bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectroscopic and first-principles calculation studies of the chemical forms of palladium ion in nitric acid solution for development of disposal of high-level radioactive nuclear wastes
Authors: Watanabe Shinta , Sato Toshikazu , Yoshida Tomoko , Nakaya Masato , Yoshino Masahito , Nagasaki Takanori , Inaba Yusuke , Takeshita Kenji , Onoe Jun
Published: April 2018

We have investigated the chemical forms of palladium (Pd) ion in nitric acid solution, using XAFS/UV-vis spectroscopic and first-principles methods in order to develop the disposal of high-level radioactive nuclear liquid wastes (HLLW: radioactive metal ions in 2 M nitric acid solution). The results of theoretical calculations and XAFS/UV-vis spectroscopy indicate that Pd is a divalent ion and forms a square-planar complex structure coordinated with four nitrate ions, [Pd(NO3)4]2-, in nitric acid solution. This complex structure is also thermodynamically predicted to be most stable among complexes [Pd(H2O)x(NO3)4-x]x-2 (x = 0-4). Since the overall feature of UV-vis spectra of the Pd complex was independent of nitric acid concentration in the range 1–6 M, the structure of the Pd complex remains unchanged in this range. Furthermore, we examined the influence of γ-ray radiation on the [Pd(NO3)4]2- complex, using UV-vis spectroscopy, and found that UV-vis spectra seemed not to be changed even after 1.0 MGy irradiation. This implies that the Pd complex structure will be still stable in actual HLLW. These findings obtained above are useful information to develop the vitrification processes for disposal of HLLW.
Experimental evidence of intrinsic ohmic rotation in KSTAR
Authors: Lee S. G. , Yoo J. W.
Published: April 2018

Continuous studies from the previous paper on the intrinsic toroidal rotation scaling [Yoo et al., Phys. Plasmas 24, 072510 (2017)] are further investigated in KSTAR. We have extended the core ohmic rotation scaling in the co-current direction and the corresponding scaling shows a strong dependence with the ion temperature divided by plasma current (Ti/Ip). As a result, the measured intrinsic toroidal rotation scaling for ohmic plasmas scales well with Ti/Ip, regardless of the toroidal rotation direction.
Theory of thermionic emission from a two-dimensional conductor and its application to a graphene-semiconductor Schottky junction
Authors: Trushin Maxim
Published: April 2018

The standard theory of thermionic emission developed for three-dimensional semiconductors does not apply to two-dimensional materials even for making qualitative predictions because of the vanishing out-of-plane quasiparticle velocity. This study reveals the fundamental origin of the out-of-plane charge carrier motion in a two-dimensional conductor due to the finite quasiparticle lifetime and huge uncertainty of the out-of-plane momentum. The theory is applied to a Schottky junction between graphene and a bulk semiconductor to derive a thermionic constant, which, in contrast to the conventional Richardson constant, is determined by the Schottky barrier height and Fermi level in graphene.
Ionic conduction in sodium azide under high pressure: Experimental and theoretical approaches
Authors: Wang Qinglin , Ma Yanzhang , Sang Dandan , Wang Xiaoli , Liu Cailong , Hu Haiquan , Wang Wenjun , Zhang Bingyuan , Fan Quli , Han Yonghao , Gao Chunxiao
Published: April 2018

Alkali metal azides can be used as starting materials for the synthesis of polymeric nitrogen, a potential material of high energy density. In this letter, we report the ionic transport behavior in sodium azide under high pressure by in situ impedance spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations. The ionic transportation consists of ion transfer and Warburg diffusion processes. The ionic migration channels and barrier energy were given for the high-pressure phases. The enhanced ionic conductivity of the γ phase with pressure is because of the formation of space charge regions in the grain boundaries. This ionic conduction and grain boundary effect in NaN3 under pressures could shed light on the better understanding of the conduction mechanism of alkali azides and open up an area of research for polymeric nitrogen in these compounds and other high-energy-density polynitrides.
New classification method identifies communities faster in complex network structures
Authors: DeJarnette Drew
Published: April 2018

A novel approach rapidly and accurately identifies the historically difficult problem of community structuring in complex networks, offering a fuller understanding of previously obscured relationships.
A better technique for tuning telecom quantum dots
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: April 2018

A stable, wavelength-tunable source of single photons brings researchers closer to realizing a quantum network.
Perovskite-polymer mashup makes for full-color tunable LED film
Authors: Agner Mary Alexandra
Published: April 2018

Blending perovskite colloidal nanocrystals and polymers yields materials whose photoluminescence is the superposition of its components.
Algorithm quickly relays beam position from monitors in cylindrical particle accelerators
Authors: Liebendorfer Adam
Published: April 2018

New one-dimension approach provides accuracy and speed improvements where possible beam offsets are sufficiently large to justify corrections compared to the linear approximation.
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing in a reef-building coral
Authors: Cleves Phillip A. , Strader Marie E. , Bay Line K. , Pringle John R. , Matz Mikhail V.
Published: April 2018

