bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Anatomical and functional gonadotrope networks in the teleost pituitary
Authors: Golan Matan , Martin Agnés O. , Mollard Patrice , Levavi-Sivan Berta 
Published: March 2016

AbstractMammalian pituitaries exhibit a high degree of intercellular coordination; this enables them to mount large-scale coordinated responses to various physiological stimuli. This type of communication has not been adequately demonstrated in teleost pituitaries, which exhibit direct hypothalamic innervation and expression of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in distinct cell types. We found that in two fish species, namely tilapia and zebrafish, LH cells exhibit close cell–cell contacts and form a continuous network throughout the gland. FSH cells were more loosely distributed but maintained some degree of cell–cell contact by virtue of cytoplasmic processes. These anatomical differences also manifest themselves at the functional level as evidenced by the effect of gap-junction uncouplers on gonadotropin release. These substances abolished the LH response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone stimulation but did not affect the FSH response to the same stimuli. Dye transfer between neighboring LH cells provides further evidence for functional coupling. The two gonadotropins were also found to be differently packaged within their corresponding cell types. Our findings highlight the evolutionary origin of pituitary cell networks and demonstrate how the different levels of cell–cell coordination within the LH and FSH cell populations are reflected in their distinct secretion patterns.
Investigation of Y/SBA Composite Molecular Sieves Morphology Control and Catalytic Performance for n-Pentane Aromatization
Authors: Shi Chun-Wei , Wu Wen-Yuan , Li Shuai , Bian Xue , Zhao Shan-lin , Pei Ming-Yuan 
Published: March 2016

AbstractUsing Y molecular sieve as the core, Y/SBA-15 composite molecular sieves were prepared by different crystallization methods in the paper. The growth process and morphologies of the composite molecular sieves were controlled by adjusting the synthesis factors. The structures and acidity of two kinds of composite molecular sieves were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption/desorption, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and NH3-TPD. The catalysis performances of the composite molecular sieves were investigated in the aromatization reaction of n-pentane. The results indicated that the desired core-shell composite molecular sieves were obtained when the crystallization conditions were 36 hours, 100 °C and secondary crystallization. The aromatization results showed that core-shell composite molecular sieves had better selectivity for producing high application value xylenes compared to mixed-crystal composite molecular sieves.
Scaling Laws for Thin Films near the Superconducting-to-Insulating Transition
Authors: Tao Yong 
Published: March 2016

AbstractWe propose a Lagrangian function, which combines Landau-Ginzburg term and Chern-Simons term, for describing the competition between disorder and superconductivity. To describe the normal-to-superconducting transition in the thin superconducting films, we apply Wilson’s renormalization group methods into this Lagrangian function. Finally, we obtain a scaling law between critical temperature (Tc), film thickness (d), sheet resistance of the film at the normal state (Rs) and number density of the electrons at the normal state (N). Such a scaling law is in agreement with recent experimental investigations [Ivry, Y. et al., Physical Review B 90, 214515 (2014)]. Our finding may have potential benefits for improving transition temperature Tc.
KCa3.1 mediates dysfunction of tubular autophagy in diabetic kidneys via PI3k/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways
Authors: Huang Chunling , Lin Mike Z. , Cheng Delfine , Braet Filip , Pollock Carol A. , Chen Xin-Ming 
Published: March 2016

