bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical investigations of unsteady flame propagation in stepped microtubes
Authors: Singh Aditya Prakash , RatnaKishore V. , Minaev S. , Kumar Sudarshan
Published: November 2015

Flame dynamics near the contraction is governed by flame stretching. Change in fuel–air mass-flux entering flame plays a crucial role in accelerating the propagating flames at certain thermal boundary conditions as flame reaches the contraction.
An on-line spectroscopic monitoring system for the electrolytes in vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Zhang Wenhong , Liu Le , Liu Lin
Published: November 2015

In this work, an on-line electrolyte spectroscopic monitoring system (OESM) is developed for long term monitoring of the electrolytes in a charge–discharge cycling VRB.
Co-delivery of siRNA and doxorubicin to cancer cells from additively manufactured implants
Authors: Chen Muwan , Andersen Morten Ø. , Dillschneider Philipp , Chang Chi-Chih , Gao Shan , Le Dang Q. S. , Yang Chuanxu , Hein San , Bünger Cody , Kjems Jørgen
Published: November 2015

Tumors in load bearing bones are a major clinical problem as recurrence is common after surgery. Void filling scaffolds that kill residual cancer cells by releasing chemotherapy and siRNA/chitosan nanoparticles may offer a solution to this problem.
Supramolecular aggregates of single-molecule magnets: exchange-biased quantum tunneling of magnetization in a rectangular [Mn3]4 tetramer
Authors: Nguyen Tu N. , Wernsdorfer Wolfgang , Shiddiq Muhandis , Abboud Khalil A. , Hill Stephen , Christou George
Published: November 2015

Exchange-biased QTM within a magnetically-supramolecular tetramer of Mn3 single-molecule magnets with spin S = 6 has been analyzed.
Enantioselective fluorination of α-branched aldehydes and subsequent conversion to α-hydroxyacetals via stereospecific C–F bond cleavage
Authors: Shibatomi Kazutaka , Kitahara Kazumasa , Okimi Takuya , Abe Yoshiyuki , Iwasa Seiji
Published: November 2015

The highly enantioselective fluorination of α-branched aldehydes was achieved using newly developed chiral primary amine catalyst.
Systematic study of the dynamics and half-lives of newly synthesized proteins in human cells
Authors: Chen Weixuan , Smeekens Johanna M. , Wu Ronghu
Published: November 2015

A novel chemical proteomics method was developed to specifically identify newly synthesized proteins and measure their half-lives.
Fabrication of an exfoliated graphitic carbon nitride as a highly active visible light photocatalyst
Authors: Qiu Pengxiang , Chen Huan , Xu Chenmin , Zhou Ning , Jiang Fang , Wang Xin , Fu Yongsheng
Published: November 2015

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheets were synthesized by exfoliating bulk g-C3N4 with a thermal treatment under H2 for the first time.
Hierarchical flowerlike magnesium oxide hollow spheres with extremely high surface area for adsorption and catalysis
Authors: Yang Shuliang , Huang Peipei , Peng Li , Cao Changyan , Zhu Yanan , Wei Fang , Sun Yongbin , Song Weiguo
Published: November 2015

3D hierarchical flowerlike MgO hollow spheres with extremely high surface area showed excellent adsorption properties for heavy metal ions and catalytic properties for the Claisen–Schmidt condensation reaction.
Biodegradable citrate-based polyesters with S-nitrosothiol functional groups for nitric oxide release
Authors: Yapor J. P. , Lutzke A. , Pegalajar-Jurado A. , Neufeld B. H. , Damodaran V. B. , Reynolds M. M.
Published: November 2015

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of biodegradable citrate-based polyesters that were functionalized for nitric oxide release. The material extracts did not exhibit cytotoxicity as evaluated with human dermal fibroblasts.
Dual-targeted activatable photosensitizers with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristics for image-guided photodynamic cancer cell ablation
Authors: Yuan Youyong , Xu Shidang , Zhang Chong-Jing , Zhang Ruoyu , Liu Bin
Published: November 2015

The currently available photosensitizers (PSs) for photodynamic therapy (PDT) can easily lead to undesirable normal cell death due to their intrinsic photo-toxicity and lack of selectivity for cancer cells.
Printable and flexible electronics: from TFTs to bioelectronic devices
Authors: Magliulo M. , Mulla M. Y. , Singh M. , Macchia E. , Tiwari A. , Torsi L. , Manoli K.
Published: November 2015

This review discusses the state-of-the-art strategies for realizing TFTs by printing compatible techniques, focusing the attention on label-free electronic biosensors.
Robust intrinsic ferromagnetism and half semiconductivity in stable two-dimensional single-layer chromium trihalides
Authors: Zhang Wei-Bing , Qu Qian , Zhu Peng , Lam Chi-Hang
Published: November 2015

Single-layer chromium trihalides constitute a series of stable 2D intrinsic FM half semiconductors with large magnetic anisotropy energies.
Highly efficient terbium(iii)-based organic light-emitting diodes obtained by exciton confinement
Authors: Yu Gang , Ding Fei , Wei Huibio , Zhao Zifeng , Liu Zhiwei , Bian Zuqiang , Xiao Lixin , Huang Chunhui
Published: November 2015

