bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
City Ville: collaborative game play, communication and skill development in social networks
Authors: Del-Moral María-Esther , Guzmán-Duque Alba-Patricia
Published: January 2014

This paper has as its aim to analyze how CityVille, a videogame hosted on Facebook and oriented to the construction of a virtual city, can favor collaboration between gamers along with the exchange of strategies, equally contributing to learning transfer and skill acquisition. The first step consists in identifying the opportunities which the said game can offer in order to develop skills and promote learning formats linked with planning and resource management, after which a presentation is made of the opinions expressed by a sample of gamers (N=105) –belonging to the Fans-CityVille community– about the priorities established by them to communicate with their neighbors and the skills that they believe to have acquired playing this game.

85.7% of them state that they communicate with others to share strategies and expand their city. Unlike women, who value collaboration, men prioritize competition. Designing their city has enhanced a number of gamer skills in different proportions: creative skills (71.4%); organizational ones (68.0%); skills associated with decision-making and problem-solving (67.0%); and interpersonal skills through interaction with others (61.9%).

The CityVille game mode favors skill development and helps to create a ludic atmosphere of collaboration and optimal strategy exchange through communication between neighbors by strengthening their mutual relationships. Its formula moves away from the often-criticized competitive practices of other games.
A proposal for generic competence assessment in a serious game
Authors: Bezanilla María José , Arranz Sonia , Rayón Alex , Rubio Isabel , Menchaca Iratxe , Guenaga Mariluz , Aguilar Eduardo
Published: January 2014

This paper focuses on the design of a serious game for the teaching and assessment of generic competences, placing particular emphasis on the competences assessment aspect. Taking into account important aspects of competence assessment such as context, feedback and transparency, among other aspects, and using the University of Deusto's Generic Competences Assessment Model based on the defining of levels, indicators and descriptors as a reference point, a serious game has been designed for the development and evaluation of two Generic Competences: Problem Solving and Entrepreneurship, aimed at final-year undergraduate and first-year postgraduate students. The design process shows that having a Competence Assessment Model based on levels, indicators and descriptors is of great help in defining the game's scenarios and learning and assessment activities. Serious games can also be excellent resources to help in the development and assessment of generic competences, but not as a unique tool, since the concept of competence in itself is highly complex (integrating knowledge, skills, attitudes and values) and some elements might require other methods and techniques for its development. It also reveals the difficulties of evaluating competences in general and through serious games in particular.
Interviewers’ Characteristics and Post-Hire Attitudes and Performance
Authors: Ismail Hussein , Karkoulian Silva
Published: January 2014

Many studies have demonstrated the impact of interviewers’ characteristics on applicants’ reactions in terms of their impressions of the organization and their intentions to accept the job offer. However, previous research has generally neglected the effect of interviewers’ characteristics on applicants after they join the firm. The present study, which involved a sample of 200 employees from different industries, showed that interviewers’ characteristics significantly affect applicants’ job satisfaction, motivation, and performance after they were hired in the firm. However, the results did not show support for the proposed effect of interviewers’ characteristics on organizational commitment. Discussions and conclusions are presented.

Keywords: Recruitment, Applicant Reactions, Interviewer Characteristics, Post-Hire
Attitudes, Recruiter

To cite this document: Hussein Ismail and Silva Karkoulian, "Interviewers’ Characteristics and Post-Hire Attitudes and Performance", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.9, No.4, pp.441-462, 2013.

Permanent link to this document:
http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.10453
Determinants and Consequences of Cooperation in International Strategic Distribution Channel Alliances
Authors: Mehta Rajiv , Ito Takao , Mazur Jolanta , Anderson Rolph E.
Published: January 2014

Relationship marketing literature suggests that concepts such as trust, integration, and relationship openness tend to increase cooperation and commitment among channels of distribution partners. However, can relationship marketing theory be extended to international strategic alliances in the manufacturer–distribution channel context? More specifically, can cooperation and commitment among international distribution channel partners be fostered using similar management practices on a cross-national basis? Given the scant research on strategic alliances in international distribution channels, this investigation seeks to validate empirically the effects of strategic integration, trust, and relationship openness among international channel partners as determinants of cooperation and commitment, which in turn affect overall channel performance. Research propositions postulating the linkages among the focal constructs within a conceptual model of cooperation and commitment in international distribution alliances are developed to provide insights and guidelines for manufacturers in selecting and working with international distributors as strategic alliance partners. Keywords: International Strategic Alliances, Cooperation, Strategic Integration, Trust, Relationship Commitment, Relationship Closeness, Performance, Relationship Satisfaction To cite this document: Rajiv Mehta, Takao Ito, Jolanta Mazur, and Rolph E. Anderson, "Determinants and Consequences of Cooperation in International Strategic Distribution Channel Alliances", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.9, No.4, pp.363-368, 2013. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.11072
The Effects of Relationship-Destroying Factors on Customer Relationships: Relationship Recovery as the Moderator
Authors: Chang Hui-Chen , Tsai Yi-Ching , Hsu Sheng-Yuan
Published: January 2014

