bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
NLRP3 inflammasome activation by mitochondrial ROS in bronchial epithelial cells is required for allergic inflammation
Authors: Kim S R , Kim D I , Kim S H , Lee H , Lee K S , Cho S H , Lee Y C 
Published: October 2014

AbstractAbnormality in mitochondria has been suggested to be associated with development of allergic airway disorders. In this study, to evaluate the relationship between mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in allergic asthma, we used a newly developed mitochondrial ROS inhibitor, NecroX-5. NecroX-5 reduced the increase of mitochondrial ROS generation in airway inflammatory cells, as well as bronchial epithelial cells, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB, increased expression of various inflammatory mediators and pathophysiological features of allergic asthma in mice. Finally, blockade of IL-1β substantially reduced airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in the asthmatic mice. These findings suggest that mitochondrial ROS have a critical role in the pathogenesis of allergic airway inflammation through the modulation of NLRP3 inflammasome activation, providing a novel role of airway epithelial cells expressing NLRP3 inflammasome as an immune responder.
Structural basis of IL-23 antagonism by an Alphabody protein scaffold
Authors: Desmet Johan , Verstraete Kenneth , Bloch Yehudi , Lorent Eric , Wen Yurong , Devreese Bart , Vandenbroucke Karen , Loverix Stefan , Hettmann Thore , Deroo Sabrina , Somers Klaartje , Henderikx Paula , Lasters Ignace , Savvides Savvas N. 
Published: October 2014

AbstractProtein scaffolds can provide a promising alternative to antibodies for various biomedical and biotechnological applications, including therapeutics. Here we describe the design and development of the Alphabody, a protein scaffold featuring a single-chain antiparallel triple-helix coiled-coil fold. We report affinity-matured Alphabodies with favourable physicochemical properties that can specifically neutralize human interleukin (IL)-23, a pivotal therapeutic target in autoimmune inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. The crystal structure of human IL-23 in complex with an affinity-matured Alphabody reveals how the variable interhelical groove of the scaffold uniquely targets a large epitope on the p19 subunit of IL-23 to harness fully the hydrophobic and hydrogen-bonding potential of tryptophan and tyrosine residues contributed by p19 and the Alphabody, respectively. Thus, Alphabodies are suitable for targeting protein–protein interfaces of therapeutic importance and can be tailored to interrogate desired design and binding-mode principles via efficient selection and affinity-maturation strategies.
Computational study of collisions between O(3P) and NO(2Π) at temperatures relevant to the hypersonic flight regime
Authors: Castro-Palacio Juan Carlos , Nagy Tibor , Bemish Raymond J. , Meuwly Markus 
Published: October 2014

Reactions involving N and O atoms dominate the energetics of the reactive air flow around spacecraft when reentering the atmosphere in the hypersonic flight regime. For this reason, the thermal rate coefficients for reactive processes involving O(3P) and NO(2Π) are relevant over a wide range of temperatures. For this purpose, a potential energy surface (PES) for the ground state of the NO2 molecule is constructed based on high-level ab initio calculations. These ab initio energies are represented using the reproducible kernel Hilbert space method and Legendre polynomials. The global PES of NO2 in the ground state is constructed by smoothly connecting the surfaces of the grids of various channels around the equilibrium NO2 geometry by a distance-dependent weighting function. The rate coefficients were calculated using Monte Carlo integration. The results indicate that at high temperatures only the lowest A-symmetry PES is relevant. At the highest temperatures investigated (20 000 K), the rate coefficient for the “O1O2+N” channel becomes comparable (to within a factor of around three) to the rate coefficient of the oxygen exchange reaction. A state resolved analysis shows that the smaller the vibrational quantum number of NO in the reactants, the higher the relative translational energy required to open it and conversely with higher vibrational quantum number, less translational energy is required. This is in accordance with Polanyi's rules. However, the oxygen exchange channel (NO2+O1) is accessible at any collision energy. Finally, this work introduces an efficient computational protocol for the investigation of three-atom collisions in general.
A novel framework for teaching academic writing
Authors: Al Sharoufi Hussain 
Published: October 2014