AbstractAutophagy is emerging as an important pathway in many diseases including diabetic nephropathy. It is acknowledged that oxidative stress plays a critical role in autophagy dysfunction and diabetic nephropathy and KCa3.1 blockade ameliorates diabetic renal fibrosis through inhibiting TGF-β1 signaling pathway. To identify the role of KCa3.1 in dysfunctional tubular autophagy in diabetic nephropathy, human proximal tubular cells (HK2) transfected with scrambled or KCa3.1 siRNAs were exposed to TGF-β1 for 48 h, then autophagosome formation, the autophagy marker LC3, signaling molecules PI3K, Akt and mTOR and oxidative stress marker nitrotyrosine were examined respectively. In vivo, LC3, nitrotyrosine and phosphorylated mTOR were examined in kidneys of diabetic KCa3.1+/+ and KCa3.1−/− mice. The results demonstrated that TGF-β1 increased the formation of autophagic vacuoles, LC3 expression and phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt and mTOR in scrambled siRNA transfected HK2 cells compared to control cells, which was reversed in KCa3.1 siRNA transfected HK2 cells. In vivo, expression of LC3 and nitrotyrosine and phosphorylation of mTOR were significantly increased in kidneys of diabetic KCa3.1+/+ mice compared to non-diabetic mice, which were attenuated in kidneys of diabetic KCa3.1−/− mice. These results suggest that KCa3.1 activation contributes to dysfunctional tubular autophagy in diabetic nephropathy through PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways.
β-TrCP-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of liver-enriched transcription factor CREB-H
Authors: Cheng Yun , Gao Wei-Wei , Tang Hei-Man Vincent , Deng Jian-Jun , Wong Chi-Ming , Chan Chi-Ping , Jin Dong-Yan 
Published: March 2016

AbstractCREB-H is an endoplasmic reticulum-resident bZIP transcription factor which critically regulates lipid homeostasis and gluconeogenesis in the liver. CREB-H is proteolytically activated by regulated intramembrane proteolysis to generate a C-terminally truncated form known as CREB-H-ΔTC, which translocates to the nucleus to activate target gene expression. CREB-H-ΔTC is a fast turnover protein but the mechanism governing its destruction was not well understood. In this study, we report on β-TrCP-dependent ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of CREB-H-ΔTC. The degradation of CREB-H-ΔTC was mediated by lysine 48-linked polyubiquitination and could be inhibited by proteasome inhibitor. CREB-H-ΔTC physically interacted with β-TrCP, a substrate recognition subunit of the SCFβ-TrCP E3 ubiquitin ligase. Forced expression of β-TrCP increased the polyubiquitination and decreased the stability of CREB-H-ΔTC, whereas knockdown of β-TrCP had the opposite effect. An evolutionarily conserved sequence, SDSGIS, was identified in CREB-H-ΔTC, which functioned as the β-TrCP-binding motif. CREB-H-ΔTC lacking this motif was stabilized and resistant to β-TrCP-induced polyubiquitination. This motif was a phosphodegron and its phosphorylation was required for β-TrCP recognition. Furthermore, two inhibitory phosphorylation sites close to the phosphodegron were identified. Taken together, our work revealed a new intracellular signaling pathway that controls ubiquitination and degradation of the active form of CREB-H transcription factor.
Integrated Physiotherapy and Speech Pathology Dysphagia Assessment and Treatment: A Single Pediatric Case Study
Authors: Godwin Emma , Rogers Katrina 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of an integrated physiotherapy, and speech pathology approach to pediatric dysphagia assessment and treatment.

Method
A single retrospective case study design was used for a 3:2 year old child (Y) with a dysphagia only diagnosis over a 2:8 year period. An integrated feeding and postural assessment was completed. Treatment for Y then included the use of speech pathology techniques, core stability and adapted Shaker et al. (2002) exercises, and elastic therapeutic taping (ETT).

Results
Reassessment suggested that due to the exercises Y had improved core stability and supra-hyoid muscle strength. Videofluoroscopy (VFSS) results indicated that there was increased anterior tilt during hyolaryngeal excursion leading to reduced valleculae post swallow residue, with residue remaining at the level of the cricopharyngeus and pyriform sinuses. Elastic therapeutic taping (ETT) was then used with the aim of supporting an increase in superior hyolaryngeal movement. Results showed that in the absence of being able to create change in superior hyo-laryngeal excursion, ETT potentially altered Y's swallow pattern positively. It was hypothesized this was due to improved sensory awareness.