Significance

Coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots of great ecological, economic, and aesthetic importance. Their global decline due to climate change and other anthropogenic stressors has increased the urgency to understand the molecular bases of various aspects of coral biology, including the interactions with algal symbionts and responses to stress. Recent genomic and transcriptomic studies have yielded many hypotheses about genes that may be important in such processes, but rigorous testing of these hypotheses will require the generation of mutations affecting these genes. Here, we demonstrate the efficient production of mutations in three target genes using the recently developed CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technique. By clarifying aspects of basic coral biology, such genetic approaches should also provide a more solid foundation for coral-conservation efforts.
Dynamics of sister chromatid resolution during cell cycle progression
Authors: Stanyte Rugile , Nuebler Johannes , Blaukopf Claudia , Hoefler Rudolf , Stocsits Roman , Peters Jan-Michael , Gerlich Daniel W.
Published: April 2018

Faithful genome transmission in dividing cells requires that the two copies of each chromosome’s DNA package into separate but physically linked sister chromatids. The linkage between sister chromatids is mediated by cohesin, yet where sister chromatids are linked and how they resolve during cell cycle progression has remained unclear. In this study, we investigated sister chromatid organization in live human cells using dCas9-mEGFP labeling of endogenous genomic loci. We detected substantial sister locus separation during G2 phase irrespective of the proximity to cohesin enrichment sites. Almost all sister loci separated within a few hours after their respective replication and then rapidly equilibrated their average distances within dynamic chromatin polymers. Our findings explain why the topology of sister chromatid resolution in G2 largely reflects the DNA replication program. Furthermore, these data suggest that cohesin enrichment sites are not persistent cohesive sites in human cells. Rather, cohesion might occur at variable genomic positions within the cell population.
Dimerization of the voltage-sensing phosphatase controls its voltage-sensing and catalytic activity
Authors: Rayaprolu Vamseedhar , Royal Perrine , Stengel Karen , Sandoz Guillaume , Kohout Susy C.
Published: April 2018

Multimerization is a key characteristic of most voltage-sensing proteins. The main exception was thought to be the Ciona intestinalis voltage-sensing phosphatase (Ci-VSP). In this study, we show that multimerization is also critical for Ci-VSP function. Using coimmunoprecipitation and single-molecule pull-down, we find that Ci-VSP stoichiometry is flexible. It exists as both monomers and dimers, with dimers favored at higher concentrations. We show strong dimerization via the voltage-sensing domain (VSD) and weak dimerization via the phosphatase domain. Using voltage-clamp fluorometry, we also find that VSDs cooperate to lower the voltage dependence of activation, thus favoring the activation of Ci-VSP. Finally, using activity assays, we find that dimerization alters Ci-VSP substrate specificity such that only dimeric Ci-VSP is able to dephosphorylate the 3-phosphate from PI(3,4,5)P3 or PI(3,4)P2. Our results indicate that dimerization plays a significant role in Ci-VSP function.
Numerical analysis of the energy-dependent radiative transfer equation
Authors: Czuprynski Kenneth , Eichholz Joseph , Han Weimin
Published: April 2018

The energy-dependent form of the radiative transfer equation (RTE) is important in a variety of applications. In a previous paper the well-posedness and an energy discretization for the energy-dependent RTE were investigated. In this paper the fully discrete scheme is introduced and analysed. Optimal-order error estimates and a well-posedness analysis of the discrete system are provided. The theoretical results are validated through numerical examples.
State transitions of GRS 1739−278 in the 2014 outburst
Authors: Wang Sili , Kawai Nobuyuki , Shidatsu Megumi , Tachibana Yutaro , Yoshii Taketoshi , Sudo Masayuki , Kubota Aya
Published: April 2018

We report on the X-ray spectral analysis and time evolution of GRS 1739−278 during its 2014 outburst, based on MAXI/GSC and Swift/XRT observations. Over the course of the outburst, a transition from the low/hard state to the high/soft state and then back to the low/hard state was seen. During the high/soft state, the innermost disk temperature mildly decreased, while the innermost radius estimated with the multi-color disk model remained constant at ∼18 (D/8.5 kpc)(cos i/cos 30°)−1/2 km, where D is the source distance and i is the inclination of observation. This small innermost radius of the accretion disk suggests that the central object is more likely to be a Kerr black hole rather than a Schwardzschild black hole. Applying a relativistic disk emission model to the high/soft state spectra, a mass upper limit of 18.3 M⊙ was obtained based on the inclination limit i < 60° for an assumed distance of 8.5 kpc. Using the empirical relation of the transition luminosity to the Eddington limit, the mass is constrained to 4.0–18.3 M⊙ for the same distance. The mass can be further constrained to be no larger than 9.5 M⊙ by adopting the constraints based on the fits to the NuSTAR spectra with relativistically blurred disk reflection models (Miller et al. 2015, ApJ, 799, L6).
Sociodemographic and Clinical Correlates of Physical Therapy Utilization in Adults With Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Iversen Maura D , Schwartz Todd A , von Heideken Johan , Callahan Leigh F , Golightly Yvonne M , Goode Adam , Hill Carla , Huffman Kim , Pathak Ami , Cooke Jennifer , Allen Kelli D
Published: April 2018

Background

Physical therapy is essential for conservative management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, physical therapy utilization data are limited for knee OA.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to identify correlates of physical therapy utilization among adults with symptomatic knee OA.

