acidity as atracurium, a recommendation concerning infusion via a central venous catheter is lacking. We suggest prolonged administration of cisatracurium besylate only via centrally placed venous catheters or if not possible to careful monitor relevant peripheral intravenous sites to diminish the risks of phlebitis and associated complications or other cutaneous reactions.
Hospital-based violence intervention programs targeting adult populations: an Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma evidence-based review
Authors: Affinati Steven , Patton Desmond , Hansen Luke , Ranney Megan , Christmas A Britton , Violano Pina , Sodhi Aparna , Robinson Bryce , Crandall Marie ,   from the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma Injury Control and Violence Prevention Section and Guidelines Section
Published: October 2016

Background

Violent injury and reinjury take a devastating toll on distressed communities. Many trauma centers have created hospital-based violent injury prevention programs (HVIP) to address psychosocial, educational, and mental health needs of injured patients that may contribute to reinjury.

Objectives

To evaluate the overall effectiveness of HVIPs for violent injury prevention. We performed an evidence-based review to answer the following population, intervention, comparator, outcomes (PICO) question: Are HVIPs attending to adult patients (age 18+) treated for intentional injury more effective than the usual care at preventing: intentional violent reinjury and/or death; arrest and/or incarceration; substance abuse and/or mental issues; job and/or school attainment?

Data sources

PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were queried for salient articles by a professional librarian on two separate occasions, and related articles were identified from references.

Study eligibility criteria, participants, interventions

Eligible studies examined adult patients treated for intentional injury in a hospital-based violence prevention program compared to a control group.

Study appraisal and synthesis methods

We used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology to assess the breadth and quality of the evidence.

Results

71 articles were identified. After discarding duplicates, reviews, and those articles that did not address our PICO questions, we ultimately reviewed 10 articles. We found insufficient evidence to recommend adult-focused HVIP interventions.

Limitations

There was a relative paucity of data, and available studies were limited by self-selection bias and small sample sizes.

Conclusions

We make no recommendation with respect to adult-focused HVIP interventions.
Tetramethylpyrazine ameliorated disuse-induced gastrocnemius muscle atrophy in hindlimb unloading rats through suppression of Ca2+/ROS-mediated apoptosis
Authors: Hu Nai-Fei , Chang Hui , Du Bei , Zhang Quan-Wang , Arfat Yasir , Dang Kai , Gao Yun-Fang
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine the possible mechanism underlying the protective effect of tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) against disuse-induced muscle atrophy. Sprague−Dawley rats were randomly assigned to receive 14 days of hindlimb unloading (HLU, a model of disuse atrophy) or cage controls. The rats were given TMP (60 mg/kg body mass) or vehicle (water) by gavage. Compared with vehicle treatment, TMP significantly attenuated the loss of gastrocnemius muscle mass (−33.56%, P < 0.01), the decrease of cross-sectional area of slow fiber (−10.99%, P < 0.05) and fast fiber (−15.78%, P < 0.01) during HLU. Although TMP failed to further improve recovery of muscle function or fatigability compared with vehicle treatment, it can suppress the higher level of lactate (−22.71%, P < 0.01) induced by HLU. Besides, TMP could effectually reduce the increased protein expression of muscle RING-finger protein 1 induced by HLU (−14.52%, P < 0.01). Furthermore, TMP can ameliorate the calcium overload (−54.39%, P < 0.05), the increase of malondialdehyde content (−19.82%, P < 0.05), the decrease of superoxide dismutase activity (21.34%, P < 0.05), and myonuclear apoptosis (−78.22%, P < 0.01) induced by HLU. Moreover, TMP significantly reduced HLU-induced increase of Bax to B-cell lymphoma 2 (−36.36%, P < 0.01) and cytochrome c release (−36.16%, P < 0.05). In conclusion, TMP attenuated HLU-induced gastrocnemius muscle atrophy through suppression of Ca2+/reactive oxygen species increase and consequent proteolysis and apoptosis. Therefore, TMP might exhibit therapeutic effect against oxidative stress, cytosolic calcium overload, and mitochondrial damage in disuse-induced muscle atrophy.
Late-rotation nitrogen fertilization of Douglas-fir: growth response and fibre properties
Authors: Filipescu Cosmin N. , Trofymow John A. (Tony) , Koppenaal Ross S.
Published: October 2016