The threshold for switching mobile phone numbers between different mobile communication service providers has largely decreased since the government lifted the ban on mobile phone number portability service. Users can convert their mobile communication service from their current provider to others while maintaining their existing phone numbers. The demand for mobile communication services has been increasing, along with the popular sales of smartphones and tablet PCs. However, more and more complaints have emerged in response to system service failures, employee service mistakes, and the sales promotion activities offered from competitors, which could destroy the trading relationship. These factors will lead to the customers’ intentions of complaining and switching to another service provider. This study aims to explore the relationship between destructive factors in trading relations, service providers’ relationship-recovery policies, and the outcome of customer default. Empirical data were collected from mobile service users through online questionnaires. Using the general linear model (GLM) to test the research hypotheses, the results showed that (1) the relationship-destroying factors including service system failures and personnel service errors positively impact customers’ complaining and switching intentions and (2) the financial and psychological recovery policies might decrease the customers’ complaining intention. Finally, this research also offers mobile communication services providers with strategic implications in customer relationship management. Keywords: Relationship-destroying factors, relationship recovery, customer response To cite this document: Hui-Chen Chang, Yi-Ching Tsai, and Sheng-Yuan Hsu, "The Effects of Relationship-Destroying Factors on Customer Relationships: Relationship Recovery as the Moderator", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.9, No.4, pp.369-388, 2013. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.11261
Strategies to Observe and Understand Processes and Drivers in the Biogeosphere
Authors: Vereecken Harry , Young Michael , Troch Peter , Bertsch Paul
Published: January 2014

Chapman conferences are intended for deeper discussions of specific topical areas of scientific interest. This Chapman conference was organized to review and discuss new strategies to observe and understand processes and drivers in the biogeosphere, particularly those related to coupled biogeochemical and hydrological processes in terrestrial systems. The topics presented at the meeting included transport and exchange processes of organic and gaseous compounds across the soil‐water and soil‐plant interfaces, monitoring strategies of soil‐mediated processes and drivers from the local to the catchment scale, and the impact of soil formation and functions on ecosystem services. These topics were addressed and intensively discussed by participants covering the fields of soil systems sciences, hydrology, and biogeosciences.
Jaime Urrutia Fucugauchi Receives 2013 International Award: Response
Authors: Fucugauchi Jaime Urrutia
Published: January 2014

Thank you, Cinna, for your kind and generous citation and for your friendship. It is a great recognition having been selected for the 2013 International Award. I feel honored, especially considering the international breadth of AGU, fostering scientific excellence and promoting research in Earth and space sciences worldwide. AGU has evolved over the years, becoming increasingly international and multidisciplinary, providing the intellectual framework and networking for research collaboration. I have been privileged to serve as International Secretary of the Union, which together with work in the committees permitted me to better appreciate the range of activities and the programs AGU does to serve its membership and the geophysics community.
Akuginow and Haines‐Stiles Receive 2013 Robert C. Cowen Journalism Award: Response
Authors: Haines‐Stiles Geoffrey , Akuginow Erna
Published: January 2014

Thanks to AGU and our citationist, Richard Alley, for this joint award to Erna and myself. While it is, of course, personally gratifying, we also consider it an acknowledgement that “science journalism” has broadened out from print to include video in all forms—from PBS primetime to YouTube anytime—and also social media and spoken‐word presentations. We're pleased that this is one more way in which AGU is validating the participation of its members in all forms of public outreach. We're gratified that our efforts in this regard have been supported by NSF, NASA, and NOAA, among other government agencies, and are happy to acknowledge their “priceless” role as funders. As one of our current collaborators, former NASA chief scientist Waleed Abdalati, likes to say, “The science isn't done until it's shared”…and there are more and more ways in which that sharing can be done.
Tim Folger Receives 2013 Walter Sullivan Award for Excellence in Science Journalism—Features: Citation
Authors: Kunzig Robert
Published: January 2014

A writer needs two distinct qualities to produce an article like “The Calm Before the Wave,” the piece on tsunamis for which Tim Folger is being honored with the 2013 Walter Sullivan Award. Like any good science writer, he needs the ability to sort through a large mass of scientific information and transform it into a clear, compelling narrative. But he also needs an empathic eye and ear—the ability to feel his way into the lives of people whose stories are utterly different from his own and to see and hear the telling details that will make those people come alive on the page.
Tim Folger Receives 2013 Walter Sullivan Award for Excellence in Science Journalism—Features: Response
Authors: Folger Tim
Published: January 2014

Few publications have the resources to send journalists halfway around world in pursuit of a story. National Geographic gave me the opportunity to see firsthand the horrific aftermath of a tsunami and to meet with survivors. I'm very grateful to National Geographic for funding nearly a month of costly travel in four different countries. It's a privilege to write for such a remarkable magazine.
Paul Voosen Receives 2013 David Perlman Award for Excellence in Science Journalism—News: Citation
Authors: Zaneski Cyril T.
Published: January 2014

It's my pleasure to nominate Paul Voosen, the former science reporter for Greenwire, for the David Perlman award. Last November, as Superstorm Sandy pounded the East Coast of the United States, Paul found himself stranded for several days in Miami, mourning a recently deceased family member.
Analyzing a sudden eruption of deep gas near Rome
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: January 2014

