bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Adipose Tissue Depots and Metabolic Markers Following a 1-Year Diet and Exercise Intervention in Overweight and Obese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gallagher Dympna , Heshka Stanley , Kelley David E. , Thornton John , Boxt Lawrence , Pi-Sunyer F. Xavier , Patricio Jennifer , Mancino Juliet , Clark Jeanne M. ,   the MRI Ancillary Study Group of the Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: October 2014

OBJECTIVE

We aim to characterize the effects on total body fat and distribution of a 1-year intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) for weight loss in overweight and obese adults with type 2 diabetes and to examine whether changes in adipose tissue (AT) depots were associated with changes in metabolic biomarkers.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants were 54 females and 38 males (age 57.8 ± 6.7 years [mean ± SD]; BMI 31.7 ± 3.5 kg/m2) enrolled in the Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) trial randomized to ILI or diabetes support and education (DSE) from whom baseline and 1-year MRI measures of total AT (TAT) and regional (arm, trunk, leg) AT, including subcutaneous AT (SAT), visceral AT (VAT), and intermuscular AT (IMAT), were acquired. We tested whether mean changes in ILI and DSE were equal and, within groups, whether changes were different from zero. Regression models tested whether changes in AT compartments were associated with metabolic variable changes.

RESULTS

Body weight changed −0.52 ± 3.62 kg (P = 0.31) in DSE and −7.24 ± 5.40 kg (P < 0.0001) in ILI. Mean ILI changes were different from DSE (P < 0.001 for TAT, SAT, and IMAT and P < 0.01 for VAT in females). Within ILI, SAT and VAT decreased in males and females (P < 0.0001), but IMAT was unchanged (0.00 ± 0.54 kg; P = 0.99). In DSE, SAT and VAT did not change, but IMAT increased by 0.46 ± 0.55 kg (P < 0.001). Controlling for weight loss, reduction of specific AT depots was associated with improvement in metabolic biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight loss of 7–10% from an ILI over 1 year reduced SAT and VAT and prevented an increase in IMAT. Reductions in AT depots were associated with improvements in biomarkers.
Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults With Low-Titer GAD Antibodies: Similar Disease Progression With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Liu Lingjiao , Li Xia , Xiang Yufei , Huang Gan , Lin Jian , Yang Lin , Zhao Yunjuan , Yang Zhifang , Hou Can , Li Yijun , Liu Jie , Zhu Dalong , Leslie R. David , Wang Xiangbing , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: October 2014

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the relationship between GAD autoantibody (GADA) titers and changing of β-cell function in patients with latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This 3-year prospective study enrolled 95 subjects from 15 Chinese cities including 25 high-titer (GADA ≥180 units/mL) LADA patients, 42 low-titer (GADA <180 units/mL) LADA patients, and 28 type 2 diabetic patients, the latter two groups as controls of similar age, sex, and BMI. Clinical characteristics were determined annually, including glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting C-peptide (FCP), and 2-h postprandial C-peptide (PCP).

RESULTS

Despite similar initial FCP and PCP, FCP and PCP both decreased more in subjects with high GADA titer (FCP from mean 0.49 nmol/L at entry to 0.13 nmol/L at the third year; P < 0.05) than with low GADA titer (FCP from mean 0.48 to 0.38 nmol/L) and type 2 diabetes (FCP from mean 0.47 to 0.36 nmol/L); the latter two groups being similar. After 3 years, residual β-cell function (FCP >0.2 nmol/L) was detected in only 42% with an initial high GADA titer compared with 90% with a low GADA titer and 97% with type 2 diabetes (P < 0.01 for both). GADA positivity at the third year persisted more in subjects with initially high GADA (92%) than with low GADA (26%) titers (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In selected LADA patients, initial GADA titers identified subjects with different degrees of persistent autoimmunity and disease progression. LADA patients with a low GADA titer had metabolic phenotypes and loss of β-cell function similar to type 2 diabetic patients.
Gas Emissions in Combustion of Biofuel
Authors: Vitázek Ivan , Klúčik Janko , Pinter Tomáš , Mikulová Zuzana
Published: October 2014

Nowadays, biomass or more precisely biofuel is more and more being exploited as a substitute for fossil fuels for heating as well as for example for heating a drying environment. This contribution focuses on assessing a heat source by combusting various types of solid biofuels. It is a boiler VIGAS 25 with AK 2000 regulation for heating a family house. Gaseous emissions were measured using a device TESTO 330-2LL. Firewood, peat briquettes, bark briquettes and hardwood briquettes were burnt. Results of experimental measurements concerning the production of gaseous emissions are processed in tables and graphs depending on boiler performance and combustion time.
Geochemistry and Fuid-Inclusion Microthermometry of the Farsesh Barite Deposit, Iran
Authors: Zarasvandi Alireza , Zaheri Nazanin , Pourkaseb Houshang , Chrachi Abbas , Bagheri Hashem
Published: October 2014