Late-rotation fertilization of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) 5 to 10 years before harvesting is a common management practice in British Columbia and the US Pacific Northwest. Despite widespread operational application, knowledge on the impact of late-rotation fertilization on forests, especially fibre properties, is lacking. In this study, we evaluate the growth response and fibre properties following nitrogen fertilization in a productive second-growth coastal Douglas-fir site at age 57 years. Destructive sampling of dominant and co-dominant trees in fertilized and control plots 5 years after fertilization indicated significant gain in stem volume (30%–40%) that was uniformly distributed along the stem. There were no discernible effects on wood quality at the log level in terms of resonance acoustic velocity. However, fibre properties within breast height tree rings indicated significant reductions of ring wood density (by 8%), earlywood density (17%), latewood percentage (10%), and modulus of elasticity (8%). Tracheid dimensions declined in earlywood (reduction of wall thickness by 15%), latewood (radial diameter by 8%), and fibre length (by 6%). Results indicate that late-rotation nitrogen fertilization of Douglas-fir may lead to a significant growth response with only minimal reduction of fibre properties. It is possible that the negative impact on fibre properties could become more significant for repeated applications or higher rates of nitrogen fertilization.
Algorithms for Longest Common Abelian Factors
Authors: Alatabbi Ali , Iliopoulos Costas S. , Langiu Alessio , Rahman M. Sohel
Published: October 2016

In this paper we consider the problem of computing the longest common abelian factor (LCAF) between two given strings. We present a simple [Formula: see text] time algorithm, where n is the length of the strings and [Formula: see text] is the alphabet size, and a sub-quadratic running time solution for the binary string case, both having linear space requirement. Furthermore, we present a modified algorithm applying some interesting tricks and experimentally show that the resulting algorithm runs faster.
Ballistic anisotropic magnetoresistance in core–shell nanowires and rolled-up nanotubes
Authors: Chang Ching-Hao , Ortix Carmine
Published: October 2016

In ferromagnetic nanostructures, the ballistic anisotropic magnetoresistance (BAMR) is a change in the ballistic conductance with the direction of magnetization due to spin–orbit interaction. Very recently, a directional dependent ballistic conductance has been predicted to occur in a number of newly synthesized nonmagnetic semiconducting nanostructures subject to externally applied magnetic fields, without necessitating spin–orbit coupling. In this paper, we review past works on the prediction of this BAMR effect in core–shell nanowires (CSN) and rolled-up nanotubes (RUNTs). This is complemented by new results, we establish for the transport properties of tubular nanosystems subject to external magnetic fields.
The energy separation effect based on the disk resonance multichannel MIM waveguide
Authors: Wang Liu , Zeng Ya-Ping , Wang Zhi-Yong , Xia Xiong-Ping , Liang Qiu-Qun
Published: October 2016

In this paper, a multichannel metal–insulator–metal (MIM) waveguide structure based on a disk resonator is proposed. The transmission characteristics of visible and near-infrared light in the waveguide are investigated by using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The results show that the structure has typical band-pass filter function due to the wave resonance in the nanodisk. The energy of the second-order resonance wavelength of the disk can transmit through each output port averagely, which is realized by the energy separation function of the electromagnetic wave. Moreover, the wavelength will transmit through the output port in redshift as the radius and/or the refractive index of the disk are increased. The transmissivity is sharply reduced with the increase of the coupling thickness between the disk and the output port waveguide.
On Time Moments and Markov Parameters of Continuous Interval Systems
Authors: Singh V. P. , Chauhan D. P. S. , Singh S. P. , Prakash T.
Published: October 2016

In this paper, two expressions are derived for calculating the time moments and Markov parameters of continuous interval systems. The expressions presented are computationally simple and do not require inversion of denominator of the system transfer function unlike other techniques. The usefulness of expressions derived is shown with the help of Routh–Padé approximation of interval systems. The derived Routh–Padé approximants retain not only the time moments but also some Markov parameters of high-order interval system. Some improvement is also found in system approximation when these time moments/Markov parameters are used. One numerical example is included to illustrate the effectiveness and simplicity of proposed method.
Pipelined-Scheduling of Multiple Embedded Applications on a Multi-Processor-SoC
Authors: Salamy Hassan , Aslan Semih
Published: October 2016

Due to clock and power constraints, it is hard to extract more power out of single core architectures. Thus, multi-core systems are now the architecture of choice to provide the needed computing power. In embedded system, multi-processor system-on-a-chip (MPSoC) is widely used to provide the needed power to effectively run complex embedded applications. However, to effectively utilize an MPSoC system, tools to generate optimized schedules is highly needed. In this paper, we design an integrated approach to task scheduling and memory partitioning of multiple applications utilizing the MPSoC system simultaneously. This is in contrast to the traditional decoupled approach that looks at task scheduling and memory partitioning as two separate problems. Our framework is also based on pipelined scheduling to increase the throughput of the system. Results on different benchmarks show the effectiveness of our techniques.
Combining data from high-energy pp-reactions and neutrinoless double-beta decay: Limits on the mass of the right-handed boson
Authors: Civitarese Osvaldo , Suhonen Jouni , Zuber Kai
Published: October 2016