On 24 August 2013 a sudden burst of gas erupted from the ground near Rome's airport, about 15 kilometers southwest of the city. The eruption produced a crater that was initially about half a meter wide but that gradually increased in size and eventually reached a diameter of about 3 meters.
Phase I study of oral clofarabine consolidation in adults aged 60 and older with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Jacoby Meagan A. , Martin Michael G. , Uy Geoffrey L. , Westervelt Peter , DiPersio John F. , Cashen Amanda , Stockerl‐Goldstein Keith , Vij Ravi , Luo Jingqin , Reineck Teresa , Bernabe Noel , Abboud Camille N.
Published: January 2014

Clofarabine has shown activity and tolerability in older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We investigated the safety and tolerability of an oral formulation of clofarabine for consolidation therapy of patients aged 60 and older with AML. In this phase I study, twenty‐two patients older than 60 years with AML in first complete remission were treated once daily with oral clofarabine for 14 or 21 days of a 28‐day cycle, for up to five cycles. Dose escalation from 1 mg to 6 mg daily using a 3 + 3 design was used to determine dose‐limiting toxicities (DLT), the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and tolerability of oral clofarabine. No DLTs or Grade 3–4 nonhematologic toxicities were observed. The primary toxicities were hematologic, including uncomplicated grade 3–4 neutropenia (50%) and thrombocytopenia (50%). Given that myelosuppression necessitating dose delays/reductions was observed more commonly at higher doses, the recommended phase II dose is 2 mg daily for 21 of 28 days. At doses equal to or greater than 2 mg, the median relapse‐free survival was 28.35 months. Oral clofarabine was well‐tolerated with encouraging activity in patients older than 60 years. Further investigation of oral clofarabine as a consolidation and/or maintenance therapy in AML for older individuals is warranted. (ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT00727766). Am. J. Hematol. 89:487–492, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Horse antithymocyte globulin as salvage therapy after rabbit antithymocyte globulin for severe aplastic anemia
Authors: Scheinberg Phillip , Townsley Danielle , Dumitriu Bogdan , Scheinberg Priscila , Weinstein Barbara , Rios Olga , Wu Colin O. , Young Neal S.
Published: January 2014

The effectiveness of salvage therapy for aplastic anemia patients unresponsive to initial rabbit antithymocyte globulin (r‐ATG) or cyclophosphamide is not known. We investigated the administration of standard horse ATG (h‐ATG) plus cyclosporine (CsA) in patients who were refractory to initial r‐ATG/CsA (n = 19) or cyclophosphamide/CsA (n = 6) (registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00944749). The primary endpoint was hematologic response at 3 months and was defined as no longer meeting the criteria for severe aplastic anemia. Of the 19 patients who received r‐ATG as initial therapy, 4 (21%) achieved a hematologic response by 3 months, and of the 6 patients who received cyclophosphamide, only 1 (17%) responded by 6 months. Among the responders there were no cases of relapse, and in nonresponders 2 patients evolved to monosomy 7. The overall survival for the cohort at 3 years was 68% (95% CI, 50–91%). These results suggest that only a minority can be successfully salvaged after receiving as first therapy either r‐ATG or cyclophosphamide. Although h‐ATG may be utilized in the salvage setting, the overall response rate probably will be lower than when h‐ATG is used as initial treatment. Am. J. Hematol. 89:467–469, 2014. © Published 2014.
Expression of ABCG2 and Bmi‐1 in oral potentially malignant lesions and oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Dalley Andrew J. , Pitty Luke P. , Major Aidan G. , AbdulMajeed Ahmad A. , Farah Camile S.
Published: January 2014

Early diagnosis is vital for effective treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The optimal time for clinical intervention is prior to malignancy when patients present with oral potentially malignant lesions such as leukoplakia or erythroplakia. Transformation rates for oral dysplasia vary greatly and more rigorous methods are needed to predict the malignant potential of oral lesions. We hypothesized that the expression of two putative stem cell markers, ABCG2 and Bmi‐1, would correlate with disease severity for non diseased, potentially malignant and OSCC specimens and cell lines derived from an equivalent range of tissues. We compared immunoreactive protein and relative gene expression of ABCG2 and Bmi‐1 in eight cell lines derived from source tissues ranging in disease severity from normal (OKF6‐TERT2) through mild and moderate/severe dysplasia (DOK, POE‐9n) to OSCC (PE/CA‐PJ15, SCC04, SCC25, SCC09, SCC15). We also analyzed immunoreactive protein expression of ABCG2 and Bmi‐1 in 189 tissue samples with the same range of disease severity. A trend between oral lesion severity to ABCG2 and Bmi‐1 immunostain intensity was observed. Flow cytometry of oral cell lines confirmed this trend and gave good correlation with RT‐PCR results for ABCG2 (r = 0.919, P = 0.001; Pearson) but not Bmi‐1 (r = −0.311). The results provide evidence of increased density of ABCG2 and Bmi‐1‐positive populations in malignant and oral potentially malignant lesions and derived cell lines, but that intragroup variability within IHC, flow cytometry, and RT‐PCR results compromise the diagnostic potential of these techniques for discriminating oral dysplasia from normal tissue or OSCC.
Highly EnantioselectiveMichael Addition Promoted by a New Diterpene‐Derived Bifunctional Thiourea Catalyst: A Doubly Stereocontrolled Approach to Chiral Succinimide Derivatives
Authors: Song Zhong‐Tai , Zhang Tao , Du Hai‐Long , Ma Zhi‐Wei , Zhang Chang‐Hua , Tao Jing‐Chao
Published: January 2014