The Permian carbonate-hosted Farsesh barite deposit is located southeast of the City of Aligudarz in the province of Lorestan, Iran. Structurally, this deposit lies in the Zagros metallogenic belt and the Sanandaj-Sirjan Zone. Barite mineralisations occur as open-space flling veins, and as massive and replacement ores along fractures, faults and shear zones of the Permian carbonate host rocks. In order to determine the structure, in addition to pe-trographic and fuid-inclusions studies, an ICP-MS analysis was carried out in order to measure the major as well as the trace and rare earth elements. The Farsesh barite deposit has a simple mineralogy, of which barite is the main mineral, followed by calcite, dolomite, quartz, and opaque minerals such as Fe-oxides. Replacement of bar-ite by calcite is common and is more frequent than space-flling mineralisation. Sulphide minerals are minor and mainly consist of chalcopyrite and pyrite, which are altered by weathering to covellite, malachite and azurite. Petrographic analysis and micro-thermometry were carried out on the two-phase liquid/vapour inclusions in ellipsoidal or irregularly shaped minerals ranging in size from 5–10 µm. The measurements were conducted on fuid inclusions during the heating and subsequent homogenisation in the liquid phase. The low homogenisation temperatures (200–125°C) and low to moderate salinity (4.2–20 eq wt% NaCl) indicate that the barite had precipitated from hydrothermal basinal water with low to moderate salinity. It appears from the major and trace elements that geochemical features such as Ba and Sr enrichment in the barite samples was accompanied by depletion of Pb, Zn, Hg, Cu and Sb. The geochemistry of the rare earth elements, such as low σREE concentrations, LREE-enrichment chondrite-normalised REE patterns, the negative Ce and positive Eu anomalies, the low Ce/La ratio and the positive La and Gd anomalies, suggest that the Farsesh barite was deposited from hydrothermally infuenced sea water. The Farsesh deposit contains low-temperature hydrothermal barite. The scatter plots of the barite (close to sea water) in different areas on the CeN/SmN versus CeN/YbN diagram support the possibility that the barite was formed from seawater-bearing hydrothermal fuids.
Environmental Risk Assessment Based on High-Resolution Spatial Maps of Potentially Toxic Elements Sampled on Stream Sediments of Santiago, Cape Verde
Authors: Pinto Marina , Silva Eduardo , Silva Maria , Melo-Gonçalves Paulo , Candeias Carla
Published: October 2014

Geochemical mapping is the base knowledge to identify the regions of the planet with critical contents of potentially toxic elements from either natural or anthropogenic sources. Sediments, soils and waters are the vehicles which link the inorganic environment to life through the supply of essential macro and micro nutrients. The chemical composition of surface geological materials may cause metabolic changes which may favor the occurrence of endemic diseases in humans. In order to better understand the relationships between environmental geochemistry and public health, we present environmental risk maps of some harmful elements (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn) in the stream sediments of Santiago, Cape Verde, identifying the potentially harmful areas in this island. The Estimated Background Values (EBV) of Cd, Co, Cr, Ni and V were found to be above the Canadian guidelines for any type of use of stream sediments and also above the target values of the Dutch and United States guidelines. The Probably Effect Concentrations (PEC), above which harmful effects are likely in sediment dwelling organisms, were found for Cr and Ni. Some associations between the geological formations of the island and the composition of stream sediments were identified and confirmed by descriptive statistics and by Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The EBV spatial distribution of the metals and the results of PCA allowed us to establish relationships between the EBV maps and the geological formations. The first two PCA modes indicate that heavy metals in Santiago stream sediments are mainly originated from weathering of underlying bedrocks. The first metal association (Co, V, Cr, and Mn; first PCA mode) consists of elements enriched in basic rocks and compatible elements. The second association of variables (Zn and Cd as opposed to Ni; second PCA mode) appears to be strongly controlled by the composition of alkaline volcanic rocks and pyroclastic rocks. So, the second PCA mode is also considered as a natural lithogenic mode. The third association (Cu and Pb; third PCA mode) consists of elements of anthropogenic origin.
Impact of Oral Health Behaviors on Dental Caries in Children with Intellectual Disabilities in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Liu Zifeng , Yu Dongsheng , Luo Wei , Yang Jing , Lu Jiaxuan , Gao Shuo , Li Wenqing , Zhao Wei
Published: October 2014

Dental care is consistently reported as one of the primary medical needs of children with disabilities (IDC). The aim of the present study was to explore the influence of oral health behaviors on the caries experience in children with intellectual disabilities in Guangzhou, China. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 477 intellectually disabled children, 12 to 17 years old, who were randomly selected from special educational schools in Guangzhou. A self-administered parental questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and oral health behavior variables, and 450 valid questionnaires were returned. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the factors associated with dental caries. The average age of those in the sample was 14.6 years (SD = 1.3), 68.4% of whom were male, and the caries prevalence rate was 53.5% (DMFT = 1.5 ± 2.0). The factors significantly affecting the development of dental caries in IDC included gender, the presence or absence of cerebral palsy, and the frequency of dental visits and toothbrushing. In conclusion, the presence of cerebral palsy contributed to an increase risk of caries experience in intellectually disabled children, while toothbrushing more than twice a day and routine dental visits were caries-protective factors. Oral health promotion action may lead to a reduction in dental caries levels in IDC.
Formation of Mixed-Ligand Complexes of Pd2+ with Nucleoside 5'-Monophosphates and Some Metal-Ion-Binding Nucleoside Surrogates
Authors: Golubev Oleg , Lönnberg Tuomas , Lönnberg Harri
Published: October 2014

