bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Representation in WTO Committee Chairs, 1995–2012
Authors: JONES KENT , GAI YUNWEI
Published: October 2014

This paper sets out to examine the pattern of WTO committee chair appointments by nationality since the WTO's founding in 1995. Chairs of the General Council (GC), subsidiary and negotiating committees play important roles in the outcome of trade negotiations and in administrative and implementation issues in Geneva. The GC selects most committee chairs, and must consider the balance of member representation and the quality of the candidates in its choices. Regression results indicate that the selection of a chair by nationality generally reflects the country's mission size in Geneva, the country's years of experience as a WTO member, and its economic interests in trade. The experience of individuals and continuity in committee leadership also appear to play important roles. Among developing countries, emerging markets (EMs) tend to have the largest proportional representation. The GC thus appears to follow a human capital model of chair selection, geographical constraints and especially development status balance considerations. Continued investments among all WTO members, but especially EM and other developing countries, in WTO representation and leadership capacity will be required in order to promote multilateral trade liberalization in the future.
PROPAGATION OF SEMICLASSICAL WAVE PACKETS THROUGH AVOIDED EIGENVALUE CROSSINGS IN NONLINEAR SCHRÖDINGER EQUATIONS
Authors: Hari Lysianne
Published: October 2014

We study the propagation of wave packets for a one-dimensional system of two coupled Schrödinger equations with a cubic nonlinearity, in the semiclassical limit. Couplings are induced by the nonlinearity and by the potential, whose eigenvalues present anavoided crossing: at one given point, the gap between them reduces as the semiclassical parameter becomes smaller. For data which are coherent states polarized along an eigenvector of the potential, we prove that when the wave function propagates through the avoided crossing point there are transitions between the eigenspaces at leading order. We analyze the nonlinear effects, which are noticeable away from the crossing point, but see that in a small time interval around this point the nonlinearity’s role is negligible at leading order, and the transition probabilities can be computed with the linear Landau–Zener formula.
Genome-wide association study of breast cancer in Latinas identifies novel protective variants on 6q25
Authors: Fejerman Laura , Ahmadiyeh Nasim , Hu Donglei , Huntsman Scott , Beckman Kenneth B. , Caswell Jennifer L. , Tsung Karen , John Esther M. , Torres-Mejia Gabriela , Carvajal-Carmona Luis , Echeverry María Magdalena , Tuazon Anna Marie D. , Ramirez Carolina ,   COLUMBUS Consortium, Carvajal-Carmona Luis , Echeverry María Magdalena , Bohórquez Mabel Elena , Prieto Rodrigo , Criollo Ángel , Ramírez Carolina , Estrada Ana Patricia , Suáres John Jairo , Mateus Gilbert , Castro Jorge Mario , Sánchez Yesid , Murillo Raúl , Lucia Serrano Martha , Sanabria Carolina , Olaya Justo Germán , Bolaños Fernando , Vélez Alejandro , Carmona Jenny Andrea , Vélez Alejandro , Rodríguez Nancy Guerrero , Serón Sousa Cristina , Mendez Cesar Eduardo Alvarez , Galviz Ana Isabel Orduz , Gignoux Christopher R. , Eng Celeste , Gonzalez-Burchard Esteban , Henderson Brian , Marchand Loic Le , Kooperberg Charles , Hou Lifang , Agalliu Ilir , Kraft Peter , Lindström Sara , Perez-Stable Eliseo J. , Haiman Christopher A. , Ziv Elad
Published: October 2014

The genetic contributions to breast cancer development among Latinas are not well understood. Here we carry out a genome-wide association study of breast cancer in Latinas and identify a genome-wide significant risk variant, located 5′ of the Estrogen Receptor 1 gene (ESR1; 6q25 region). The minor allele for this variant is strongly protective (rs140068132: odds ratio (OR) 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53–0.67, P=9 × 10−18), originates from Indigenous Americans and is uncorrelated with previously reported risk variants at 6q25. The association is stronger for oestrogen receptor-negative disease (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.21–0.54) than oestrogen receptor-positive disease (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.49–0.80; P heterogeneity=0.01) and is also associated with mammographic breast density, a strong risk factor for breast cancer (P=0.001). rs140068132 is located within several transcription factor-binding sites and electrophoretic mobility shift assays with MCF-7 nuclear protein demonstrate differential binding of the G/A alleles at this locus. These results highlight the importance of conducting research in diverse populations.
Electrochemical sensing of paracetamol and its simultaneous resolution in the presence of dopamine and folic acid at a multi-walled carbon nanotubes/poly(glycine) composite modified electrode
Authors: Narayana P. V. , Reddy T. Madhusudana , Gopal P. , Naidu G. Ramakrishna
Published: October 2014

Facile and sensitive nanocomposite sensor based on the electropolymerization of glycine onto the surface of a glassy carbon electrode using cyclic voltammetry followed by drop casting multi-walled carbon nanotubes.
Retracted Article: Multifunctional tin dioxide materials: advances in preparation strategies, microstructure, and performance
Authors: Chen Zhiwen , Wu Minghong , Shek Chan-Hung , Wu C. M. Lawrence , Lai Joseph K. L.
Published: October 2014

