bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tuneable complementary metamaterial structures based on graphene for single and multiple transparency windows
Authors: Ding Jun , Arigong Bayaner , Ren Han , Zhou Mi , Shao Jin , Lu Meng , Chai Yang , Lin Yuankun , Zhang Hualiang 
Published: August 2014

AbstractNovel graphene-based tunable plasmonic metamaterials featuring single and multiple transparency windows are numerically studied in this paper. The designed structures consist of a graphene layer perforated with quadrupole slot structures and dolmen-like slot structures printed on a substrate. Specifically, the graphene-based quadrupole slot structure can realize a single transparency window, which is achieved without breaking the structure symmetry. Further investigations have shown that the single transparency window in the proposed quadrupole slot structure is more likely originated from the quantum effect of Autler-Townes splitting. Then, by introducing a dipole slot to the quadrupole slot structure to form the dolmen-like slot structure, an additional transmission dip could occur in the transmission spectrum, thus, a multiple-transparency-window system can be achieved (for the first time for graphene-based devices). More importantly, the transparency windows for both the quadrupole slot and the dolmen-like slot structures can be dynamically controlled over a broad frequency range by varying the Fermi energy levels of the graphene layer (through electrostatic gating). The proposed slot metamaterial structures with tunable single and multiple transparency windows could find potential applications in many areas such as multiple-wavelength slow-light devices, active plasmonic switching and optical sensing.
SUBAcon: a consensus algorithm for unifying the subcellular localization data of the Arabidopsis proteome
Authors: Hooper Cornelia M. , Tanz Sandra K. , Castleden Ian R. , Vacher Michael A. , Small Ian D. , Millar A. Harvey 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Motivation: Knowing the subcellular location of proteins is critical for understanding their function and developing accurate networks representing eukaryotic biological processes. Many computational tools have been developed to predict proteome-wide subcellular location, and abundant experimental data from green fluorescent protein (GFP) tagging or mass spectrometry (MS) are available in the model plant, Arabidopsis. None of these approaches is error-free, and thus, results are often contradictory.
Results: To help unify these multiple data sources, we have developed the SUBcellular Arabidopsis consensus (SUBAcon) algorithm, a naive Bayes classifier that integrates 22 computational prediction algorithms, experimental GFP and MS localizations, protein–protein interaction and co-expression data to derive a consensus call and probability. SUBAcon classifies protein location in Arabidopsis more accurately than single predictors.
Availability: SUBAcon is a useful tool for recovering proteome-wide subcellular locations of Arabidopsis proteins and is displayed in the SUBA3 database (http://suba.plantenergy.uwa.edu.au). The source code and input data is available through the SUBA3 server (http://suba.plantenergy.uwa.edu.au//SUBAcon.html) and the Arabidopsis SUbproteome REference (ASURE) training set can be accessed using the ASURE web portal (http://suba.plantenergy.uwa.edu.au/ASURE).
Contact: cornelia.hooper@uwa.edu.au or ian.castleden@uwa.edu.au
Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Can graphene keep its promise?
Authors: Ball Philip 
Published: August 2014

Abstract
Over the past decade, the carbon material known as graphene has been hailed as a ‘wonder material’, which might revolutionize everything from microelectronic circuitry to ultra-strong composite engineering. Graphene displays several striking properties: it conducts electricity, it is transparent, and exceedingly strong and lightweight. But will it live up to its promise?
PMCE: efficient inference of expressive models of cancer evolution with high prognostic power
Authors: Angaroni Fabrizio , Chen Kevin , Damiani Chiara , Caravagna Giulio , Graudenzi Alex , Ramazzotti Daniele 
Published: August 2014