Highly efficient Tb(iii)-based OLEDs were achieved based on the triplet confinement and the double-emitting-layer structure.
Bipolar host materials for high-efficiency blue phosphorescent and delayed-fluorescence OLEDs
Authors: Li Wei , Li Jiuyan , Liu Di , Wang Fang , Zhang Shufen
Published: November 2015

By adjusting the para-, meta-, and ortho-linking styles of p-type and n-type units, the physical parameters of bipolar host materials are regularly tuned to a large extent. The meta- and ortho-linked isomer hosts exhibit excellent performance in blue phosphorescent and thermally activated delayed fluorescence organic light-emitting diodes.
Recent advances in multiferroic oxide heterostructures and devices
Authors: Yang X. , Zhou Z. , Nan T. , Gao Y. , Yang G. M. , Liu M. , Sun N. X.
Published: November 2015

The increasing demand for realizing ultra-fast, compact, and ultra-low power electronics/spintronics has propelled the creation of novel multiferroic heterostructures which enable voltage control of magnetism in an energy efficient way.
Solution processed low-cost and highly electrocatalytic composite NiS/PbS nanostructures as a novel counter-electrode material for high-performance quantum dot-sensitized solar cells with improved stability
Authors: Gopi Chandu V. V. M. , Venkata-Haritha Mallineni , Ravi Seenu , Thulasi-Varma Chebrolu Venkata , Kim Soo-Kyoung , Kim Hee-Je
Published: November 2015

The NiS/PbS as a CE achieves a higher PCE of 4.52% than the NiS (3.26%) and Pt (1.29%) CEs.
Analysis of laser shock experiments on precompressed samples using a quartz reference and application to warm dense hydrogen and helium
Authors: Brygoo Stephanie , Millot Marius , Loubeyre Paul , Lazicki Amy E. , Hamel Sebastien , Qi Tingting , Celliers Peter M. , Coppari Federica , Eggert Jon H. , Fratanduono Dayne E. , Hicks Damien G. , Rygg J. Ryan , Smith Raymond F. , Swift Damian C. , Collins Gilbert W. , Jeanloz Raymond
Published: November 2015

Megabar (1 Mbar = 100 GPa) laser shocks on precompressed samples allow reaching unprecedented high densities and moderately high ∼103–104 K temperatures. We describe here a complete analysis framework for the velocimetry (VISAR) and pyrometry (SOP) data produced in these experiments. Since the precompression increases the initial density of both the sample of interest and the quartz reference for pressure-density, reflectivity, and temperature measurements, we describe analytical corrections based on available experimental data on warm dense silica and density-functional-theory based molecular dynamics computer simulations. Using our improved analysis framework, we report a re-analysis of previously published data on warm dense hydrogen and helium, compare the newly inferred pressure, density, and temperature data with most advanced equation of state models and provide updated reflectivity values.
Piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride trifluoroethylene) thin film-based power generators using paper substrates for wearable device applications
Authors: Won Sung Sik , Sheldon Mackenzie , Mostovych Nicholas , Kwak Jiyeon , Chang Bong-Suk , Ahn Chang Won , Kingon Angus I. , Kim Ill Won , Kim Seung-Hyun
Published: November 2015

Solution-derived poly(vinylidene fluoride trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)) piezoelectric thin films on cellulose paper substrates were prepared as flexible power generators for wearable device applications. Optimization of appropriate annealing and cooling sequences of the co-polymer films resulted in the formation of dense and uniform microstructures exhibiting a well-developed β-phase. A maximum open-circuit voltage of 1.5 V was generated from the periodic bending and releasing of the paper power generator at approximately 1 Hz. To demonstrate the wearable applications, P(VDF-TrFE) piezoelectric film-based paper power generators were directly attached on the back of a human hand, and they generated a maximum output open-circuit voltage of 0.4 V at low bending frequencies of 0.25 Hz. Good open-circuit voltage performance at low frequencies makes P(VDF-TrFE) piezoelectric thin films on paper substrates a strong candidate for future self-powered wearable devices.
Fiber optic sensing in rapidly rotating mechanical structures
Authors: Zilberman Shlomi , Berkovic Garry , Shafir Ehud , Saadi Yair , Mazor Ohad , Goichman Tal
Published: November 2015

A novel, generic approach for fiber-optical sensing in rapidly rotating structures is presented. This approach does not require optical ingress via the central rotation axis. In this work, strain sensing at rotation speeds of up to 5000 rpm is demonstrated, and higher speeds should be possible. We demonstrate measurement of the rotation-induced strain in a rotating body at 500 rpm intervals up to 5000 rpm, and results agree very well with predictions.
First results of the 2.45 GHz Oshima electron cyclotron resonance ion source
Authors: Asaji T. , Nakamura T. , Furuse M. , Hitobo T. , Uchida T. , Muramatsu M. , Kato Y.
Published: November 2015

A new electron cyclotron resonance ion source has been constructed at Oshima College with a 2.45 GHz magnetron microwave source and permanent magnets employed as the main components. In addition, a solid-state power amplifier with a frequency range of 2.5–6.0 GHz was installed to study two-frequency plasma heating. Three solenoid coils were set up for adjusting the axial magnetic fields. Argon plasma generation and ion beam production have been conducted during the first year of operation. Ion current densities in the ECR plasma were measured using a biased disk. For 2.45 and 4.65 GHz two-frequency plasma heating, the ion density was approximately 1.5 times higher than that of 2.45 GHz single-frequency heating.
Side chain engineering of poly-thiophene and its impact on crystalline silicon based hybrid solar cells
Authors: Zellmeier M. , Rappich J. , Klaus M. , Genzel Ch. , Janietz S. , Frisch J. , Koch N. , Nickel N. H.
Published: November 2015