Formation of mixed-ligand Pd2+ complexes between canonical nucleoside 5'-monophosphates and five metal-ion-binding nucleoside analogs has been studied by 1H-NMR spectroscopy to test the ability of these nucleoside surrogates to discriminate between unmodified nucleobases by Pd2+-mediated base pairing. The nucleoside analogs studied included 2,6-bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)-, 2,6-bis(1-methylhydrazinyl)- and 6-(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)-substituted 9-(β-d-ribofuranosyl)purines 1–3, and 2,4-bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)- and 2,4-bis(1-methylhydrazinyl)-substituted 5-(β-d-ribofuranosyl)-pyrimidines 4–5. Among these, the purine derivatives 1-3 bound Pd2+ much more tightly than the pyrimidine derivatives 4, 5 despite apparently similar structures of the potential coordination sites. Compounds 1 and 2 formed markedly stable mixed-ligand Pd2+ complexes with UMP and GMP, UMP binding favored by 1 and GMP by 2. With 3, formation of mixed-ligand complexes was retarded by binding of two molecules of 3 to Pd2+.
Animal Models of Compulsive Eating Behavior
Authors: Segni Matteo , Patrono Enrico , Patella Loris , Puglisi-Allegra Stefano , Ventura Rossella
Published: October 2014

Eating disorders are multifactorial conditions that can involve a combination of genetic, metabolic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Studies in humans and laboratory animals show that eating can also be regulated by factors unrelated to metabolic control. Several studies suggest a link between stress, access to highly palatable food, and eating disorders. Eating “comfort foods” in response to a negative emotional state, for example, suggests that some individuals overeat to self-medicate. Clinical data suggest that some individuals may develop addiction-like behaviors from consuming palatable foods. Based on this observation, “food addiction” has emerged as an area of intense scientific research. A growing body of evidence suggests that some aspects of food addiction, such as compulsive eating behavior, can be modeled in animals. Moreover, several areas of the brain, including various neurotransmitter systems, are involved in the reinforcement effects of both food and drugs, suggesting that natural and pharmacological stimuli activate similar neural systems. In addition, several recent studies have identified a putative connection between neural circuits activated in the seeking and intake of both palatable food and drugs. The development of well-characterized animal models will increase our understanding of the etiological factors of food addiction and will help identify the neural substrates involved in eating disorders such as compulsive overeating. Such models will facilitate the development and validation of targeted pharmacological therapies.
Microsatellite primers in Agave utahensis (Asparagaceae), a keystone species in the Mojave Desert and Colorado Plateau
Authors: Byers Charlee , Maughan Peter J. , Clouse Jared , Stewart J. Ryan
Published: October 2014

• Premise of the study: Utah agave (Agave utahensis) and its putative subspecies, A. utahensis subsp. kaibabensis and A. utahensis subsp. utahensis, are keystone species of the Mojave Desert and Colorado Plateau in the southwestern United States. Here we developed microsatellite markers to study population structure and genetic diversity of the two subspecies of A. utahensis.

• Methods and Results: We analyzed 22,386 454‐pyrosequencing large contigs (>400 bp), derived from a genome reduction experiment consisting of A. utahensis accessions, for putative microsatellites. The use of unique multiplex barcodes for each of the Agave accessions allowed for the identification of putatively polymorphic microsatellites based solely on sequence alignment analysis. We report the characteristics of 11 polymorphic microsatellite loci based on a panel of 104 individuals from the two subspecies. The number of alleles per locus varied from three to eight, with an average of 5.5 alleles per locus. Observed and expected heterozygosity values ranged from 0.038 to 0.777 and 0.038 to 0.707, respectively.

• Conclusions: The microsatellites identified here will be invaluable for future studies of population structure, polyploidy, and genetic diversity across the species.
Real-time monitoring of calcium carbonate and cationic peptide deposition on carboxylate-SAM using a microfluidic SAW biosensor
Authors: Pohl Anna , Weiss Ingrid M
Published: October 2014