Design

The design consisted of secondary analysis using baseline data from a randomized controlled trial of 350 adults with physician-diagnosed symptomatic knee OA.

Methods

Patients completed baseline surveys regarding demographics, pain, function, medical history, and prior physical therapy utilization for symptomatic knee OA. Multivariable logistic regression identified correlates of physical therapy utilization, with models adjusted for body mass index and age. Interactions of race and sex with all other characteristics were evaluated.

Results

One hundred and eighty-one patients (52%) reported prior physical therapy utilization. Factors independently associated with increased odds of physical therapy utilization were female sex (odds ratio [OR] = 3.06, 95% CI = 1.58–5.93), bachelor degree or higher degree (OR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.15–5.16), prior knee injury (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.08–3.19), and duration of knee OA symptoms (OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.09–4.29 for >5–10 years; OR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.10–4.04 for >10 years). Whites who had received a joint injection were >3 times as likely to have utilized physical therapy (OR = 3.69, 95% CI = 1.94–7.01); this relationship did not exist for non-whites who had received joint injections.

Limitations

A sample enrolled in an exercise study may limit generalizability. Self–report of physical therapy may misclassify utilization. It cannot be determined whether lack of utilization resulted from lack of referral or from patients choosing not to attend physical therapy.

Conclusion

Physical therapy is underutilized to manage symptomatic knee OA. Women and those with a bachelor degree or higher degree, prior knee injury, and longer duration of knee OA symptoms were more likely to have used therapy previously. Differences by race in the link between joint injection and physical therapy utilization may reflect a reduced likelihood of referral and decreased use of health interventions for symptomatic knee OA among non-whites, or both.
Imaging and Management of Unusual Breast Neoplasms
Authors: Smith Iorfido Suzanne M. , Makariou Erini , Crane Erin P. , Willey Shawna C. , Jeon Janice Y.
Published: April 2018

Unusual breast neoplasms encompass a host of heterogeneous benign, borderline, and malignant entities, which often pose a management challenge when encountered on pathologic analysis after image-guided biopsy. Entities to be discussed in this article include select lesions of fibroepithelial, mesenchymal, and myoepithelial origin and nonneoplastic inflammatory lesions. Our objective is to discuss the imaging characteristics of these uncommon lesions and review management guidelines to facilitate radiologic-pathologic correlation and postbiopsy recommendations.
Beyond the Audiogram: Application of Models of Auditory Fitness for Duty to Assess Communication in the Real World
Authors: Dubno Judy R.
Published: April 2018

This manuscript provides a Commentary on a paper published in the current issue of Ear and Hearing and the companion paper published in the International Journal of Audiology (Soli et al. 2018a, 2018b). These papers report background, rationale, and results of a novel modeling approach to assess “auditory fitness for duty” or an individual’s ability to perform hearing-critical tasks related to their job, based on their likelihood of effective speech communication in the listening environment in which the task is performed.
Utility Scores and Preferences for Surgical and Organ-Sparing Approaches for Treatment of Intermediate and High-Risk Rectal Cancer
Authors: Couwenberg Alice M. , Intven Martijn P.W. , Burbach Johannes P.M. , Emaus Marleen J. , van Grevenstein Wilhelmina M.U. , Verkooijen Helena M.
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND:

Organ-sparing approaches, including wait-and-see and local excision, are increasingly being offered to patients with rectal cancer following a good response to neoadjuvant therapy. Preferences regarding these treatment strategies are yet unknown.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to determine the preferences and utility scores for rectal cancer treatment approaches.

DESIGN:

This is a cross-sectional study.

SETTING:

This study was conducted at the Radiation-Oncology Department of the University Medical Center Utrecht.

PATIENTS:

Fifty-seven patients with a history of rectal cancer and 38 volunteers were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Participants assessed 6 hypothetical treatment-outcome scenarios, including short-course radiotherapy or chemoradiation followed by abdominoperineal resection, low anterior resection, local excision, or a wait-and-see approach. The hierarchy in preferences between scenarios was assessed by using ranking. Utilities were estimated with a visual analog scale and time trade-off.