We describe the efforts toward understanding the synthetic strategies and formation mechanisms of the micro/nanostructures of various SnO2 thin films.
High alkalinity boosts visible light driven H2 evolution activity of g-C3N4 in aqueous methanol
Authors: Wu Po , Wang Jiarui , Zhao Jing , Guo Liejin , Osterloh Frank E.
Published: October 2014

A high rate of 2.23 mmol h−1 g−1 (quantum efficiency of 6.67% at 400 nm) for visible light driven photocatalytic H2 evolution can be achieved with g-C3N4 by alkalization of the solution to a pH of 13.3, due to accelerated transfer of photoholes to the sacrificial donor.
Morphology control and fabrication of multi-shelled NiO spheres by tuning the pH value via a hydrothermal process
Authors: Chu Lihua , Li Meicheng , Wan Zipei , Ding Lei , Song Dandan , Dou Shangyi , Chen Jiewei , Wang Yu
Published: October 2014

The morphology of NiO nanostructures was controlled by tuning the pH value via a hydrothermal process.
Why do the [PhSiO1.5]8,10,12cages self-brominate primarily in the ortho position? Modeling reveals a strong cage influence on the mechanism
Authors: Bahrami M. , Hashemi H. , Ma X. , Kieffer J. , Laine R. M.
Published: October 2014

(PhSiO1.5)8,10,12cages are bulky, electron withdrawing like CF3; yet self-brominate (60 °C), favoringorthosubstitution: PhT8(≈85%), PhT10(≈75%) and PhT12(60%).
Graphyne-supported single Fe atom catalysts for CO oxidation
Authors: Wu Ping , Du Pan , Zhang Hui , Cai Chenxin
Published: October 2014

We demonstrate that graphyne is a good substrate for single Fe atom catalysts, which have high catalytic activity for CO oxidation.
Dual use of tantalum disulfides as hole and electron extraction layers in organic photovoltaic cells
Authors: Le Quyet Van , Nguyen Thang Phan , Choi Kyoung Soon , Cho Yoon-Ho , Hong Young Joon , Kim Soo Young
Published: October 2014

Organic photovoltaic cells with a UVO-treated TaS2 hole extraction layer.
Multicolor (Vis-NIR) mesoporous silica nanospheres linked with lanthanide complexes using 2-(5-bromothiophen)imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline for in vitro bioimaging
Authors: Liu Ying , Sun Lining , Liu Jinliang , Peng Yu-Xin , Ge Xiaoqian , Shi Liyi , Huang Wei
Published: October 2014

Using the modified phenanthroline ligand, the multicolor mesoporous silica nanospheres linked with lanthanide complexes were synthesized and characterized, and the application for cell imaging has been studied.
Metallomic and metalloproteomic strategies in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of metallodrugs
Authors: Wang Yuchuan , Wang Haibo , Li Hongyan , Sun Hongzhe
Published: October 2014

Advances in the mechanistic studies of metallodrugs by metallomic and metalloproteomic approaches will improve our understanding of the mechanism of action and allow more metallodrugs to be developed.
Acesulfame-K and pharmaceuticals as co-tracers of municipal wastewater in a receiving river
Authors: Liu YingYing , Blowes David W. , Groza Laura , Sabourin Michelle J. , Ptacek Carol J.
Published: October 2014

Artificial sweetener acesulfame-K and the pharmaceuticals carbamazepine, gemfibrozil, and naproxen used as co-tracers of municipal wastewater in a receiving river.
Effect of permafrost properties on gas hydrate petroleum system in the Qilian Mountains, Qinghai, Northwest China
Authors: Wang Pingkang , Zhang Xuhui , Zhu Youhai , Li Bing , Huang Xia , Pang Shouji , Zhang Shuai , Lu Cheng , Xiao Rui
Published: October 2014

Evolution of gas hydrate petroleum system in the Qilian Mountains permafrost: (A) end of Late Pleistocene and (B) modern day. GHSZ indicates gas hydrate stability zone.
Ultimate limit of field confinement by surface plasmon polaritons
Authors: Khurgin Jacob B.
Published: October 2014

We show that electric field confinement in surface plasmon polaritons propagating at metal/dielectric interfaces enhances the loss due to Landau damping, which effectively limits the degree of confinement itself. We prove that Landau damping, and associated with it surface collision damping, follow directly from the Lindhard formula for the dielectric constant of a free electron gas. Furthermore, we demonstrate that even if all of the conventional loss mechanisms, caused by phonons, electron–electron interactions, and interface roughness scattering, were eliminated, the maximum attainable degree of confinement and the loss accompanying it would not change significantly compared to the best existing plasmonic materials, such as silver.
Comparative study of tissue deposition of omega-3 fatty acids from polar-lipid rich oil of the microalgae Nannochloropsis oculata with krill oil in rats
Authors: Kagan Michael L. , Levy Aharon , Leikin-Frenkel Alicia
Published: October 2014

An oil from micro-algae rich in EPA with no DHA and consisting of 15% polar lipids (phospholipids and glycolipids) showed equivalent uptake of EPA into rat plasma and organs as omega-3 krill oil consisting of EPA and DHA and 40% phospholipids.
Infusions of artichoke and milk thistle represent a good source of phenolic acids and flavonoids
Authors: Pereira Carla , Barros Lillian , Carvalho Ana Maria , Santos-Buelga Celestino , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: October 2014