AbstractMotivationDriver (epi)genomic alterations underlie the positive selection of cancer subpopulations, which promotes drug resistance and relapse. Even though substantial heterogeneity is witnessed in most cancer types, mutation accumulation patterns can be regularly found and can be exploited to reconstruct predictive models of cancer evolution. Yet, available methods cannot infer logical formulas connecting events to represent alternative evolutionary routes or convergent evolution.ResultsWe introduce PMCE, an expressive framework that leverages mutational profiles from crosssectional sequencing data to infer probabilistic graphical models of cancer evolution including arbitrary logical formulas, and which outperforms the state-of-the-art in terms of accuracy and robustness to noise, on simulations.The application of PMCE to 7866 samples from the TCGA database allows us to identify a highly significant correlation between the predicted evolutionary paths and the overall survival in 7 tumor types, proving that our approach can effectively stratify cancer patients in reliable risk groups.AvailabilityPMCE is freely available athttps://github.com/BIMIB-DISCo/PMCE, in addition to the code to replicate all the analyses presented in the manuscript.Contactsdaniele.ramazzotti@unimib.it,alex.graudenzi@ibfm.cnr.it.
Modeling human population separation history using physically phased genomes
Authors: Song Shiya , Sliwerska Elzbieta , Emery Sarah , Kidd Jeffrey M. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractPhased haplotype sequences are a key component in many population genetic analyses since variation in haplotypes reflects the action of recombination, selection, and changes in population size. In humans, haplotypes are typically estimated from unphased sequence or genotyping data using statistical models applied to large reference panels. To assess the importance of correct haplotype phase on population history inference, we performed fosmid pool sequencing and resolved phased haplotypes of five individuals from diverse African populations (including Yoruba, Esan, Gambia, Massai and Mende). We physically phased 98% of heterozygous SNPs into haplotype-resolved blocks, obtaining a block N50 of 1 Mbp. We combined these data with additional phased genomes from San, Mbuti, Gujarati and CEPH European populations and analyzed population size and separation history using the Pairwise Sequentially Markovian Coalescent (PSMC) and Multiple Sequentially Markovian Coalescent (MSMC) models. We find that statistically phased haplotypes yield an earlier split-time estimation compared with experimentally phased haplotypes. To better interpret patterns of cross-population coalescence, we implemented an approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) approach to estimate population split times and migration rates by fitting the distribution of coalescent times inferred between two haplotypes, one from each population, to a standard Isolation-with-Migration model. We inferred that the separation between hunter-gather populations and other populations happened around 120.0 to 140,000 years ago with gene flow continuing until 30,000 to 40,000 years ago; separation between west African and out of African populations happened around 70,000 to 80.0 years ago, while the separation between Massai and out of African populations happened around 50,000 years ago.
Factors influencing quality corporate governance in Sub Saharan Africa: an empirical study
Authors: Waweru Nelson 
Published: August 2014

Purpose– This study aims to examine the factors influencing the quality of corporate governance in South Africa (SA). Firm-level variables including performance, firm size, leverage, investment opportunities and audit quality were identified from the corporate governance literature.Design/methodology/approach– The study used ordinary least squares regression on firm-specific and corporate governance variables obtained from panel data of 247-firm years obtained from the annual reports of the 50 largest companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) Securities Exchange of SA.Findings– This study found leverage, firm size and investment opportunities as the main factors influencing the quality of corporate governance in SA.Research limitations/implications– The research findings should be interpreted in the light of the following limitations. First, the study sample consists of the 50 largest firms listed in the JSE of SA. Because these are large companies, the results may not be generalized to other smaller firms operating in SA. Second, this study is constrained to SA. Firms in other developing countries may differ from their SA counterparts.Originality/value– The results of this study are important to the King Committee and other corporate governance regulators in Sub-Saharan Africa, in their effort to improve corporate governance practices and probably minimize corporate failure and protect the well-being of the minority shareholders. Furthermore, the study contributes to our understanding of the variables affecting the quality of corporate governance in developing economies of Africa.
An evaluation of the functionality and accessibility of e-readers for individuals with print disabilities
Authors: L. Maatta Stephanie , J. Bonnici Laurie 
Published: August 2014

Purpose– This study aims to examine the usability of three popular electronic reading devices (e-readers) to determine which device provides the best functionality for individuals with print disabilities. Adaptability and flexibility for use with assistive technology are also evaluated.Design/methodology/approach– This study reports the results of a usability test of e-readers and their potential for use by individuals with print disabilities. Students enrolled in a School of Library and Information Science evaluated and compared the devices through a series of tasks designed to measure functionality. Participants completed a series of questionnaires and engaged in small group discussion about the efficacy of the devices. Likert scales and open-ended evaluation were employed in the evaluation and analysis.Findings– Two of the three devices examined offered no accessibility features for individuals with low or no vision who require assistive technologies to use information and communication technologies. The third device, while offering greater universal access functionality for individuals with mild-to-moderate print disabilities, also had weaknesses for individuals with severe print disabilities.Originality/value– With the rapid deployment of e-readers, little research has been completed measuring the accessibility and functionality for individuals with print disabilities in library or educational environments. The paper provides data on the usability of e-readers for users with print disabilities and recommendations for adopting e-reader use in libraries and educational environments. It will inform and guide information professionals seeking to provide greater access to resources for patrons with specialized access needs.
Comparing electronic short books from the USA and the UK to South Africa
Authors: Moller Jana 
Published: August 2014

