bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Twisted-torus configurations with large toroidal magnetic fields in relativistic stars
Authors: Ciolfi R. , Rezzolla L.
Published: August 2013

Understanding the properties of the internal magnetic field of neutron stars remains a theoretical challenge. For almost ten years now, twisted-torus geometries have been considered both in Newtonian and general-relativistic equilibrium models, as they represent a potentially good description of neutron star interiors. All of these works have found an apparent intrinsic limitation to geometries that are poloidal-field dominated, with a toroidal-to-poloidal energy ratio inside the star that are ≲10 per cent, unless surface currents are included and magnetic fields are allowed to be discontinuous. This limitation is in stark contrast with the general expectation that much higher toroidal fields should be present in the stellar interior and casts doubt about the stability and hence the realism of these configurations. We here discuss how to overcome this limitation by adopting a new prescription for the azimuthal currents that leads to magnetized equilibria where the toroidal-to-total magnetic field energy ratio can be as high as 90 per cent, thus including geometries that are toroidal-field dominated. Moreover, our results show that for a fixed exterior magnetic field strength, a higher toroidal-field energy implies a much higher total magnetic energy stored in the star, with a potentially strong impact on the expected electromagnetic and gravitational-wave emission from highly magnetized neutron stars.
Ornithinimicrobium tianjinense sp. nov., isolated from a recirculating aquaculture system
Authors: Liu Liang-Zi , Liu Ying , Chen Zhu , Liu Hong-Can , Zhou Yu-Guang , Liu Zhi-Pei
Published: August 2013

A Gram-positive, strictly aerobic and heterotrophic, non-spore-forming actinobacterium (strain B2T) isolated from a recirculating aquaculture system was studied for its taxonomic position. Strain B2T formed a rudimentary substrate-mycelium that fragmented into short rod-shaped to coccoid cells (0.5 µm×0.5–2.2 µm or 0.5–1.0 µm in diameter). Colonies were yellow, smooth, circular and 1.5–2.0 mm in diameter after incubation on TSA for 3 days at 30 °C. Strain B2T grew at 20–40 °C (optimal, 30 °C) and pH 5.5–9.5 (optimal, 6.5–7.0) and in the presence of 0–9 % (w/v) NaCl (optimal, 1 %). The predominant menaquinone of strain B2T was MK-8(H4). The cell-wall peptidoglycan of strain B2T contained the amino acids ornithine, glutamic acid, alanine, glycine and aspartic acid. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol. The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and summed feature 9. Its DNA G+C content was 68.3 mol% (T
m). Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain B2T was related phylogenetically to members of the genus

Ornithinimicrobium

with highest similarity (96.6 %) to

Ornithinimicrobium kibberense

DSM 17687T, followed by

Ornithinimicrobium humiphilum

DSM 12362T (96.3 %),

Ornithinimicrobium pekingense

LW6T (96.2 %) and

Ornithinimicrobium murale

01-Gi-040T (94.8 %). On basis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic data, it was concluded that strain B2T represents a novel species of the genus

Ornithinimicrobium

, for which the name Ornithinimicrobium tianjinense sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is B2T ( = CGMCC 1.12160T = JCM 18464T).
Spirosoma
endophyticum sp. nov., isolated from Zn- and Cd-accumulating Salix caprea
Authors: Fries Julia , Pfeiffer Stefan , Kuffner Melanie , Sessitsch Angela
Published: August 2013

A Gram-reaction-negative, yellow-pigmented strain, designated EX36T, was characterized using a polyphasic approach comprising phylogenetic, morphological and genotypic analyses. The endophytic strain was isolated from Zn/Cd-accumulating Salix caprea in Arnoldstein, Austria. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene demonstrated that the novel strain is most closely related to members of the genus

Spirosoma

(95 % sequence similarity with

Spirosoma linguale

). The genomic DNA G+C content was 47.2 mol%. The predominant quinone was and the major cellular fatty acids were summed feature 3 (iso-C15 : 0 2-OH and/or C16 : 1ω7c), C16 : 1ω5c, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH and iso-C15 : 0. On the basis of its phenotypic and genotypic properties, strain EX36T should be classified as a novel species of the genus

Spirosoma

, for which the name

Spirosoma

endophyticum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is EX36T ( = DSM 26130T = LMG 27272T).
Prevalence and genetic diversity of an unusual virus associated with Kobu‐sho disease of gentian in Japan
Authors: Atsumi Go , Tomita Reiko , Kobayashi Kappei , Sekine Ken-Taro
Published: August 2013

Gentian Kobu-sho-associated virus (GKaV) is a recently discovered novel virus from Kobu-sho (a hyperplastic or tumorous disorder)-affected Japanese gentians. To obtain insight into GKaV transmission and pathogenesis, the genetic diversity of the virus in the putative helicase and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase coding regions was studied. The extent of GKaV sequence diversity within single host plants differed within samples and between viral genomic regions. Phylogenetic analysis of 30 Kobu-sho-affected samples from different production areas and host cultivars revealed that GKaV populations have diverged as they became prevalent in different geographical regions. The diversification of GKaV was shown to be driven by geographical isolation rather than host adaptation; however, no geographical patterns were found. Therefore, it was not feasible to trace the pathway of GKaV spread.
Analysis of hepatitis C virus core/NS5A protein co-localization using novel cell culture systems expressing core–NS2 and NS5A of genotypes 1–7
Authors: Galli Andrea , Scheel Troels K. H. , Prentoe Jannick C. , Mikkelsen Lotte S. , Gottwein Judith M. , Bukh Jens
Published: August 2013

