bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Growth Inhibition of Bacterial Fish Pathogens and Quorum-Sensing Blocking by Bacteria Recovered from Chilean Salmonid Farms
Authors: Fuente Mery , Miranda Claudio D. , Jopia Paz , González-Rocha Gerardo , Guiliani Nicolás , Sossa Katherine , Urrutia Homero 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The main goal of this study was to find bacterial isolates with the ability to inhibit the growth of the fish pathogens Aeromonas hydrophila, Vibrio anguillarum, and Flavobacterium psychrophilum and to inhibit the blockage of the quorum-sensing (QS) system. A total of 80 gram-negative strains isolated from various freshwater Chilean salmonid farms were studied. We determined that 10 strains belonging to the genus Pseudomonas inhibited at least one of the assayed fish pathogens. Of these, nine strains were able to produce siderophores and two strains were able to inhibit the growth of all assayed pathogenic species. When the 80 strains were examined for QS-blocking activity, only the strains Pseudomonas sp. FF16 and Raoultella planticola R5B1 were identified as QS blockers. When the QS-blocker strains were analyzed for their ability to produce homoserine lactone (HSL) molecules, thin-layer chromatography analysis showed that both strains were able to produce C6-HSL– and C8-HSL–type molecules. Strain R5B1 did not show growth inhibition properties, but strain FF16 also led to inhibition of growth in A. hydrophila and F. psychrophilum as well as to siderophore production. Pseudomonas sp. FF16 exhibited potentially useful antagonistic properties and could be a probiotic candidate for the salmon farming industry.
Received July 31, 2014; accepted December 17, 2014
Chitosan Influences the Expression of P-gp and Metabolism of Norfloxacin in Grass Carp
Authors: Hu Kun , Xie Xinyan , Zhao Yi-Ni , Li Yi , Ruan Jiming , Li Hao-Ran , Jin Tianyi , Yang Xian-Le 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the administration of chitosan (CTS), expression of permeability glycoprotein (P-gp), and the metabolism of norfloxacin (NOR) in Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella. Fish were administrated with a single dose of either NOR, CTS, 1:5 NOR–CTS or 1:10 NOR–CTS. The P-gp expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and real time-PCR. The concentration of NOR was determined using HPLC. The mRNA and protein expression of P-gp in the fish intestine was significantly enhanced following a single dosage of 40 mg/kg NOR, and peak expression occurred at 3 h after drug administration (P &lt; 0.05). A single dosage of both 1:5 NOR–CTS and 1:10 NOR–CTS reduced the intestinal P-gp expression to levels significantly lower than that from NOR alone (P &lt; 0.05), but significantly higher than that from the control (P &lt; 0.05). Interestingly, CTS alone also led to a slight decrease in P-gp expression. In addition, pharmacokinetic assays revealed a marked increase in area under the curve (AUC) of NOR with 1:5 and 1:10 NOR–CTS, by approximately 1.5-fold and threefold, respectively. Finally, the relative bioavailability of NOR after a single oral dosage of 1:5 and 1:10 NOR–CTS was enhanced to 148.02% and 304.98%, respectively. In this study, we demonstrated that the transmembrane glycoprotein P-gp regulates NOR metabolism in the intestine of Grass Carp, suggesting that NOR may be a direct substrate of P-gp. More importantly, we showed that CTS can inhibit P-gp expression in a dose-dependent manner and improve the relative bioavailability of NOR in this species.
Received August 25, 2014; accepted November 12, 2014
Improved photovoltaic and grain boundary characteristics of single elementary target-sputtered Cu2ZnSnSe4 thin films by post sulfurization/selenization process
Authors: Jo Yeon Hwa , Jang Jin Woo , Mohanty Bhaskar Chandra , Kang Han Byul , Cho Yong Soo 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
A potential way to improve the quality of Cu2ZnSnSe4 absorber thin film by a one step process of sputtering using a single elementary target is proposed for thin film solar cells. As critical parameters, different S/Se ratios and grain boundary characteristics are achieved by adjusting sequential sulfurization and selenization post-treatment. The simple sulfurization of as-deposited film at 530 °C in H2S is not effective in raising the performance but the additional Se annealing at a shorter duration of 5 min improves conversion efficiency from 0.12 to 3.21% with a drastic increase of the open circuit voltage. Positively-charged grain boundaries with narrow potential peaks seem to play a critical role for effective exciton separation and higher efficiency. The improvement is also understood as related to well-defined microstructures and the variable optical band gap.
The Omega myth: what really drives lower calcification rates in an acidifying ocean
Authors: Cyronak Tyler , Schulz Kai G. , Jokiel Paul L. 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The literature on ocean acidification (OA) contains a prevalent misconception that reduced organismal calcification rates in an acidifying ocean are driven by a reduction in carbonate ion (CO32−) substrate availability (e.g. Omega or Ω). However, recent research in diverse organisms suggests that a reduction in seawater pH (i.e. increasing proton concentrations, [H+]) is the most likely driver of reduced calcification rates in these organisms. OA leads to higher [H+] in seawater which alters the proton gradient between internal cellular reservoirs and external bulk seawater, making it difficult for organisms to maintain pH homeostasis. Biologically mediated calcification is a complex process, so it is unlikely that simple CO32− substrate limitation is responsible for the observed decreases in calcification rates under OA conditions. Despite these inherent complexities, current predictions concerning the fate of calcifying organisms in an acidifying ocean have relied on the relationship between calcification rates and Ω. To more accurately predict how OA will affect the calcification of marine organisms, and consequently the global carbon cycle, we need to further elucidate the mechanisms driving observed decreases in calcification under acidified conditions.
Toward a high-performance management system in health care, part 4
Authors: McAlearney Ann Scheck , Hefner Jennifer , Robbins Julie , Garman Andrew N. 
Published: May 2015