Purpose
– This paper aims to investigate the electronic short books phenomenon from the USA and the UK which has spilled over to South Africa. By looking at the benefits these short books have for readers and authors, and the possible reasons for their success, the aim is to determine whether or not these books can be as successful a venture in South Africa as it has been elsewhere.

Design/methodology/approach
– Information about electronic short books, or e-singles, is gathered from various sources, including press releases and sales results. Information is gathered to determine the receptiveness to electronic short books of the South African trade book reading market, the way South African publishers are presenting e-singles to the market and what the future for e-singles may be.

Findings
– The findings of this paper make it clear that e-singles have found a gap in the market, providing various benefits to authors and readers, which may have contributed to their success. In South Africa, the success of e-singles faces unique obstacles, like a weaker reading culture and a poor awareness of e-books. Publishers need to make a bigger effort to become visible in the eyes of their readers and need to think about better distribution strategies.

Research limitations/implications
– With comparisons, accuracy is dependent on information provided by organizations (on their Web sites).

Originality/value
– This paper offers information about a new publishing trend – only a few months in South Africa. It offers a look into the state of the trade book industry in South Africa, how e-singles may function in it and what publishers of e-singles may do to ensure more success. It predicts the future of e-singles in South Africa based on its unique situation, pointing out what obstacles there may be to their uptake.
Exploring switch intention of users’ reading behaviour
Authors: Chiang Hsiu-Sen , Chen Chia-Chen 
Published: August 2014

Purpose
– This study aims to explore switch intention of users’ reading behaviour. Amazon’s 2007 introduction of the Kindle e-book reader launched a new way of reading. The popularity of e-book readers has exploded over past several years. However, the Chinese e-book reader market is still relatively underdeveloped and underexploited when compared with North America or other regions. At the time, it remained unclear whether consumers could be persuaded to abandon conventional printed books for the new device in the Chinese market.

Design/methodology/approach
– This research has gathered 352 valid questionnaire samples on an Internet survey from the general population. Path analysis was used to investigate the causal relationships which were hypothesized by the structural equation modelling methodology to identify key factors in intention to switch to the e-book reader.

Findings
– The results indicate that convenience and social influence were found to have a significant effect on consumer switching intention, while switching cost was found to be a significant obstacle to switching. This research also found that convenience of carry and operation of new technological products will lower switching costs. Furthermore, it will lead consumers to have higher switching intention when surrounding friends and families have good experiences and impressions of using new products. Thus, the manufacturers and sellers of e-readers have to consider the easy-to-handle convenient-to-carry while designing products. And the concept of higher social influence and lower switching cost shall lead the marketing strategies.

Originality/value
– Recently, some studies address what factors drive users’ willingness to use this new device for reading based on innovation diffusion theory or the technology acceptance model. Few studies have investigated adoption of e-readers for consumers’ perceived innovative and their perception of the costs. Hence, this paper studies the switching intention of readers through dimensions including new product attributes (compatibility, complexity, convenience and e-book content), social influence, price and switching costs and verifies the relationships among these dimensions on Chinese market.
The futures of the Singapore association of social workers: an analysis using CLA and the “Futures Triangle”
Authors: Fan Gilbert , Nee Wey Khng Joan 
Published: August 2014

Purpose– This paper aims to study the future of the Singapore association of social workers using causal layered analysis (CLA) and the Futures Triangle. In today’s rapidly changing world, professional associations have to re-evaluate their roles to remain relevant. This paper presents an analysis of findings from a study on the level of alliance of social workers with their professional association. By critically examining underlying issues beneath common beliefs held by social workers that impede, promote or sustain change with their professional association, we can gain a deeper understanding into their level of alliance with their association. Insights toward current issues faced by the association as well as its alternative and preferred futures could be illuminated.Design/methodology/approach– Inayatullah’s “Futures Triangle” was used to deepen the findings of the study on the level of alliance of social workers with their professional association from the lens of CLA (Inayatullah, 2004). The study employed interviews with 27 social workers in Singapore, selected through purposive sampling.Findings– Alternative scenarios and preferred futures of the Singapore Association of Social Workers (SASW) that were postulated from the interviews reinforce a need for more targeted recruitment campaigns. It also calls for regionalization and globalization of SASW to maximize its potentials.Originality/value– The paper suggests how a social work association might be able to reposition its role in relation to its stakeholders to promote and sustain itself. SASW could do so through positioning itself as the “National Geographic” beacon for social workers in Singapore to reach out to the world.
The added value of service provision
Authors: Nyman Henrich 
Published: August 2014

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to present a framework for examining the outcome of value facilitation as the added value of service provision.