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an important human pathogen infecting hepatocytes. With the advent of infectious cell culture systems, the HCV particle assembly and release processes are finally being uncovered. The HCV core and NS5A proteins co-localize on cytoplasmic lipid droplets (cLDs) or on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) at different stages of particle assembly. Current knowledge on assembly and release is primarily based on studies in genotype 2a cell culture systems; however, given the high genetic heterogeneity of HCV, variations might exist among genotypes. Here, we developed novel HCV strain JFH1-based recombinants expressing core–NS2 and NS5A from genotypes 1–7, and analysed core and NS5A co-localization in infected cells. Huh7.5 cells were transfected with RNA of core–NS2/NS5A recombinants and putative adaptive mutations were analysed by reverse genetics. Adapted core–NS2/NS5A recombinants produced infectivity titres of 102.5–104.5 f.f.u. ml−1. Co-localization analysis demonstrated that the core and NS5A proteins from all genotypes co-localized extensively, and there was no significant difference in protein co-localization among genotypes. In addition, we found that the core and NS5A proteins were highly associated with cLDs at 12 h post-infection but became mostly ER associated at later stages. Finally, we found that different genotypes showed varying levels of core/cLD co-localization, with a possible effect on viral assembly/release. In summary, we developed a panel of HCV genotype 1–7 core–NS2/NS5A recombinants producing infectious virus, and an immunostaining protocol detecting the core and NS5A proteins from seven different genotypes. These systems will allow, for the first time, investigation of core/NS5A interactions during assembly and release of HCV particles of all major genotypes.
Role of seipin in lipid droplet morphology and hepatitis C virus life cycle
Authors: Clément Sophie , Fauvelle Catherine , Branche Emilie , Kaddai Vincent , Conzelmann Stéphanie , Boldanova Tujana , Bartosch Birke , Minehira Kaori , Negro Francesco
Published: August 2013

Infectious hepatitis C virus (HCV) particle assembly starts at the surface of lipid droplets, cytoplasmic organelles responsible for neutral fat storage. We analysed the relationship between HCV and seipin, a protein involved in lipid droplet maturation. Although seipin overexpression did not affect the total mean volume occupied by lipid droplets nor the total triglyceride and cholesterol ester levels per cell, it caused an increase in the mean diameter of lipid droplets by 60 %, while decreasing their total number per cell. The latter two effects combined resulted in a 34 % reduction of the total outer surface area of lipid droplets per cell, with a proportional decrease in infectious viral particle production, probably due to a defect in particle assembly. These results suggest that the available outer surface of lipid droplets is a critical factor for HCV release, independent of the neutral lipid content of the cell.
Tango7 directs cellular remodeling by the Drosophila apoptosome
Authors: D'Brot Alejandro , Chen Po , Vaishnav Mahesh , Yuan Shujun , Akey Christopher W. , Abrams John M.
Published: August 2013

It is now well appreciated that the apoptosome, which governs caspase-dependent cell death, also drives nonapoptotic caspase activation to remodel cells. However, the determinants that specify whether the apoptosome acts to kill or remodel have yet to be identified. Here we report that Tango7 collaborates with the Drosophila apoptosome to drive a caspase-dependent remodeling process needed to resolve individual sperm from a syncytium. In these cells, Tango7 is required for caspase activity and localizes to the active apoptosome compartment via its C terminus. Furthermore, Tango7 directly stimulates the activity of this complex in vitro. We propose that Tango7 specifies the Drosophila apoptosome as an effector of cellular remodeling.
RIP3: a molecular switch for necrosis and inflammation
Authors: Moriwaki Kenta , Chan Francis Ka-Ming
Published: August 2013

The receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3/RIPK3) has emerged as a critical regulator of programmed necrosis/necroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death with important functions in pathogen-induced and sterile inflammation. RIP3 activation is tightly regulated by phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and caspase-mediated cleavage. These post-translational modifications coordinately regulate the assembly of a macromolecular signaling complex termed the necrosome. Recently, several reports indicate that RIP3 can promote inflammation independent of its pronecrotic activity. Here, we review our current understanding of the mechanisms that drive RIP3-dependent necrosis and its role in different inflammatory diseases.
How mammals pack their sperm: a variant matter
Authors: Bošković Ana , Torres-Padilla Maria-Elena
Published: August 2013

Producing competent gametes is essential for transmitting genetic information throughout generations. Spermatogenesis is a unique example of rearrangements of genome packaging to ensure fertilization. After meiosis, spermatids undergo drastic morphological changes, perhaps the most dramatic ones occurring in their nuclei, including the transition into a protamine-packaged genome. In this issue of Genes & Development, Montellier and colleagues (pp. 1680–1692) shed new light on the molecular mechanisms regulating this transition by ascribing for the first time a function to a histone variant, TH2B, in the regulation of this process.
Polychromatic energy-dispersive neutron diffraction at a continuous source
Authors: Simmons Jason M. , Cook Jeremy C. , Ibberson Richard M. , Majkrzak Charles F. , Neumann Dan A.
Published: August 2013