From the recently established lower-limits on the nonobservability of the neutrinoless double-beta decay of [Formula: see text]Ge (GERDA collaboration) and [Formula: see text]Xe (EXO-200 and KamLAND-Zen collaborations), combined with the ATLAS and CMS data, we extract limits for the left–right (LR) mixing angle, [Formula: see text], of the [Formula: see text] electroweak Hamiltonian. For the theoretical analysis, which is a model dependent, we have adopted a minimal extension of the Standard Model (SM) of Electroweak Interactions belonging to the [Formula: see text] representation. The nuclear-structure input of the analysis consists of a set of matrix elements and phase-space factors, and the experimental lower-limits for the half-lives. The other input are the ATLAS and CMS cross-section measurements of the [Formula: see text]-collisions into two-jets and two-leptons, performed at the large hadron collider (LHC). Our analysis yields the limit [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text], by combining the model-dependent limits extracted from the double-beta-decay measurements and those extracted from the results of the CMS and ATLAS measurements.
Triaxial models description of the low-lying properties in 192Os
Authors: Ning T. , An S. Y. , Li X. X. , Yu X. R. , Zhang Y.
Published: October 2016

Several typical triaxial models have been parallel addressed and applied to describe the energy values and [Formula: see text] transitional rates in the ground band and the [Formula: see text] band for [Formula: see text]Os. It is shown that the different triaxial model presents different triaxial dynamics but each of them can only succeed to explain part of the spectral properties of this nucleus, which indicates that the triaxial shape of [Formula: see text]Os may be more complicated than that reflected by an ideal triaxial model. In addition, the staggering signature in experiments hints that [Formula: see text]-rigid triaxiality should be more or less involved in [Formula: see text]Os.
Bactericidal Efficiency of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Annona squamosa
Authors: Jayavardhanan R. , Nanda Anima
Published: October 2016

Nanotechnology is described as an emerging technology that not only holds promise for society, but also is capable of providing novel approaches to overcome our common problems. The present study focused on the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using the metabolites of Annona squamosa seeds. The biological reduction procedure proposed in this method was considered as better one compared to chemical mediated reduction methods. The advantages include nontoxic to the environment, less energy consuming and highly suitable for further biological applications. The seeds were separated from the fruit pulp, grinded into powder and dissolved in distilled water. The suspension was used as reducing agent and treated with silver nitrate at the concentration of 1[Formula: see text]mM. The reduction reaction was continuously monitored by UV-visible photo spectrometer. Further the samples were subjected to AFM, SEM and XRD analysis for the confirmation of their size, structure, agglomerations and the arrangements of crystals. Finally the antibacterial properties of nanoparticles were tested against clinically important pathogenic microorganisms using disc diffusion method and compared with the activities of standard antibiotics. The combinational effects of nanoparticles with commercial antibiotics also were tested by the same method.
Getting Closer to the Essence of Music
Authors: Widmer Gerhard
Published: October 2016

This text offers a personal and very subjective view on the current situation of Music Information Research (MIR). Motivated by the desire to build systems with a somewhat deeper understanding of music than the ones we currently have, I try to sketch a number of challenges for the next decade of MIR research, grouped around six simple truths about music that are probably generally agreed on but often ignored in everyday research.
Large-scale Service Systems with Packing Constraints and Heterogeneous Servers
Authors: Stolyar Alexander L.
Published: October 2016

A service system with multiple types of arriving customers and multiple types of servers is considered. Several customers (possibly of different types) can be placed for concurrent service into same server, subject to "packing" constraints, which depend on the server type. Service times of different customers are independent, even if served simultaneously by the same server. The largescale asymptotic regime is considered such that the customer arrival rates grow to infinity. We consider two variants of the model. For the infinite-server model, we prove asymptotic optimality of the
Greedy Random
(GRAND) algorithm in the sense of minimizing the weighted (by type) number of occupied servers in steadystate. (This version of GRAND generalizes that introduced in [1] for the homogeneous systems, with all servers of same type.) We then introduce a natural extension of GRAND algorithm for
finite-server
systems with blocking. Assuming subcritical system load, we prove existence, uniqueness, and local stability of the large-scale system equilibrium point such that no blocking occurs. This result strongly suggests a conjecture that the steady-state blocking probability under the algorithm vanishes in the large-scale limit.