Conclusion
In summary, an integrated approach allowed holistic assessment and treatment of the varied aspects of Y's dysphagia.
Computer-Based Cognitive Rehabilitation for Individuals With Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Politis Adam M. , Norman Rocío S. 
Published: March 2016

PurposeThe purpose of this review is to evaluate the efficacy of computer-based cognitive rehabilitation (CCR) for improving cognitive and cognitive-communication skills in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI).MethodA systematic search using key words related to CCR and TBI was conducted in 11 databases. Studies investigating CCR in children, adolescents, and adults with TBI were identified using a set of predetermined clinical questions, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and search parameters. Studies were evaluated for methodological quality according to American Academy of Neurology guidelines (AAN, 2011).ResultsThirteen studies were included in this review. One study was classified as AAN Class II and 12 were rated as AAN Class III. Results across studies were inconsistent. In addition, studies contained a range of limitations that reduced the confidence of the reported findings.ConclusionAt this time, there is insufficient evidence to support or refute the efficacy of CCR in improving the cognitive or cognitive-communication skills of individuals with TBI. Additional, high-quality research is needed to determine if individuals with TBI will benefit from CCR. Until this occurs, clinicians are encouraged to review existing expert recommendations and engage in practice-based evidence to determine if CCR is appropriate for their individual clients with TBI.
Polarisation‐dependent absorber based on resistor‐loaded rectangular loop resonators
Authors: Wang S. , Deng G. , Horestani A.K. , Fumeaux C. 
Published: March 2016

This Letter presents a design of a polarisation‐dependent resistor‐loaded resonant absorber at microwave frequencies. The unit cell includes a metallic loop and a metallic ground plane, separated by a 3.2 mm FR‐4 substrate. A resistor is used to connect the top and bottom layers to create an optimal load for dissipation of the power accepted by the structure in a desired polarisation. Experiments performed on a prototype consisting of 10 × 10 unit cells demonstrate that the absorber can achieve near unity absorption in co‐polarised direction and almost full reflection in cross‐polarised direction at its working frequency of 2.52 GHz. The measured bandwidth of the absorber reaches 0.17 GHz (6.7%), which is wider than comparable designs using electric‐field‐coupled‐LC resonators. The optimal resistor selection and the effect of radio‐frequency behaviour of the loading resistor on the absorbing properties is investigated.
High speed and reliability gearbox for 100GE physical coding sublayer
Authors: Weihua Ruan , Qingsheng Hu 
Published: March 2016

Two differently structured 66:8 gearboxes according to the IEEE802.3ba standard for 100GE transmit (TX) physical coding sublayer (PCS) system are described. By comparing their number of cells (area), power consumption, speed and reliability, the better one is applied to the 100GE TX PCS circuit. The better one is based on a kind of register which uses a round‐robin saving way. It is this special deposit way that makes it possible to take out the output data within a certain range, so as to overcome the influence of the phase difference between the input and the output clock and greatly improve its speed and reliability. The synthesis result shows that this structure of the gearbox can make it possible to run reliably at more than 700 MHz clock frequency (using the 0.18 μm CMOS standard cells). The PCS circuit which includes the better gearbox has been taped out using the 0.18 μm CMOS process and the measured results show that it can run properly at a speed of 100 Gbit/s.
Algorithm for reducing PAPR of Multicode CDMA using Reed–Muller codes
Authors: Hasan S.R. , Siddiqui N. 
Published: March 2016

A new algorithm for reducing peak‐to‐average power ratio (PAPR) of multicode code division multiple access (MC‐CDMA) systems under binary PSK modulation is presented. The algorithm is based on Reed–Muller (RM) codes that are modified by finding a suitable binary sequence that minimises the PAPR of the MC‐CDMA. Three types of RM codes are investigated: namely, zero order, first order and second order. Simulation studies conducted show that the proposed algorithm achieves transmitter power savings of up to 6 dB. Zero‐order and first‐order codes exhibit 0 dB PAPR, while several others maintain a constant and low PAPR as compared with the original MC‐CDMA systems.
Continuous‐time ΔΣ modulator having time‐interleaved switched‐capacitor brief‐return‐to‐zero DAC with first‐order jitter noise shaping
Authors: Choi M.‐Y. , Roh H.‐D. , Lee M.‐J. , Kwon S. , Lee Y.‐H. , Park H.‐J. , Kong B.‐S. 
Published: March 2016