RESULTS:

Organ-sparing approaches were ranked as the first preferred treatment option by 51% of the participants. Among all scenarios, wait-and-see was most often ranked highest by patients and volunteers (36% and 50%). Meanwhile, a substantial proportion ranked wait-and-see as their lowest preference (38% in patients and 35% in volunteers). Utility scores differed significantly between scenarios. Wait-and-see received a significantly higher score on the visual analog scale than the scenarios including abdominoperineal resection and the scenario including chemoradiation with low anterior resection, and a score similar to the scenarios including local excision and short-course radiotherapy with low anterior resection.

LIMITATIONS:

The study population consisted of patients with a history of rectal cancer treatment and volunteers related to patients. This may have influenced preferences.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that there is a wide disparity in preferences concerning organ-sparing approaches for rectal cancer in both patients with a history of rectal cancer and volunteers. Wait-and-see is often the highest preferred treatment, but it is also among the least preferred treatment options. These findings give insights into how patients may value the current rectal cancer treatment options. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A521.
THE COLLABORATIVE OCULAR TUBERCULOSIS STUDY (COTS)-1
Authors: Gunasekeran Dinesh V. , Agrawal Rupesh , Agarwal Aniruddha , Carreño Ester , Raje Dhananjay , Aggarwal Kanika , Kon Onn M. , Nguyen Quan Dong , Pavesio Carlos , Gupta Vishali ,   for the COTS-1 Study Group
Published: April 2018

Purpose:

Tubercular retinal vasculitis (TRV) is a heterogeneous disease that can be difficult to manage because of nonspecific presentation and limitations of confirmatory tests for tuberculosis. This is a big data analysis on phenotypes and treatment outcomes for TRV.

Methods:

Multicentre retrospective study of patients with TRV between January 2004 and December 2014 and a minimum follow-up of 1 year.

Results:

Two hundred and fifty-one patients with TRV with a mean age of 38.9 ± 14.4 years (range, 9–86 years) were included. The patients were predominantly males (n = 167/251; 66.5%) of Asian ethnicity (n = 174/246; 70.7%), and geographical origin (n = 137/251; 54.6%). Most patients had features of occlusive type of RV (n = 113/185; 61.1%) except Caucasians (n = 11; 28.2%). There was no significant difference in treatment failure whether patients received antitubercular therapy (ATT) (P = 0.29), although treatment failure was less frequent in patients who received ATT (13.6%; n = 31/228) compared with those who did not (21.7%, n = 5/23). Less treatment failures were observed in patients with occlusive type RV who received ATT; however, this was not significant on survival analysis (P = 0.09). Treatment with ATT was associated with higher failure rates in patients of Hispanic and African American race and those with TRV associated with panuveitis (compared with posterior uveitis).

Conclusion:

In this multinational study of TRV, there was no significant therapeutic effect of ATT. However, a definitive conclusion about the role of ATT could not be made because of a few patients who did not receive ATT. Because this is a retrospective study with a limited 1-year follow-up, the effect of ATT may have been overestimated (or underestimated) in the duration of follow-up.
Innovative Strategies for Clinical Microscopy Instruction: Virtual Versus Light Microscopy
Authors: McDaniel M. Jane , Russell Gregory B. , Crandall Sonia J.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to compare virtual microscopy with light microscopy to determine differences in learning outcomes and learner attitudes in teaching clinical microscopy to physician assistant (PA) students.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, crossover design study was conducted with a convenience sample of 67 first-year PA students randomized to 2 groups. One group used light microscopes to find microscopic structures, whereas the other group used instructor-directed video streaming of microscopic elements. At the midpoint of the study, the groups switched instructional strategies. Learning outcomes were assessed via posttest after each section of the study, with comparison of final practical examination results to previous cohorts. Attitudes about the 2 educational strategies were assessed through a postcourse questionnaire with a Likert scale.

Results

Analysis of the first posttest demonstrated that students in the video-streamed group had significantly better learning outcomes than those in the light microscopy group (P = .004; Cohen's d = 0.74). Analysis of the posttest after crossover showed no differences between the 2 groups (P = .48). Between the 2 posttests, students first assigned to the light microscopy group scored a 6.6 mean point increase (±10.4 SD; p = .0011), whereas students first assigned to the virtual microscopy group scored a 1.3 mean point increase (±7.1 SD; p = .29). The light microscopy group improved more than the virtual microscopy group (P = .019). Analysis of practical examination data revealed higher scores for the study group compared with 5 previous cohorts of first-year students (P < .0001; Cohen's d = 0.66). Students preferred virtual microscopy to traditional light microscopy.