A microfluidic biosensor with surface acoustic wave technology was used in this study to monitor the interaction of calcium carbonate with standard carboxylate self-assembled monolayer sensor chips. Different fluids, with and without biomolecular components, were investigated. The pH-dependent surface interactions of two bio-inspired cationic peptides, AS8 and ES9, which are similar to an extracellular domain of the chitin synthase involved in mollusc shell formation, were also investigated in a biological buffer system. A range of experimental conditions are described that are suitable to study non-covalent molecular interactions in the presence of ionic substances, such as, mineral precursors below the solubility equilibrium. The peptide ES9, equal to the mollusc chitin synthase epitope, is less sensitive to changes in pH than its counterpart AS8 with a penta-lysine core, which lacks the flanking acidic residues. This study demonstrates the extraordinary potential of microfluidic surface acoustic wave biosensors to significantly expand our experimental capabilities for studying the principles underlying biomineralization in vitro.
Les valeurs, un outil d'appropriation par les soignants d'une démarche éthique en contexte des soins palliatifs
Authors: Ntetu Antoine-Lutumba , Tremblay Marie-Andrée
Published: October 2014

Les valeurs, un outil d’appropriation par les soignants d’une démarche éthique en contexte des soins palliatifs – Cette recherche a voulu savoir comment, par les valeurs qu’ils privilégient, les soignants peuvent approfondir le sens qu’ils donnent à leur pratique et améliorer leur approche du malade. Un questionnaire utilisé comme guide d’entrevue de groupe, d’entrevue individuelle et d’auto-administration a permis de recueillir des données auprès des 83 soignants qui travaillent en soins palliatifs. Les résultats indiquent que, dans leur pratique, les soignants privilégient les valeurs de respect, de compassion, d’écoute, d’éthique, de compétence et d’authenticité. Ils indiquent aussi que quotidiennement les soignants sont confrontés à une grande souffrance, qu’ils vivent des conflits et des dilemmes, et que cet état de fait les oblige, en l’absence d’espaces pour dialoguer avec d’autres personnes qui expérimentent des situations semblables, à entreprendre une démarche en solitaire pour se sortir de cette impasse. Comme stratégie de soutien aux soignants, il est proposé de créer des espaces de dialogue, de leur apporter des connaissances théoriques, un savoir-faire, un savoir-être et de les encourager à travailler en interdisciplinarité.
La procédure collégiale en pratique en soins palliatifs au domicile à Saint-Laurent du Maroni, Guyane
Authors: Furstenberg Cécile
Published: October 2014

La procédure collégiale en pratique en soins palliatifs au domicile à Saint-Laurent du Maroni, Guyane – La procédure collégiale est d’une précieuse aide dans le contexte particulier des soins palliatifs en HAD. Elle devient très intéressante et utile lorsque le contexte de soins, l’environnement culturel diffère de celui des soignants. A Saint-Laurent du Maroni les origines culturelles et ethniques sont profuses et variées... confrontée aux complexités des prises de décisions lors de situations palliatives de personnes bushinenguées, j’aborderai la réflexion dans ce contexte particulier. L’alimentation et l’hydratation, symboles de vie ou éléments de base qui permettent de soutenir la vie, quand deviennent-ils déraisonnables... ? Comment choisir quand les avis sont partagés ?
Etre parent d'un enfant atteint d'une maladie grave
Authors: Scaon Sylvie
Published: October 2014

Etre parent d’un enfant atteint de maladie grave – Confrontés à l’annonce de la maladie grave de l’enfant, les parents vivent un stress intense qui a des incidences sur leurs rôles parentaux. L’engagement des parents dans la décision de soin par un acte de signature du protocole de soin est empreint d’une intime conviction qu’ils font le bien pour leur enfant et sa qualité de vie. Notre réflexion porte sur la parentalité dans ce contexte de danger pour l’enfant où la nécessité de construire sous incertitude son rôle et sa place de parent auprès de son enfant est sous supervision de la médecine.
L'aristocratie, une nouvelle élite urbaine ?
Authors: Hassler Éric
Published: October 2014

La Cour et la Ville paraissent deux mondes en grande partie opposés à l’époque moderne. La présence d’élites nobiliaires est pourtant une réalité dans les villes de résidence monarchique. L’analyse des modalités de l’implantation à Vienne d’un lignage, la maison comtale Harrach, entre 1550 et 1750 permet d’évaluer le degré d’urbanité d’un groupe aux appartenances plurielles, seigneuriales, provinciales autant qu’auliques : l’importance de la propriété nobiliaire urbaine et leur position socialement dominante, leur forte exposition paysagère et le développement de rapports particuliers à l’espace urbain posent la question de leur intégration parmi les élites urbaines.
« plutôt qu'un personnage que je m'invente, un personnage que je rencontre »
Authors: Grelet Stany , Chottin Ariane
Published: October 2014

Résumé rencontre avec Laurent Hasse
Los visitantes del Parc Natural de l’Alt Pirineu y la práctica de actividades recreativo-deportivas. una propuesta de segmentación
Authors: Farías E. I. , Monserrat S.
Published: October 2014

