bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
eLearning hands-on: blending interactive eLearning with practical engineering laboratory
Authors: Kiravu Cheddi , Yanev Kamen M. , Tunde Moses O. , Jeffrey Anna M. , Schoenian Dirk , Renner Ansel
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Integrating laboratory work into interactive engineering eLearning contents augments theory with practice while simultaneously ameliorating the apparent theory-practice gap in traditional eLearning. The purpose of this paper is to assess and recommend media that currently fulfil this desirable dual pedagogical goal.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative approach compares the eLearner-content interactivity deriving from Mathematica’s Computable Document File (CDF) application, Pearson’s myLab and Lucas-Nuelle’s UniTrain-I. Illustrative interactive examples written in JavaScript and Java are thereby drawn from an engineering eLearning course developed at the University of Botswana (UB).

Findings

Based on its scientific rigour, wide application scope, engineering analytical depth, minimal programming requirements and cross-subject-cum-faculty application and deployment potential, the authors found the CDF to be a versatile environment for generating dynamically interactive eLearning contents. The UniTrain-I, blending a multimedia information and communication technology (ICT)-based interactive eLearner-content philosophy with practical laboratory experimentation, is recommended for meeting the paper’s dual eLearning goal as the most adept framework to-date, blending dynamic interactive eLearning content with laboratory hands-on engineering experimentation.

Research limitations/implications

The lack of other competing frameworks limited the considerations to only the three mentioned above. Consequently, the results are subject to review as the ongoing research advances new insights.

Originality/value

The conclusions help eLearning designers plan ICT-based resources for integration into practical electrical engineering eLearning pedagogy and both CDF and UniTrain-I help dispel the prevailing apparent disquiet regarding the effectiveness of the eLearning-mediated electrical engineering pedagogy. In addition, the cited examples document an original electrical engineering eLearning course developed at the UB.
A tutorial on the use of PLS path modeling in longitudinal studies
Authors: Roemer Ellen
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic overview with guidelines how to use partial least squares (PLS) path modeling in longitudinal studies. Practical examples from a study of the acceptance of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in corporate fleets are used for demonstration purposes.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, data at three points in time were collected: before the initial use of a BEV, after three and after six months of extensive usage of BEVs.

Findings

Three different models are identified depending on the research objective and on the data basis. Multigroup analyses are suggested to test the difference between the path coefficients of latent variables at different points in time. Limitations for the use of repeated cross-sectional data have to be observed.

Originality/value

Academics and practitioners will benefit from this paper by receiving an overview of the different PLS path models in longitudinal studies. A decision-tree enables them to make a choice regarding the most appropriate model and suggests a sequence of complementary analyses. So far, there is a lack of a tutorial type paper delivering such guidance.
Attribution of success and failure in intercultural service encounters: the moderating role of personal cultural orientations
Authors: Tam Jackie L.M. , Sharma Piyush , Kim Namwoon
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the role that personal cultural orientations play in customer attributions in intercultural service encounters.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was developed depicting the relationships between service delivery outcome, personal cultural orientations and customer attributions. Data were collected from 640 Chinese and Western customers using scenario-based experiments in a restaurant context to assess the hypothesized relationships in the model.

Findings

The findings show that compared to service delivery success, customers tend to hold service employee and firm responsible for service delivery failure rather than themselves and cultural differences. Moreover, personal cultural orientations partially moderated the influence of the service delivery outcome on customer attributions.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could adopt different methodologies such as critical incident techniques and surveys to replicate the study.

Practical implications

Service firms are recommended to design programs to influence customer attributions such as “customer education programs” and “customer appreciation programs” to achieve high customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study examines the differences in customer attributions between successful vs unsuccessful service delivery. It also sheds light on the potential moderating role of personal cultural orientations on the relationship between service delivery outcome and customer attributions.
The influence of a “green” loyalty program on service encounter satisfaction
Authors: Liu Stephanie Q. , Mattila Anna S.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Presently, loyalty programs often offer preferential treatment to the firm’s best customers, and recently, service firms started to incorporate corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives into the loyalty reward programs (e.g. Starwood’s “Make A Green Choice”). However, academic research advancing the understanding of the effectiveness of CSR-focused loyalty programs is lacking. To bridge that gap, this paper aims to examine the influence of a “green” loyalty program on members’ and bystanders’ service encounter satisfaction in light of preferential treatment. Furthermore, this paper investigates the psychological mechanisms (prosociality perceptions and status perceptions) that underlie these effects.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a 2 (loyalty program: green vs standard) × 2 (customer type: member vs bystander) × 2 (observability of preferential treatment: low vs high) between-subjects experimental design. Respondents were asked to read a hotel check-in scenario and then completed scales that measured their perceptions and evaluations of the service encounter.

Findings

Results from this study suggest that a green loyalty program can buffer the negative effect of preferential treatment on bystanders’ service encounter satisfaction. An examination of the underlying mechanism reveals that prosociality perceptions of the firm mediate the impact of loyalty programs on bystanders’ satisfaction. As expected, the results show that a green loyalty program is as effective as a standard program in elevating members’ satisfaction. Furthermore, findings from a moderated mediation analysis indicate that status perceptions mediate the impact of customer type on satisfaction. However, status perceptions have a greater leveraging power in satisfaction when observability of preferential treatment is high.