A design for a continuous source, polychromatic beam powder neutron diffractometer based on an energy-dispersive detection methodology is proposed. Such an instrument would offer significantly higher incident neutron flux, with an attendant increase in data collection rate, reducing the time per scan from hours to seconds. Completely passive components are conceived for neutron bandwidth shaping, and detection is achieved using a massively parallel analyzer/detector system, making installation and operation of the instrument comparatively simple. The proposed instrument is intended to be used for rapid structural characterizations of small samples or for kinetic studies of materials undergoing structural or magnetic phase changes.
Thermal expansion of manganese dioxide using high-temperaturein situX-ray diffraction
Authors: Dose Wesley M. , Donne Scott W.
Published: August 2013

High-temperaturein situX-ray diffraction is used to determine the thermal expansion behaviour of manganese dioxide in air at temperatures between 298 and 673 K, the range accessible prior to material decomposition. Two manganese dioxide samples of different origins are investigated to observe the effect of synthesis conditions and resultant material properties on the thermal response. β-MnO2prepared by a chemical pathway is found to expand linearly over the temperature window with thermal expansion coefficients (in units of K−1) of αa= 9.3 (4) × 10−6, αc= 7.0 (2) × 10−6and β = 25.6 (8) × 10−6. Conversely, the thermal expansion of heat-treated electrolytic manganese dioxide is disjointed about 473 K in theadirection and for the overall unit-cell volume, and about 523 K in thecdirection. Coefficients are therefore given (in units of K−1) as αa= 23 (4) × 10−6(298–473 K), 10 (3) × 10−6(473–673 K); αc= 0.2 (9) × 10−6(298–523 K), 10 (1) × 10−6(523–673 K); and β = 49 (9) × 10−6(298–473 K), 26 (5) × 10−6(473–673 K).
Interactive visualization tools for the structural biologist
Authors: Porebski Benjamin T. , Ho Bosco K. , Buckle Ashley M.
Published: August 2013

In structural biology, management of a large number of Protein Data Bank (PDB) files and raw X-ray diffraction images often presents a major organizational problem. Existing software packages that manipulate these file types were not designed for these kinds of file-management tasks. This is typically encountered when browsing through a folder of hundreds of X-ray images, with the aim of rapidly inspecting the diffraction quality of a data set. To solve this problem, a useful functionality of the Macintosh operating system (OSX) has been exploited that allows custom visualization plugins to be attached to certain file types. Software plugins have been developed for diffraction images and PDB files, which in many scenarios can save considerable time and effort. The direct visualization of diffraction images and PDB structures in the file browser can be used to identify key files of interest simply by scrolling through a list of files.
Graphene as a protein crystal mounting material to reduce background scatter
Authors: Wierman Jennifer L. , Alden Jonathan S. , Kim Chae Un , McEuen Paul L. , Gruner Sol M.
Published: August 2013

The overall signal-to-noise ratio per unit dose for X-ray diffraction data from protein crystals can be improved by reducing the mass and density of all material surrounding the crystals. This article demonstrates a path towards the practical ultimate in background reduction by use of atomically thin graphene sheets as a crystal mounting platform for protein crystals. The results show the potential for graphene in protein crystallography and other cases where X-ray scatter from the mounting material must be reduced and specimen dehydration prevented, such as in coherent X-ray diffraction imaging of microscopic objects.
Cascade catalysis of highly active bimetallic Au/Pd nanoclusters: structure–function relationship investigation using anomalous small-angle X-ray scattering and UV–Vis spectroscopy
Authors: Haas Sylvio , Fenger Robert , Fertitta Edoardo , Rademann Klaus
Published: August 2013

Recently, a so-called `crown-jewel' concept of preparation of Au/Pd-based colloidal nanoclusters has been reported [Zhang, Watanabe, Okumura, Haruta & Toshima (2011).Nat. Mater.11, 49–52]. Here, a different way of preparing highly active Au/Pd-based nanoclusters is presented. The origin of the increased activity of Au/Pd-based colloidal bimetallic nanoclusters was unclear up to now. However, it is, in general, accepted that in the nanometre range (1–100 nm) the cluster size, shape and composition affect the structural characteristics (e.g.lattice symmetry, unit cell), electronic properties (e.g.band gap) and chemical properties (e.g.catalytic activity) of a material. Hence, a detailed study of the relationship between the nanostructure of nanoclusters and their catalytic activity is presented here. The results indicate that a high surface-to-volume ratio of the nanoclusters combined with the presence of `both' Au and Pd isolated regions at the surface are crucial to achieve a high catalytic activity. A detailed structure elucidation directly leads to a mechanistic proposal, which indeed explains the higher catalytic activity of Au/Pd-based catalysts compared with pure metallic Au or Pd. The mechanism is based on cascade catalysis induced by a single type of nanoparticle with an intermixed surface of Au and Pd.
Insight into neutron focusing: the out-of-focus condition
Authors: Hammouda B. , Mildner D. F. R. , Brûlet A. , Desert S.
Published: August 2013