Background:
Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are among the most harmful health care-associated infections and a major patient safety concern. Nationally, CLABSI rates have been reduced through the implementation of evidence-based interventions; thus far, however, hospitals still differ substantially in their success implementing these practices. Prior research on high-performance work practices (HPWPs) suggests that these practices may explain some of the differences health systems experience in the success of their quality improvement efforts; however, these relationships have not yet been systematically investigated.

Purposes:
In this study, we sought to explore the potential role HPWPs may play in explaining differences in the success of CLABSI reduction efforts involving otherwise similar organizations and approaches.

Methodology/Approach:
To form our sample, we identified eight hospitals participating in the federally funded “On the CUSP: Stop BSI” initiative. This sample included four hospital “pairs” matched on organizational characteristics (e.g., state, size, teaching status) but having reported contrasting CLABSI reduction outcomes. We collected data through site visits as well as 194 key informant interviews, which were framed using an evidence-informed model of health care HPWPs.

Findings:
We found evidence that, at higher performing sites, HPWPs facilitated the adoption and consistent application of practices known to prevent CLABSIs; these HPWPs were virtually absent at lower performing sites. We present examples of management practices and illustrative quotes categorized into four HPWP subsystems: (a) staff engagement, (b) staff acquisition/development, (c) frontline empowerment, and (d) leadership alignment/development.

Practice Implications:
We present the HPWP model as an organizing framework that can be applied to facilitate quality and patient safety efforts in health care. Managers and senior leaders can use these four HPWP subsystems to select, prioritize, and communicate about management practices critical to the success of their CLABSI prevention efforts.
Curbing Inappropriate Usage of STAT Imaging at a Large Academic Medical Center
Authors: Harvey H. Benjamin , Alkasab Tarik K. , Stingley Preston D. , Shore Mary T. , Abedi-Tari Faezeh , Abujudeh Hani H. , Meyersohn Nandini M. , Zhao Jong , Pandharipande Pari V. , Rosenthal Daniel I. 
Published: May 2015

Purpose
To evaluate a new system for processing and performing inpatient STAT diagnostic imaging with respect to utilization and time-based performance metrics.

Materials and Methods
This HIPAA-compliant study had institutional review board approval; informed consent was not required. The radiology information system of a large academic medical center was queried for all inpatient diagnostic imaging exams performed and interpreted from August 1, 2010, to October 31, 2012. Using customized software, data were evaluated based on order priority (non-STAT or STAT) and exam modality with respect to exam volume and time-based performance metrics (time-to-performance and preliminary interpretation time). Data were compared over 3 periods: August 1, 2010, to October 31, 2010 (preimplementation period); November 1, 2010, to October 31, 2011 (year 1 postimplementation); and November 1, 2011, to October 31, 2012 (year 2 postimplementation).

Results
In the first year after implementation of the new STAT policy, the percentage of inpatient exams ordered STAT significantly decreased from 22.1% to 5.4% (P < 0.001). This represented a proportional decrease of 26% (CT), 16% (MRI), 20% (US), and 24% (radiographs) relative to pre-STAT policy levels. The median time-to-performance and median preliminary interpretation time significantly decreased for all modalities after implementation of the policy (P < 0.05 for all modalities), decreasing by an average of 104 and 162 minutes, respectively. These changes persisted throughout year 2 postimplementation.