Originality/value

The results of this study have significant implications for service firms with loyalty programs and customer prioritization practices. By incorporating CSR into their loyalty programs, firms may be able to mitigate the negative bystander effect while maintaining the positive effects of preferential treatment on members’ service encounter satisfaction.
The development of the “Water Campaign”
Authors: Blanchette Lyne M.G. , van de Gaar Vivian M. , Raat Hein , French Jeff , Jansen Wilma
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to present a description of the development and implementation of a combined school- and community-based intervention for the prevention of overweight among children, using the combined methods of social marketing (SMk) and intervention mapping (IM).

Design/methodology/approach

The SMk total process planning (TPP) framework was used, a simple but robust framework that consists of five stages: scoping, development, implementation, evaluation and follow-up. In addition, IM tools were embedded in the development stage to strengthen the development element of the campaign.

Findings

The use of the SMk TPP framework led to the selection of one specific target segment and behaviour. IM tools helped to select the most important and modifiable determinants and behaviours in the target segment, as well as to select and appropriately apply theoretical methods for influencing determinant and behaviour change. The resulting “Water Campaign” was aimed at Turkish and Moroccan mothers and their 6-12-year-old-children (target segment). This intervention addresses the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages through the promotion of tap water drinking (target behaviour). The systematic involvement of key stakeholders resulted in capacity-building and co-creation.

Originality/value

A key finding of the present work is that the SMk TPP framework and IM tools can be successfully combined in intervention development, helping to develop enhanced interventions. Combining these methods led to a theory-based and client-oriented intervention, which was directed at multiple ecological levels and which systematically involved key stakeholders. With this detailed description of the intervention development, this paper aims to assist other researchers and practitioners in their quest to develop better interventions.
Libraries and digital memory
Authors: Massis Bruce
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this column is to consider the role of libraries in an effort to preserve and protect a collective digital memory.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper addresses literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by professionals, researchers and practitioners.

Findings

Libraries and library consortia will help go forward into the future and expand as trusted repositories where digital memory can be preserved and shared.

Originality/value

The value in exploring this topic is to examine the library environment for collection, storage and dissemination of digital information.
Manufacture of dry‐ and brine‐salted soft camel cheeses for the camel dairy industry
Authors: Konuspayeva Gaukhar , Camier Benedicte , Aleilawi Nasser , Al‐Shumeimyri Mohamed , Al‐Hammad Khalid , Algruin Khalid , Alshammari Fahad , Beaucher Eric , Faye Bernard
Published: October 2016

Two experiments were conducted in a camel cheese study to (i) compare camel cheese to bovine cheese made from bovine milk standardised to simulate camel milk, and (ii) describe the technology for manufacture of dry (SCC‐D) and brine‐salted soft camel cheese (SCC‐B). Comparable cheese yield (camel: 7.4 ± 0.15, cow: 7.3 ± 0.55 kg/100 kg of milk) and levels of dry matter loss in whey were observed. Clotting time was 234 s for both cheeses which were made using thermophillic starters. Cheese yield was 9.31 ± 0.64 kg/100 kg with 425.6 ± 38.2 g/kg cheese dry matter for SCC‐D and 8.22 ± 0.90 kg/100 kg with 469 ± 73.8 g/kg dry matter for SCC‐B.
Earnings Reported under IFRS Improve the Prediction of Future Cash Flows? Evidence from European Banks
Authors: Palea Vera , Scagnelli Simone Domenico
Published: October 2016

This paper examines the relative costs and benefits of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption in the European Union by testing the ability of earnings computed under IFRS to predict future cash flows. The study considers the contribution of net income, comprehensive income and other comprehensive income to the usefulness of earnings to predict cash flows, and it compares IFRS with domestic Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Evidence from a sample of Continental European banks shows that IFRS improve the ability of net income to predict future cash flows. Comprehensive income, too, provides relevant information to predict future cash flows, although with a measurement error which is higher than that in net income for greater lags of time. In our interpretation, these findings are consistent with unrealised gains and losses recognised in other comprehensive income being more transitory and volatile in nature. Overall, our results are relevant to academics and standard setters debating the merits of IFRS adoption and to those who use financial statements and adopt reported earnings to form expectations about future cash flows.
Theory‐based pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of S‐ and R‐warfarin and effects on international normalized ratio: influence of body size, composition and genotype in cardiac surgery patients
Authors: Xue Ling , Holford Nick , Ding Xiao‐liang , Shen Zhen‐ya , Huang Chen‐rong , Zhang Hua , Zhang Jing‐jing , Guo Zhe‐ning , Xie Cheng , Zhou Ling , Chen Zhi‐yao , Liu Lin‐sheng , Miao Li‐yan
Published: October 2016

Aims

The aims of this study are to apply a theory‐based mechanistic model to describe the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of S‐ and R‐warfarin.