Neutron focusing leads to significant gains in flux-on-sample in small-angle neutron scattering and very small angle neutron scattering instruments. Understanding the out-of-focus condition is necessary for less than optimal conditions such as for short instruments and low neutron wavelengths. Neutron focusing is investigated using a three-pronged approach. The three methods are analytical calculations, resolution measurements and computer simulations. A source aperture containing a single small-size hole and a sample aperture containing multiple holes are used to produce multiple spots on the high-resolution neutron detector. Lens focusing elongates off-axis spots in the radial direction. The standard deviation for the size of each spot is estimated using these three approaches. Varying parameters include the neutron wavelength, the number of focusing lenses and the location of holes on the sample aperture. Enough agreement for the standard deviation of the individual neutron beams was found between the calculations and the measurements to give confidence in this approach. Good agreement was found between the standard deviations obtained from calculations and simulations as well. Excellent agreement was found for the mean location of these individual spots.
Innovative insights in a plug flow microreactor foroperandoX-ray studies
Authors: Figueroa Santiago J. A. , Gibson Dean , Mairs Trevor , Pasternak Sebastien , Newton Mark A. , Di Michiel Marco , Andrieux Jerome , Christoforidis Konstantinos C. , Iglesias-Juez Ana , Fernández-García Marcos , Prestipino Carmelo
Published: August 2013

Different solutions have been proposed over the years to optimize control of the temperature and atmosphere over a catalyst in order to reach an ideal reactor behavior. Here, a new innovative solution which aims to minimize temperature gradients along the catalyst bed is demonstrated. This was attained by focusing the infrared radiation generated from the heating elements onto the catalyst bed with the aid of an aluminium shield. This method yields a ∼0.13 K mm−1axial temperature gradient ranging from 960 to 1173 K. With the selection of appropriate capillaries, pressures of 20 bar (2 MPa) can be attained.
Improved syntheses, and structural and electronic characterization of carboxamide-substituted TpCONHPh,Meand TpCONHt-Bu,Meligands
Authors: Sirianni Eric R. , Yap Glenn P. A. , Akturk Eser S. , Theopold Klaus H.
Published: August 2013

Improvements in the syntheses of the carboxamide-substituted tris(pyrazolyl)borate ligands TpCONHPh,Me[tris(3-anilinocarbonyl-5-methylpyrazol-1-yl)borate] and TpCONHt-Bu,Me[tris(3-tert-butylaminocarbonyl-5-methylpyrazol-1-yl)borate] are reported. Their TlIsalts, namely [tris(3-anilinocarbonyl-5-methylpyrazol-1-yl-κN2)borato]thallium(I), [Tl(C33H31BN9O3)], (II), and [tris(3-tert-butylaminocarbonyl-5-methylpyrazol-1-yl-κN2)borato]thallium(I), [Tl(C27H43BN9O3)], (III), as well as the CuIcarbonyl complexes (TpCONHPh,Me)Cu(CO), namely carbonyl[tris(3-anilinocarbonyl-5-methylpyrazol-1-yl-κN2)borato]copper(I) tetrahydrofuran trisolvate, [Cu(C33H31BN9O3)(CO)]·3C4H8O, (IV), and (TpCONHt-Bu,Me)Cu(CO), namely carbonyl[tris(3-tert-butylaminocarbonyl-5-methylpyrazol-1-yl-κN2)borato]copper(I) tetrahydrofuran hemisolvate, [Cu(C27H43BN9O3)(CO)]·0.5C4H8O, (V), have been prepared. Their spectroscopic properties and structures are compared with those of related compounds. The molecules of (II)–(V) show hydrogen bonding to either solvent molecules or neighboring complex moleculesviaamide groups. The title compounds feature the ability to engage other ligands in hydrogen bonding and they show strong electron-withdrawing character. Compound (V) displays voids ofca800 Å3in the crystal structure.
[Bis(3,5-diisopropylpyrazol-1-yl-κN2)dihydroborato](triphenylphosphane-κP)copper(I)
Authors: Fujisawa Kiyoshi , Noguchi Naoto , Noguchi Yuki , Lehnert Nicolai
Published: August 2013

In the title compound, [Cu(C18H32BN4)(C18H15P)], the CuIion is coordinated by two N atoms from the anionic bidentate chelating bis(3,5-diisopropylpyrazol-1-yl)dihydroborate ligand [average Cu—N distance = 1.994 (3) Å] and the P atom from a triphenylphosphane ligand [Cu—P distance = 2.1676 (8) Å] in a trigonal geometry [the sum of the angles around the CuIatom is 359.6 (1)°]. The N—Cu—N angle between adjacent coordinated pyrazole-ring N atoms is 98.99 (9)°, while the average N—Cu—P angle between the coordinated pyrazole N atom and the triphenylphosphane P atom is 130.3 (1)°.
Thallium(I) complexes of fluorinated bis- and tris(pyrazolyl)borate ligands: [H2B{3,5-(CF3)2pz}2]Tl and [HB{3,5-(CF3)2pz}3]Tl
Authors: Dias H. V. Rasika , Thankamani Jose
Published: August 2013