A doubly stereocontrolled organocatalytic asymmetric Michael addition to the synthesis of substituted succinimides is described. Starting from aldehydes and maleimides, both enantiomers of the succinimides could be obtained in high to excellent yields (up to 98%) and enantioselectivities (up to 99%) when one of the two special chiral diterpene‐derived bifunctional thioureas was individually used as a catalyst. Moreover, these catalysts can be efficiently used in large‐scale catalytic synthesis with the same level of yield and enantioselectivity. Chirality 00:000–000, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The fast pyrolysis characteristics of palm empty fruit bunch: The yield and homogeneity of biocrudeoil affected by ash
Authors: Yoo Heung‐Min , Choi Hang Seok , Lee Jang‐Soo , Park Hoon Chae , Yang Won‐Seok , Seo Yong‐Chil
Published: January 2014

In the palm oil industry, the palm fresh fruit bunch (FFB) is used to make crude palm oil. During the oil manufacturing process, the palm empty fruit bunch (EFB), which accounts for more than 20 wt % of the FFB, is generated as a byproduct. Although large amounts of EFB are generated every year in Malaysia, the EFB is treated as waste material because commercial technologies for thermochemical conversion of EFB into renewable energy are still in development. Hence, if a robust conversion method is found, the EFB will be an appealing renewable energy source. In this study, the fast pyrolysis of the EFB was conducted in a laboratory‐scale (throughput = 1 kg/h) bubbling fluidized bed reactor. The sample material was imported from Waris Selesa Sdn. Bhd. in Malaysia. First, this EFB was characterized using proximate and ultimate analytic methods, among others. Additionally, thermogravimetric analysis was conducted to determine the basic thermal degradative characteristics of the EFB. However, one of most difficult problems in manufacturing homogeneous biocrude oil from EFB is its high ash content. The ash content of EFB is more than 7 wt %, which may decrease the yield and quality of resultant biocrude oil. Hence, in this study, the effect of changing the ash content of the EFB on the yield of biocrude oil was examined. Moreover, the pyrolysis reaction temperature was varied from 400 to 650°C to determine the pyrolysis conditions for the optimal yield and quality of biocrude oil. The quality of the biocrude oil was determined based on its homogeneity, which was quantified using microscopy and image‐processing technology. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 706–710, 2014
Mechanical behavior of masonry materials at high temperatures
Authors: Andreini Marco , Caciolai Mauro , La Mendola Saverio , Mazziotti Lamberto , Sassu Mauro
Published: January 2014

An experimental campaign is presented to determine the effects of high temperatures on the mechanical properties of several materials for masonry walls (blocks and mortars), testing a series of cylindrical specimens (diameter of 100 mm and height of 200 mm). After compression tests at 20 °C, an experimental procedure was designed for high‐temperature testing. The cylindrical samples were heated in a muffle furnace, then were inserted into a specific apparatus (called ‘thermos’) for maintaining the prescribed temperature, and finally were subjected to a mechanical compression test. The results obtained by applying this procedure show a common variation of the strength, reduction of modulus of elasticity, and corresponding increments of the ultimate strain with temperature enhancement. Specific diagrams and discussion on the results are performed for each material. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychosocial and medical aspects of older suicide completers in Israel: a 10‐year survey
Authors: Shelef Assaf , Hiss Jehuda , Cherkashin Gali , Berger Uri , Aizenberg Dov , Baruch Yehuda , Barak Yoram
Published: January 2014

Objectives

The rate of completed suicide among the elderly continues to be the highest of any age group worldwide. The aim of the present study was to investigate the sociodemographic data, mental and physical health characteristics, and suicide methods of the elderly population who completed suicide in Israel.

Methods

A national retrospective record‐based case series study of consecutive elder (50 years or older) suicide completers who had undergone autopsy over a 10‐year period was conducted.

Results

Three hundred and fourteen consecutive records of suicide completers, 69.6% males, and mean age 64.7 were analyzed. The largest group (38%) emigrated from the Former Soviet Union and 19% emigrated from East Europe. Immigrants from East Europe committed suicide at an older age.

Hanging was the predominant suicide method. Jumping from height increased more than threefold in the ‘old‐old’(older than 75 years) group. Hanging and firearms were more frequently used by males. Females were more likely to employ poisoning and suffocation.

A significant minority (30%) had been diagnosed as suffering from psychiatric morbidity. Most common diagnoses were depression and alcohol abuse or dependence. Physical disorders (mainly cardiovascular disease and malignancy) were present in 27% of cases. Subjects with psychiatric illness were more likely to complete suicide at a younger age compared with subjects with physical illness.