Infusions of bothCynara scolymusandSilybum marianumspecies presented higher phenolic contents than the hydromethanolic extracts, thus representing a good source of phenolic acids and flavonoids.
Isotopic composition analysis of dissolved mercury in seawater with purge and trap preconcentration and a modified Hg introduction device for MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Lin Haiying , Yuan Dongxing , Lu Bingyan , Huang Shuyuan , Sun Lumin , Zhang Fan , Gao Yaqin
Published: October 2014

A modified introduction device and a preconcentration method were developed to enhance the sensitivity of the Hg isotopic analysis method.
In situ solvent and counteranion-induced synthesis, structural characterization and photoluminescence properties of Pb-based MOFs
Authors: Bo Qi-Bing , Pang Juan-Juan , Wang Hong-Yan , Fan Chun-Hua , Zhang Zhen-Wei
Published: October 2014

With solvents or counteranions as the only variable, three novel photoluminescent Pb-based metal–organic frameworks were obtained under the similar synthetic procedures.
Copper-catalyzed regioselective synthesis of furan via tandem cycloaddition of ketone with an unsaturated carboxylic acid under air
Authors: Ghosh Monoranjan , Mishra Subhajit , Monir Kamarul , Hajra Alakananda
Published: October 2014

A catalytic decarboxylative annulation has been developed for the regioselective synthesis of furans by the cycloaddition of ketones with α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids in ambient air.
Stereoselective synthesis of 1,2-diamine containing indolines by a conjugate addition nitro-mannich reaction
Authors: Anderson James C. , Campbell Ian B. , Campos Sebastien , Shannon Jonathan , Tocher Derek A.
Published: October 2014

The sequential use of the conjugate addition nitro-Mannich reaction, nitro reduction and then Pd-catalyzed intramolecular cyclisation allows the concise, stereodivergent synthesis of complex indolines.
Improved synthesis of the super antioxidant, ergothioneine, and its biosynthetic pathway intermediates
Authors: Khonde Peguy Lutete , Jardine Anwar
Published: October 2014

Ergothioneine and mycothiol are low molecular mass redox protective thiols present in actinomycetes, in particular mycobacteria.
Narrow band gap conjugated polymer for improving the photovoltaic performance of P3HT:PCBM ternary blend bulk heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Murali M. G. , Rao Arun D. , Yadav Sarita , Ramamurthy Praveen C.
Published: October 2014

A new low band gap conjugated polymer PBDO-T-TDP is synthesized and used as a sensitizer in P3HT:PCBM based BHJ solar cells and its effect on their photovoltaic properties is investigated by blending them at various weight ratios.
Gold(i)- and platinum(iv)-catalyzed intramolecular annulations of allenes towards furans
Authors: Liu Cheng-Hang , Yu Zhi-Xiang
Published: October 2014

Intramolecular annulations of allenes towards furans to give six-membered ring fused furans with gold and platinum catalysts have been developed.
Elaboration of poly(lactic acid)/halloysite nanocomposites by means of water assisted extrusion: structure, mechanical properties and fire performance
Authors: Stoclet G. , Sclavons M. , Lecouvet B. , Devaux J. , Van Velthem P. , Boborodea A. , Bourbigot S. , Sallem-Idrissi N.
Published: October 2014

This study shows the interest of elaborating polylactide/halloysite nanocomposites by means of water assisted extrusion (WAE). Besides, WAE gives access to materials with improved fire properties and prevents molecular degradation.
ZnO long fibers: large scale fabrication, precursor and the transformation process, microstructure and catalytic performance
Authors: Liu Benxue , Lin Xuejun , Wang Xinqiang , Zhu Luyi , Zhang Guanghui , Xu Dong
Published: October 2014

Fibrous ZnO catalysts were fabricated for easy recycling and better application in a continuous mode in catalytic reactions.
Folding and structural polymorphism of G-quadruplex formed from a long telomeric sequence containing six GGG tracts
Authors: Tanaka Atsushi , Choi Jungkweon , Majima Tetsuro
Published: October 2014

A long telomeric sequence preferentially forms a thermodynamically stable G-quadruplex at the 3′ end rather than at the 5′ end or at internal positions.
Efficient and cost-effective graphene on silicon solar cells prepared by spray coating
Authors: Jiao Kejia , Zhang DangWen , Chen Yunfa
Published: October 2014

A facile method – graphene on silicon (G/Si) solar cells prepared by spray coating – is developed. The efficiency of spray-coated G/Si solar cells can reach 4.41%, comparable to that of conventional CVD-G/Si solar cells. This approach is done in air at low temperature, and is easy to scale up, making it appealing for the mass production of efficient and cost-effective G/Si solar cells.
Reduction potential predictions of some aromatic nitrogen-containing molecules
Authors: Assary Rajeev S. , Brushett Fikile R. , Curtiss Larry A.
Published: October 2014