This study represents an attempt to create a new framework for teaching academic writing. The new concept of the ‘Lexical Cohesive Trio’, LCT, combines elements of textual reference: anaphora, cataphora, and transitional signals (lexical repetition, bundles, and phrases). 30 English majors from the Gulf University for Science and Technology, GUST, in Kuwait were selected to write a pre-framework and a post-framework essay. The results were analysed using an SPSS package t-test. A pairwise t-test confirmed that more transitional signals were produced after the framework was used: t(1,29) = –4.938, p-value < 0.001. Similarly, a pairwise t-test confirmed that more lexical repetitions were produced after the framework was used: t(1,29) = –5.218, p-value < 0.001. Finally, a pairwise t-test confirmed that significantly more lexical phrases were produced after the framework was used: t(1,29) = –10.672, p-value < 0.001. These tests present strong evidence in favour of using LCT, and confirm that using this new framework enhances students’ ability to write coherent essays.
Hamiltonian formalism of two-dimensional Vlasov kinetic equation
Authors: Pavlov Maxim V. 
Published: October 2014

In this paper, the two-dimensional Benney system describing long wave propagation of a finite depth fluid motion and the multi-dimensional Russo–Smereka kinetic equation describing a bubbly flow are considered. The Hamiltonian approach established by J. Gibbons for the one-dimensional Vlasov kinetic equation is extended to a multi-dimensional case. A local Hamiltonian structure associated with the hydrodynamic lattice of moments derived by D. J. Benney is constructed. A relationship between this hydrodynamic lattice of moments and the two-dimensional Vlasov kinetic equation is found. In the two-dimensional case, a Hamiltonian hydrodynamic lattice for the Russo–Smereka kinetic model is constructed. Simple hydrodynamic reductions are presented.
Confucian thinking and the implications for sustainability in HRM
Authors: Mak Alex , Cheung Lenis , Mak Amy , Leung Loretta 
Published: October 2014

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to provide a concise introduction of sustainability in human resource management (HRM) from the western perspective. With a review of Confucian thinking, it argues that the application of sustainability in HRM is more effective and efficient under the influence of Confucian values. Therefore, Chinese companies are likely ready to embrace the concept of sustainability and implement sustainable people management practices.

Design/methodology/approach
– The paper is mainly theoretical in perspective. It also draws on semi-structured interview data derived from a study conducted in companies that operated in two cities in China: Guangzhou and Beijing to support the discussion of synergies between Confucian values and the western concept of sustainability in HRM.

Findings
– In the interviews, it was evident that the interviewees were adhered to Confucian values, although they did not make the connection explicit. The interview data also showed how Confucian values (e.g. Ren, Yi, Li) affect Chinese management of human resources.

Research limitations/implications
– The number of interviewees involved was not sufficient to allow a conclusive comparison between groups. Further research is needed to develop comparisons.

Practical implications
– The paper suggests a favourable application of Confucian values in sustainable people management practices.

Originality/value
– The interview data provide insight into how Confucian values lend support to sustainability in HRM.
Dynamic Preisach model identification applying FEM and measured BH curve
Authors: Kuczmann Miklós 
Published: October 2014

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to develop a viscous-type frequency dependent scalar Preisach hysteresis model and to identify the model using measured data and nonlinear numerical field analysis. The hysteresis model must be fast and well applicable in electromagnetic field simulations.

Design/methodology/approach
– Iron parts of electrical machines are made of non-oriented isotropic ferromagnetic materials. The finite element method (FEM) is usually applied in the numerical field analysis and design of this equipment. The scalar Preisach hysteresis model has been implemented for the simulation of static and dynamic magnetic effects inside the ferromagnetic parts of different electrical equipment.

Findings
– The comparison between measured and simulated data using a toroidal core shows a good agreement. A modified nonlinear version of TEAM Problem No. 30.a is also shown to test the hysteresis model in the FEM procedure.

Originality/value
– The dynamic model is an extension of the static one; an extra magnetic field intensity term is added to the output of the static inverse model. This is a viscosity-type dynamic model. The fixed-point method with stable scheme has been realized to take frequency dependent anomalous losses into account in FEM. This scheme can be used efficiently in the frame of any potential formulations of Maxwell's equations.
Electromagnetic field along the power overhead line at point where the line route changes direction
Authors: Hamar Roman , Šroubová Lenka , Kropík Petr 
Published: October 2014

Purpose
– High-voltage overhead lines produce low-frequency electromagnetic fields around them. These fields are easy to compute wherever the line route is straight, as opposed to places where its direction is changed. The purpose of this paper is to perform a numerical analysis of an electromagnetic field occurring along a high-voltage overhead line at the places of the changed direction and to compare the results with the exposure limits for low-frequency electromagnetic fields in order to assess their effects on living organisms.