Conclusions

Findings of male predominance, psychiatric morbidity, and physical illness are consistent with previously published studies. Immigrants from East Europe completed suicide at an older age and the older victims had used more lethal methods of suicide. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatocellular carcinoma: Short‐term reproducibility of apparent diffusion coefficient and intravoxel incoherent motion parameters at 3.0T
Authors: Kakite Suguru , Dyvorne Hadrien , Besa Cecilia , Cooper Nancy , Facciuto Marcelo , Donnerhack Claudia , Taouli Bachir
Published: January 2014

Purpose

To evaluate short‐term test–retest and interobserver reproducibility of IVIM (intravoxel incoherent motion) diffusion parameters and ADC (apparent diffusion coefficient) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver parenchyma at 3.0T.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐approved study, 11 patients were scanned twice using a free‐breathing single‐shot echo‐planar‐imaging, diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) sequence using 4 b values (b = 0, 50, 500, 1000 s/mm2) and IVIM DWI using 16 b values (0–800 s/mm2) at 3.0T. IVIM parameters (D: true diffusion coefficient, D*: pseudodiffusion coefficient, PF: perfusion fraction) and ADC (using 4 b and 16 b) were calculated. Short‐term test–retest and interobserver reproducibility of IVIM parameters and ADC were assessed by measuring correlation coefficient, coefficient of variation (CV), and Bland–Altman limits of agreements (BA‐LA).

Results

Fifteen HCCs were assessed in 10 patients. Reproducibility of IVIM metrics in HCC was poor for D* and PF (mean CV 60.6% and 37.3%, BA‐LA: −161.6% to 135.3% and −66.2% to 101.0%, for D* and PF, respectively), good for D and ADC (CV 19.7% and <16%, BA‐LA −57.4% to 36.3% and −38.2 to 34.1%, for D and ADC, respectively). Interobserver reproducibility was on the same order of test–retest reproducibility except for PF in HCC. Reproducibility of diffusion parameters was better in liver parenchyma compared to HCC.

Conclusion

Poor reproducibility of D*/PF and good reproducibility for D/ADC were observed in HCC and liver parenchyma. These findings may have implications for trials using DWI in HCC. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:149–156. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Initial and subsequent effects of hydrochar amendment on germination and nitrogen uptake of spring barley
Authors: Bargmann Inge , Rillig Matthias C. , Kruse Andrea , Greef Jörg‐Michael , Kücke Martin
Published: January 2014

The application of hydrochars as soil amendments could be an option to ameliorate soil quality by enhancing nutrient and water‐holding capacity of sandy soils. But when hydrochar application is directly followed by sowing, it can decrease the soil mineral‐N concentration and the germination rate of crops. We currently lack evidence, whether these effects are persistent or transient and thus can be avoided by adjusting the application strategy, e.g., by prolonging the period between application and sowing. A set of pot trials with spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was performed to study the initial and subsequent effects of different hydrochar amendments on germination, biomass production, and plant N availability. To this end, two subsequent cultivations of barley were grown on hydrochar‐amended soil–peat substrates. The first barley cultivation was sown directly after hydrochar application. After the harvest, the same substrates were cultivated with barley again. Germination, biomass production, and N concentration in the biomass were reduced when sowing directly followed the application of hydrochars. Differences in germination rate and biomass production between hydrochar treatments depended on the hydrochar feedstock. A recultivation of the hydrochar‐amended substrates 9 weeks after hydrochar application showed no significant effects on germination and biomass production. The N concentration in plants was still lower in the hydrochar treatments despite additional fertilization. The N immobilized during the first cultivation period was not released in the following weeks. We conclude that the germination‐inhibiting substances in hydrochars were removed in the weeks after soil incorporation. This is probably due to microbial degradation of hydrochar components and a consecutive immobilization of mineral N. Hydrochar amendment had only short‐term effects on germination and biomass production of barley that can be avoided by applying hydrochar at least 4 weeks prior to sowing. The N concentration in plants was persistently low even 4 months after hydrochar application which can only be redeemed by adjusting the fertilization strategy.
Thermal Stability of Larger Carbonyl Compounds: 2‐Methylbutyraldehyde
Authors: Rosado‐Reyes Claudette M. , Tsang Wing
Published: January 2014

We have decomposed 2‐methylbutyraldehye in single pulse shock tube experiments, at temperatures between 1075 K to 1250 K and pressures of 1.5 and 6 atm. Five reaction channels have been identified from the unimolecular products that have been detected. The products involve CC bond cleavage together with a retro‐ene reaction. Particularly remarkable is the detection of small amount of butane; the first time that an alkane has been detected in these high‐temperature experiments. The formation of butane represents evidence of the roaming radical reaction or more generally the high‐temperature radical disproportionation reaction. Ethylene is present in large yields, and this is traced to a 1,2 H‐transfer reaction involving the highly exothermic transfer of a carbonyl hydrogen to an alkyl site. The results are consistent with earlier single pulse shock tube experiments on the 2‐ketones. In particular, they confirm the earlier observation that substituting a methyl and hydrogen atom with a doubly bonded oxygen atom have very little effect on the rate constant of the adjoining CC bond. The yields of ethylene are consistent with a very low value of the carbonyl resonance energy.
Proteomics of extracellular vesicles: Exosomes and ectosomes
Authors: Choi Dong‐Sic , Kim Dae‐Kyum , Kim Yoon‐Keun , Gho Yong Song
Published: January 2014