A descriptive relationship for computing reduction potentials of selected aromatic nitrogen-containing molecules is developed from their computed orbital energies.
Nanobuds promote heat welding of carbon nanotubes at experimentally-relevant temperatures
Authors: Yang Xueming , Huang Yanhui , Wang Longjie , Han Zhonghe , To Albert C.
Published: October 2014

Nanobuds promote heat welding of carbon nanotubes at experimentally-relevant temperatures.
Studies on FMCM-41 reinforced cyanate ester nanocomposites for low k applications
Authors: Ariraman Mathivathanan , Sasi kumar Ramachandran , Alagar Muthukaruppan
Published: October 2014

The continual development of microelectronics needs insulation materials with lower dielectric constant (low k).
ZrO2-supported Cu(ii)–β-cyclodextrin complex: construction of 2,4,5-trisubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles via azide–chalcone oxidative cycloaddition and post-triazole alkylation
Authors: Girish Yarabally R. , Sharath Kumar Kothanahally S. , Muddegowda Umashankar , Lokanath Neartur Krishnappagowda , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S. , Shashikanth Sheena
Published: October 2014

The ZrO2–Cu2–β-CD complex is an excellent catalyst for the synthesis of N-2-alkylated-1,2,3-triazoles.
Rapid osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells on hydroxyapatite nanocrystal clusters-oriented nanotopography
Authors: Chen Ying , Sun Zhihui , Li Yanyan , Hong Youliang
Published: October 2014

The randomly-oriented HAP nanocrystal clusters-constructed nanotopography, prepared via a nucleation-oriented aggregation–recrystallization process from the HAP slices, can dictate BM-MSCs to differentiate into osteogenic lineages rapidly.
Charge transfer highways in polymer solar cells embedded with imprinted PEDOT:PSS gratings
Authors: Yen Chia-Te , Wu Fu-Chiao , Cheng Horng-Long , Sheu Hwo-Shuenn , Tang Fu-Ching , Chou Wei-Yang
Published: October 2014

Carrier transport highways induced by nanoimprinted PEDOT:PSS gratings play important roles in the enhancement of the electrical performances of P3HT:ICBA-based organic photovoltaic cells.
Controllable synthesis of biosourced blue-green fluorescent carbon dots from camphor for the detection of heavy metal ions in water
Authors: Gaddam Rohit Ranganathan , Vasudevan D. , Narayan Ramanuj , Raju K. V. S. N.
Published: October 2014

A robust method for the synthesis of fluorescent carbon dots (C dots) from camphor, which provides an insight into the mechanism of C dot formation, is reported.
High redox activity of Sr-substituted lanthanum manganite perovskites for two-step thermochemical dissociation of CO2
Authors: Demont Antoine , Abanades Stéphane
Published: October 2014

Strontium-doped lanthanum manganite perovskites show promising Mn4+/Mn3+ redox activity during two-step thermochemical CO2 dissociation for solar fuel production.
A G-quadruplex-based platform for the detection of Hg2+ ions using a luminescent iridium(iii) complex
Authors: Lin Sheng , He Bingyong , Shiu-Hin Chan Daniel , Hong Chan Philip Wai , Leung Chung-Hang , Ma Dik-Lung
Published: October 2014

We report herein the synthesis of a series of cyclometalated iridium(iii) complexes as luminescent G-quadruplex-selective probes, which were used to construct an oligonucleotide-based platform for the dual detection and removal of Hg2+ ions.
Doing it for themselves: students creating a high quality peer-learning environment
Authors: Galloway Kyle W. , Burns Simon
Published: October 2014

To support our students during their study and exam preparation we have developed a novel synoptic revision exercise using the online PeerWise system. Academic staff involvement was passive after introducing the assignment to the cohort via scaffolding activities, thus generating an entirely student-led peer-learning environment for the task. Student engagement exceeded all expectations with high levels of activity and peer-learning occurring over a wide range of topics. We report on a detailed investigation of the quality of the student-generated content, involving two years of data with separate cohorts.The research project was evaluated and conducted under the BERA Ethical Guidelines for Educational Research, the University of Nottingham Code of Research Conduct and Research Ethics and the e-Ethics@Nottingham: Ethical Issues in Digitally Based Research guidelines. All student data sources were anonymised for use by the project team. The research activities were separate from the assessed coursework task that created the student content. Opinion comments from students were obtained via an anonymous online feedback questionnaire that included free text responses. Note that support material, examples of scaffolding materials and technical guidance screencasts are available online at: http://www.peerwise-community.org/ The analysis includes classification of the student question type (revised Bloom's taxonomy), investigation of the utility of the feedback/model answers, along with time-resolved analysis of activity during the coursework window. The research seeks to reveal the nature of student behaviour in a peer-review environment and alleviate some of the common concerns held by academics considering moving to this type of activity.
Experiences with a researcher-centric ELN
Authors: Badiola Katrina A. , Bird Colin , Brocklesby William S. , Casson John , Chapman Richard T. , Coles Simon J. , Cronshaw James R. , Fisher Adam , Frey Jeremy G. , Gloria Danmar , Grossel Martin C. , Hibbert D. Brynn , Knight Nicola , Mapp Lucy K. , Marazzi Luke , Matthews Brian , Milsted Andy , Minns Russell S. , Mueller Karl T. , Murphy Kelly , Parkinson Tim , Quinnell Rosanne , Robinson John S. , Robertson Murray N. , Robins Michael , Springate Emma , Tizzard Graham , Todd Matthew H. , Williamson Alice E. , Willoughby Cerys , Yang Erica , Ylioja Paul M.
Published: October 2014