Methods

Clinical data were obtained from 264 patients. Total concentrations for S‐ and R‐warfarin were measured by ultra‐high performance liquid tandem mass spectrometry. Genotypes were measured using pyrosequencing. A sequential population PK parameter with data method was used to describe the international normalized ratio (INR) time course. Data were analyzed with NONMEM. Model evaluation was based on parameter plausibility and prediction‐corrected visual predictive checks.

Results

Warfarin PK was described using a one‐compartment model. CYP2C9 *1/*3 genotype had reduced clearance for S‐warfarin, but increased clearance for R‐warfarin. The in vitro parameters for the relationship between prothrombin complex activity (PCA) and INR were markedly different (A = 0.560, B = 0.386) from the theory‐based values (A = 1, B = 0). There was a small difference between healthy subjects and patients. A sigmoid Emax PD model inhibiting PCA synthesis as a function of S‐warfarin concentration predicted INR. Small R‐warfarin effects was described by competitive antagonism of S‐warfarin inhibition. Patients with VKORC1 AA and CYP4F2 CC or CT genotypes had lower C50 for S‐warfarin.

Conclusion

A theory‐based PKPD model describes warfarin concentrations and clinical response. Expected PK and PD genotype effects were confirmed. The role of predicted fat free mass with theory‐based allometric scaling of PK parameters was identified. R‐warfarin had a minor effect compared with S‐warfarin on PCA synthesis. INR is predictable from 1/PCA in vivo.
Celastrol prevents cadmium‐induced neuronal cell death by blocking reactive oxygen species‐mediated mammalian target of rapamycin pathway
Authors: Zhang Ruijie , Zhang Nana , Zhang Hai , Liu Chunxiao , Dong Xiaoqing , Wang Xiaoxue , Zhu Yu , Xu Chong , Liu Lei , Yang Sijun , Huang Shile , Chen Long
Published: October 2016

Background and Purpose

Increasing evidence has suggested cadmium (Cd), as an inducer of ROS, is a potential pathogenic factor in human neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, it is important to find effective interventions for Cd‐induced oxidative stress in the CNS. Here, we have studied the effects of celastrol, a plant‐derived triterpene, on ROS production and cell death in neuronal cells, induced by Cd.

Experimental Approach

PC12, SH‐SY5Y cells and primary murine neurons were used to study celastrol neuroprotection against Cd‐poisoning. Cd‐induced changes in cell viability, apoptosis, ROS and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in the cells were analysed by Trypan blue exclusion, DAPI and TUNEL staining, ROS imaging, immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting. Pharmacological and genetic approaches were employed to investigate the mechanisms underlying Cd neurotoxicity.

Results

Celastrol attenuated Cd‐induced apoptosis by suppressing Cd activation of mTOR, which was attributed to preventing Cd inactivation of AMPK. Inhibition of AMPK with compound C or expression of dominant negative AMPKα prevented celastrol from hindering Cd‐induced dephosphorylation of AMPKα, activation of mTOR and apoptosis. Inhibition of mTOR with rapamycin or knockdown of mTOR potentiated prevention by celastrol, of Cd‐induced phosphorylation of p70 S6 kinase 1/eukaryotic initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 and apoptosis. Celastrol attenuated Cd‐induced cell death by suppressing induction of mitochondrial ROS.

Conclusions and Implications

Celastrol prevented the inactivation of AMPK by mitochondrial ROS, thus attenuating Cd‐induced mTOR activation and neuronal apoptosis. Celastrol may be a promising agent for prevention of Cd‐induced oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases.
CCND1‐BCL2Gene Network: A direct target of Amifostine in human acute megakaryocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Zhang Feng , Yang Bo , Zhang Kailiang , Hou Mei‐Ling , Lu Xue‐chun , Li Yu‐Xin
Published: October 2016

Amifostine, 2‐(3‐aminopropyl) aminoethyl phosphorothioate, is a broad‐spectrum cytoprotective agent used to treat nuclear radiation and chemical weapon injuries. Recently, amifostine has been shown to have a profound biological influence on tumor cells. To examine the effects and mechanisms underlying the effects of amifostine on human acute megakaryocytic leukemia, we evaluated the efficacy of amifostine against Dami cells and observed a cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase. Amifostine treatment also induced cell apoptosis of Dami cells which corresponds to formal studies. Through whole‐genome microarray and bioinformatics analyses, we found that amifostine affected the gene expression ofCCND1, BCL2, andCASP3which revealed the mechanism amifostine acted on Dami cells. Thus,CCND1‐BCL2Gene Network is predicted to be a direct target of amifostine treating human acute megakaryocytic leukemia, which may provide a novel potential target for the therapy of several subtypes of humanAML.
A Capacity to Get Things Right: Gilbert Ryle on Knowledge
Authors: Kremer Michael
Published: October 2016