Almost all bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotic cells shed extracellular vesicles either constitutively or in a regulated manner. These nanosized membrane vesicles are spherical, bilayered proteolipids that harbor specific subsets of proteins, DNAs, RNAs, and lipids. Recent research has facilitated conceptual advancements in this emerging field that indicate that extracellular vesicles act as intercellular communicasomes by transferring signals to their target cell via surface ligands and delivering receptors and functional molecules. Recent progress in mass spectrometry‐based proteomic analyses of mammalian extracellular vesicles derived from diverse cell types and body fluids has resulted in the identification of several thousand vesicular proteins that provide us with essential clues to the molecular mechanisms involved in vesicle cargo sorting and biogenesis. Furthermore, cell‐type‐ or disease‐specific vesicular proteins help us to understand the pathophysiological functions of extracellular vesicles and contribute to the discovery of diagnostic and therapeutic target proteins. This review focuses on the high‐throughput mass spectrometry‐based proteomic analyses of mammalian extracellular vesicles (i.e., exosomes and ectosomes), EVpedia (a free web‐based integrated database of high‐throughput data for systematic analyses of extracellular vesicles; http://evpedia.info), and the intravesicular protein–protein interaction network analyses of mammalian extracellular vesicles. The goal of this article is to encourage further studies to construct a comprehensive proteome database for extracellular vesicles that will help us to not only decode the biogenesis and cargo‐sorting mechanisms during vesicle formation but also elucidate the pathophysiological roles of these complex extracellular organelles. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 34: 474–490, 2015.
Oocyte‐secreted factors in oocyte maturation media enhance subsequent development of bovine cloned embryos
Authors: Su Jianmin , Wang Yongsheng , Zhang Lei , Wang Bo , Liu Jun , Luo Yan , Guo Zekun , Quan Fusheng , Zhang Yong
Published: January 2014

Successful in vitro maturation (IVM) and oocyte quality both affect the subsequent development of cloned embryos derived from somatic‐cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Developmental competence is usually lower in oocytes matured in vitro compared with those that matured in vivo, possibly due to insufficient levels of oocyte‐secreted factors (OSFs) and disrupted oocyte–cumulus communication. This study investigated the effects of OSFs secreted by denuded oocytes (DOs) during IVM on the subsequent developmental competence of cloned bovine embryos. Cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) from antral follicles of slaughtered‐cow ovaries collected from an abattoir were divided into four groups: COCs co‐cultured with and without DOs in maturation media used for SCNT, as well as COCs co‐cultured with and without DOs in maturation media used for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Based on the developmental competence and embryo quality of bovine embryos generated from these four groups, we found that co‐culturing the COCs with DOs enhanced the in vitro development of IVF and cloned bovine embryos, and potentially generated more high‐quality cloned blastocysts that possessed locus‐specific histone modifications at levels similar to in vitro‐fertilized embryos. These results strongly suggest that co‐culturing COCs with DOs enhances subsequent developmental competence of cloned bovine embryo. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 81: 341–349, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alloisoleucine differentiates the branched‐chain aminoacidemia of Zucker and dietary obese rats
Authors: Olson Kristine C. , Chen Gang , Xu Yuping , Hajnal Andras , Lynch Christopher J.
Published: January 2014

Objective

Circulating branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) are elevated in obesity and this has been linked to obesity comorbidities. However it is unclear how obesity affects alloisoleucine, a BCAA and pathognomonic marker of branched‐chain keto acid dehydrogenase complex (BCKDC) disorders. It has been previously established that obese Zucker rats exhibit BCKDC impairments in fat and other tissues, whereas BCKDC impairments in adipose tissue of DIO rats are compensated by increased hepatic BCKDC activity. Therefore, alloisoleucine was investigated in these two obesity models.

Methods

Amino acids were extracted from plasma and measured using ultra performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry.

Results

Plasma alloisoleucine was 238% higher in obese compared to lean Zucker rats. This elevation was greater than that of other BCAAs (107‐124%). DIO rats had no significant change in alloisoleucine, despite elevations in other BCAAs (15‐66%).

Conclusions

Alloisoleucine was elevated in obese Zucker but not DIO rats consistent with known global impairments of BCKDC in Zucker but not DIO rats. Cytotoxic branched‐chain ketoacids (BCKAs) accumulate in genetic disorders affecting BCKDC. BCKAs increase reactive oxygen species, stress kinase activation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Inasmuch as these factors underlie obesity comorbidities, it may important to identify obese individuals with elevated alloisoleucine.
Correlates of body mass index and overweight and obesity of children aged 2 years: Findings from the healthy beginnings trial
Authors: Wen Li Ming , Baur Louise A. , Rissel Chris , Xu Huilan , Simpson Judy M.
Published: January 2014

Objective

We sought to determine early life factors that predict body mass index (BMI) and overweight/obesity of children aged 2 years.