Chemical scientists’ experiences with LabTrove.
Kinetics of polymer looping with macromolecular crowding: effects of volume fraction and crowder size
Authors: Shin Jaeoh , Cherstvy Andrey G. , Metzler Ralf
Published: October 2014

Depending on the size of crowding molecules and their volume fraction the looping rates of polymers are facilitated or impeded.
ZnO 1D nanostructures designed by combining atomic layer deposition and electrospinning for UV sensor applications
Authors: Chaaya Adib Abou , Bechelany Mikhael , Balme Sebastien , Miele Philippe
Published: October 2014

We explored a new material with a large surface area to enhance the performance of UV photodetection.
Nanoscale characterisation and magnetic properties of Co81Cu19/Cu multilayer nanowires
Authors: Zhang Junwei , Ma Hongbin , Zhang Senfu , Zhang Hong , Deng Xia , Lan Qianqian , Xue Desheng , Bai Feiming , Mellors Nigel J. , Peng Yong
Published: October 2014

Bamboo-like CoCu/Cu multilayer nanowires have been successfully fabricated into anodic aluminium oxide templates using an electrodeposition method, and their basic morphological, chemical, structural information and magnetic reversal mechanism have been highlighted.
Synergic effect of unsaturated inner bridges and polymorphism for tuning the optoelectronic properties of 2,3-thieno(bis)imide based materials
Authors: Zambianchi Massimo , Favaretto Laura , Durso Margherita , Bettini Cristian , Zanelli Alberto , Manet Ilse , Gazzano Massimo , Maini Lucia , Gentili Denis , Toffanin Stefano , Gallino Federico , Muccini Michele , Cavallini Massimiliano , Melucci Manuela
Published: October 2014

We report the synthesis, structure-property relationships investigation of three new polymorphic 2,3-thieno(bis)imide molecular materials (NTE, NTI and NTA).
Hierarchical SnO2@NiO core/shell nanoflake arrays as energy-saving electrochromic materials
Authors: Zhang Jia-heng , Tu Jiang-ping , Zhou Ding , Tang Hong , Li Lu , Wang Xiu-li , Gu Chang-dong
Published: October 2014

Hierarchical SnO2@NiO core/shell nanoflake arrays on FTO have been synthesized by a facile solution-based method toward excellent energy-saving electrochromism.
Vertical silicon nanowire array‐patterned microcantilever resonators for enhanced detection of cigarette smoke aerosols
Authors: Wasisto Hutomo Suryo , Merzsch Stephan , Steib Frederik , Waag Andreas , Peiner Erwin
Published: October 2014

The fabrication and use of silicon nanowire (SiNW) array‐patterned microcantilever sensors for enhancing aerosol mass detection are described. Surface modification of the cantilever is performed selectively by combining the processes of nanoimprint lithography, photolithography and inductively coupled plasma cryogenic reactive ion etching. Cylindrical wire structures of 300 nm diameter with aspect ratios of 3–7 can be realised for the current SiNWs, which can be altered depending on the nanoimprint stamp size and etching recipe. Owing to the rise in the collection surface area of the sensor provided by vertical SiNWs, an increase of aerosol sampling efficiency can be obtained during cigarette smoke exposure, which is a factor of 1.5 higher than that of a corresponding plain cantilever. This proposed structure is intended to be used as a sensor module of a personal aerosol mass detector.
Searching for GloFish®: Aesthetics, Ethics, and Encounters with the Neon Baroque
Authors: Davies Gail
Published: October 2014

Fluorescent zebrafish are the first genetically modified animals globally, if unevenly, circulated outside of laboratory environments. GloFish® were developed in Singapore. They are widely sold as popular pets in the United States, but their public sale is banned in Europe and elsewhere. On the trail of these animals, I trace a fragmentary biogeography through ethnographic encounters in the spaces of scientific research, animal exhibits, pet stores, and art galleries, in Europe, the USA, and Singapore. At each site, as the colour, light, and intensities of neon flicker with the potential for life, and concern for animal lives move in and out of focus, I ask: what is the proper way of knowing and living with genetically altered zebrafish? To ask the question is to open up a conversation about the changing constitution of science and space, representation, and reproduction in relation to these new forms of life. To try to answer it demands attention to a baroque patterning of scientific practices, aesthetic sensibilities, ethical responsibilities, and political spatialities. In a discursive arena typically characterised by narratives of linearity—whether of scientific progress or slippery slopes—I suggest the affective sensibilities, theatrical qualities, and unresolved elements of the baroque offer powerful, if ambivalent, resources for reflection on the intersection between the animating aesthetics and turbulent ethics of postgenomic life.
Homing by Path Integration When a Locomotion Trajectory Crosses itself
Authors: Yamamoto Naohide , Meléndez Jayleen A , Menzies Derek T
Published: October 2014