A continuous‐time delta‐sigma modulator (CT DSM) having a time‐interleaved switched‐capacitor brief‐return‐to‐zero DAC with first‐order jitter noise shaping is proposed to reduce the sensitivity to clock jitter. The proposed CT DSM allows higher power efficiency and lower intersymbol interference by using a time‐interleaved nearly full clock period integration with its current returning to zero briefly. Evaluation results indicate that the proposed third‐order single‐bit CT DSM operating at 168‐MHz achieves 79.1 dB SNDR with 50% reduced DAC current for a 2‐MHz signal bandwidth having 1% clock jitter as compared with conventional techniques.
Microstructure and hardness of electrodeposited copper microcylinders in through‐silicon via by direct current power
Authors: Wang Huiying , Wang Hong , Cheng Ping , Liu Rui , Wang Zhaoyu , Ding Guifu 
Published: March 2016

Two‐step direct current electroplating was used to fabricate copper microcylinders with a 50 μm diameter and 150 μm depth. The microstructure was characterised by electron back scattering detection. Twin boundaries appeared and the twin quantity depended on the current density. Near the edge (2 mA/cm2), the grain size was large (∼2 μm) and many twins existed, while the size was small (∼0.5 μm) and few twins occurred in the middle (4 mA/cm2). The hardness was measured by nano‐indentation technique. The results showed that the hardness (2.7 GPa) at the edge of the sample was higher than that in the middle (2.2 GPa), which was probably enhanced by twins. The hardness of annealed sample was about 1.7 Gpa, which was independent of the position.
Habitat Alterations and a Nonnative Predator, the Striped Bass, Increase Native Chinook Salmon Mortality in the Central Valley, California
Authors: Sabal Megan , Hayes Sean , Merz Joseph , Setka Jose 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Anthropogenic stressors are the leading causes of species and biodiversity declines, driving wide-scale ecosystem changes. Additionally, synergistic effects of multiple anthropogenic modifications, including species introductions and habitat alterations, can have complex outcomes for native species. We assessed how a nonnative predator (the Striped Bass Morone saxatilis) and habitat alterations (a small diversion dam and other altered habitats) interacted to influence mortality of native juvenile Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha during their emigration from the lower Mokelumne River, California. Relative abundance and diet surveys across natural and human-altered habitats were used to assess Striped Bass functional and aggregative responses. Per capita consumption (PCC) of juvenile salmon and behavioral aggregation (CPUE) by Striped Bass at a small diversion dam (Woodbridge Irrigation District Dam [WIDD]) were elevated in comparison with those at other altered and natural habitats (WIDD: PCC = 3.54 juvenile salmon, CPUE = 0.189 Striped Bass/s of electrofishing; other altered habitats: PCC = 0 juvenile salmon, CPUE = 0.0024 Striped Bass/s; natural habitats: PCC = not estimable, CPUE = 0.0003 Striped Bass/s). Increased aggregative and functional predator responses created a localized area of heightened predation at WIDD. At this predation hot spot, we used three approaches (experimental Striped Bass removals, diet energetic analysis, and before–after impact assessment) to estimate Striped Bass consumption at 8–29% of the emigrating juvenile salmon population. Striped Bass PCC rates for juvenile salmon as determined by the three approaches were 0.92% (predator removals), 0.71–1.20% (diet energetic analysis), and 0.96–1.11% (before–after impact assessment). Our results (1) illustrate how the synergistic effect of habitat modification and a nonnative predator can exacerbate the mortality of native juvenile salmon during their emigration and (2) highlight the importance of considering interactions among stressors when planning local management strategies and assessing population-level impacts on salmon.
Received February 12, 2015; accepted November 8, 2015 Published online March 30, 2016
Doing business in India: cross-cultural issues in managing human resources
Authors: Gupta Seeta , Bhaskar A. Uday 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– Given the increasing global significance of Indian markets, multi-national corporations (MNCs) are keen to do business here; however, cross-cultural issues can be barriers in managing human resources (HR) in international businesses. The purpose of this paper is to understand how MNCs can successfully do business in India, with special reference to cross-cultural issues and management of HR.Design/methodology/approach– In-depth interviews were conducted with executives working in MNCs and Indian MNCs based in India and abroad. Respondents were senior professionals, working in diverse sectors and had global work experience for about five years. Majority of the interviews were conducted in Delhi and some were conducted in Singapore. Interviews responses were qualitatively analysed.Findings– Findings reveal that MNCs wanting to do business in India