Conclusion
A new institutional system for handling inpatient STAT diagnostic imaging results in a decreased number of STAT exams ordered and improved time-based performance metrics, thereby increasing workflow efficiency.
In VivoBlunt-End Cloning Through CRISPR/Cas9-Facilitated Non-Homologous End-Joining
Authors: Geisinger Jonathan M. , Turan Sören , Hernandez Sophia , Spector Laura P. , Calos Michele P. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe ability to precisely modify the genome in a site-specific manner is extremely useful. The CRISPR/Cas9 system facilitates precise modifications by generating RNA-guided double-strand breaks. We demonstrate that guide RNA pairs generate deletions that are repaired with a high level of precision by non-homologous end-joining in mammalian cells. We present a method called knock-in blunt ligation for exploiting this excision and repair to insert exogenous sequences in a homology-independent manner without loss of additional nucleotides. We successfully utilize this method in a human immortalized cell line and induced pluripotent stem cells to insert fluorescent protein cassettes into various loci, with efficiencies up to 35.8% in HEK293 cells. We also present a version of Cas9 fused to the FKBP12-L106P destabilization domain for investigating repair dynamics of Cas9-induced double-strand breaks. Ourin vivoblunt-end cloning method and destabilization-domain-fused Cas9 variant increase the repertoire of precision genome engineering approaches.
Pseudotime estimation: deconfounding single cell time series
Authors: Reid John , Wernisch Lorenz 
Published: May 2015

AbstractCross-sectional time series single cell data confound several sources of variation, with contributions from measurement noise, stochastic cell to cell variation and cell progression at different rates. Time series from single cell assays are particularly susceptible to confounding as the measurements are not averaged over populations of cells. When several genes are assayed in parallel these effects can be estimated and corrected for under certain smoothness assumptions on cell progression. We present a principled probabilistic model with a Bayesian inference scheme to analyse such data. We demonstrate our method’s utility on public microarray, nCounter and RNA-seq data sets from three organisms. Our method almost perfectly recovers withheld capture times in anArabidopsisdata set, it accurately estimates cell cycle peak times in a human prostate cancer cell line and it correctly identifies two precocious cells in a study of paracrine signalling in mouse dendritic cells. Furthermore, our method compares favourably with Monocle, a state-of-the-art technique. We also show using held out data that uncertainty in the temporal dimension is a common confounder and should be accounted for in analyses of cross-sectional time series.
Does globalisation impact SME development in Africa?
Authors: Mutalemwa Darlene K. 
Published: May 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to increase understanding and knowledge of the impact of globalisation on African small and medium enterprise (SME) development. The contribution of SMEs to manufacturing industrialisation can be viewed in the context of the changing setting of globalisation. Globalisation is a description as well as a prescription. It can be broadly defined as closer economic integration as a result of rapid advances in technology, growth of world trade and competition, and policy changes towards economic liberalisation. Globalisation can also pose a challenge on how SMEs in Africa should brace themselves to respond to – and take advantages of – the changes, and carve an appropriate position in the global competitive economy.Design/methodology/approach– The paper reviews and synthesises the eclectic literature and also draws from the experiences of both developed and developing economies.Findings– The evidence from the literature points to several stumbling blocks that prevent African manufacturing SMEs from participating successfully in the global economy. These include problems with exports, technology, competitiveness and inter-firm linkages as well as barriers in the institutional and policy environments.Originality/value– The paper will be useful to businesses, researchers, policy makers, civil society and others interested in understanding the impact of globalisation on manufacturing SME development.
Perceptions of financial sources among women entrepreneurs in Tanzania
Authors: Lindvert Marta , Yazdanfar Darush , Boter Håkan 
Published: May 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate how women entrepreneurs in Tanzania assess their accessibility to different external financial sources. The aim is further to discuss financial preferences among this group of entrepreneurs.Design/methodology/approach– The study is based on a unique database consisting of 114 firms, obtained by a questionnaire during 2009-2010. Differences between mean values on perceptions of financial sources were tested via a paired samplest-test.Findings– Overall, the empirical results provide support for the hypothesis that the sampled women entrepreneurs perceive semi-formal capital, such as loans from MFIs, SACCOS, ROSCAS and VICOBA, as the most accessible external capital. Governmental subsidies are ranked second, followed by informal capital, such as loans from family, friends and investors. As expected, loans from formal banks are ranked as the least accessible financing alternative. However, there are strong indications that the entrepreneurs in our study, if given a choice, would prefer external capital from formal sources, rather than semi-formal or informal capital.Practical implications– The authors suggest that the formal banks work to find ways to lower agency costs and thereby work for an inclusion of women entrepreneurs, and for the semi-formal financial actors to improve financial services in ways that better serve the entrepreneurs.Originality/value– The knowledge about attitudes and preferences concerning financial solutions among women entrepreneurs in developing countries is very limited. Results from this study is therefore important, as it adds to previous understanding, especially as this particular group of entrepreneurs have the potential to play an important role in the development of their regions.
Exploring the relationship between “other block-holders” and the performance of family-controlled corporations in Malaysia
Authors: Ng Sin-Huei 
Published: May 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to provide an exploration on how important are “other block-holders” in explaining the performance of family-controlled corporations in Malaysia. Three important groups of block-holders are identified for the purpose, namely the “foreign institutional investors”, the “domestic institutional investors” and the “government”.Design/methodology/approach– The sample was drawn based on the companies listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia. All the relevant block-holders’ ownership data are hand-collected from the annual reports published by the listed corporations and descriptive statistics together with regression analysis are employed.Findings– Overall it is found that the presence of a second block-holder in family-controlled corporations leads to better performance compared to the corporations where the controlling families act as the sole block-holder. Moreover, this study finds that the identity of the block-holders with the extent of their ownership is important in explaining the performance. Specifically, “foreign institutional investors” and “government” are found to be significant in terms of the extent of their equity holdings and the performance of these corporations, respectively. Conversely, no such relationship is found in the equity holdings of “domestic institutional investors” and the corporation performance. Such finding may imply the possible limited ability and constraints faced by the “domestic institutional investors” in Malaysia to exert effective monitoring and pressure on the management for enhanced corporation performance.Originality/value– Many studies researched the influence of family ownership on the performance of family-controlled corporations but there are limited studies conducted on the influence of “other block-holders” in affecting the performance of these corporations. This paper is an attempt to provide an initial exploration on how important are these “other block-holders” in explaining the performance of these corporations in the context of a small emerging economy, Malaysia.
Organizational objectives for information security governance: a value focused assessment
Authors: Mishra Sushma 
Published: May 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this study is to develop theoretically grounded and empirically derived organizational security governance (OSG) objectives. Developing organizational security governance (OSG) objectives pose significant challenges for organizations considering the ever-increasing vulnerability from lack of or misuse of appropriate controls. In recent years, there have been several cases of colossal losses to businesses due to inadequate security governance measure. In many cases, organizations do not even know as to what their ISG objectives might be. Following an extensive empirical study, this paper proposes 6 fundamental and 17 means objectives for designing security governance. The objectives were developed from individual values of information technology and security executives across a wide range of firms. The study comprised 52 interview respondents across 9 firms, which resulted in 23 OSG objectives. Theoretically, the study was grounded in Catton’s (1959) value theory and Keeney’s (1992) value-focused thinking. The objectives provide a useful basis for strategic planning for information security governance.