The influence of ether groups in the side chain of spin coated regioregular polythiophene derivatives on the polymer layer formation and the hybrid solar cell properties was investigated using electrical, optical, and X-ray diffraction experiments. The polymer layers are of high crystallinity but the polymer with 3 ether groups in the side chain (P3TOT) did not show any vibrational fine structure in the UV-Vis spectrum. The presence of ether groups in the side chains leads to better adhesion resulting in thinner and more homogeneous polymer layers. This, in turn, enhances the electronic properties of the planar c-Si/poly-thiophene hybrid solar cell. We find that the power conversion efficiency increases with the number of ether groups in the side chains, and a maximum power conversion efficiency of η = 9.6% is achieved even in simple planar structures.
Study on the mechanism of platinum-assisted hydrofluoric acid etching of SiC using density functional theory calculations
Authors: Bui P. V. , Isohashi A. , Kizaki H. , Sano Y. , Yamauchi K. , Morikawa Y. , Inagaki K.
Published: November 2015

Hydrofluoric acid (HF) etching of the SiC surface assisted by Pt as a catalyst is investigated using density functional theory. Etching is initiated by the dissociative adsorption of HF on step-edge Si, forming a five-fold coordinated Si moiety as a metastable state. This is followed by breaking of the Si–C back-bond by a H-transfer process. The gross activation barrier strongly correlates with the stability of the metastable state and is reduced by the formation of Pt–O chemical bonds, leading to an enhancement of the etching reaction.
Photosensitivity enhancement in hydrogenated amorphous silicon thin-film phototransistors with gate underlap
Authors: Kwon Junyeon , Hong Seongin , Hong Young Ki , Lee Sungho , Yoo Geonwook , Yoon Youngki , Kim Sunkook
Published: November 2015

Conventional ɑ-Si:H phototransistors exhibit poor photosensitivity due to low photo-conversion efficiency. To overcome this intrinsic limit, we introduce gate underlap in ɑ-Si:H phototransistors and demonstrate photosensitivity enhancement. We show that photocurrent can be significantly larger than dark current by 4 orders of magnitude, using 1-μm gate underlap at incident optical power density (Pinc) of 3.2 W/cm2. Our 1-μm gate-underlap phototransistor exhibits higher photosensitivity than the device without gate underlap by 64 times with Pinc = 0.2 W/cm2 and a wavelength of 785 nm. Our gate-underlapped phototransistors also show excellent time-resolved photoswitching behaviors, demonstrating the great potential for highly sensitive photodetectors.
Experimental investigation of plasmofluidic waveguides
Authors: Ku Bonwoo , Shin Jin-Soo , Kwon Min-Suk
Published: November 2015

Plasmofluidic waveguides are based on guiding light which is strongly confined in fluid with the assistance of a surface plasmon polariton. To realize plasmofluidic waveguides, metal-insulator-silicon-insulator-metal (MISIM) waveguides, which are hybrid plasmonic waveguides fabricated using standard complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor technology, are employed. The insulator of the MISIM waveguide is removed to form 30-nm-wide channels, and they are filled with fluid. The plasmofluidic waveguide has a subwavelength-scale mode area since its mode is strongly confined in the fluid. The waveguides are experimentally characterized for different fluids. When the refractive index of the fluid is 1.440, the plasmofluidic waveguide with 190-nm-wide silicon has propagation loss of 0.46 dB/μm; the coupling loss between it and an ordinary silicon photonic waveguide is 1.79 dB. The propagation and coupling losses may be reduced if a few fabrication-induced imperfections are removed. The plasmofluidic waveguide may pave the way to a dynamically phase-tunable ultracompact device.
Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow analysis of second grade fluids in a porous medium with prescribed vorticity
Authors: Akbar Tanvir , Nawaz Rab , Kamran Muhammad , Rasheed Amer
Published: November 2015

Steady and unsteady flow of a second grade MHD fluid in a porous medium with Hall current effects is studied. Assuming an à priori known vorticity proportional to the stream function up to an additive uniform stream, exact solutions for velocity field are obtained corresponding to different choices of pertinent flow parameters. Graphical results are presented to depict the influence of pertinent flow parameters on the considered MHD flow.
Theoretical prediction of electrocaloric effect based on non-linear behaviors of dielectric permittivity under temperature and electric fields
Authors: Liu Hongbo , Yang Xue
Published: November 2015

The electrocaloric (EC) effect has been paid great attentions recently for applications on cooling or electricity generation. However, the directly commercial measurement equipment for the effect is still unavailable. Here we report a novel method to predict EC effect by non-linear behaviors of dielectric permittivity under temperature and electric fields. According to the method, the analytical equations of EC temperature change ΔT are directly given for normal ferroelectrics and relaxor. The calculations have been performed on several materials and it is shown that the method is suitable for both inorganic and organic ferroelectrics, and relaxor.
Diet of an inland population of the common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)
Authors: Hermsen Eden , Kerle Anne , Old Julie M.
Published: November 2015