En los últimos años se ha registrado un gran incremento en la práctica de las actividades recreativodeportivas en los espacios naturales protegidos. En el marco de la planificación y la gestión del uso público de este tipo de espacios, resulta fundamental profundizar en el conocimiento de las características de los visitantes. En este estudio se analiza el perfil de los diferentes segmentos de visitantes del Parc Natural de l’Alt Pirineu en base a las actividades recreativo-deportivas practicadas. Para este estudio se realizaron 1.600 encuestas en 16 puntos de muestreo, a lo largo de un año natural comprendido entre los meses de Julio de 2010 y Junio de 2011. En total se identificaron ocho segmentos de visitantes en función de la actividad física: paseantes, excursionistas, senderistas, montañistas, ciclistas, recolectores de setas, motoristas y esquiadores. Los resultados aquí obtenidos son discutidos en términos de su posible aplicación en la gestión del uso público de este parque (extrapolable también a otros espacios naturales protegidos españoles), proponiendo estrategias de gestión y campañas de sensibilización dirigidas a los diferentes segmentos de visitantes.
Caracterización genética y ambiental de poblaciones de Abies alba Mill. en su retaguardia occidental
Authors: Sancho-Knapik D. , Peguero-Pina J. J. , Cremer E. , Camarero J. J. , Fernández-Cancio Á. , Ibarra N. , Konnert M. , Gil-Pelegrín E.
Published: October 2014

Se ha caracterizado la estructura genética de diez poblaciones de Abies alba en la retaguardia occidental de su distribución en el Pirineo español en comparación con dos poblaciones de Alemania, buscando la influencia de factores climáticos en el decaimiento del abeto. También se caracterizó crecimiento, defoliación, aridez y déficit acumulado de agua durante el verano. Las poblaciones españolas mostraron una menor diversidad genética y una mayor diferenciación genética que las poblaciones alemanas, establecida principalmente a través de un eje Este (mayor diversidad)-Oeste (menor diversidad). Las tres poblaciones con defoliación son las del suroeste, con mayor aridez estival. Por el contrario, la población más meridional (Guara) muestra variables climáticas cercanas a estas poblaciones del suroeste pero sin defoliación y con mayor diversidad genética, indicando una posible adaptación a las condiciones sub-Mediterráneas. El abeto blanco en el Pirineo español constituye una retaguardia estable debido a su aislamiento, pequeño tamaño y baja diversidad genética. Las poblaciones más occidentales, bajo mayor aridez y con una diversidad genética más baja, son propensas a una mortalidad inducida por la sequía en un contexto de calentamiento global.
Reflexivity in Qualitative Research
Authors: Takhar-Lail Amandeep , Chitakunye Pepukayi
Published: October 2014

This chapter seeks to extend current knowledge relating to the role of reflexivity as an innovative research method. The authors consider the significance and importance of reflexivity within market research and aim to emphasise the advantages and contexts in which it should be applied. The intention of reflexivity within market research is to extract and accumulate richer, authentic, and more emotive data from research participants. The authors outline the significance of considering researcher reflexivity within qualitative research but then extend the concept by suggesting that we should in fact evoke informant self-reflexivity as a means to accumulating a richer description (Geertz, 1973) and interpretation of the phenomena under investigation. The authors then discuss the importance of co-researcher reflexivity where the researcher and the study participants co-create knowledge, as they collectively and actively engage in the research process with an equal interest. The findings offer significant insights into the significance of researcher, informant, and co-researcher reflexivity and argue that the use of researcher and informant self-reflexivity contributes to producing multiple voices, as well as data triangulation within market research.
Theoretical and Empirical Comparative Analysis on Quantitative and Qualitative Marketing Researches
Authors: Tarka Piotr , Kaczmarek Mirosława
Published: October 2014

This chapter focuses on the similarities and differences between quantitative and qualitative marketing research projects and the possibilities of combining them in triangulation. The comparative analysis of both types of the research was conducted on the basis of literature review and the empirical research results, which were obtained from the evaluation of usability of Polish bank website. In the following sections, the authors discuss issues such as: 1) specificity of quantitative vs. qualitative marketing research, with regards to the implemented research projects; 2) methodological aspects of quantitative and qualitative research. They compare the selected research and sampling methods. Also, the problems which may occur with reference to quantitative and qualitative marketing research triangulation on different stages of the research project are discussed. Moreover, strengths and weaknesses of triangulation are analyzed. At the end, the example of quantitative and qualitative triangulation in the research project investigating the usability of websites is presented.
Qualitative Response Regression Modeling
Authors: Abdullateef Aliyu Olayemi
Published: October 2014

In most regression models, readers have implicitly assumed that the dependent variable (regressand) Y is quantitative. On the contrary, explanatory variables could take the form of qualitative (or dummy), quantitative, or a triangulation thereof. This chapter discusses the observed fundamental differences between quantitative and qualitative models through a clear definition of their individual objectives. This chapter also considers many models in which the regressand is a qualitative variable, popularly called categorical variables, indicator variables, dummy variables, or qualitative variables. This chapter shows why it is not compulsory to restrict our dependent variable to dichotomous (yes/no) categories by establishing inherent benefits in estimating and interpreting trichotomous or polychotomous multiple category response variable. Relevant examples for developing, analyzing, and interpreting a probability model for a binary response variable using three known approaches (i.e. linear probability model, logit, and probit models) is also discussed.
Multi-Method Analysis
Authors: Tomczyk Przemyslaw
Published: October 2014