Methods

A longitudinal and prospective analysis was conducted with 330 first‐time mothers and their newborns. Children's weight and length were measured at 2 years. Main factors of interest included reported infant feeding practices, children's fruit/vegetable consumption, and television (TV) time. Maternal demographic data, weight and height, and smoking status were collected by face‐to‐face interview at baseline. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were run to determine factors that predicted BMI or overweight/obesity of children aged 2 years, respectively.

Results

At age 2 years, 242 remained in the study (retention rate 73%). Mean (SD) BMI of children was 16.87 kg/m2 (1.62), with 14% classified as overweight/obese. Factors predicting lower child BMI were longer breastfeeding duration, less TV viewing time, and lower child's birth weight as well as maternal healthy prepregnancy weight status. Factors predicting children's overweight/obesity status were shorter breastfeeding duration, earlier introduction of solid food, and maternal overweight or obesity.

Conclusions

At 2 years of age, longer breastfeeding duration was associated with lower BMI, while greater TV viewing time was associated with higher BMI, after adjusting for other factors. Early introduction of solids and maternal overweight or obesity were independently associated with overweight or obesity.
Improving subjective perception of personal cancer risk: systematic review and meta‐analysis of educational interventions for people with cancer or at high risk of cancer
Authors: Dieng Mbathio , Watts Caroline G. , Kasparian Nadine A. , Morton Rachael L. , Mann Graham J. , Cust Anne E.
Published: January 2014

Background

Newly diagnosed patients with cancer require education about the disease, the available treatments and potential consequences of treatment. Greater understanding of cancer risk has been found to be associated with greater health‐related quality of life, improved psychological adjustment and greater health‐related behaviours. The aim of this sytematic review was to assess the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving subjective cancer risk perception and to appraise the quality of the studies.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective observational studies. Eligible studies were identified via Medline, PsycINFO, AMED, CINAHL and Embase databases. After screening titles and abstracts, two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility of 206 full‐text articles.

Results

Forty papers were included in the review; the majority of studies were conducted among breast cancer patients (n = 29) and evaluated the effect of genetic counselling on personal perceived risk (n = 25). Pooled results from RCTs (n = 12) showed that, both in the short and long term, educational interventions did not significantly influence risk perception level (standardised mean difference 0.05, 95% CI −0.24–0.34; p = 0.74) or accuracy (odds ratio = 1.96, 95% CI: 0.61–6.25; p = 0.26). Only one RCT reported a short‐term difference in risk ratings (p = 0.01). Of prospective observational studies (n = 28), many did demonstrate changes in the level of perceived risk and improved risk accuracy and risk ratings in both the short and long term. However, only one (of three) observational studies reported a short‐term difference in risk ratings (p < = 0.003).

Conclusion

Further development and investigation of educational interventions using good quality, RCTs are warranted. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Null ABCA3 in humans: Large homozygous ABCA3 deletion, correlation to clinical–pathological findings
Authors: Carrera Paola , Ferrari Maurizio , Presi Silvia , Ventura Luisa , Vergani Barbara , Lucchini Valeria , Cogo Paola E. , Carnielli Virgilio P. , Somaschini Marco , Tagliabue Paolo
Published: January 2014

A study was undertaken to analyze the clinical presentation, pulmonary function, and pathological features in two female siblings with neonatal pulmonary surfactant metabolism dysfunction, type 3 (MIM 610921).

The clinical records of the siblings were examined; the genes encoding surfactant protein B (SFTPB), surfactant protein C (SFTPC), and ATP‐binding cassette transporter 3 protein (ABCA3) were analyzed with direct sequencing and Southern blotting.

The infants were homozygous for a 5,983 bp deletion in ABCA3 including exons 2–5 as well as the start AUG codon and a putative Golgi exit signal motif. Dense abnormalities of lamellar bodies at electron microscopy and absence of ABCA3 at immunohistochemical staining were in agreement with the presence of two null alleles. In addition, an increased lipid synthesis suggested a compensatory mechanism. The clinical course in the two sisters was influenced by different environmental factors like the time needed for molecular confirmation, the ventilatory assistance adopted, the occurrence of infections.

A less aggressive clinical approach did not improve the course of the disease; the prognosis was always poor. Development of a fast molecular test, able to detect also structural variants, is needed. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:E116–E120. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contribution of household herbicide usage to glyphosate and its degradate aminomethylphosphonic acid in surface water drains
Authors: Ramwell Carmel T , Kah Melanie , Johnson Paul D
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

It is necessary to understand the extent to which different sources of pesticides contribute to surface water contamination in order to focus preventive measures appropriately. The extent to which glyphosate use in the home and garden sector may contribute to surface water contamination has not previously been quantified. The aim of this study was to quantify the widely used herbicide glyphosate and its degradation product aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) in surface water drains (storm drains) that could be attributed to amateur, non‐professional usage alone.