X-ray crystal structural data at 100 (2) K for the thallium(I) complex of a fluorinated bis(pyrazolyl)borate, {bis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl-κN2]borato}thallium(I), [Tl(C10H4BF12N4)], abbreviated as [H2B{3,5-(CF3)2pz}2]Tl, and the related tris(pyrazolyl)borate, {tris[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl-κN2]borato}thallium(I), [Tl(C15H4BF18N6)], abbreviated as [HB{3,5-(CF3)2pz}3]Tl, are reported. [H2B{3,5-(CF3)2pz}2]Tl features a two-coordinate TlIatom with a bent geometry and a boat-shaped bis(pyrazolyl)borate ligand. It also has several additional inter- and intramolecular Tl...H and Tl...F contacts in the solid state. The tris(pyrazolyl)borate analogue [HB{3,5-(CF3)2pz}3]Tl has a trigonal–pyramidal thallium centre and features inter- and intramolecular Tl...F contacts.
A tris(pyrazol-1-yl)methane bearing carboxylic acid groups at position 4: {1-[bis(4-carboxy-3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)methyl]-3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylato}sodium dihydrate
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , García María Ángeles , López Concepción , Claramunt Rosa M. , Andrade Gabriel A. , Yap Glenn P. A.
Published: August 2013

A low-resolution X-ray molecular structure of the title hydrated salt, [Na(C19H21N6O6)]·2H2O, displays scorpionate character and resolves apparent ambiguities between solution and solid-state NMR spectroscopies. The13C NMR CPMAS spectrum is consistent with this structure showing some splittings, which have been rationalized using GIAO/B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) theoretical calculations.
A one-dimensional coordination polymer of 5-(pyridin-2-yl)-3,3′-bi(4H-1,2,4-triazole) with Cd(NO3)2
Authors: Mao Wen-Zhao , Chen Jing
Published: August 2013

In the title coordination polymer,catena-poly[[(methanol-κO)(nitrato-κO)cadmium(II)]-μ-3-(pyridin-2-yl)-5-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-4-ido], [Cd(C9H6N7)(NO3)(CH3OH)]n, the asymmetric unit is composed of one CdIIcentre, one nitrate anion, one deprotonated 5-(pyridin-2-yl)-3,3′-bi(4H-1,2,4-triazole) ligand, denoted HBPT−, and one coordinated methanol molecule. Each CdIIion shows an octahedral geometry and is surrounded by four N atoms from two HBPT−ligands in the equatorial plane, and by two O atoms from a monodentate nitrate ligand and a methanol ligand. The structure is a one-dimensional polymeric chain, which is further extended to a three-dimensional supramolecular networkviaa combination of hydrogen-bonding and aromatic stacking interactions.
Intermolecular iodine–iodine interactions in bis(pyridine-3-carboxylato)[tetrakis(4-iodophenyl)porphyrinato]tin(IV) and bis(pyrimidine-5-carboxylato)[tetrakis(4-iodophenyl)porphyrinato]tin(IV)
Authors: Titi Hatem M. , Patra Ranjan , Goldberg Israel
Published: August 2013

Crystals of bis(pyridine-3-carboxylato)[tetrakis(4-iodophenyl)porphyrinato]tin(IV) dimethylformamide sesquisolvate, [Sn(C44H24I4N4)(C6H4NO2)2]·1.5C3H7NO, (I), and bis(pyrimidine-5-carboxylato)[tetrakis(4-iodophenyl)porphyrinato]tin(IV) dimethylformamide sesquisolvate, [Sn(C44H24I4N4)(C5H3N2O2)2]·1.5C3H7NO, (II), exhibit interporphyrin iodine–iodine halogen bonds, which direct the supramolecular assembly of the porphyrin entities into halogen-bonded layers. Each molecule interacts with its four nearest neighbours within the layerviaeight I...I interactions at approximately 3.8 and 4.0 Å. The two structures are isomorphous and isometric, with the metalloporphyrin complexes located on centres of crystallographic inversion.
(E)-3-tert-Butyl-4-(4-chlorobenzyl)-N-(4-chlorobenzylidene)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-amine: sheets built from π-stacked hydrogen-bonded dimers
Authors: Quiroga Jairo , Pantoja Dayana , Cobo Justo , Glidewell Christopher
Published: August 2013

The title compound, C27H25Cl2N3, is an unexpected but high-yield product from the microwave-mediated reaction between 3-tert-butyl-N-4-chlorobenzyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-amine and 4-chlorobenzaldehyde. Inversion-related pairs of molecules are linked by C—H...π(arene) hydrogen bonds to form cyclic centrosymmetric dimers, and dimers of this type are linked into sheets by two independent π–π stacking interactions.
5,5′-Methylenebis[6-amino-3-methyl-2-methylsulfanylpyrimidin-4(3H)-one]: an unusual molecular geometry within a hydrogen-bonded molecular ribbon
Authors: Trilleras Jorge , Ramos Juan , Cobo Justo , Glidewell Christopher
Published: August 2013