Multi-Method Analysis (MMA) can be understood as an interdisciplinary approach to the triangulation of research results or deepening of knowledge gained as a result of classical hypotheses testing by means of statistical analysis. In this case, the synergy effect obtained by using MMA as a combination of the quantitative (survey research) and qualitative (In-Depth Interviews – IDI) analysis is presented. To achieve the empirical bases of the study, a theoretical model is used as a marketing management example. The model refers to firm performance as a result of customer lifetime value management. The essence of the case study is to present the whole research to illustrate the researcher's way of thinking from conceptual model development through quantitative hypothesis testing and qualitative explanation. The research was conducted from 2012 – 2013 in the insurance industry in Poland.
Problem-Based Learning Methodology
Authors: Algado Salvador Simó , Portet Xavier Ginesta , Vela Jordi de San Eugenio
Published: October 2014

The objective of this chapter is to present the EcosSPORTech project, a cross-faculty project based in Vic (Spain) where the University of Vic has a central role in developing an enterprise with young people in order to develop sports and leisure activities in the natural environment, integrating Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). This project, which has the participation of students from different faculties (Business and Communication, Health and Wellness, and Education) using a Problem-Based Leaning (PBL) method, reinforces the idea of an entrepreneurial university that can create innovative solutions in order to promote social benefits; this is a university with a clear commitment to educating both professionals and citizens. The chapter also presents the project's communication policy, based on the UVic's corporate media: blog, magazine, and radio station. This project has the financial support of La Caixa Foundation (Obra Social La Caixa) and Vic's City Council.
The Evolving Business Education Environment
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ayub
Published: October 2014

This chapter includes an in-depth analysis of the evolving and dynamic environment that surrounds business education management and institutions. Specifically, this chapter intends to elaborate on two fundamental issues about business education: the concept and scope of business management education explained from different perspectives and the environment of business education (institutional environment, company environment, and general environment). This chapter finds that the current global environment is highly dynamic and unpredictable, and therefore, organizations in all fields including institutions of higher education must be innovative, future-oriented, and global-minded. Business schools should focus on collaborations across institutional and geographical boundaries and maintain high talent. Recognizing the emerging demands of various stakeholders in higher education and designing inclusive and dynamic academic programs are some of the strategic actions all business education institutions may and should pursue.
Business Management Education in Reality
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ayub
Published: October 2014

In this chapter, the perception of the quality of business education of different stakeholders in business education is discussed using some real-life stories and opinions. In general, students, professors, business education administrators, and employers look happy with the current business education programs and services provided by business schools. However, these stakeholders would like to do more on developing analytical, quantitative, and operational skills in students because these are the skills they will need immediately after graduation and in the labor market. The chapter suggests that it is useful and advisable for the academic institutions to have an effective information intelligence system in place in order to collect strategic academic information from different stakeholders in education. Such information can and will be used in designing academic programs and services to serve the emerging demands and interests of those stakeholders.
Business Graduate Market Value
Authors: Bank Diana
Published: October 2014

This chapter discusses the purpose and role of higher education institutions in the creation of highly qualified human resources for the globalized 21st century. As technology and societies change and evolve, universities must adapt and modify their offerings to students who need to be more marketable in an ever more competitive marketplace. As economic conditions have propelled emerging economies as the main engines of growth for the next decades, it is imperative the higher education institutions in the form of business schools, both in developed and emerging markets, create the necessary background and educational opportunities for young students entering the working world. These will include skills in intercultural communication and strategy, as well as new and different ways of negotiating between countries and among companies.
Successful Business Schools
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ayub
Published: October 2014

A handful of business schools in the world are famous in their respective countries of origin, but have also achieved global acclaim for their sustained and continued success as world-class academic institutions. This chapter describes some of these business schools and includes successful factors that have made them top quality institutions, such as general performance indicators used to rank and accredit business schools, common characteristics of success, as well as the role of ranking and accreditation as a source or force behind the fame and fortunes of such business schools. The chapter discusses the importance of national and international accreditation for the academic institutions and the pitfalls associated with accreditations. As examples of successful models, the chapter includes small success stories of business schools from emerging markets such as Pakistan and Mexico.
Business Education across Regions
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ayub
Published: October 2014

The competences (knowledge, skills, and values) required to work in different regions of the world are different to a greater extend. The cases of failures of expatriate managers in foreign assignments and corporate alliances are found in abundance in the existing literature on international business and management. This demands that the business schools offer educational programs that are regionally focused and culturally inclusive. Even though such student-centered and culturally focused programs may cost the institutions in the short term, such strategic actions may be a source of competitive advantage for many of them. In this chapter, the human resource management culture in the Middle East is discussed to exemplify how national and corporate cultures vary from region to region and thus influence the management competences to work in a particular region, nation, or culture.
Operationalization of the Lessons Learned Process
Authors: Avis Peter , Sharpe Joe
Published: October 2014