need to have a long-term business focus, a well-defined expatriate policy and deep pockets to experience growth and payoffs on investments. In order to be successful, they need to understand India culturally and geographically, build trusting relationships with HCNs, partner with local players who are familiar with domestic challenges and localize the best practices of the west. Attrition and retention being the major challenges in India, compensation alone is not enough to attract and retain talent. Understanding Indian psyche and offering individuals a unique value proposition such as challenging roles and professional growth is imperative for creating an attractive employer brand in order to win the war for talent.Research limitations/implications– Though sample size is small, this research has implications for MNCs operating in India or planning to set up Indian operations.Originality/value– Inferences have been drawn out of primary data collected from senior executives who were handling core MNC operations and sharing their wealth of experience. The findings give fresh insights into the whole issues of MNC management involving cross-cultural and HR issues.
Background characteristics as predictors of Greek teachers’ self-efficacy
Authors: Gkolia Aikaterini , Dimitrios Belias A. , Koustelios Athanasios 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between elementary and secondary teachers’ background characteristics and constructs of self-efficacy, using the Teachers’ Sense of Efficacy Scale – TSES, during a difficult economic period for Greece and other European countries.Design/methodology/approach– Equation modeling techniques were used to examine the construct validity of Greek version of TSES and second to examine teachers’ self-efficacy profile in primary and secondary schools during a difficult economic period for Greece and other European countries.Findings– The findings of the study, using the equation modeling techniques, revealed that a multidimensional first-order three-factor model fits well to the data using multiple-group analysis, the results of the study indicate that background characteristics, such as teachers’ gender, teaching experience, educational level (elementary and secondary level) and age affect their self-efficacy factors (efficacy in student engagement, efficacy in instructional strategies and efficacy in classroom management).Research limitations/implications– The data of the specific analysis is based on centralized education systems during a difficult economic period. For improvement, future research using longitudinal approaches may give further important factors across different academic years and across the same individuals. Further research is also required in order to investigate the relationship between self-efficacy and students’ achievement.Originality/value– The originality and value of the current manuscript highlights the confirmation and the interpretation of latent factors measuring elementary and secondary school teachers’ self-efficacy (TSES) based on a centralized educational system.
Value-focused objectives for CRM system adoption
Authors: Pedron Cristiane Drebes , Picoto Winnie Ng , Dhillon Gurpreet , Caldeira Mário 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to define objectives for Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system adoption. The objectives provide a theoretical basis for strategizing about CRM system adoption. The objectives also provide managers to clearly direct CRM system adoption, thus ensuring a highly successful outcome.

Design/methodology/approach
– The authors conducted a sequential multi-method research in Europe. The initial qualitative phase constituted 62 in-depth interviews. Using Keeney’s (1992) value-focused thinking approach, the authors defined 102 CRM system adoption objectives. Quantitative purification techniques, using a sample of 210 organisations, a more parsimonious set of objectives were developed. The complete set of objectives were classified into fundamental and means objectives.

Findings
– Results present three fundamental and three means objectives. These objectives allow for successful CRM system adoption. The three fundamental objectives are: maximise CRM organisational culture; ensure an effective relationship with CRM providers; and minimise CRM project risks. The three means objectives are: maximise CRM usage, maximise relational marketing capabilities, maximise CRM orientation.

Practical implications
– This study provides strategic objectives that can be used by companies to plan adoption of a CRM system. Hence the fundamental and means objectives take the form a strategic planning template.

Originality/value
– Although technology adoption has been well researched and has also been extended to address CRM systems, the focus has largely been behavioural. The strategic objectives for CRM system adoption, presented in this paper, are novel. Objectives enable decision making and resource planning. The combination of fundamental and means objectives provide a theoretical basis for ensuring successful CRM system adoption.