Gilbert Ryle's distinction between knowledge‐how and knowledge‐that faces a significant challenge: accounting for the unity of knowledge. Jason Stanley, an ‘intellectualist’ opponent of Ryle's, brings out this problem by arguing that Ryleans must treat ‘know’ as an ambiguous word and must distinguish knowledge proper from knowledge‐how, which is ‘knowledge’ only so‐called. I develop the challenge and show that underlying Ryle's distinction is a unified vision of knowledge as ‘a capacity to get things right’, covering both knowledge‐how and knowledge‐that. I show how Ryle specifies the general notion into knowledge‐how and knowledge‐that and discuss the mutual interdependence exhibited by the two forms of knowledge. Ryle's positive view of knowledge, properly understood, emerges as an important, neglected, alternative which should be brought back into the ongoing conversation about practical and theoretical knowledge.
Setting accessibility preferences about learning objects within adaptive elearning systems: User experience and organizational aspects
Authors: Rodriguez‐Ascaso Alejandro , Boticario Jesús G. , Finat Cecile , Petrie Helen
Published: October 2016

Higher and further education providers are facing the challenge of supporting the interaction needs of an increasing number of students who feature accessibility preferences to use both elearning contents and services. In the next future, we can expect that, within adaptive elearning systems, both automatic and manual procedures will interoperate to elicit users' interaction needs for ensuring accessibility. In this paper, we report findings from the user experience with the self‐assessment of interaction needs, as part of a content personalization system, which tackles possible mismatches in the interaction between the user and the learning objects. All stakeholders involved in providing this service along with intended user groups (students with visual, auditory or mobility impairments, and without impairments) participated in the evaluation with over 100 users described in this paper. From the evaluation, results follow that our approach allows students to self‐assess and report adequately their interaction preferences. Furthermore, the paper describes findings of interest and open issues about how massive online courses may address the accessibility needs of an increasing number of elearning users.
Range shifts or extinction? Ancient DNA and distribution modelling reveal past and future responses to climate warming in cold‐adapted birds
Authors: Lagerholm Vendela K. , Sandoval‐Castellanos Edson , Vaniscotte Amélie , Potapova Olga R. , Tomek Teresa , Bochenski Zbigniew M. , Shepherd Paul , Barton Nick , Van Dyck ‎Marie‐Claire , Miller Rebecca , Höglund ‎Jacob , Yoccoz Nigel G. , Dalén Love , Stewart John R.
Published: October 2016

Global warming is predicted to cause substantial habitat rearrangements, with the most severe effects expected to occur in high‐latitude biomes. However, one major uncertainty is whether species will be able to shift their ranges to keep pace with climate‐driven environmental changes. Many recent studies on mammals have shown that past range contractions have been associated with local extinctions rather than survival by habitat tracking. Here, we have used an interdisciplinary approach that combines ancient DNA techniques, coalescent simulations and species distribution modelling, to investigate how two common cold‐adapted bird species, willow and rock ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus and Lagopus muta), respond to long‐term climate warming. Contrary to previous findings in mammals, we demonstrate a genetic continuity in Europe over the last 20 millennia. Results from back‐casted species distribution models suggest that this continuity may have been facilitated by uninterrupted habitat availability and potentially also the greater dispersal ability of birds. However, our predictions show that in the near future, some isolated regions will have little suitable habitat left, implying a future decrease in local populations at a scale unprecedented since the last glacial maximum.
CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell immunity to Dengue – lessons for the study of Zika virus
Authors: Rivino Laura , Lim Mei Qiu
Published: October 2016

Dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) are rapidly emerging mosquito‐borne flaviviruses that represent a public health concern. Understanding host protective immunity to these viruses is critical for the design of optimal vaccines. Over a decade of research has highlighted a significant contribution of the T‐cell response to both protection and/or disease enhancement during DENV infection, the latter being mainly associated with sub‐optimal cross‐reactive T‐cell responses during secondary infections. Phase IIb/III clinical trials of the first licensed tetravalent dengue vaccine highlight increased vaccine efficacy in dengue‐immune as opposed to dengue‐naive vaccinees, suggesting a possible immunoprotective role of pre‐existing DENV‐specific T cells that are boosted upon vaccination. No vaccine is available for ZIKV and little is known about the T‐cell response to this virus. ZIKV and DENV are closely related viruses with a sequence identity ranging from 44% and 56% for the structural proteins capsid and envelope to 68% for the more conserved non‐structural proteins NS3/NS5, which represent the main targets of the CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell response to DENV, respectively. In this review we discuss our current knowledge of T‐cell immunity to DENV and what it can teach us for the study of ZIKV. The extent of T‐cell cross‐reactivity towards ZIKV of pre‐existing DENV‐specific memory T cells and its potential impact on protective immunity and/or immunopathology will also be discussed.
A New Species of Centrohelid Heliozoan Acanthocystis amura n. sp. Isolated From Two Remote Locations in Russia
Authors: Zlatogursky Vasily V. , Gerasimova Elena A. , Plotnikov Andrey O.
Published: October 2016