An essential step on the road to solving the lessons learned challenge is for organizations to “operationalize” the process for lessons learned such that the important lessons are not just observed but are learned over time to improve organizational behaviour. There are seven key findings: the engagement and integration of leadership into the lessons learned process; the development of spheres of influence and the corresponding organizational “loops”; the selection of a limited number of “rolled-up” observations to pursue – “five (good ones) are much better than 500”; the use of symposia to ensure education and collective “buy-in”; the development of action plans to engage the leadership and provide a practical direction on the way ahead; the triggering, packaging, dispatching, and recreation of lessons identified such that they are attainable and welcomed by the receiving stakeholders; and the development of logical, distinct steps in creating a database.
Using Stories to Institutionalize Lessons Learned
Authors: Dalkir Kimiz
Published: October 2014

One of the major challenges of any lessons learned system is how to ensure that this content is actually implemented: by individual employees, by work teams, and by the organization as a whole. While we are guided by a number of theories on how newly acquired knowledge can become institutionalized such that it becomes “the way things are done,” there is very little theory or evidence-based practice to guide us on specific implementation strategies. This chapter presents specific strategies that were used to ensure that lessons learned became embedded in the organization including storytelling, narrative databases, simulation games, employee orientation, training, and professional development strategies. The role of technologies and the role of culture in the success or failure of these strategies are discussed together with recommendations on how to best ensure lessons learned result in learning and, ultimately, how they create changes in individual, group, and organizational behavior.
A Proposed Analytical Framework for Canadian Whole-of-Government Lessons Learned
Authors: McIntyre Susan G.
Published: October 2014

Meta-organizational approaches involving multiple government agencies or levels of government, military-civilian combinations, multi-sector or international coalitions are becoming increasingly standard practice for addressing complex operations. One of the challenges in the post-event lessons learned period has been the lack of an adequate analytical framework, which has led to the re-identification of key issues in similar lessons learned processes and documents each time. The objective of this chapter is to build upon the existing knowledge base of identified lessons and reduce the learning curve for future analysts. By developing a framework for the collection and analysis of whole-of-government lessons learned, future practitioners will have a consistent set of parameters upon which to develop their core collection plans, a structure for analysis, and be able to identify known risks to mission success. Drawing upon Canadian and international experiences from whole-of-government and comprehensive approaches, the chapter provides two considerations for issues analysis: a derived critical topics list for meta-organizational approaches and a capabilities framework that could be applied to lessons learned approaches in these kinds of complex initiatives.
Senior Leadership and Lessons Learned in the Australian Defence Organisation
Authors: Baškarada Saša , Watson Jamie , Cromarty Jason
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this chapter is twofold. Firstly, the authors discuss a range of personal, organizational, and environmental drivers underpinning conditions leading to leaders' choices of transactional, transformational, and ambidextrous leadership styles. A better understanding of these drivers and conditions may aid senior leaders with achieving the right balance between exploitation of existing lessons and exploration of new lessons. Secondly, they present the mechanisms through which senior leaders can achieve relevant lessons learned objectives associated with each of these leadership styles. The authors base their findings on interviews with the Chief of Defence Force and 10 other senior leaders in the Australian Defence Organisation.
Software Engineering and New Emerging Technologies
Authors: Mazini Sergio Ricardo
Published: October 2014

This chapter presents an approach to the role of software engineering in developing solutions for new mobile technologies, like tablets. It discusses the importance of the new standards brought by emerging technologies such as engineering and how software must adapt to this new reality in order to identify the needs of data, information, integration, shares, and other issues that will contribute to the life cycle of these solutions. The chapter also discusses the contribution of users in the development process and improve these solutions. The research method is the case study conducted in industrial companies that use a digital catalog solution and sales force automation for tablets. This chapter presents a new approach based on commercial tablets which is supported by a platform of software and services called commercially Nimiam (www.nimiam.com.br).
Creating Effective Communication among User-Centered Technology Design Groups
Authors: Dahl Laura B.
Published: October 2014

The user-centered design process among U.S. companies is commonly carried out by design teams. Groups of designers are commonly unable to create high quality work due to the need to first work out several issues. These issues include needing to get to know one another's capabilities while also learning how to effectively communicate through the many difficult decisions and deadlines common to software and Web design projects. This chapter describes the communication research that illuminates the process that groups go through before they can achieve high-quality results.
Model to Estimate the Human Factor Quality in FLOSS Development
Authors: Chiquin Zulaima , Domínguez Kenyer , Mendoza Luis E. , Méndez Edumilis
Published: October 2014

This chapter presents a Model to Estimate the Human Factor Quality in Free/Libre Open Source Software (FLOSS) Development, or EHFQ-FLOSS. The model consists of three dimensions: Levels (individual, community, and foundation), Aspects (internal or contextual), and Forms of Evaluation (self-evaluation, co-evaluation, and hetero-evaluation). Furthermore, this model provides 145 metrics applicable to all three levels, as well as an algorithm that guides their proper application to estimate the systemic quality of human resources involved in the development of FLOSS, guide the decision-making process, and take possible corrective actions.
From Knowledge Management to Knowledge Governance
Authors: Zaman Tariq , Yeo Alvin W. , Kulathuramaiyer Narayanan
Published: October 2014