Populations of the common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) in inland New South Wales have declined or disappeared. Habitat requirements and diet of these populations are poorly understood. Determining the diet of inland ringtail possums is crucial to understanding the factors limiting their survival, and was the focus of this study. Spotlighting surveys were conducted to locate ringtail possums, and scat and vegetation samples were collected for microhistological analysis. Ringtail possums were most frequently observed in red stringybark followed by bundy box and black cypress pine trees, and this correlated with the most common dietary items consumed.
The Role of the Case Study Method in the Foundations of Psychoanalysis
Authors: Grünbaum Adolf
Published: November 2015

In my 1984 book on The Foundations of Psychoanalysis, I addressed two main questions: (1) Are the analyst’s observations in the clinical setting reliable as ‘data,’ and (2) if so, can they actually support the major hypotheses of the theory of repression or psychic conflict, which is the cornerstone of the psychoanalytic edifice, as we know? In the book, I argued for giving a negative answer to both of these questions. Clearly, if the evidence from the couch is unreliable from the outset, then this defect alone suffices to jeopardize the very foundations of the clinical theory. But, as I strongly emphasized, even if clinical data were not contaminated by the analyst’s influence, the inability of the psychoanalytic method of clinical investigation by free association to warrant the required sort of causal inferences leaves the major pillars of the theory of psychic conflict ill-supported (1984, 172). Thus, I see a two-fold threat to the psychoanalytic case-study method as a means of scientific inquiry.

It is an immediate corollary of my challenge that it applies not only to Freud’s own original hypotheses, but also to any and all post-Freudian versions of psychoanalysis that rely on his clinical methods of validating causal inferences, though the specific content of their theories of psychic conflict is different. After all, the alteration in the content of the hypotheses hardly makes their validation more secure. Therefore, as Morris Eagle documented in a recent publication (1983), those analysts who have objected to my critique as anachronistic have simply not come to grips with it. For example, such inadequate engagement is present, in my view, in the recent Freud Anniversary Lecture ‘Psychoanalysis as a Science: A Response to the New Challenges,’ given by Robert Wallerstein (1986), the current president of the International Psychoanalytical Association. As he tells us (1988, 6, n.1), ‘The Freud Anniversary Lecture was intended primarily as a response to Grünbaum.’ Yet he does not come to grips at all with the gravamen of my challenge: Even if clinical data could be taken at face value as being uncontaminated epistemically, the inability of the psychoanalytic method of clinical investigation by free association to warrant causal inferences leaves the major pillars of the clinical theory of repression ill-supported.
Misprescribing Controlled Substances: An Evaluation of a Professional Development Program
Authors: Dewey Charlene M. , Ghulyan Marine V. , Swiggart William H.
Published: November 2015

Background: Controlled prescription drug (CPD) abuse has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. Most physicians attending a 3-day continuing medical education (CME) professional development program (PDP) lack training in identifying risk and in managing patients who misuse CPDs. To address this issue, the authors conducted an evaluation of a PDP that trains physicians on proper prescribing, identifying substance abuse, utilizing screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT), and implementing motivational interviewing (MI). Methods: The authors conducted a program evaluation to assess the efficacy and impact of the PDP on physicians’ knowledge and prescribing behaviors. Results: Participants ( N = 174) were typically middle-aged (average age of 53 years), male (89%), and physicians (82%) and other health care professionals (18%). Many physicians practice in solo primary care settings (46%). Course evaluations were completed by n = 155 (89%) participants who rated the course and presenters highly (mean 4.8/5 respectively). Physicians’ knowledge scores on pre/post assessments increased significantly: pretest ( M = 58.7, SD = 13.12) and posttest ( M = 78.28, SD = 9.83) ( t(173) = 20.06, P ≤ .0001, 95% confidence interval, CI: [−21.51, −17.65]). Almost half of the participants, n = 83/174 (48%), completed the follow-up survey, and 93% agreed/strongly agreed (A/SA) they made professional practice changes. Of participants practicing with an active DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) registration ( n = 57), most agreed/strongly agreed they implemented changes to align their practices with current guidelines (89%), used CPD more appropriately (87%), implemented office policies on prescribing (81%), identified and referred more substance abuse patients to treatment (80%), shared new information/experience from course with other 25 health professionals (93%), and felt the course positively impacted their behaviors personally and professionally (90% and 96%, respectively). Conclusions: This is the first known study evaluating a PDP in this population. Results demonstrated participant satisfaction and improvement in prescribers’ knowledge and self-reported prescribing behaviors. However, further study is needed to assess actual clinical practice changes, direct impact on patient outcomes, and rates of recidivism.
A probabilistic analysis of cumulative carbon emissions and long-term planetary warming
Authors: Fyke Jeremy , Matthews H Damon
Published: November 2015