A new species of centrohelid heliozoan Acanthocystis amura from the Amur River, the Far East of Russia was studied with light‐ and electron microscopy. Acanthocystis amura has simple oval plate scales (1.2–2.6 × 1.0–1.8 μm) with an axial thickening and a thin border as well as two types of spine scales. The spine scales of type 1 were 1.3–4.8 μm long and had four small hooks on their tips. The spine scales of type 2 were shorter, 1.0–3.6 μm long and had four teeth at the distal end. The morphology of A. amura resembles that of Acanthocystis quadrifurca. They both have similar spine scales but their plate scales are completely different. Acanthocystis valdiviense differs from the new species in absence of hook‐bearing scales. Molecular phylogeny based on 18S rDNA consistently placed A. amura into Acanthocystis nichollsi/Acanthocystis costata clade, but relationships between those three species were not resolved. Morphology of another centrohelid strain from another location (the South Urals) has been compared with that of the original strain and few minor differences in size characteristics of the scales have been revealed.
Differential expression of thioredoxin binding protein‐2/Txnip in human placenta: Possible involvement of hypoxia in its suppression during early pregnancy
Authors: Mogami Haruta , Yura Shigeo , Kondoh Eiji , Masutani Hiroshi , Yodoi Junji , Konishi Ikuo
Published: October 2016

Aim

Thioredoxin binding protein‐2 (TBP‐2), which is identical to thioredoxin interacting protein (Txnip), controls cellular proliferation and differentiation. The aim of the present study was to compare TBP‐2 protein and mRNA expression in human placenta during the three trimesters of pregnancy and to investigate the role of hypoxia in the change of these expressions in placental tissue. A secondary objective was to determine the gene expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) in TBP‐2 deficient placenta using TBP‐2 gene disrupted mice (TBP‐2−/−).

Methods

Protein and mRNA expression of TBP‐2 in human placenta from each trimester were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, Western blots, and by quantitative reverse‐transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. The effect of hypoxia on TBP‐2 expression was tested using an explant culture of human placenta. In TBP‐2−/− mouse placenta, we detected PPAR mRNA expression.

Results

TBP‐2 was located in syncytiotrophoblasts and cytotrophoblasts, and also in the endothelium in human placenta. Its expression in the placenta was low in the first trimester, and increased in the second and third trimesters. Hypoxia decreased TBP‐2 mRNA and protein expression in human placental explant culture. In TBP‐2−/− mice, placental mRNA levels of PPARα and γ were significantly suppressed compared with those in wild‐type mice.

Conclusion

Hypoxia suppresses TBP‐2 gene expression, which may ultimately alter placental development.
Treatment of total pelvic organ prolapse using a whole biological patch: A pilot study of 17 patients
Authors: Liang Xianghua , Zhang Lili , Lv Yanwei
Published: October 2016

Aim

A complete and non‐splice porcine small‐intestine submucosa (SIS) patch was used for total pelvic anatomical repair of organ prolapse.

Methods

This study included a total of 17 patients with severe total pelvic organ prolapse, including five patients with combined stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Panhysterectomy was performed, and then a porcine SIS patch was placed on the anterior (posterior) vaginal wall. The top of the vaginal wall was moved to the corresponding side of the vaginal wall, and the patch was sutured to bilateral uterosacral ligaments, the sacrospinous ligament, and arcus tendineus fasciae pelvis. SUI was addressed at the same time. ‘Failure’ was defined as anterior or posterior wall prolapse beyond the hymen.

Results

The mean follow‐up duration was 11.6 ± 7.45 months (2–24 months). No symptom recurrence was observed in the five patients with combined SUI. One patient who underwent porcine SIS patch placement on the posterior wall experienced stage II anterior vaginal wall prolapse after surgery. The vaginal wall and fornix of the remaining patients with patches were restored to stable anatomical positions (92.85%). No organ damage, infection, erosion, or rejection was observed, and no blood transfusion was necessary.

Conclusion

This study is the first to implement total pelvic anatomical repair using a complete and non‐splice SIS. Our results suggest that this new surgical method is safe and can achieve satisfactory therapeutic effects, especially for patients with combined SUI.
Multispecies genetic structure and hybridization in the Betula genus across Eurasia
Authors: Tsuda Yoshiaki , Semerikov Vladimir , Sebastiani Federico , Vendramin Giovanni Giuseppe , Lascoux Martin
Published: October 2016