Design/methodology/approach
– The computation was conducted in the MATLAB SW by means of a combination of integral and differential methods in a three-dimensional (3D) arrangement, taking into account the location and shape of the tower. Special procedures within the MATLAB software had to be coded.

Findings
– Within the research, the following electromagnetic field quantities were computed: the distribution of electric field strength, magnetic flux density, Poynting vector, electric potential and surface charge density. The results obtained indicate the influence of both the line route changing its direction and the deviation tower location on the electromagnetic field around the tower.

Research limitations/implications
– In order to shorten the computation time, it was necessary to achieve a minimum number of degrees of freedom by adjusting the real shape of both the cross-section of the deviation tower beam and the conductors. In some further research, attempts could be made to further optimize the results by using the real shapes of the cross-section of the deviation tower beam and the conductors. Furthermore, it could be beneficial to shorten the set distance between two adjacent nodes in order to obtain a finer mesh while still achieving an optimal ratio between the number of nodes and the computation time.

Practical implications
– The Czech Regulation no. 1/2008 Coll., concerning protection of health against non-ionized radiation, stipulates 100 μT to be the maximum safe value of magnetic flux density in case of an uninterrupted exposure and frequency of 50 Hz. The investigated area did not exhibit values exceeding this limit. The same was true for the maximum permissible level of electric field strength being specified at 5,000 V/m.

Originality/value
– Similar problems are often solved by means of FEM in 2D arrangements. However, when applying this method for conductors passing through a large 3D area, it is difficult to model an optimal 3D mesh within the conductors and the tower beams. This research shows that the application of integral methods reduces the complexity of the generated mesh. Unlike FEM, requiring the generation of a 3D mesh, the integral method only requires a surface mesh on the conductors and tower beams, thus significantly reducing the number of degrees of freedom. FEM only remains necessary for areas adjacent to the tower beams and conductors.
Internationalization dilemma for Brazilian firms: China vs. the Greater Mercosur region
Authors: H. Akhter Syed , Machado Marcilio 
Published: October 2014

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to explore, using the conceptual frameworks of psychic distance and resource-based view, how Brazilian firms resolve strategic dilemma. Brazilian firms face a strategic dilemma about whether to diversify and exploit the rapidly growing markets of China or to protect and expand the established markets of the Greater Mercosur region. The strategic responses of Brazilian business to business firms are examined within the context of internationalization decisions.

Design/methodology/approach
– The paper takes a qualitative approach to study the decisions taken by Brazilian firms to deal with the strategic dilemma arising from competitive developments in domestic and regional markets.

Findings
– Findings support four hypotheses based on the psychic distance and resource-based view frameworks. However, the fifth hypothesis that trust would be an impediment for establishing business in China for Brazilian firms was not supported. Trust did not appear as a concern for Brazilian businesses.

Practical implications
– Two practical implications can be drawn from the findings. First, Brazilian firms have to consider whether they have made themselves vulnerable to attacks from Chinese firms in the Greater Mercosur region by not aggressively entering the Chinese markets. Second, they also have to understand whether their lack of strong presence in the Chinese markets has resulted not only in lost opportunities but also in making it difficult for them to enter the market later.

Originality/value
– The paper takes a multi-theoretical approach to provide insights into the international business expansion decisions of firms in a major economy in the Greater Mercosur region. It contributes to the growing literature on firms in emerging economies. By adopting a qualitative approach to study the research questions, the paper provides insights into the behaviors of firms confronting strategic tradeoffs.
Mentoring student teachers; a vulnerable workplace learning practice
Authors: Lofthouse Rachel , Thomas Ulrike 
Published: October 2014

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to develop an understanding of mentoring as a workplace process. The mentees are post-graduate student teachers hosted in placement schools. The research aims to explore the experiences of key participants in a policy context where the role and scale of school-based teacher training is expanding rapidly.Design/methodology/approach– This is an interpretative case study of mentoring practices assigned to a secondary level initial teacher training partnership, with the mentors being subject teachers working in school departments which host post-graduate student teachers. The case study was investigated over two years and included focus groups, interviews, questionnaires and content analysis. Participants were student teachers, their mentors and both school-based and university-based tutors.Findings– Positive experiences of mentoring are not universal. Mentoring interacts with the required processes of monitoring and reporting and in some cases the power structures associated with these processes conflict with the less performative aspects. However, when mentors are offered evidence of student teachers’ perceptions and theoretical constructs of mentoring as practice they can start to recognise that it can be enhanced.Practical implications– The quality of mentoring in initial teacher education will take on even greater significance in jurisdictions, such as England, where the role of workplace learning is strengthened as a result of changes of government policy.Originality/value– The outcomes of this study will be relevant to policy makers, school-based mentors and system leaders for teacher education – whether school or university based.
Students opinion about the success of mobile technology in libraries
Authors: Kumar Amit 
Published: October 2014