Path integration is a process with which navigators derive their current position and orientation by integrating self-motion signals along a locomotion trajectory. It has been suggested that path integration becomes disproportionately erroneous when the trajectory crosses itself. However, there is a possibility that this previous finding was confounded by effects of the length of a traveled path and the amount of turns experienced along the path, two factors that are known to affect path integration performance. The present study was designed to investigate whether the crossover of a locomotion trajectory truly increases errors of path integration. In an experiment, blindfolded human navigators were guided along four paths that varied in their lengths and turns, and attempted to walk directly back to the beginning of the paths. Only one of the four paths contained a crossover. Results showed that errors yielded from the path containing the crossover were not always larger than those observed in other paths, and the errors were attributed solely to the effects of longer path lengths or greater degrees of turns. These results demonstrated that path crossover does not always cause significant disruption in path integration processes. Implications of the present findings for models of path integration are discussed.
Dissociation of Prediction from Conscious Perception
Authors: Vetter Petra , Sanders Lia L O , Muckli Lars
Published: October 2014

The framework of predictive coding offers a parsimonious explanation for many perceptual phenomena. According to this framework, perception of the outer world is created by the comparison of incoming sensory information with an internal predictive model based on previous experience and context. However, it is unclear whether the predicted percept needs to enter conscious awareness for the internal predictive model to be effective. Here we used an apparent motion paradigm to show that while prediction and conscious awareness of a predicted percept may coincide, a dissociation can be observed. When sensory information provides reliable input for the internal predictive model, the predicted percept does not have to be consciously perceived for successful prediction. However, when sensory input is ambiguous, conscious awareness helps the prediction to take effect.
Effect of sex and slaughter weight on meat and fat quality of the Krškopolje pig reared in an enriched environment
Authors: Zemva M. , Ngapo T. M. , Malovrh S. , Levart A. , Kovac M.
Published: October 2014

Improvements in meat quality are sought through sources of variation along the meat chain, including breed and production system. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine slaughter weight and sex effects on the meat quality of the indigenous Krškopolje pig breed reared in a feed-enriched indoor environment for the growing-finishing periods. Raised in this enriched environment, the intramuscular fat (IMF) content of the loin was 1.5–2.5% higher than previously reported for other production systems. Slaughter weight (119–132 kg or >135–170 kg) influences on meat colour and IMF composition were observed. Animals from the light group had lighter coloured meat with lower Japanese colour scores as well as higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) and lower monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) proportions in the IMF. A lower proportion of MUFA was also observed in the IMF from gilts than barrows. Furthermore, a higher proportion of SFA was found in the IMF from the gilts. However, the lower IMF content in the gilts negates any apparent compositional advantages between the sexes. The IMF content and composition of the Krškopolje pig reared in an enriched environment suggests good commercial potential of this breed.
Heart rate variability: a biomarker of dairy calf welfare
Authors: Clapp J. B. , Croarkin S. , Dolphin C. , Lyons S. K.
Published: October 2014

Dairy calf welfare is recognised to be compromised from common management practices. In this study heart rate variability (HRV) was used to measure stress in 25 young dairy calves to quantify the degraded welfare they experienced from weaning separation and isolation and also the painful disbudding procedure. It was shown the time spent on the cow before separation had a significant negative correlation to HRV (r2 = –0.68, P = 0.03). The longer a calf spent in isolation the lower its HRV 3 days after joining a group pen (P = 0.037). The removal of a dummy teat elicited a significant drop in HRV (P = 0.05), identifying the addictive properties of sucking in calves. Post disbudding stress, reflected by declining HRV values, was only partly alleviated by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug meloxicam after 48 h. The findings showed calf welfare would be improved by reducing the time between birth and separation and also the days spent in single pens. Providing dummy teats for individually housed calves showed potential as a positive environmental enrichment. Meloxicam may improve welfare by alleviating some chronic pain following hot iron disbudding. We conclude these findings illustrate that HRV, as a science-based animal-centric biomarker of animal welfare, may be used to help improve farmed animal practice.
Cationic Charged Polymer Vesicles from Amphiphilic PEI-g-PSSA-g-PEI as Potential Gene Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Feng Liandong , Hu Xinyu , Xie Aming , Yu Hao , Liu Yangyang , Zhang Jianfa , Dong Wei
Published: October 2014

Polymer vesicles have attracted extensive interest for a variety of biomedical applications. Herein, novel polymer vesicles are prepared by the self-assembly of amphiphilic polyethyleneimine-g-poly(disulfide amine)-g-polyethyleneimine (PEI-g-PSSA-g-PEI) for gene delivery. To investigate the effect of hydrophobicity on transfection efficiency, a small series of PEI-g-PSSA-g-PEI were prepared under uniform conditions containing PEI fragments of the same molecular weight. The hydrophobicity of PEI-g-PSSA-g-PEI was adjusted by varying the hydrophobic content in the poly(disulfide amine) backbone and by choosing hydrophobic monomers ranging in length from C12 to C16. The hydrophobicity of polymers was also related to DNA binding affinity. Polymer vesicles obtained from the water-insoluble polymers condensed with DNA into polyplexes with sizes below 200 nm and surface charge ranging from +10 to +35 mV that were suitable for cell endocytosis. DNA polyplexes exhibited an inverted hexagonal structure, observed by transmission electron microscopy. The results of in vitro transfection demonstrate that the hydrophobic–hydrophilic balance of copolymers greatly affects their transfection properties. The top-performing polymer, II-70 %, showed improved transfection efficiency and significantly lower cytotoxicity on COS-7 cells when compared with commercial reagents polyethyleneimine (PEI 25K) and Lipofectamine 2000. These results indicate that cationic polymer vesicles with tunable hydrophobicity are promising materials for gene delivery.
The why dimension, dialogic inquiry, and technology supported learning
Authors: Mason Jon
Published: October 2014