The molecules of the title compound, C13H18N6O2S2, lie across twofold rotation axes in the space groupC2/c. Although the pyrimidine ring is effectively planar, the bridging methylene C atom is displaced from the plane of the pyrimidine ring by 0.213 (2) Å, while the C—C—C angle at the bridging C atom is 120.3 (2)°. The molecule contains two symmetry-related N—H...O hydrogen bonds, generatingS(8) motifs, and intermoecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into a ribbon of edge-fused rings.
The challenges of integrated performance measurement systems
Authors: Giovannoni Elena , Pia Maraghini Maria
Published: August 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore some of the challenges involved in the development of integrated performance measurement systems (PMS). In particular, given the difficulties involved in the development process, and the “inherent incompleteness” of PMS, the authors seek to investigate whether and how these difficulties may challenge the integrating role of PMS and the eventual influence of alternative integrating mechanisms on this role.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper combines studies on PMS with empirical findings related to Monnalisa, a medium-sized Italian family firm, which designs and sells children
'
s wear and accessories. Over the last ten years Monnalisa has adopted various design frameworks (such as the balanced scorecard and the integrated report) for integrated PMS. Through an analysis of the PMS development process within the company, the authors explore the challenges involved in this process.

Findings

– In the case of Monnalisa, despite the adoption of a design framework for integrated PMS, various critical issues emerged during the implementation phase, mainly as a consequence of tensions between different performance dimensions and the need for creativity. While these critical issues compromised the integrating role of PMS, alternative integrating mechanisms (such as the direct intervention of the founder and social interaction) were stimulated and worked alongside PMS in achieving organizational integration. In so doing, these mechanisms operated in different ways, by complementing incomplete PMS when they were failing to achieve organizational integration, or improving their integrated nature.

Originality/value

– Although the literature acknowledges some of the challenges involved in PMS development, understanding how to manage these challenges and how they actually affect PMS require further investigation. This paper provides new insights on the challenges involved in the development process (particularly in relation to the tensions caused by creativity, unpredictability, time gaps between operations and targets, as well as the distinct priorities of different levels of customers), and on the role played by alternative integrating mechanisms in the management of these challenges. While the founder
'
s direct intervention may be peculiar to the context of medium-sized enterprises, the role played by social integrating mechanisms suggests potential ways to overcome the challenges of integrated PMS also within larger firms.
Towards support: evaluating a move to independent living
Authors: Karban Kate , Paley Caroline , Willcock Kim
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present results from an evaluation of the experience of a move to independent living for people with mental health needs or a learning disability. The discussion focuses on the shift in organisational culture from providing care within a hostel setting to supporting people in their own tenancies.

Design/methodology/approach

The evaluation was underpinned by a participatory action research design. A total of ten co‐researchers with experience of using services or as carers were recruited. Qualitative data was obtained from “before” and “after” interviews with residents, staff and relatives.

Findings

Widespread satisfaction was expressed with people's new homes. Many residents were found to be increasingly independent. There was some evidence of concerns regarding the pace and process of change and the introduction of new practices to promote independence.

Research limitations/implications

The timing of the evaluation limited the opportunity for comprehensive “before” and “after” data collection. The involvement of co‐researchers required considerable time and support although the experience of those involved was positive.

Practical implications

Learning from this evaluation emphasises the importance of support and preparation for staff as well as residents, in moving from hostel to independent living.

Social implications

This study highlights the advantages of a participatory design in evaluating a major change in service delivery.

Originality/value

This paper raises important issues about organisational change. It contributes to wider debates regarding the implementation of personalisation and recovery‐focused agendas.
From Canada to Kircubbin: learning from North America on housing an ageing population – Part 1
Authors: Thompson Eileen
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to learn lessons from North America on housing an ageing population, both in terms of supporting people to “age in place”, and available options for those who need/wish to move.

Design/methodology/approach

The project, funded by the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust, comprised a six‐week travel fellowship to the USA and Canada to meet with housing professionals from the public and private sectors and find out about best practice initiatives and efficient models for housing older people.

Findings

This report is written in two parts. This, the first, considers models which are successfully facilitating individuals and communities to support each other to age in place, for example, the Beacon Hill Village model which has taken off in the USA in a big way. Technology can, and will, also play an important role in enhancing the lives of older people in the future, but housing is really about people and it will be people who will make the real difference on this issue.

Originality/value

This was a unique opportunity to learn lessons from North America on how to effectively meet the needs of the older population, now and in the future.
The development of a work‐life fit model: a demands and resources approach
Authors: Turner Michelle
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the scope, methodology and main findings of a doctoral thesis about the demand‐resource experience of workers in the Australian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods approach was used to explore workers’ experience of demands and resources, which incorporated Q Methodology and survey research. The research was embedded within a constructivist epistemology, and Q Methodology was used to explore the subjective experience of demands. Survey research was used to explore resources, and individual characteristics and preferences of workers.

Findings

The research suggests that Australian construction workers can be classified into four broad groups according to their work, family and community demand profiles. Results indicate that the construction workforce is not a homogeneous workforce. Instead, the demands and resources associated with each of the four groups emphasises the heterogeneous nature of the construction workforce.

Research limitations/implications

Extension of the work‐life fit model recognises the subjective nature of experience, and introduces a new methodology to both the work‐life and construction management domains.