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to explore the students’ opinion of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, regarding the use and success of mobile technology in the library environment for providing better services by library and their expectations from the library through mobile technology.

Design/methodology/approach
– A survey was conducted through a well-structured and precise questionnaire circulated personally among 200 students studying in Jawaharlal Nehru University for the academic session 2012-2013.

Findings
– The majority of students are in favor of using mobile technology for better services, and it is expected by the students that services should be provided to them by libraries through mobile technology. Furthermore, the study also explores the students’ opinion on improved services using mobile technology.

Research limitations/implications
– The geographical area of study was confined to the students of the JNU, New Delhi, purely regarding their opinion on use and success of mobile technology by the library. The research results are limited to this environment only.

Originality/value
– The paper highlights the students’ opinion of JNU regarding the use of mobile technology by the library for better services, and further it also explores the expectations of students from the library through this technology.
Rat eradication and the resistance and resilience of passerine bird assemblages in the Falkland Islands
Authors: Tabak Michael A. , Poncet Sally , Passfield Ken , Goheen Jacob R. , Martinez del Rio Carlos 
Published: October 2014

Summary

Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) were introduced to the Falkland Islands and are detrimental to native passerines. Rat eradication programmes are being used to help protect the avifauna.

This study assesses the effectiveness of eradication programmes while using this conservation practice as a natural experiment to explore the ecological resistance, resilience and homeostasis of bird communities.

We conducted bird surveys on 230 islands: 85 in the presence of rats, 108 that were historically free of rats and 37 from which rats had been eradicated. Bird detection data were used to build occupancy models for each species and estimate species–area relationships. Count data were used to estimate relative abundance and community structure.

Islands with invasive rats had reduced species richness of passerines and a different community structure than islands on which rats were historically absent. Although the species richness of native passerines was remarkably similar on eradicated and historically rat‐free islands, community structure on eradicated islands was more similar to that of rat‐infested islands than to historically rat‐free islands.

The results suggest that in the Falkland Islands, species richness of passerines is not resistant to invasive rats, but seems to be resilient following their removal. In contrast, community structure seems to be neither resistant nor resilient. From a conservation perspective, rat eradication programmes in the Falkland Islands appear to be effective at restoring native species richness, but they are not necessarily beneficial for species of conservation concern. For species that do not recolonize, translocations following eradications may be necessary.
Gac‐mediated changes in pyrroloquinoline quinone biosynthesis enhance the antimicrobial activity of Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25
Authors: Cheng Xu , van der Voort Menno , Raaijmakers Jos M. 
Published: October 2014

SummaryIn Pseudomonas species, production of secondary metabolites and exoenzymes is regulated by the GacS/GacA two‐component regulatory system. In Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25, mutations in the Gac‐system cause major transcriptional changes and abolished production of the lipopeptide viscosin and of an exoprotease. In contrast to many other Pseudomonas species and strains, inactivation of the Gac‐system in strain SBW25 significantly enhanced its antimicrobial activities against oomycete, fungal and bacterial pathogens. Here, random plasposon mutagenesis of the gacS mutant led to the identification of seven mutants with reduced or loss of antimicrobial activity. In four mutants, the plasposon insertion was located in genes of the pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) biosynthesis pathway. Genetic complementation, ectopic expression, activity bioassays and Reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) analyses revealed that a gacS mutation in SBW25 leads to enhanced expression of pqq genes, resulting in an increase in gluconic and 2‐ketogluconic acid production, which in turn acidified the extracellular medium to levels that inhibit growth of other microorganisms. We also showed that PQQ‐mediated acidification comes with a growth penalty for the gacS mutant in the stationary phase. In conclusion, PQQ‐mediated acidification compensates for the loss of several antimicrobial traits in P. fluorescens SBW25 and may help gac mutants to withstand competitors.