Conclusion

Virtual microscopy is an effective educational strategy, and students prefer this method when learning to interpret images of clinical specimens.
Bile Acids and the Gut Microbiome as Potential Targets for NAFLD Treatment
Authors: Zhu Lixin , Baker Robert D. , Zhu Ruixin , Baker Susan S.
Published: April 2018

Semisynthetic bile acid (BA) obeticholic acid, a potent farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, exhibited beneficial effects on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Obeticholic acid, however, did not cause a resolution of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Here we discuss several prominent knowledge gaps in BA/FXR biology. Firstly, although many groups reported elevated serum BA levels, there are reports of decreased or normal serum BA levels in NAFLD, underlining the complexity of BA regulation by environmental and genetic factors. Secondly, conflicting data exist in animal studies regarding the effects of FXR signaling on obesity and associated metabolic abnormalities. Thirdly, it remains obscure how the gut microbiome and the BA pool interact and influence the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Lastly, it is not known how FXR‐mediated signaling interact with G protein‐coupled BA receptor 1–mediated signaling. Answering these questions may lead to an improved pharmaceutical intervention for NAFLD targeting the FXR signaling pathway.
Routine Use of Adjunctive p16 Immunohistochemistry Improves Diagnostic Agreement of Cervical Biopsy Interpretation
Authors: Stoler Mark H. , Wright Thomas C. , Ferenczy Alex , Ranger-Moore James , Fang Qijun , Kapadia Monesh , Ridder Ruediger
Published: April 2018

The diagnosis of squamous intraepithelial lesions in cervical tissue specimens is subject to substantial variability. Adjunctive immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for p16 has been shown to add objective biomarker information to morphologic interpretation of hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)–stained tissues. In the CERvical Tissue AdjunctIve aNalysis (CERTAIN) study, we systematically analyzed the impact of adjunctive p16 IHC on the accuracy (agreement with reference pathology results) of diagnosing cervical intraepithelial neoplasia of grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) in the United States. Eleven hundred cervical biopsies were divided into 4 sets of 275 cases by stratified randomization. All H&E slides from each set were interpreted by 17 to 18 individual surgical pathologists, for a total of 19,250 reads by 70 surgical pathologists. After a wash-out period and blinding to original results, cases were re-read by the same pathologists using H&E+p16-stained slides. Using expert consensus diagnoses on H&E+p16 as reference, adjunctive p16 IHC use significantly improved diagnostic agreement of surgical pathologists by 4.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.9, 5.4; P<0.0001). This improvement was driven by an increase of 11.5% (95% CI, 9.3, 13.5; P<0.0001) in sensitivity and an increase of 3.0% (95% CI, 2.2, 3.7; P<0.0001) in specificity. Diagnostic performance was significantly increased as well when expert consensus diagnoses established on H&E only was used as reference. Furthermore, interobserver reliability improved significantly from moderate (H&E: κ=0.58) to substantial (H&E+p16: κ=0.73; P<0.0001). Adjunctive use of p16 IHC provides more accurate and reproducible diagnostic results in the interpretation of cervical biopsies, ensuring that more patients are treated correctly without treating more patients.
The Management of Pediatric Genital Injuries at a Pediatric Emergency Department in Japan
Authors: Takei Hirokazu , Nomura Osamu , Hagiwara Yusuke , Inoue Nobuaki
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Genital injuries among children are often associated with consumer products or specific activities. There are few descriptive studies from Asia on pediatric genital injuries seen in the emergency department (ED). The aim of this study was to describe the characteristic features of accidental genital injuries among children.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of children aged 15 years or younger who visited our ED for genital injuries between March 2010 and November 2014 was conducted. Data on age, arrival time at the ED, location of the incident, mechanism of injury, objects, injured organ, consultation with specialists, emergency operation, sedation at the ED, and outcomes were collected and analyzed.

Results

One hundred seventy-nine patients were included in this analysis. Girls comprised 71% of the subject pool. The median age was 6 years (interquartile range, 4–9 years). Straddle injuries were the most common form of injury (56%). Male genital injuries occurred mostly outdoors (64%). Common consumer products associated with pediatric genital injuries were furniture (21%), exercise equipment (17%), and bicycles (15%). Thirty-two patients were examined by a surgeon, gynecologist, or urologist. The most commonly injured organs were the penis (55%) in boys and the labia (60%) in girls. Most patients (93%) were treated at the ED and discharged.

Conclusions

The characteristics of accidental genital injuries among Japanese children were similar to those of children in other countries. The strategy for preventing genital injuries used in the West might be applicable to the East Asian context.
Female Caudal Duplication Syndrome: A Surgical Case Report With 10-Year Follow-up and Review of the Literature
Authors: Mei Jenny Y. , Nguyen My-Linh T. , Raz Shlomo
Published: April 2018

Caudal duplication syndrome is an exceedingly rare condition that manifests as duplicative anomalies of the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. We present a case of an adult patient born with multiple congenital anomalies including duplicated reproductive and urinary systems. She presented to our center for initial evaluation 11 years ago largely experiencing right-sided pelvic organ prolapse and bilateral urinary tract voiding dysfunction. She underwent successful surgical management and presented several years later for recurrent symptoms. We describe her presentation and our surgical experience, including complications and outcomes, for this case. We also review caudal duplication syndrome—its etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, surgical intervention (if any), and recommendations.
Elementary sensory-motor transformations underlying olfactory navigation in walking fruit-flies
Authors: Álvarez-Salvado Efrén , Licata Angela , Connor Erin G. , McHugh Margaret K. , King Benjamin M.N. , Stavropoulos Nicholas , Crimaldi John P. , Nagel Katherine I.
Published: April 2018