Practical implications

An understanding of the demands and resources of workers will better enable organizations to support effective role performance of a dynamic workforce.

Originality/value

The findings of the research form the basis of a new work‐life fit model which applies a demands‐resources approach.
Women project managers: the exploration of their job challenges and issue selling behaviors
Authors: Henderson Linda S. , Stackman Richard W. , Koh Charles Y.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore women project managers as a group in order to generate new understanding about the present project context within which they work and to promote new research‐based ideas for optimizing their potential in business organizations. To this end, the paper explore their demographics and project characteristics, their project challenges and issue selling moves, and their perspectives on the advantages and disadvantages for women in this profession.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using quantitative and qualitative questionnaire items of 211 female project managers in North America.

Findings

The research results show significant associations among women project managers' career, age, cost of their projects, and their professional certifications. In addition, their challenges and issue‐selling moves produce six factors related to their influence of others. Lastly, the results reveal women's self‐described advantages and disadvantages in the project management profession showing that while women project managers do continue to experience marginalization from gender bias, they are leveraging particular job challenges and issue selling circumstances to their advantage in moving through gender bias.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study contribute to our knowledge of important real‐world challenges and career development opportunities for women managing contemporary projects. Several implications for future research that build on women's issue selling in project management are discussed. Suggestions for broadening the sample in future research are also included.

Practical implications

This paper highlights several important ways in which business organizations can strengthen and optimize their women project managers, and offset second‐generation gender bias.

Originality/value

This is only the second study to consider the real‐world contextual factors of women's projects, and the first study to explore their perspective specifically in terms of their job challenges, issue selling, and self‐described disadvantages and advantages in managing projects. Business organizations are in a unique historical position to uplift their project management capacity and leadership talent through developing and promoting women project managers.
Reinventing the role of the project manager in mobilising knowledge in construction
Authors: Kelly Nicola , Edkins Andrew John , Smyth Hedley , Konstantinou Efrosyni
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the more tacit dimension of knowledge is shared in projects in a construction contracting organisation and whether explicit organisational knowledge management initiatives can help resolve and better manage project‐based challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a single in‐depth case study and uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Findings

The findings demonstrate how the more tacit dimension of knowledge is fundamentally important to resolving project‐based challenges, such as adjusting the detail of or re‐sequencing tasks, that major contractors frequently face. Even though a number of organisational initiatives were in place, knowledge was most successfully mobilised due to project managers, who competently orchestrate a number of inter‐ and intra‐organisational relationships amongst a host of stakeholders who are relevant to the delivery of projects.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to a single organisation. It is exploratory resulting in interpretive reflection upon the largely qualitative data, alongside simple statistical descriptions.

Practical implications

The practical implications are that construction contractors and other similar players should better understand and consider the significance of agents who are central to the effective use and flow of knowledge.

Originality/value

The paper confirms the limited usefulness of knowledge management initiatives, and points to the pivotal role of the project manager as latent knowledge managers. The originality is the lack of awareness amongst senior management as to the critical role project managers undertake in marshalling tacit knowledge. This is reinforced by the project managers who themselves are only partly aware of the impact of their knowledge management role. Their emergent, almost instinctive, management of knowledge supports project performance and questions whether further management intervention would be useful for the practitioner and the delivery of client value.
Care and corporate neglect: the case for action
Authors: Burstow Paul
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This paper intends to explore how corporate bodies could be held criminally responsible for abuse and neglect that takes place in hospitals and care homes if by their actions they facilitate this abuse or neglect to take place. It explores current domestic and international law and seeks to find precedents and guidance that would allow the Government to create a new criminal sanction for “corporate neglect”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a review of existing legislation and regulation on corporate neglect in hospitals and care homes.

Findings

The paper proposes that the Health and Social Care Act 2008 be amended to include a new section which would make corporate neglect a criminal offence. Furthermore, to ensure that the punishments for these offences act both as appropriate sanction and a suitable deterrent for corporations, the author proposes that new offences should be implemented to include unlimited fines, remedial orders and publicity orders.

Originality/value

Following a number of recent scandals in care homes and hospitals, including Winterbourne View and Mid Staffordshire, it is clear that there is a legislative and regulatory gap in the ability to hold corporate bodies to account for neglect or abuse that occurs in their institutions. This must now be urgently addressed.
The abuse of vulnerable adults at Winterbourne View Hospital: the lessons to be learned
Authors: Plomin Joe
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This article seeks to consider the lessons from one of the worst failures in adult protection in the UK in recent times: the abuse of a number of patients with learning disabilities or autism and challenging behaviour over a number of years at Winterbourne View private hospital in the outskirts of Bristol. The abuse persisted, irrespective of a number of attempts to alert a broad range of regulatory authorities and health professionals about the situation.

Design/methodology/approach

The article provides a detailed analysis of the lessons for professionals responsible for adult protection by one of the journalists most responsible for exposing the abuse at Winterbourne View private hospital. Drawing on information the BBC uncovered during the making of its two films about the subject, the author shares details of relevance to professionals responsible for adult protection and considers the implications of the catastrophic failure to protect vulnerable people.