Boreal and cool temperate forests are the major land cover of northern Eurasia, and information about continental‐scale genetic structure and past demographic history of forest species is important from an evolutionary perspective and has conservation implications. However, although many population genetic studies of forest tree species have been conducted in Europe or Eastern Asia, continental‐scale genetic structure and past demographic history remain poorly known. Here, we focus on the birch genus Betula, which is commonly distributed in boreal and cool temperate forests, and examine 129 populations of two tetraploid and four diploid species collected from Iceland to Japan. All individuals were genotyped at seven to 18 nuclear simple sequence repeats (nSSRs). Pairwise among the six species ranged from 0.285 to 0.903, and genetic differentiation among them was clear. structure analysis suggested that Betula pubescens is an allotetraploid and one of the parental species was Betula pendula. In both species pairs of B. pendula and B. plathyphylla, and B. pubescens and B. ermanii, genetic diversity was highest in central Siberia. A hybrid zone was detected around Lake Baikal for eastern and western species pairs regardless of ploidy level. Approximate Bayesian computation suggested that the divergence of B. pendula and B. platyphylla occurred around the beginning of the last ice age (36 300 years BP, 95% CI: 15 330–92 700) and hybridization between them was inferred to have occurred after the last glacial maximum (1614 years BP, 95% CI: 561–4710), with B. pendula providing a higher contribution to hybrids.
Continental‐level population differentiation and environmental adaptation in the mushroom Suillus brevipes
Authors: Branco Sara , Bi Ke , Liao Hui‐Ling , Gladieux Pierre , Badouin Hélène , Ellison Christopher E. , Nguyen Nhu H. , Vilgalys Rytas , Peay Kabir G. , Taylor John W. , Bruns Thomas D.
Published: October 2016

Recent advancements in sequencing technology allowed researchers to better address the patterns and mechanisms involved in microbial environmental adaptation at large spatial scales. Here we investigated the genomic basis of adaptation to climate at the continental scale in Suillus brevipes, an ectomycorrhizal fungus symbiotically associated with the roots of pine trees. We used genomic data from 55 individuals in seven locations across North America to perform genome scans to detect signatures of positive selection and assess whether temperature and precipitation were associated with genetic differentiation. We found that S. brevipes exhibited overall strong population differentiation, with potential admixture in Canadian populations. This species also displayed genomic signatures of positive selection as well as genomic sites significantly associated with distinct climatic regimes and abiotic environmental parameters. These genomic regions included genes involved in transmembrane transport of substances and helicase activity potentially involved in cold stress response. Our study sheds light on large‐scale environmental adaptation in fungi by identifying putative adaptive genes and providing a framework to further investigate the genetic basis of fungal adaptation.
In vitro cell culture system optimization of keratinocytes from oral lichen planus (OLP) patients
Authors: Cao T , Zhang H , Zhou L , Wang Y , Du G , Yao H , Wang Y , Luo Q , Chen F , Wang W , Tang G
Published: October 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to optimize the culture system of keratinocytes obtained from patients with oral lichen planus (OLP) and verify whether this model could simulate the local inflammatory environment of OLP.

Materials and methods

Keratinocytes were isolated from 48 patients with OLP and cultured in vitro. The ultrastructure of OLP keratinocytes was observed via electron microscopy. The expression of pancytokeratin and vimentin was determined by immunohistochemistry, and the proliferation of OLP keratinocytes was measured by CCK‐8 assay. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect TLR4 and NF‐κB p65 expression, and the levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in the supernatant were measured by ELISA.

Results

When seeded in plates precoated with recombinant human type‐1 collagen, keratinocytes isolated from patients who received systemic antifungal treatment and were younger than 40 years were more successful to be cultured in vitro. Characteristic pancytokeratin was expressed in almost all OLP keratinocytes. Compared with normal oral keratinocytes, OLP keratinocytes demonstrated higher levels of TLR4/NF‐κB p65 and inflammatory cytokines, including IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α.

Conclusions

We successfully optimized the culture system of OLP keratinocytes,which mimicked the local inflammatory environment of OLP and may be used as a cell model of OLP.
Parturition effects on reproductive health in the gilt and sow
Authors: Peltoniemi OAT , Björkman S , Oliviero C
Published: October 2016

Contents

In this review, we address significant characteristics of parturition in the pig and their connection to post‐partum reproductive health and fertility. We discuss the normal physiology and behaviour around parturition and the effect of the second phase (expulsion of foetuses) on the third phase of parturition (expulsion of foetal membranes). In addition, we intend to cover retained placenta, and the connection to post‐partum uterine health and fertility in the contemporary prolific sow. We also explore factors that support successful parturition or can cause potential problems. Successful parturition in the pig includes the possibility to express adequate maternal behaviour, rapid expulsion of the piglets, complete expulsion of the placenta, neonatal activity and colostrum intake. Abnormal incidents during any phase of parturition can cause subsequent problems. Duration of the expulsion phase of foetuses can be used as a simple measure of whether parturition is considered successful. Prolonged parturition can impair health of the sow and piglet and fertility after weaning. New insights, such as adding more fibre to sow diets during pregnancy, and especially during the period prior to farrowing, may prevent constipation, increase water intake of the sow around parturition and increase milk intake and performance of piglets. Maternal characteristics, including maternal behaviour, ease of parturition, colostrum production and piglet quality parameters, may be utilized to improve success rate of reproductive management during farrowing and early lactation. Additionally, we share some of the recent developments in methods, including ultrasonography in evaluation of post‐partum uterine health. In conclusion, successful farrowing is of the greatest importance for reproductive health of the sow and survival of the piglets. We suggest connections exist among prolonged farrowing and yield of colostrum, retained placenta, development of PDS, and impaired involution of the uterus and reduced subsequent fertility.
Heritage in New Town Extensions: Recent Dutch Experiences in the use of Heritage in Large New Building EstatesThis paper is an elaboration of one part of the author's inaugural lecture, that was published as a Dutch‐language brochure (Renes ).
Authors: Renes J.
Published: October 2016