Design/methodology/approach
– This research is grounded in value-focused thinking methodology. Step 1: develop a comprehensive list of personal values underlying the problem being explored. The researcher undertakes extensive interviews, using relevant probes, to elicit underlying values of respondents. Step 2: change the values enlisted to a common form and convert them into objectives. The data collected in Step 1 is collated and presented in a common form, which enables cross-comparison and easy interpretation. Step 3: classify the objectives as means and fundamental for the decision context. Objectives are clustered into groups and then classified into fundamental and means.

Findings
– This study uses a value-focused approach to develop OSG objectives. Incorporating individual values in developing governance objectives would facilitate alignment of individual and organizational values about OSG. This study proposes 6 fundamental and 17 means objectives for OSG. The study provides a comprehensive list of OSG that is rooted in values of stakeholders in an organization.

Originality/value
– The main contributions study can be classified in two categories. First, it represents a collective set of OSG objectives which touch upon technical, formal, informal, moral and ethical dimensions of governance. This is a unique, synthesized and cohesive framework for OSG, which incorporates several aspects of OSG into one platform, thus allowing the development of a comprehensive security management program. Second, some of the objectives developed in this research (“establish corporate control strategy”, “establish punitive structure”, “establish clear control development process”, “ensure formal control assessment functionality” and “maximize group cohesiveness”) have not been emphasized enough in security governance literature.
The sufficiency of the theory of planned behavior for explaining information security policy compliance
Authors: Sommestad Teodor , Karlzén Henrik , Hallberg Jonas 
Published: May 2015

Purpose
– This paper aims to challenge the assumption that the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) includes all constructs that explain information security policy compliance and investigates if anticipated regret or constructs from the protection motivation theory add explanatory power. The TPB is an established theory that has been found to predict compliance with information security policies well.

Design/methodology/approach
– Responses from 306 respondents at a research organization were collected using a questionnaire-based survey. Extensions in terms of anticipated regret and constructs drawn from the protection motivation theory are tested using hierarchical regression analysis.

Findings
– Adding anticipated regret and the threat appraisal process results in improvements of the predictions of intentions. The improvements are of sufficient magnitude to warrant adjustments of the model of the TPB when it is used in the area of information security policy compliance.

Originality/value
– This study is the first test of anticipated regret as a predictor of information security policy compliance and the first to assess its influence in relation to the TPB and the protection motivation theory.