Findings

This article shows how the lessons from the abuse at Winterbourne View have permeated only to some areas and professionals, not necessarily to where those lessons are most needed. The author suggests that further efforts are required to prevent another, similar scandal happening elsewhere in the UK.

Originality/value

The paper is a unique piece, sharing experiences from a journalist involved with exposing a scandal directly with professionals responsible for adult protection.
Political Connections and Firm Performance in Chinese Companies
Authors: Su Zhong‐qin , Fung Hung‐Gay
Published: August 2013

This study uses panel data analysis to examine the relationship between political connections and firm performance in Chinese firms from 2004 to 2008. We define firm‐level political connections and demonstrate a robust result for the positive relationship between political connections and firm performance. In addition, we integrate the effects of ownership structure, related‐party transactions and political connections into our analysis and continue to show a positive relationship. We show that political connections dampen the negative effect on firm value of related‐party transactions. Finally, we demonstrate channels through which the benefits of political connections are realized in terms of greater cash holdings, larger long‐term loans, lower financing costs, larger sales and lower sales costs. Our results indicate that state‐owned and non‐state‐owned enterprises use political connections equally effectively to enhance performance.
Asia's Decoupling: Fact, Fairytale or Forecast?
Authors: Lam Lillie , Yetman James
Published: August 2013

Standard measures of economic co‐movement between Asia‐Pacific economies and those elsewhere had been observed to follow a downward trend, leading some commentators to suggest that the region was decoupling. However, this process reversed in response to the 2008 international financial crisis, and co‐movement increased to historically high levels for some economies. We examine co‐movement patterns and show that these are very sensitive to changes in macroeconomic volatility over time. Controlling for this, however, co‐movement is closely linked to underlying trade and financial integration. If international links continue to strengthen in future, co‐movement will strengthen in tandem. Decoupling is more a fairytale than a fact or a forecast.
From the Global to the National Cycle: An Intricate Liaison
Authors: Kose M. Ayhan , Loungani Prakash , Terrones Marco E.
Published: August 2013

This paper examines the linkages between the global business cycle and national cycles. We first analyse the evolution of the global business cycle and present its main properties during global recessions and recoveries. We then consider how the sensitivity of national cycles to the global cycle varies over different phases of the global cycle and depends on country‐specific features. Our findings collectively portray an intricate liaison between the global business cycle and national cycles. National business cycles are tightly linked to the global cycle, but the sensitivity of national cycles to the global cycle is much higher during global recessions than expansions. There are significant differences across countries in how they respond to the global cycle as advanced economies appear to be more sensitive to global recessions than are developing economies. Moreover, countries tend to be more sensitive to the global cycle, the more integrated they are to the global economy.
Extreme sports: Extreme physiology. Exercise‐induced pulmonary oedema
Authors: Ma Joyce Lok Gee , Dutch Martin John
Published: August 2013

We report five patients who presented to an on‐site medical team with concurrent haemoptysis and shortness of breath at a recent triathlon event. After initial management in the field, three of the five patients were transported to hospital via ambulance for further management, resulting in patients with haemoptysis and dyspnoea being 17 times more likely to require hospital transport. It is important to consider the differential diagnoses for this presentation, particularly exercise‐induced pulmonary oedema.
Construction of Listeria monocytogenes Mutants with In‐Frame Deletions in the Phosphotransferase Transport System (PTS) and Analysis of Their Growth under Stress Conditions
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Ceruso Marina , Jiang Yuji , Datta Atin R. , Carter Laurenda , Strain Errol , Pepe Tiziana , Anastasi Aniello , Fratamico Pina
Published: August 2013

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen that is difficult to eliminate due to its ability to survive under different stress conditions such as low pH and high salt. To better control this pathogen in food, it is important to understand its survival mechanisms under these stress conditions. LMOf2365_0442, 0443, and 0444 encode for phosphotransferase transport system (PTS) permease (fructose‐specific IIABC components) that is responsible for sugar transport. LMOf2365_0445 encodes for glycosyl hydrolase. These genes were induced by high pressure and inhibited under salt treatments; therefore, we hypothesized that genes encoding these PTS proteins may be involved in general stress responses. To study the function of these genes, deletion mutants of the PTS genes (LMOf2365_0442, LMOf2365_0443, and LMOf2365_0444) and the downstream gene LMOf2365_0445 were created in L. monocytogenes strain F2365. These deletion mutants were tested under different stress conditions. The growth of ∆LMOf2365_0445 was increased under nisin (125 μg/mL) treatments compared to the wild‐type (P < 0.01). The growth of ∆LMOf2365_0442 in salt (brain–heart infusion medium with 5% NaCl) was significantly increased (P < 0.01), and ∆LMOf2365_0442 showed increased growth under acidic conditions (pH 5.0) compared to the wild‐type (P < 0.01). The results from phenotypic arrays demonstrated that some of these mutants showed slightly slower growth under different carbon sources and basic conditions. The results indicate that deletion mutants ∆LMOf2365_0442 and ∆LMOf2365_0445 were more resistant to multiple stress conditions compared to the wild‐type, suggesting that they may contribute to the general stress response in L. monocytogenes. An understanding of the growth of these mutants under multiple stress conditions may assist in the development of intervention strategies to control L. monocytogenes in food.