The existing frameworks and methodologies for software designing encompass technological aspects and needs of the urban settings. In software development, getting sufficient and correct requirements from the users is most important, because these requirements will determine the functionality of the system. In indigenous communities identifying the user needs and understanding the local context are always difficult tasks. This typical approach of designing indigenous knowledge management system generates the issues of indigenous knowledge governance, de-contextualisation, and data manipulation. Hence, the main research question this chapter addresses is, How can we introduce indigenous knowledge governance into ICT-based Indigenous Knowledge Management System (IKMS)? The study has been conducted in three phases with collaboration of two indigenous communities, Long Lamai and Bario of Sarawak, East Malaysia. The main outcome of the study is the methodology of conducting a multidisciplinary research and designing the Indigenous Knowledge Governance Framework (IKGF). The framework works as an analytical tool that can help in understanding the essential context in which indigenous knowledge management processes occur. The chapter argues that in order to design appropriate software tools for indigenous knowledge management, information technology professionals need to understand, model, and formalise the holistic indigenous knowledge management system and then use this understanding as a basis for technology design and approaches.
Usability Evaluation Methods
Authors: Martins Ana Isabel , Queirós Alexandra , Silva Anabela G. , Rocha Nelson Pacheco
Published: October 2014

This chapter aims to identify, analyze, and classify the methodologies and methods described in the literature for the usability evaluation of systems and services based on information and communication technologies. The methodology used was a systematic review of the literature. The studies included in the analysis were classified into empirical and analytical methodologies (test, inquiry, controlled experiment, or inspection). A total of 2116 studies were included, of which 1308 were classified. In terms of results, the inquiry methodology was the most frequent in this review, followed by test, inspection, and finally, the controlled experiment methodology. A combination of methodologies is relatively common, especially the combination of test and inquiry methodologies, probably because they assess different but complementary aspects of usability contributing to a more comprehensive assessment.
Recognizing Value of Mobile Device for Learning
Authors: Park Young , Jung YongJu
Published: October 2014

This study defines a mobile device as a contemporary learning tool and learning environment and focuses on the factors' influencing on users' perceptions of mobile learning and the characteristics of informal learning available for a use of mobile device for learning. The major findings are the following: First, the longer participants are engaged with mobile device, the more they will view that mobile device as valuable for learning. Next, whoever defines knowledge in a broader sense expects to use mobile devices longer time and in turn see the value of that device for learning more positively. Users' initial learning-related perception seems to influence their recognition and behavior toward mobile learning. Lastly, participants' major learning activities are self-directed while incidental learning is also meaningfully recognized. Participants' recognition of incidental learning can predict one's recognition of the value of mobile devices for learning.
Premature senescence in primary muscle cultures of myotonic dystrophy type 2 is not associated with p16 induction
Authors: Renna L.V. , Cardani R. , Botta A. , Rossi G. , Fossati B. , Costa E. , Meola G.
Published: October 2014

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and type 2 (DM2) are multisystemic disorders linked to two different genetic loci and characterized by several features including myotonia, muscle weakness and atrophy, cardiac dysfunctions, cataracts and insulin-resistance. In both forms, expanded nucleotide sequences cause the accumulation of mutant transcripts in the nucleus deregulating the activity of some RNAbinding proteins and providing an explanation for the multisystemic phenotype of DM patients. However this pathogenetic mechanism does not explain some histopathological features of DM skeletal muscle like muscle atrophy. It has been observed that DM muscle shares similarities with the ageing muscle, where the progressive muscle weakness and atrophy is accompanied by a lower regenerative capacity possibly due to the failure in satellite cells activation. The aim of our study is to investigate if DM2 satellite cell derived myoblasts exhibit a premature senescence as reported for DM1 and if alterations in their proliferation potential and differentiation capabilities might contribute to some of the histopathological features observed in DM2 muscles. Our results indicate that DM myoblasts have lower proliferative capability than control myoblasts and reach in vitro senescence earlier than controls. Differentely from DM1, the p16 pathway is not responsible for the premature growth arrest observed in DM2 myoblasts which stop dividing with telomeres shorter than controls. During in vitro senescence, a progressive decrease in fusion index is observable in both DM and control myotubes with no significant differences between groups. Moreover, myotubes obtained from senescent myoblasts appear to be smaller than those from young myoblasts. Taken together, our data indicate a possible role of DM2 premature myoblast senescence in skeletal muscle histopathological alterations i.e., dystrophic changes and type 2 fibre atrophy.
On a notion of “Galois closure” for extensions of rings
Authors: Bhargava Manjul , Satriano Matthew
Published: October 2014

We introduce a notion of “Galois closure” for extensions of rings. We show that the notion agrees with the usual notion of Galois closure in the case of an

S_n

degree

n

extension of fields. Moreover, we prove a number of properties of this construction; for example, we show that it is functorial and respects base change. We also investigate the behavior of this Galois closure construction for various natural classes of ring extensions