Heritage has become a major theme in Dutch spatial planning. A number of recent Dutch urban extension projects offer interesting case studies on the integration of heritage into planning. The projects were part of a large housing programme, known as the Vinex programme, which was initiated by the Dutch national government but executed by local authorities. They therefore provide interesting cases for comparison. This paper presents a number of these projects, focusing on the use of heritage, which allows us to classify different ways of incorporating heritage into plans: integration, embeddedness and isolation. Another classification involves different views and interpretations about heritage, and describes diminishing degrees of authenticity entailed in preservation, transformation and inspiration. Combining both types of classification may offer a framework for further research on the relationship between heritage and planning.
Assessment of tear film osmolarity using the TearLab™ osmometer in normal dogs and dogs with keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Authors: Sebbag Lionel , Park Shin Ae , Kass Philip H. , Maggs David J. , Attar Mayssa , Murphy Christopher J.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To evaluate repeatability and reproducibility of tear osmolarity measured using the TearLab™ osmometer in normal dogs and to assess its diagnostic potential in dogs with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS).

Animals studied

Beagle dogs; six normal and five with KCS.

Procedures

Tear osmolarity and Schirmer tear test‐1 (STT‐1) values were obtained at various times. Normal dogs were assessed for diurnal variation and repeatability and reproducibility of measurements. Dogs with KCS were evaluated before and after 5 months’ topical twice‐daily therapy with 2% cyclosporine.

Results

Mean ± SD tear osmolarity (mOsm/L) was significantly higher in normal dogs (337.4 ± 16.2) than in dogs with KCS before therapy (306.2 ± 18.0; P < 0.0001), but not following therapy with 2% cyclosporine (330.5 ± 13.7; P = 1.00). Osmolarity readings lower than 325.5 mOsm/L were suggestive of KCS (84.8% sensitivity and 87.1% specificity). In normal dogs, tear osmolarity readings were stable during the daytime (P = 0.99). Repeated measurements revealed high variability and typically poor‐to‐moderate repeatability and reproducibility, although this was improved by taking three successive measurements at each session. Considering combined data from all dogs, a positive correlation existed between STT‐1 and tear osmolarity measurements (Pearson's correlation test, P = 0.04, r = 0.62).

Conclusions

Canine tear osmolarity as determined by TearLab™ osmometer was variable, required multiple readings to be informative, and differed from values reported for humans. Dogs with KCS had a lower tear osmolarity than did normal dogs, and this increased following cyclosporine therapy.
The motion of two identical masses connected by an ideal string symmetrically placed over a corner
Authors: Rasinariu Constantin , Gangopadhyaya Asim
Published: October 2016

We introduce a novel, two-mass system that slides up an inclined plane while its center of mass moves down. The system consists of two identical masses connected by an ideal string symmetrically placed over a corner-shaped support. This system is similar to a double-cone that rolls up an inclined set of V-shaped rails. We find the double-cone's motion easy to demonstrate but difficult to analyze. Our example here is more straightforward to follow, and the experimental observations are in good agreement with the theoretical predictions.
Einstein's equivalence principle in quantum mechanics revisited
Authors: Nauenberg Michael
Published: October 2016

The gravitational equivalence principle in quantum mechanics is of considerable importance, but it is generally not included in physics textbooks. In this note, we present a precise quantum formulation of this principle and comment on its verification in a neutron diffraction experiment. The solution of the time dependent Schrödinger equation for this problem also gives the wave function for the motion of a charged particle in a homogeneous electric field, which is also usually ignored in textbooks on quantum mechanics.
Reversing the AAPT Photo Contest: A Physics Teacher Education Activity
Authors: Hechter Richard P.
Published: October 2016

This year while awaiting the arrival of the AAPT High School Physics Photo Contest poster, I developed an idea for my physics teacher education course that used the photo contest in a new context. While using an external source like a photograph to learn physics is not new to physics education, this article describes how we used the foundational idea of the AAPT photo contest as the context to facilitate new lessons and activities for secondary-level students. The blending of photography and physics education can also be done at the high school level and undergraduate level as a creative means for content review and communication of conceptual understanding.
The “Finding Physics” Project: Recognizing and Exploring Physics Outside the Classroom
Authors: Beck Judith , Perkins James
Published: October 2016