Efforts to mitigate and adapt to long-term climate change could benefit greatly from probabilistic estimates of cumulative carbon emissions due to fossil fuel burning and resulting CO2-induced planetary warming. Here we demonstrate the use of a reduced-form model to project these variables. We performed simulations using a large-ensemble framework with parametric uncertainty sampled to produce distributions of future cumulative emissions and consequent planetary warming. A hind-cast ensemble of simulations captured 1980–2012 historical CO2 emissions trends and an ensemble of future projection simulations generated a distribution of emission scenarios that qualitatively resembled the suite of Representative and Extended Concentration Pathways. The resulting cumulative carbon emission and temperature change distributions are characterized by 5–95th percentile ranges of 0.96–4.9 teratonnes C (Tt C) and 1.4 °C–8.5 °C, respectively, with 50th percentiles at 3.1 Tt C and 4.7 °C. Within the wide range of policy-related parameter combinations that produced these distributions, we found that low-emission simulations were characterized by both high carbon prices and low costs of non-fossil fuel energy sources, suggesting the importance of these two policy levers in particular for avoiding dangerous levels of climate warming. With this analysis we demonstrate a probabilistic approach to the challenge of identifying strategies for limiting cumulative carbon emissions and assessing likelihoods of surpassing dangerous temperature thresholds.
Bipartite rigidity
Authors: Kalai Gil , Nevo Eran , Novik Isabella
Published: November 2015

We develop a bipartite rigidity theory for bipartite graphs parallel to the classical rigidity theory for general graphs, and define for two positive integers

k
,
l

k,l

the notions of

(
k
,
l
)

(k,l)

-rigid and

(
k
,
l
)

(k,l)

-stress free bipartite graphs. This theory coincides with the study of Babson–Novik’s balanced shifting restricted to graphs. We establish bipartite analogs of the cone, contraction, deletion, and gluing lemmas, and apply these results to derive a bipartite analog of the rigidity criterion for planar graphs. Our result asserts that for a planar bipartite graph

G
G

its balanced shifting,

G
b

G^b

, does not contain

K

3
,
3

K_{3,3}

; equivalently, planar bipartite graphs are generically

(
2
,
2
)

(2,2)

-stress free. We also discuss potential applications of this theory to Jockusch’s cubical lower bound conjecture and to upper bound conjectures for embedded simplicial complexes.
Structural characterization of the aquaporin inhibitor 2-nicotinamido-1,3,4-thiadiazole
Authors: Burnett Marianne E. , Johnston Hannah M. , Green Kayla N.
Published: November 2015

Nicotinamides are a class of compounds with a wide variety of applications, from use as antimicrobial agents to inhibitors of biological processes. These compounds are also cofactors, which are necessary components of metabolic processes. Structural modification gives rise to the activities observed. Similarly, 1,3,4-thiadiazoles have been shown to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, or anti-inflammatory biological activity. To take advantage of each of the inherent characteristics of the two aforementioned functional groups, 2-nicotinamido-1,3,4-thiadiazole, C8H6N4OS, was synthesized. Since defining chemical connectivity is paramount in understanding biological activity, in this report, the structural characterization of 2-nicotinamido-1,3,4-thiadiazole has been carried out using X-ray crystallographic methods. The NMR-derived assignments were made possible by utilizing one- (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) NMR techniques. In addition, UV–Visible and IR spectroscopies, and elemental analysis were used to fully characterize the product synthesized by the one-step reaction between nicotinoyl chloride hydrochloride and 2-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole. Computational parameters related to blood–brain barrier permeability are also presented.
Mometasone furoate revisited, or how did the hydrate get in the bottle?
Authors: Müller Peter
Published: November 2015

The redetermined structure of 9α,21-dichloro-11β,17α-dihydroxy-16α-methyl-3,20-dioxopregna-1,4-dien-17-yl furan-2-carboxylate monohydrate, C27H32Cl2O7·H2O, at 100 K has triclinic (P1) symmetry. The structure displays O—H...O hydrogen bonding, which gives rise to infinite sheets extending parallel to the [110] plane. The previously published structure [Chenet al.(2005).J. Pharm. Sci.94, 2496–2509] was determined at room temperature and no significant anomalous signal was present. Data for the structure presented in this study were collected at low temperature and the absolute configuration could be established based solely on anomalous diffraction. Another point of interest is that the structure determined in this study is that of the monohydrate, even though the crystal was harvested from a bottle of nasal spray that was supposed to contain exclusively crystals of the anhydrous form.
Alliance portfolios and firms’ business strategy: a content analysis approach
Authors: Veiga Pedro Mota , Franco Mário
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to understand in what way the business strategy of a firm operating on a global scale is linked to its alliance portfolio,from the product-market matrix of Ansoff (1957) and the resources-partners matrix of Yasuda and Iijima (2005).

Design/methodology/approach

– To meet this objective,the case study method was adopted,with data being obtained from interviews and documentary analysis of the selected firm/case: Borgstena Textile (BT).

Findings

– Based on a content analysis approach,it was possible to observe an alliance portfolio with advantages for BT and include those partnerships in the four quadrants referring to the nature of resources and partners defined by Yasuda and Iijima. In terms of growth strategy,BT simultaneously defined the typology of product-market strategies proposed by Ansoff,i.e. BT tries to use strategic alliances to execute specific business strategies.

Practical implications

– This research seeks to make a practical contribution,identifying the main association between the alliance portfolio and several specific firm strategies. This may allow better understanding of the composition of the alliance portfolio and,in this way,improve strategic management. This means that alliances should be managed as a whole and not in a dyadic way.

Originality/value

– This study is innovative because it seeks to make a contribution to the literature,from a theoretical perspective,by developing two matrixes by Ansoff (1957) and Yasuda and Iijima (2005). These frameworks allow us to analyze the relationship between alliance portfolio and business strategy.
International diversification and return differential between the US and the foreign markets
Authors: Noman Abdullah
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to examine the impact of the return differential between the domestic and foreign markets on the risk exposure of country mutual funds (CMFs). It is argued that when US market returns are higher than the foreign market returns, the returns chasing investors will tilt their portfolio toward the US market assets, increasing the co-movement between the US market and CMF return.