This chapter introduces a number of theoretical perspectives in presenting an
analysis of why the why dimension of inquiry – asking, learning, understanding,
knowing, and explaining why – presents challenges and opportunities for the
design and implementation of technology supported learning environments.
Central to this theoretical discussion are epistemological constructs such as
‘becoming to know’ (Jakubik 2011) and ‘sense-making’ (Dervin 1998; Weick
1995; Snowden 2002). Supporting this theoretical discussion is a number of
sense-making models representing relationships between learning and knowledge
and the characteristics of why-questioning. Reasoning, reflection, and dialogue
are all identified as embedded within dialogic inquiry and these activities
provide the context for consideration of how the why dimension in technology
supported learning environments may be supported.
Teams Construct Knowledge During Project-Driven Social Interactions
Authors: Laouris Yiannis
Published: October 2014

The educational model of the twentieth century has become obsolete partly
because we did not pay enough attention to facilitating interaction and collaboration
between learners and partly because it has been rendered irrelevant
to real life. The replacement of the teacher-centered paradigm with the childcentered
paradigm is not a sufficient condition for promoting collaboration, and
it does not, by itself, encourage more interactions between individual learners.
Interactions require structured methodologies, and collaboration requires a
purpose. In this chapter, we highlight how a project-driven construction of
knowledge is achieved when (1) projects are socially relevant, (2) projects are
carried out as group activities, (3) technology serves to create the learning
space, and (4) structured methodologies facilitate meaningful, well-organized
interactions between the members of the project team.
Power relationships and the formulation of anti-poverty policies in emerging countries: the case of Palestine
Authors: Safadi Najwa Sado , Easton Scott D. , Lubben James
Published: October 2014

The process for developing social policies in the Palestinian Territories has undergone several changes in recent years. Most recently, the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) formally adopted the partnership approach whereby policies are developed with participation by the civil society sector and international donor organizations. However, it is unclear whether these partnerships have been realized as little is known about the power relationships between PNA and these other parties. Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 16 Palestinian ministry officials and a review of archival materials. The findings confirmed that Palestinian agencies, civil sector organizations, and international donor organizations are now helping formulate anti-poverty policies. However, the partnerships are far from balanced or equal. Due to strained relationships with the PNA characterized by tension, conflict, and competition, the influence of the civil society sector remains modest. Conversely, international donor organizations continue to exert extraordinary influence on the policy-making process through financial and technical assistance. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.
Computable categoricity for algebraic fields with splitting algorithms
Authors: Miller Russell , Shlapentokh Alexandra
Published: October 2014

A computably presented algebraic field

F
F

has a splitting algorithm if it is decidable which polynomials in

F
[
X
]

F[X]

are irreducible there. We prove that such a field is computably categorical iff it is decidable which pairs of elements of

F
F

belong to the same orbit under automorphisms. We also show that this criterion is equivalent to the relative computable categoricity of

F
F

.
Motivic classes of commuting varieties via power structures
Authors: Bryan Jim , Morrison Andrew
Published: October 2014

We prove a formula, originally due to Feit and Fine, for the class of the commuting variety in the Grothendieck group of varieties. Our method, which uses a power structure on the Grothendieck group of stacks, allows us to prove several refinements and generalizations of the Feit-Fine formula. Our main application is to motivic Donaldson-Thomas theory.
Integrative Genome-wide Analysis of the Determinants of RNA Splicing in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lehmann Kjong-Van , Kahles André , Kandoth Cyriac , Lee William , Schultz Nikolaus , Stegle Oliver , Rätsch Gunnar
Published: October 2014

We present a genome-wide analysis of splicing patterns of 282 kidney renal clear cell carcinoma patients in which we integrate data from whole-exome sequencing of tumor and normal samples, RNA-seq and copy number variation. We proposed a scoring mechanism to compare splicing patterns in tumor samples to normal samples in order to rank and detect tumor-specific isoforms that have a potential for new biomarkers. We identified a subset of genes that show introns only observable in tumor but not in normal samples, ENCODE and GEUVADIS samples. In order to improve our understanding of the underlying genetic mechanisms of splicing variation we performed a large-scale association analysis to find links between somatic or germline variants with alternative splicing events. We identified 915cis- andtrans-splicing quantitative trait loci (sQTL) associated with changes in splicing patterns. Some of these sQTL have previously been associated with being susceptibility loci for cancer and other diseases. Our analysis also allowed us to identify the function of several COSMIC variants showing significant association with changes in alternative splicing. This demonstrates the potential significance of variants affecting alternative splicing events and yields insights into the mechanisms related to an array of disease phenotypes.
GalDrive: Pipeline for comparative identification of driver mutations using the Galaxy framework
Authors: Choudhary Saket Kumar , Noronha Santosh B
Published: October 2014