Odor attraction in walking Drosophila melanogaster is commonly used to relate neural function to behavior, but the algorithms underlying attraction are unclear. Here we develop a high-throughput assay to measure olfactory behavior in response to well-controlled sensory stimuli. We show that odor evokes two behaviors: an upwind run during odor (ON response), and a local search at odor offset (OFF response). Wind orientation requires antennal mechanoreceptors, but search is driven solely by odor. Using dynamic odor stimuli, we measure the dependence of these two behaviors on odor intensity and history. Based on these data, we develop a navigation model that recapitulates the behavior of flies in our apparatus, and generates realistic trajectories when run in a turbulent boundary layer plume. The ability to parse olfactory navigation into quantifiable elementary sensori-motor transformations provides a foundation for dissecting neural circuits that govern olfactory behavior.
Efficient cortical coding of 3D posture in freely behaving rats
Authors: Mimica Bartul , Dunn Benjamin A. , Tombaz Tuce , Bojja V.P.T.N.C. Srikanth , Whitlock Jonathan R.
Published: April 2018

In order to meet physical and behavioural demands of their environments animals constantly update their body posture, but little is known about the neural signals on which this ability depends. To better understand the role of cortex in coordinating natural pose and movement, we tracked the heads and backs of freely foraging rats in 3D while recording simultaneously from posterior parietal cortex (PPC) and frontal motor cortex (M2), areas critical for spatial movement planning and navigation. Single units in both regions were tuned mainly to postural features of the head, back and neck, and much less so to their movement. Representations of the head and back were organized topographically across PPC and M2, and the tuning peaks of the cells were distributed in an efficient manner, where substantially fewer cells encoded postures that occurred more often. Postural signals in both areas were sufficiently robust to allow reconstruction of ongoing behavior with 90% accuracy. Together, these findings demonstrate that both parietal and frontal motor cortices maintain an efficient, organized representation of 3D posture during unrestrained behavior.
SHP2 Inhibition Abrogates MEK inhibitor Resistance in Multiple Cancer Models
Authors: Fedele Carmine , Ran Hao , Diskin Brian , Wei Wei , Jen Jayu , Araki Kiyomi , Simeone Diane M , Miller George , Neel Benjamin G , Tang Kwan Ho
Published: April 2018

Adaptive resistance to MEK inhibitors (MEK-Is) typically occurs via induction of genes for different receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and/or their ligands, even in tumors of the same histotype, making combination strategies challenging. SHP2 (PTPN11) is required for RAS/ERK pathway activation by most RTKs, and might provide a common resistance node. We found that combining the SHP2 inhibitor SHP099 with a MEK-I inhibits proliferation of multiple cancer cells in vitro. PTPN11 knockdown/MEK-I had similar effects, while expressing SHP099-binding mutants conferred resistance, demonstrating that SHP099 was on-target. This combination was efficacious in xenograft and/or genetically engineered models of KRAS-mutant pancreas cancer and ovarian cancer and in wild-type RAS-expressing triple negative breast cancer. Biochemical studies show that SHP099 impedes SOS/RAS/MEK/ERK1/2 reactivation in response to MEK-Is and blocks ERK1/2-dependent transcriptional programs. SHP099 alone also inhibited RAS activation in some, but not all, KRAS-mutant lines. Hence, SHP099/MEK-I combinations could have therapeutic utility in multiple malignancies.
A web portal for gene expression across all life stages of Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Lu Z. , Zhang Y. , Berriman M.
Published: April 2018

RNA-seq approach can provide useful information about gene expression. Although several studies have been conducted in the parasite Schistosoma mansoni, the gene expression data is often limited to differential analysis between certain life stages. A recent meta-analysis of RNA-seq studies generated valuable expression data across all life stages of S. mansoni. To facilitate the use and visualisation of these data, we established an interactive web portal implementing not only data from above-mentioned analysis, but also functional aspects including conserved domains and associated pathways, as a complement to main databases for S. mansoni. Users can also visualise and analyse their own data via the web portal. The interactive visualisation implemented in the web portal can facilitate characterising schistosome genes for the research community.
Isonitrile Formation by a Non-heme Iron(II)-dependent Oxidase/Decarboxylase
Authors: Harris Nicholas C. , Born David A. , Cai Wenlong , Huang Yaobing , Martin Joelle , Khalaf Ryan , Drennan Catherine L. , Zhang Wenjun
Published: April 2018