Design/methodology/approach
– Value facilitation is conceptualized as enabling, enhancing, and economical support by the service offering, as well as supportiveness by the service provider. The financial value of customers is measured by the augmented customer lifetime value (ACLV).

Findings
– Referrals is found to mediate the linkage between value facilitation and ACLV. The margin multiple level and corresponding propensity to stay scores are found to be better proxies for setting up a customer oriented service development program, than the customer profit or margin level.

Research limitations/implications
– This paper takes a service provider perspective on service, even though the customer experience of the service provision is vital.

Practical implications
– The proposed framework can be used for designing adapted customer strategies for different groups of customers representing different levels of added value of the service provision.

Originality/value
– This paper extends the normative service logic notion of the role of service providers as value facilitators and supporters of their customers’ value creation activities. The calculation of ACLV is altered from ordinary customer lifetime value models by the integration of individual transaction data and propensity to stay figures from a customer survey.
Multiple perspectives on customer relationships
Authors: Heinonen Kristina 
Published: August 2014

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to describe and conceptualize customer relationships in the financial service sector, focussing on three aspects of customer-bank relationships: the financial service provider perspective, the customer-provider dyad, and the customer context.

Design/methodology/approach
– Through a short review of the eight papers included in this special issue, this paper illustrates different aspects of customer relationships. It explores customer value formation in the context of banking services, the dynamics and strength of customer relationships, and strategies for financial service provision and consumer trust.

Findings
– Customer relationships in the financial service sector are increasingly dynamic and unpredictable. This may be due to both activities within the control of financial service providers, such as strategies for service provision, but is more often attributable to factors beyond the control of providers. What empowered customers are doing in their own settings influences their attitudes toward and evaluations of financial services.

Research limitations/implications
– The paper is conceptual. It challenges the firm-centric approach to customer relationships and compares different perspectives of customer relationships. The significance of the customer-centric perspective is emphasized.

Practical implications
– Awareness of uncontrollable and idiosyncratic aspects of customer relationships will offer financial service providers new opportunities for being present in the customers’ lives and business.

Originality/value
– This paper illustrates the importance of extending the focus from what financial service providers are doing to what customers are doing within their own domains. Financial service providers need to understand more about their customers than their perceptions of service quality, satisfaction, and loyalty in different distribution channels, such as internet and mobile banking. The focus should be instead on how customers integrate their financial activities and experiences in their own life or business.
Automatic identification of gray porosity and its influence on shielding effectiveness for electromagnetic shielding fabric
Authors: Wang Xiuchen , Liu Zhe , Zhou Zhong , He Qing , Zeng Haoxian 
Published: August 2014

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to propose a new indicator-gray porosity that can objectively evaluate real porosities of electromagnetic shielding (EMS) fabric based on computer image analysis, which aims to address current porosity evaluation by tightness.

Design/methodology/approach
– A method for the fabric image acquisition is determined and a gray digital model is established. The porosity membership region of true porosity is judged according to the total gray wave. A bi-directional judgment method based on horizontal and vertical single gray waves is proposed to automatically identify the gray porosity in the porosity membership region. After experiments, the differences between the gray porosity indicator and the tightness indicator are analyzed, the influence of the gray porosity on the shielding effectiveness (SE) is discussed, and the advantages of the gray porosity indicator are detailed.

Findings
– Results show that the proposed indicator can accurately represent the real porosity size of the EMS fabric without pre-acquiring the structure parameters of the fabric, which provides a reference for the study of the electromagnetic characteristic of the EMS fabric.

Originality/value
– The gray porosity presented in this paper is a new method to objectively evaluate real porosities of the EMS fabric, and can be applied to the research and evaluation of the electromagnetic characteristic for the EMS fabric.