Design/methodology/approach

– The sample includes 19 exchange traded funds (ETFs) and 18 closed-end mutual funds (CEFs) over the period between 2001 and 2011. A static two-factor model is used to get the benchmark results. On the other hand, a conditional specification is used, with the return differential as the information variable, to capture the variation in the exposure of the country funds to their underlying risks.

Findings

– Empirically, the authors find results that partially support their argument. The results of the static two-factor model indicate that the CMFs are exposed to the foreign market risks, whereas the local (US) market risk is not generally priced. The results obtained from the conditional specification, however, shows that the estimated US betas are significant for a number of CMFs.

Practical implications

– A possible interpretation of this finding is that the return differential encourages return chasing behavior of the US investors documented in the international investment literature. This, in turn, may contribute to the time-varying exposure of the CMF return to their underlying risk factors. The findings of the paper have important implications for the investors as the time variation in risk exposure of CMFs causes fluctuation in diversification benefits over time.

Originality/value

– To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that uses return differential as the information variable in a conditional factor model.
On the linkage between stock market development and economic growth in emerging market economies
Authors: Naik Pramod Kumar , Padhi Puja
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to empirically examine the impact of stock market development on the economic growth for a panel of 27 emerging economies using annual data over the period from 1995 to 2012.

Design/methodology/approach

– A second-generation panel unit root test developed by Pesaran (2007) has been used to test the stationary properties of the data series. To achieve the study objectives and to mitigate the endogeneity problem that exists in the given model, the authors use a dynamic panel “system GMM” estimator. The authors also use a heterogeneous panel causality test proposed by Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2012) to examine the direction of causality among the variables.

Findings

– The empirical findings indicate that stock market development significantly contributes to economic growth. Further, a unidirectional causality running from stock market development to economic growth has been found. This finding is consistent with the supply-leading hypothesis. Besides stock market development, it is also evident that macroeconomic variables, such as investment ratio, trade openness and exchange rates, have significant impact on economic growth.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings suggest that a well-functioning stock market, a more globalized economy and increasing aggregate investment can potentially foster the economic growth in those emerging economies.

Originality/value

– Unlike other studies, this study constructs three alternate composite indices along with the individual indicators of stock market development and applies robust panel econometric techniques to establish more reliable results.
From positive ageing to positive living; a changing perspective from the Beth Johnson Foundation
Authors: Wealleans Lynne Marie
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to disseminate the learning from the positive ageing and positive living projects of the Beth Johnson Foundation (BJF) and to contribute to the discourse around ageing and older people.

Design/methodology/approach

– The content for this case study was drawn from evidence gathering activities with different generations of older people, with key stakeholders, commissioners and policy makers. This was supported by extensive desk top analysis of information and research on the subjects of positive and active ageing.

Findings

– This case study examines the key elements of positive ageing within a life course context and explores the language and culture around ageing. It makes some recommendations, based on practice, that support a change in the dialogue around ageing from positive ageing to positive living.

Practical implications

– This approach is of interest to all citizens, to those who work with older people, to commissioners and to decision makers. It promotes a multi-generational approach to the co-design of services. It supports prevention, health promotion and appropriate interventions which are not based on age. It also, therefore, promotes ageing as a “natural” part of the life course, challenges negative stereotypes around ageing and ensures accessible, inclusive and quality services.

Social implications

– The content and conclusions of the case study challenge some of the traditional thinking and approaches around ageing and recommend a more inclusive approach to service design and delivery. The case study also addresses some of the issues around the language used and the culture around ageing which will contribute to a more forward thinking approach.

Originality/value

– This is an original case study based on the work of the BJF over a ten year period as it developed its’ Positive Ageing and Positive Living programmes. BJF has been at the forefront of the positive ageing movement by developing mid-life programmes of work and is acknowledged as an expert organisation in the field of intergenerational (and now multi-generational) practice and age friendly communities.
Proteogenomics of a saxitoxin‐producing and non‐toxic strain of Anabaena circinalis (cyanobacteria) in response to extracellular NaCl and phosphate depletion
Authors: D'Agostino Paul M. , Song Xiaomin , Neilan Brett A. , Moffitt Michelle C.
Published: November 2015

In Australia, saxitoxin production is strain dependent within the bloom‐forming freshwater cyanobacterium Anabaena circinalis. Freshwater cyanobacteria are exposed to rapid fluctuations in environmental nutrient concentrations, and their adaption is vital for competition, succession and dominance. Two elements of environmental significance, phosphorus and sodium chloride, are proposed to play a role in bloom development and saxitoxin biosynthesis respectively. The aim of our study was to comparatively analyse the model saxitoxin‐producing A. circinalis AWQC131C and non‐toxic A. circinalis AWQC310F at the genomic level and proteomic level, in response to phosphate depletion and increased extracellular NaCl. When challenged, photosynthesis, carbon/nitrogen metabolisms, transcription/translation, oxidative stress and nutrient transport functional categories demonstrated the largest changes in protein abundance. In response to increased NaCl, SxtC, a protein conserved in all known saxitoxin biosynthetic pathways, was downregulated. Additionally, toxin quantification revealed a decrease in total saxitoxin and decarbomoyl‐gonyautoxin2/3 content in response to the NaCl treatment. In response to phosphate depletion, the toxic and non‐toxic strain displayed similar proteomic profiles, although the toxic strain did not alter the abundance of as many proteins as the non‐toxic strain. These findings have important implications for the future, since response and adaption mechanisms are directly related to in situ dominance of cyanobacteria.
Life events, anxiety, social support, personality, and alexithymia in female patients with chronic pain: A path analysis
Authors: Zeng Fanmin , Sun Xueli , Yang Bangxiang , Fu Xiaoqian
Published: November 2015