The electron-rich isonitrile is an important functionality in bioactive natural products, but its biosynthesis has been restricted to the IsnA family of isonitrile synthases. We here provide the first structural and biochemical evidence of an alternative mechanism for isonitrile formation. ScoE, a putative non-heme iron(II)-dependent enzyme from Streptomyces coeruleorubidus, was shown to catalyze the conversion of (R)-3-((carboxymethyl)amino)butanoic acid to (R)-3-isocyanobutanoic acid through an oxidative decarboxylation mechanism. This work further provides a revised scheme for the biosynthesis of a unique class of isonitrile lipopeptides, members of which are critical for the virulence of pathogenic mycobacteria.
Redesigning one-warehousen-retailer routing model in inter-store stock transfer operations of an international retail chain distribution
Authors: Wong Eugene , Tai Allen H. , Wei Yan , Yip Iris
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The effectiveness of product replenishment and responsiveness of customer service delivery impact largely on satisfaction and retention of customers in retail chain logistics distribution. The fast moving goods in the complex delivery network and limited vehicle resource often lead to long customer waiting time in stock replenishment. With lack of literature systematically reviewing factors affecting retail distribution in inter-store stock transfer services and improving the operations, the purpose of this paper is to analyse and enhance this service for the retail to reduce customer dissatisfaction by developing an integrated quality service improvement methodology and an optimisation tool to improve the product delivery services.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews inter-store stock transfer operations and the process capability of an international retail chain, and proposes improvements by integrating Six Sigma, factor analysis, and optimisation modelling. User experience and expectations are evaluated through an empirical survey. A novel principle component factored inter-store stock transfer model is developed to improve replenishment operations. A total of 11 factors affecting inter-store stock transfer delivery time are analysed. An extended model with principal component factors incorporated is developed for the simulation.

Findings

TheCpkvalue of 0.51 shows significant difference between the experienced and expected waiting time. With the inter-store stock transfer optimisation model developed, the model assists traffic personnel on the vehicle route planning with multiple pick-up and drop-off locations. The system also ensures the best routing with a minimal travelling time planned, facilitating a reduction of the inter-store stock transfer time, thus improving the customer waiting time. Four significant factors affecting the delivery time are also identified from exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The results are analysed with an extended principal component factored inter-store stock transfer model.

Practical implications

The developed inter-store stock transfer models minimise stock transfer time, increase customer satisfaction, and reduce loss of sales. An integrated service quality improvement methodology has been developed and applied in reviewing significant factors affecting inter-store stock transfer operations.

Originality/value

This paper presents an analysis on inter-store stock transfer operations of an international retail and proposes enhancements on the operations by integrating Six Sigma, factor analysis, and optimisation modelling. A novel principal component factored inter-store stock transfer model is developed to improve the stock replenishment operations.
Publication trends in literature on eBooks: a Scopus based bibliometric analysis
Authors: Kolle Shankar Reddy , Shettar Iranna , M. Vijay Kumar , G.S. Parameshwar
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the global scientific outputs on eBooks research using Scopus database.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected literature published during 2001-2016 from the Scopus database. Following keywords were used: “eBook*”, “e-Book*”, “electronic book*” or “online book*” in title or keyword or abstract with time span covering 2001 to 2016. The authors further restricted their search limit to subject category of social science, computer science and arts and humanities. A total of 2,965 documents were found from the search strategy, including 1,582 research articles. Articles were considered for the analysis using Microsoft Excel 2007. The bibliometric analysis was performed to analyze the document types, language, publication output, citations, authorship pattern, journals, prolific authors, productive countries and most frequently appeared top words/phrases from the title of the articles.

Findings

Literature on eBooks grown exponential and eBooks was the hot topic of the research in recent decade. Most of the articles were contributed by the single authors, and the USA and the UK were the most productive countries; however, in recent times, Taiwan has also joined them. The articles published in the year 2009 have recorded highest citation rate. Publishing Research Quarterly was the most productive journal, which has published 61 articles on eBooks, followed by the Electronic Library (59) and Library Hi Tech News (35). Korat O. was the most productive author on eBooks research who was affiliated to Bar-Ilan University, Israel. The researchers were keen on investigating the experience of use of eBooks, reader, impact, challenges, access, reading habits and usage of the eBooks.

Originality/value

This is the first kind of study to quantify global research patterns and trends in eBooks, which might provide a potential guide for the future research.
Collection assessment for a Middle Eastern, English curriculum university library
Authors: Ho Lilly Hoi Sze
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Library collections at Middle Eastern universities have usually prioritized teaching over research resources. Zayed University is transitioning toward research, but research-centric collection assessments are rarely applied in the region. The purpose of this paper is to present on the successes and limitations of using citation analysis to assess the relevance of the Zayed University Library collection to its shifted focus.

Design/methodology/approach

Recent Scopus-listed publications were sorted by the colleges of the Zayed University affiliated author, and citations listed in the publications were ranked as present or absent in the library collection.

Findings

The resultant table provides an unambiguous evaluation of the extent to which the library collection has met the needs of recently successful published academics across disciplines. Pitfalls include the limitations of the Scopus database in representing all disciplines.