RESULTS

Maximum glyphosate and AMPA concentrations in surface water drains were 8.99 and 1.15 µg L−1 respectively after the first rain event following the main application period, but concentrations rapidly declined to <1.5 and <0.5 µg L−1. The AMPA:glyphosate ratio was typically 0.35. Less than 1% of the applied glyphosate was recovered in drain water.

CONCLUSION

Glyphosate and AMPA losses from urban areas that arise solely from amateur usage have been quantified. In spite of overdosing occurring, glyphosate concentrations in drain flow were lower than concentrations reported elsewhere from professional use in urban areas. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Epistemology, Sociology, and Learning and Teaching in Physics
Authors: SIN CRISTINA
Published: January 2014

This paper explores the relationship between epistemology, sociology, and learning and teaching in physics based on an examination of literature from research in science studies, history and philosophy of science, and physics pedagogic research. It reveals a mismatch between the positivist epistemological foundation which seems to underpin the teaching of physics at the undergraduate level and the tentative nature of knowledge and the primarily social‐constructivist process of knowledge creation which characterise the practices of professional physicists. Attention is drawn to the consequences of neglecting this mismatch, which is detrimental to students’ understanding of the nature of the discipline, their conceptual development, and the acquisition of skills essential not only for a scientific career but also for students’ development as individuals and citizens. The paper argues for the explicit contemplation of disciplinary epistemology in physics teaching and in pedagogic research to improve student learning and for the avoidance of the dangers of epistemological essentialism.
Removal of Cetylpyridinium Bromide by Adsorption onto Maghnite: Application to Paper Deinking
Authors: Ourari Ali , Flilissa Abdenacer , Boutahala Mokhtar , Ilikti Hocine
Published: January 2014

The removal of cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB) from aqueous solutions was investigated using a mineral adsorbent called Maghnite (a bentonite obtained from Maghnia, West Algeria). The adsorption kinetics of CPB on Maghnite is pseudo‐second order and the adsorption isotherm follows essentially the model of Redlich–Peterson. The results obtained show that CPB is adsorbed on Maghnite with an adsorption capacity of 0.438 mmol/g (168.4 mg/g). Physical data indicate that CPB is efficient for the deinking of newspaper solutions, only when the natural Maghnite is associated to CPB. These results are of practical interest, since CPB shows a double action—to protect and to optimize aquatic environment.
Regulatory focus as a predictor of attitudes toward partitioned and combined pricing
Authors: Lee Kiljae , Choi Jungsil , Li Yexin Jessica
Published: January 2014

Partitioned pricing is a widely used pricing strategy, but little is known about the buyer characteristics that influence its effectiveness. The current research contributes to the pricing literature by investigating the impact of regulatory focus on the perceived attractiveness of partitioned and combined pricing. In four studies, we hypothesized and found support for the idea that promotion focused individuals perceive partitioned prices to be more attractive than combined prices, while prevention focused individuals do not differentiate between the two pricing types. Our results also show that regulatory focus influences consumers' information processing style, which in turn leads to important differences in attitudes towards partitioned and combined pricing. Specifically, promotion focused consumers are more likely to engage in global processing and global processing is linked to preferences for partitioned (versus combined) prices.
DNA polymerase β deficiency is linked to aggressive breast cancer: A comprehensive analysis of gene copy number, mRNA and protein expression in multiple cohorts
Authors: Abdel-Fatah Tarek M.A. , Russell Roslin , Agarwal Devika , Moseley Paul , Abayomi Michael Ayotunde , Perry Christina , Albarakati Nada , Ball Graham , Chan Stephen , Caldas Carlos , Ellis Ian O. , Madhusudan Srinivasan
Published: January 2014

Short arm of chromosome 8 is a hot spot for chromosomal breaks, losses and amplifications in breast cancer. Although such genetic changes may have phenotypic consequences, the identity of candidate gene(s) remains to be clearly defined. Pol β gene is localized to chromosome 8p12‐p11 and encodes a key DNA base excision repair protein. Pol β may be a tumour suppressor and involved in breast cancer pathogenesis. We conducted the first and the largest study to comprehensively evaluate pol β in breast cancer. We investigated pol β gene copy number changes in two cohorts (n = 128 & n = 1952), pol β mRNA expression in two cohorts (n = 249 & n = 1952) and pol β protein expression in two cohorts (n = 1406 & n = 252). Artificial neural network analysis for pol β interacting genes was performed in 249 tumours. For mechanistic insights, pol β gene copy number changes, mRNA and protein levels were investigated together in 128 tumours and validated in 1952 tumours. Low pol β mRNA expression as well as low pol β protein expression was associated high grade, lymph node positivity, pleomorphism, triple negative, basal‐like phenotypes and poor survival (ps < 0.001). In oestrogen receptor (ER) positive sub‐group that received tamoxifen, low pol β protein remains associated with aggressive phenotype and poor survival (ps < 0.001). Artificial neural network analysis revealed ER as a top pol β interacting gene. Mechanistically, there was strong positive correlation between pol β gene copy number changes and pol β mRNA expression (p < 0.0000001) and between pol β mRNA and pol β protein expression (p < 0.0000001). This is the first study to provide evidence that pol β deficiency is linked to aggressive breast cancer and may have prognostic and predictive significance in patients.