Introduction

This study sought to identify a model that explains the relationship between psychosocial factors and chronic pain in female patients, and to explore all of these constructs in a single study and provide a more holistic examination of the overall psychosocial factors that female patients with chronic pain encounter.

Methods

Female patients with chronic pain (n = 147), aged 20–65 (M = 34.9 years, SD = 11.25), from an outpatient pain clinic completed a cross‐sectional self‐report questionnaire on anxiety, life events, personality, social support, and alexithymia. Data were analyzed by means of path analysis.

Results

The direct effect of anxiety on female patients with chronic pain was greatest among all the paths. Personality and alexithymia led to chronic pain in female patients only indirectly, mediated by life events. The personality factors of neuroticism and extraversion were associated positively with social support, which had an indirect effect on the influence of life events on chronic pain. However, alexithymia was associated negatively with social support, which had an indirect effect on the influence of life events on chronic pain.

Discussion

Our findings provide evidence that life events are a mediator in the relationship between personality, social support, alexithymia, and chronic pain in female patients.
Beyond ‘local’ food: how supermarkets and consumer choice affect the economic viability of small‐scale family farms in Sydney, Australia
Authors: James Sarah W
Published: November 2015

The localisation of food production, particularly in the form of urban/peri‐urban agriculture, is only gaining increasing public and political attention in industrialised nations such as Australia amid growing concerns about urban sustainability. Small‐scale family farmers on the peri‐urban fringe of cities such as Sydney, Australia's largest city, are considered key actors in the creation of a more sustainable and just urban food system by those advocating for food system change. The assumed alterity of such small‐scale farmers from the so‐called ‘mainstream’ food system, however, has led to a focus on localised threats such as urban development and solutions such as alternative food networks. This localised focus risks neglecting the way in which small‐scale family farmers, such as those on Sydney's urban fringe, are directly connected to and reliant on the mainstream for their economic viability. Emphasising the importance of issues such as supermarket power and consumer choice, this paper illustrates that it is necessary to examine the continuing connection between the mainstream system and ‘local’, small‐scale producers to achieve food system change.
Copy number variations at LEPR gene locus associated with gene expression and phenotypic traits in Chinese cattle
Authors: Shi Tao , Xu Yao , Yang Mingjuan , Huang Yongzhen , Lan Xianyong , Lei Chuzhao , Qi Xinglei , Yang Xiaoming , Chen Hong
Published: November 2015

Current evidences show that copy number variations (CNVs) are linked to complex phenotypic traits. Leptin receptor (LEPR) gene plays a critical role in energy homeostasis and fat development and re‐sequencing of the cattle genome revealed the CNV region (herein referred to as “I3 DNA”) within the LEPR intron 3. In the present study, we qualified copy numbers of I3 DNA within LEPR gene in four cattle breeds (Qinchuan, Nanyang, Jinnan and Xianan) by quantitative PCR, and explored their impacts on LEPR gene expression and phenotypic traits in Qinchuan and Nanyang cattle. The results showed that more individuals in Nanyang are with loss of the I3 DNA copy number than that in the others. Additionally, I3 DNA CNVs exhibited a significant negative correlation with LEPR gene expression (P < 0.05). Association analysis showed that gain/normal copy number types performed better traits of body weight, body height and body length than the loss type in Nanyang. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first evidence of the association between LEPR CNVs and cattle traits, and this may help deep understanding of the function of CNVs which may be promising markers for beef cattle breeding and genetics. © 2015 Japanese Society of Animal Science
Detection of counting pseudoerrors: What helps children accept them?
Authors: Lago Mª Oliva , Rodríguez Purificación , Escudero Ana , Dopico Cristina
Published: November 2015

This study examines children's comprehension of non‐essential counting features (conventional rules). The objective of the study was to determine whether the presence or absence of cardinal values in pseudoerrors and the type of conventional rule violated affects children's performance. A detection task with pseudoerrors was presented through a computer game to 146 primary school children in grades 2 through 4. The same pseudoerrors were presented both with and without cardinal values; the pseudoerrors violated conventional rules of spatial adjacency, temporal adjacency, spatial–temporal adjacency, and left‐to‐right direction. Half of the participants within each age group were randomly assigned to an experimental condition that included pseudoerrors with a cardinal value, and the other half were assigned to a condition that included pseudoerrors without a cardinal value. The results show that when presented with a cardinal value, children more easily recognize the optional nature of non‐essential counting features. Likewise, the type of conventional rule transgressed significantly affected the children's acceptance of pseudoerrors as valid counts. Participants penalized breaches of temporal and spatial–temporal adjacency to a greater degree than breaches of spatial adjacency and left‐to‐right direction.
Efficacy and safety of salvage therapy using Carfilzomib for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma patients: a multicentre retrospective observational study
Authors: Muchtar Eli , Gatt Moshe E. , Rouvio Ory , Ganzel Chezi , Chubar Evgeni , Suriu Celia , Tadmor Tamar , Shevetz Olga , Lavi Noa , Shochat Tzippy , Cohen Yael C. , Avivi Irit , Raanani Pia , Magen Hila
Published: November 2015