Originality/value

Outcomes of the assessment enable the Library to develop collection strategies for continuous improvement and effectively support the campus researchers.
Passive flow control application for rotorcraft in transonic conditions
Authors: Tejero Embuena Fernando , Doerffer Piotr , Flaszynski Pawel , Szulc Oskar
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Helicopter rotor blades are usually aerodynamically limited by the severe conditions present in every revolution: strong shock wave boundary layer interaction on the advancing side and dynamic stall on the retreating side. Therefore, different flow control strategies might be applied to improve the aerodynamic performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The present research is focussed on the application of passive rod vortex generators (RVGs) to control the flow separation induced by strong shock waves on helicopter rotor blades. The formation and development in time of the streamwise vortices are also investigated for a channel flow.

Findings

The proposed RVGs are able to generate streamwise vortices as strong as the well-known air-jet vortex generators. It has been demonstrated a faster vortex formation for the rod type. Therefore, this flow control device is preferred for applications in which a quick vortex formation is required. Besides, RVGs were implemented on helicopters rotor blades improving their aerodynamic performance (ratio thrust/power consumption).

Originality/value

A new type of vortex generator (rod) has been investigated in several configurations (channel flow and rotor blades).
Strategic value alignment for information security management: a critical success factor analysis
Authors: Tu Cindy Zhiling , Yuan Yufei , Archer Norm , Connelly Catherine E.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Effective information security management is a strategic issue for organizations to safeguard their information resources. Strategic value alignment is a proactive approach to manage value conflict in information security management. Applying a critical success factor (CSF) analysis approach, this paper aims to propose a CSF model based on a strategic alignment approach and test a model of the main factors that contributes to the success of information security management.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model was proposed and empirically tested with data collected from a survey of managers who were involved in decision-making regarding their companies’ information security (N = 219). The research model was validated using partial least squares structural equation modeling approach.

Findings

Overall, the model was successful in capturing the main antecedents of information security management performance. The results suggest that with business alignment, top management support and organizational awareness of security risks and controls, effective information security controls can be developed, resulting in successful information security management.

Originality/value

Findings from this study provide several important contributions to both theory and practice. The theoretical model identifies and verifies key factors that impact the success of information security management at the organizational level from a strategic management perspective. It provides practical guidelines for organizations to make more effective information security management.
Value conflicts and non-compliance
Authors: Berndtsson Joakim , Johansson Peter , Karlsson Martin
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to explore potential value conflicts between information security work and whistleblowing activities by analysing attitudes to whistleblowing among white-collar workers in Swedish organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is conducted using survey data among (n= 674) Swedish white-collar workers. Statistical analyses are conducted to explore variations in acceptance of whistleblowing and analyse the relationship between acceptance for whistleblowing and information security attitudes and behaviours.

Findings

The study finds strong support for whistleblowing in both public and private spheres, and by both private and public sector employees. The study also finds stronger acceptance for intra-organisational whistleblowing, while support for external whistleblowing is low. Finally, the study shows that the whistleblowing activities might be perceived as coming in conflict with information security work, even as the support for including whistleblowing functions in information security practices is high.

Research limitations/implications

With a focus on one country, the study is limited in terms of empirical scope. It is also limited by a relatively small number of respondents and survey items relating to whistleblowing, which in turn affects its explanatory value. However, the study does provide unique new insight into a specific form of “non-compliance”, i.e. whistleblowing, which merits further investigation.

Originality/value

Few studies exist that combine insights from the fields of whistleblowing and information security research. Thus, this study provides a basis for further investigation into attitudes and behaviours linked to whistleblowing in public and private organisations, as well as attendant value conflicts related to information security management and practice.
Quantification of seismic exposure and vulnerability of historic buildings in Metro Manila
Authors: Tibon Noriza Revaula , Suiza Raniel Mejia
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Structures such as buildings are at risk to the natural hazards such as earthquakes. Damage and loss of these structures may cause not just human lives but cultural heritage to be lost as well. This study aims to look into the exposure and vulnerability that deal with how many historic buildings there are in Metro Manila, how they are classified and how susceptible these buildings are to damage because of a certain amount of ground motion.

Design/methodology/approach

Inventories for exposure were conducted according to structural material, height and vintage. The building typologies of HAZARDS US Multi-hazard and UPD Institute of Civil Engineering were used and modified in this study. Three buildings, specifically the Central United Methodist Church (CUMC), Ellinwood Malate Church and Ermita Church, were modeled and analyzed with the aid of ETABS. Using the performance points and capacity curves derived from the nonlinear analysis, vulnerability was quantified by coming up with a vulnerability curve that expresses damage as a function of ground motion.

Findings

It was concluded that there are 54 historic buildings present in Metro Manila as of 2012. Reinforced concrete moment frames comprised the majority of historic buildings at 44.5 per cent of the population. Among the three buildings, CUMC responded as the strongest and Ermita Church responded as the weakest.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the need to quantify the seismic exposure and vulnerability of the historic buildings in Metro Manila, as the more vulnerable these structures are, the more they need to be strengthened against potential hazards.