Students in introductory physics classes often have difficulty recognizing the relevance of physics concepts outside the confines of the physics classroom, lab, and textbook. Even though textbooks and instructors often provide examples of physics applications from a wide array of areas, students have difficulty relating physics to their own lives. Encouraging students to apply physics to their own surroundings helps them develop the critical analysis skills of a scientifically literate and competent citizen. Fink, in his book Creating Significant Learning Experiences, emphasizes the importance of constructing opportunities to help students connect what they learn in their academic courses with past and current life experiences and link them to possible future life experiences. Several excellent papers in this journal have presented labs and activities that address this concern by encouraging teachers to bring real-world examples into the classroom or to take students into the field for data collection and observation. Alternatively, Smith suggests a writing exercise in which his students identify and explain an event in terms of their understanding of physics. In this paper we present a multiphase exercise that challenges students to find their own examples of physics from outside the classroom and analyze them using the conceptual understanding and quantitative skills which they are developing in the classroom. The ultimate goal of the “Finding Physics” project is to improve students’ learning through enhancing their recognition that, to quote one participant’s end-of-course survey, “Physics is everywhere!”
Twitter and Physics Professional Development
Authors: Nadji Taoufik
Published: October 2016

The advent of Twitter® and other social media services of its type ushered in a new era of professional development in education. This article addresses how a group of users have been employing Twitter to conduct professional development sessions that would benefit their participants by advancing their pedagogical approaches to learning and teaching physics. The diversity within this group is something to both note and celebrate because it includes minorities, women, and physics educators the world over.
Inexpensive Audio Activities: Earbud-based Sound Experiments
Authors: Allen Joshua , Boucher Alex , Meggison Dean , Hruby Kate , Vesenka James
Published: October 2016

Inexpensive alternatives to a number of classic introductory physics sound laboratories are presented including interference phenomena, resonance conditions, and frequency shifts. These can be created using earbuds, economical supplies such as Giant Pixie Stix® wrappers, and free software available for PCs and mobile devices. We describe two interference laboratories (beat frequency and two-speaker interference) and two resonance laboratories (quarter- and half-wavelength). Lastly, a Doppler laboratory using rotating earbuds is explained. The audio signal captured by all experiments is analyzed on free spectral analysis software and many of the experiments incorporate the unifying theme of measuring the speed of sound in air.
The mass-luminosity relation in an introductory astronomy lab
Authors: LoPresto Michael C.
Published: October 2016

Exposing students in general education science courses of lower mathematical levels to experiments that make use of quantitative skills such as collecting and analyzing data is very important because they provide examples of how science is actually done. Experiments with relatively simple procedures that are also interesting and engaging which serve this purpose can be hard to find. This can especially be true for introductory college astronomy courses; however, courses of this type often do still have a laboratory component because most students, regardless of major, are required to take at least one laboratory science course. When required to work with data in a quantitative fashion, the difficulty students with lower mathematical skills often have is that any actual physical meaning of an experiment can become completely lost in a procedure that, to them, seems to be purely an exercise in complex mathematics and for which they have resorted to simply following by rote, from which, perhaps needless to say, they are likely to learn little or nothing. I have seen this happen numerous times and it has inspired me to focus on attempting to develop meaningful laboratory experiences for students of lower mathematical level courses, such as introductory astronomy and conceptual physics, that involve both the gathering and analysis of numerical data. What follows is a simple experiment of this type on the mass-luminosity relation for stars on the main sequence of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram that has proven useful for an introductory astronomy laboratory course.
Odd computer zips through knotty tasks
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: October 2016

Hybrid Ising machines survey universe of possible solutions for best answer.
Colombia peace deal blow dismays ecologists
Authors: Wade Lizzie
Published: October 2016

Once encouraged by a cease-fire, scientists now reconsider venturing into rainforest.
Alien fungus blights Hawaii's native trees
Authors: Vesper Inga
Published: October 2016

Big Island is under assault from deadly invader.
Webinar | Immune response monitoring: What can we learn about immunotherapy, pathogen response, and autoimmunity?
Authors: Abbas Abul K. , Bot Adrian , Gnjatic Sacha
Published: October 2016

It has recently been recognized that the role of the immune system in health and well-being is perhaps more far-reaching than previously imagined. An insufficient or overactive immune response is at the heart of countless pathologies including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. Monitoring immune responses by measuring cytokine levels has become an integral part of disease-related research, providing clues to the state of the immune system and how it could be targeted therapeutically. Understanding which cytokines are best for monitoring inflammation and immunosuppression, and knowing which are secreted by different immune cell types at each stage of maturation and activation, will provide essential insights into disease treatment options. Importantly, we need to ask whether the use of common biomarkers is good enough, or if a larger number of cytokines needs to be routinely measured to better understand the complexity of immune responses.

View the Webinar
Comment on “Reconciliation of the Devils Hole climate record with orbital forcing”
Authors: Winograd Isaac J.
Published: October 2016

Moseley
et al
. (Reports, 8 January 2016, p. 165) postulate an increase in dissolved thorium isotope
230
Th with depth below the water table as the explanation for the differing ages of Termination II. Flow of geothermal water through the Devils Hole caverns precludes this explanation. Deposition of younger secondary calcite into the initial porosity of the calcite comprising their cores is a plausible alternate explanation.
Street smart
Science and the City The Mechanics Behind the Metropolis
Laurie Winkless
Bloomsbury Sigma, 2016. 304 pp.
Authors: Derrible Sybil
Published: October 2016

A physicist reveals the engineering marvels that underlie the modern metropolis