Identification of driver mutations can lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms associated with cancer. This can be a first step towards developing diagnostic and prognostic markers. Various driver mutation prediction tools rely on different algorithm for prediction and hence there is little consensus in the predictions. The input and output formats vary across the tools. It has been suggested that an ensemble approach that takes into account various prediction scores might perform better. There is a need for a tool that can run multiple such tools on a dataset in a more accessible and modular manner, whose output can then be combined to select consensus drivers. We developed wrappers for various driver mutation predictions tools using Galaxy based framework. In order to perform predictions using multiple tools on the same dataset, we also developed Galaxy based workflows to convert VCF format to tool specific formats. The tools are publicly available at: https://github.com/saketkc/galaxy_tools The workflows are available at: https://github.com/saketkc/galaxy_tools/tree/master/workflows
Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals Widespread Gene-Gene and Gene-Environment Interactions
Authors: Buil Alfonso , Brown Andrew A. , Lappalainen Tuuli , Viñuela Ana , Davies Matthew N. , Zheng H. F. , Richards J. B. , Small Kerrin S. , Durbin Richard , Spector Timothy D. , Dermitzakis Emmanouil T.
Published: October 2014

Understanding the genetic architecture of gene expression is an intermediate step to understand the genetic architecture of complex diseases. RNA-seq technologies have improved the quantification of gene expression and allow to measure allelic specific expression (ASE)1-3. ASE is hypothesized to result from the direct effect of cis regulatory variants, but a proper estimation of the causes of ASE has not been performed to date. In this study we take advantage of a sample of twins to measure the relative contribution of genetic and environmental effects on ASE and we found substantial effects of gene x gene (GxG) and gene x environment (GxE) interactions. We propose a model where ASE requires genetic variability in cis, a difference in the sequence of both alleles, but the magnitude of the ASE effect depends on trans genetic and environmental factors that interact with the cis genetic variants. We uncover large GxG and GxE effects on gene expression and likely complex phenotypes that currently remain elusive.
A process improvement approach based on the Value Stream Mapping and the Theory of Constraints Thinking Process
Authors: Pereira Librelato Tatiane , Pacheco Lacerda Daniel , Henrique Rodrigues Luís , Rafael Veit Douglas
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a case of integration between the processes modeling by using the Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and the Thinking Process of the Theory of Constraints (TP-TOC) through the analysis of productive processes of an organization, indicating the complementary aspects between them and their benefits to the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper uses a company of the Brazilian automotive industry as the administering site. The research began by identifying the organization's processes and choice of a family of products to model according to the VSM approach. The integrated view between the losses in the process (VSM) and the unwanted effects of the adding value process were analyzed by using the Current Reality Tree. After the analysis, different improvement procedures are proposed based on the lean principles. Finally, a work plan is presented based on the previous steps aiming to achieve the proposed future state.

Findings

– The analysis of this case helps to understand and identify the causes of the current problems in the processes studied, providing an integrated view between the losses in the process and the prioritization of steps for the elimination of such losses. The approach in its initial administration was robust and the solution steps were promising. By integrating these approaches, it was possible to verify improvement opportunities by identifying the losses and the basic causes that sustain the unwanted effects in the processes at the same time.

Originality/value

– The study proposes an approach that enables a systematic and systemic analysis of the processes at organizations through the combined use of process modeling through the VSM and TP-TOC. Simultaneously, the losses in the processes and the unwanted effects are identified. Thus, through the construction of an effect-cause-effect robust logic, both losses in particular and the unwanted effects in general can be prioritized in order to maximize the improvement efforts in the processes.
Ocean World Water Park: destination marketing challenge
Authors: Dhall Punyaslok , Mukherjee Jaydeep , Guin Kalyan K.
Published: October 2014

Subject area

Marketing.

Study level/applicability

The case should ideally be discussed in an advanced second year MBA course or towards the end of a first year course where the students are already exposed to the basics of marketing. The case works well in courses on destination marketing, strategic marketing, campaign management, entrepreneurship. It also works well with executives, the case discussion affording the instructor an opportunity to illuminate the complexity of designing and implementing marketing strategy.

Case overview

Two young MBAs, each with a marketing specialization working in a bank, left their jobs and started their own company by buying a rubber plantation business from another businessman. The businessman was one of the co-owners of the “Ocean World Water Park” theme park (amusement park) close to Bhubaneswar-Cuttack twin city. The amusement park had good potential as it was located in an area with exponential growth of young executives having high disposable incomes. But the business performed poorly because of management ineffectiveness. The case explores the possibility of a turnaround.

Expected learning outcomes

The case: sensitizes students about the commercial implications of their marketing decisions by giving them adequate data to work on evaluating the revenue and profit impact of marketing initiatives on business; and helps them to understand that promotional variables are not independent in nature and hence separating the impact of one promotion when a large number of initiatives are operational, is not very dependable. Though the case provides a particular way of attempting to solve the problem, it does not lead to unique solutions.

Supplementary materials

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