Carfilzomib has been established in previous years as a treatment for patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RR‐MM). A retrospective multicentre study to evaluate the clinical use of carfilzomib for RR‐MM outside of a clinical trial setting was conducted by our group. One hundred and thirty‐five patients were included. All patients had been previously exposed to bortezomib and 93% had also been treated with lenalidomide. The vast majority of patients received carfilzomib as part of a two‐ or three‐drug combination. The overall response rate was 47·2%. Multivariate analysis revealed bortezomib resistance, lenalidomide resistance and albumin <35 g/l to negatively impact the likelihood of achieving response. The median duration of response was 8·4 months, and was significantly higher in patients receiving three‐drug combination and patients presenting without extramedullary disease. The median progression‐free survival and overall survival for the entire cohort was 4·9 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 3·8–6·4) and 12·2 months (95% CI 9‐not reached), respectively. Toxicity was manageable, although treatment‐related death was seen in 5% of patients. In the setting of progressive multiple myeloma, carfilzomib in a combination regimens yields effective results with a manageable toxicity.
Phase II study of tosedostat with cytarabine or decitabine in newly diagnosed older patients with acute myeloid leukaemia or high‐risk MDS
Authors: Mawad Raya , Becker Pamela S. , Hendrie Paul , Scott Bart , Wood Brent L. , Dean Carol , Sandhu Vicky , Deeg Hans Joachim , Walter Roland , Wang Lixia , Myint Han , Singer Jack W. , Estey Elihu , Pagel John M.
Published: November 2015

Tosedostat, an oral aminopeptidase inhibitor, has synergy with cytarabine and hypomethylating agents. We performed a Phase II trial to determine rates of complete remission (CR) and survival using tosedostat with cytarabine or decitabine in older patients with untreated acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) or high‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Thirty‐four patients ≥60 years old (median age 70 years; range, 60–83) were randomized to receive tosedostat (120 mg on days 1–21 or 180 mg continuously) with 5 d of either cytarabine (1 g/m2/d) or decitabine (20 mg/m2/d) every 35 d. Twenty‐nine patients (85%) had AML, including 15 (44%) with secondary AML/MDS, and 5 (15%) had MDS‐refractory anaemia with excess blasts type 2. The CR/CR with incomplete count recovery (CRi) rate was 53% [9 in each arm; 14 CR (41%) and 4 CRi (12%)], attained in 6 of 14 patients with adverse cytogenetics and 4 of 7 with FLT3‐internal tandem duplication mutations. Median follow‐up was 11·2 months (range, 0·5–22·3), and median survival was 11·5 months (95% confidence interval, 5·2–16·7). Twenty‐three patients (67·6%) were treated as outpatients and 10 of these patients required hospitalization for febrile neutropenia. No Grade 3–4 non‐haematological toxicities required withdrawal from study. Tosedostat with cytarabine or decitabine is tolerated in older patients with untreated AML/MDS, results in a CR/CRi rate of >50%, and warrants further study in larger trials.
The presence of genomic imbalances is associated with poor outcome in patients with burkitt lymphoma treated with dose‐intensive chemotherapy including rituximab
Authors: Forero‐Castro Maribel , Robledo Cristina , Lumbreras Eva , Benito Rocio , Hernández‐Sánchez Jesús M. , Hernández‐Sánchez María , García Juan L. , Corchete‐Sánchez Luis A. , Tormo Mar , Barba Pere , Menárguez Javier , Ribera Jordi , Grande Carlos , Escoda Lourdes , Olivier Carmen , Carrillo Estrella , García de Coca Alfonso , Ribera Josep‐María , Hernández‐Rivas Jesús M.
Published: November 2015

The introduction of Rituximab has improved the outcome and survival rates of Burkitt lymphoma (BL). However, early relapse and refractoriness are current limitations of BL treatment and new biological factors affecting the outcome of these patients have not been explored. This study aimed to identify the presence of genomic changes that could predict the response to new therapies in BL. Forty adolescent and adult BL patients treated with the Dose‐Intensive Chemotherapy Including Rituximab (Burkimab) protocol (Spanish Programme for the Study and Treatment of Haematological Malignancies; PETHEMA) were analysed using array‐based comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). In addition, the presence of TP53, TCF3 (E2A), ID3 and GNA13 mutations was assessed by next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Ninety‐seven per cent of the patients harboured genomic imbalances. Losses on 11q, 13q, 15q or 17p were associated with a poor response to Burkimab therapy (P = 0·038), shorter progression‐free survival (PFS; P = 0·007) and overall survival (OS; P = 0·009). The integrative analysis of array‐CGH and NGS showed that 26·3% (5/19) and 36·8% (7/19) of patients carried alterations in the TP53 and TCF3 genes, respectively. TP53 alterations were associated with shorter PFS (P = 0·011) while TCF3 alterations were associated with shorter OS (P = 0·032). Genetic studies could be used for risk stratification of BL patients treated with the Burkimab protocol.