bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of an Automated Multi‐Injection Shotgun Lipidomics Approach Using a Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer
Authors: Bowden John A. , Bangma Jackie T. , Kucklick John R.
Published: April 2014

Shotgun lipidomics is a well‐suited approach to monitor lipid alterations due to its ability to scan for varying lipid types on a global, class and individual species level. However, the ability to perform high‐throughput shotgun lipidomics has remained challenging due to time‐consuming data processing and hardware limitations. To increase the throughput nature of shotgun lipidomics, an automated shotgun lipidomics approach is described utilizing conventional low flow gradient liquid chromatography (LC) analysis (post‐injection) coupled with multiple sample injections per sample (on a lipid scan per injection basis). The proposed automated multi‐injection approach resulted in a reproducible lipid scanning period of 2.5 min (in a 4.5 min total data acquisition period), thereby providing a sufficient scanning period for performing either mass spectrometric or tandem mass spectrometric analyses. In addition to being simple, robust and reproducible, this approach was also constructed to be cost‐effective by using common LC instrumentation and customizable as the data acquisition period can be tailored to perform different scan types, period lengths and scan numbers. Combined with a strategy to create multiple lipid‐specific aliquots per sample, the overall approach provides a simple and efficient platform to perform high‐throughput lipid profiling.
Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection of 1,4‐Dioxane in Palm‐Based Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates
Authors: Tay Bonnie Yen Ping , Maurad Zulina , Muhammad Halimah
Published: April 2014

During the ethoxylation of fatty alcohol, 1,4‐dioxane, a toxic by‐product may be formed. A simple and rapid method using gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector was developed for detection of 1,4‐dioxane in commercial palm‐based fatty alcohol ethoxylate (FAEO). The method involved spiking the 1,4‐dioxane into FAEO samples, and directly injecting the spiked samples into GC with no clean‐up steps. The method was validated in terms of linearity, accuracy, intra‐day precision and inter‐day precision, selectivity, limit of detection and limit of quantification. In terms of linearity, a calibration curve with a correlation coefficient of 0.9999 was obtained. The accuracy of the method was indicated by recovery obtained for spiked 1,4‐dioxane samples at 5 levels of spiking, i.e. at 30, 60, 100, 200 and 500 μg/g, where recoveries were within 99–105 % with relative standard deviation (RSD) of <4.0 %. The RSD values of the intra‐day and inter‐day precision were <1.0 %. The limit of detection and quantification was 10 and 30 μg/g, respectively. The selectivity of the method was indicated by its ability to analyze commercial FAEO samples with different average moles of ethylene oxide (EO). The GC profiles of these FAEO with varying numbers of moles of EO were similar, and there were no other peaks interfering with the 1,4‐dioxane peak.
Principal components analysis of diet and alternatives for identifying the combination of foods that are associated with the risk of disease: a simulation study
Authors: Bakolis Ioannis , Burney Peter , Hooper Richard
Published: April 2014

Dietary patterns derived empirically using principal components analysis (PCA) are widely employed for investigating diet–disease relationships. In the present study, we investigated whether PCA performed better at identifying such associations than an analysis of each food on a FFQ separately, referred to here as an exhaustive single food analysis (ESFA). Data on diet and disease were simulated using real FFQ data and by assuming a number of food intakes in combination that were associated with the risk of disease. In each simulation, ESFA and PCA were employed to identify the combinations of foods that are associated with the risk of disease using logistic regression, allowing for multiple testing and adjusting for energy intake. ESFA was also separately adjusted for principal components of diet, foods that were significant in the unadjusted ESFA and propensity scores. For each method, we investigated the power with which an association between diet and disease could be identified, and the power and false discovery rate (FDR) for identifying the specific combination of food intakes. In some scenarios, ESFA had greater power to detect a diet–disease association than PCA. ESFA also typically had a greater power and a lower FDR for identifying the combinations of food intakes that are associated with the risk of disease. The FDR of both methods increased with increasing sample size, but when ESFA was adjusted for foods that were significant in the unadjusted ESFA, FDR were controlled at the desired level. These results question the widespread use of PCA in nutritional epidemiology. The adjusted ESFA identifies the combinations of foods that are causally linked to the risk of disease with low FDR and surprisingly good power.
Differential cellular uptake and metabolism of curcuminoids in monocytes/macrophages: regulatory effects on lipid accumulation
Authors: Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Zingg Jean-Marc , Kim Sharon H. , Thomas Michael J. , Dolnikowski Gregory G. , Azzi Angelo , Miyazawa Teruo , Meydani Mohsen
Published: April 2014

We have previously shown that curcumin (CUR) may increase lipid accumulation in cultured human acute monocytic leukaemia cell line THP-1 monocytes/macrophages, but that tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), an in vivo metabolite of CUR, has no such effect. In the present study, we hypothesised that the different cellular uptake and/or metabolism of CUR and THC might be a possible explanation for the previously observed differences in their effects on lipid accumulation in THP-1 monocytes/macrophages. Chromatography with tandem MS revealed that CUR was readily taken up by THP-1 monocytes/macrophages and slowly metabolised to hexahydrocurcumin sulphate. By contrast, the uptake of THC was low. In parallel with CUR uptake, increased lipid uptake was observed in THP-1 macrophages but not with the uptake of THC or another CUR metabolite and structurally related compounds. From these results, it is possible to deduce that CUR and THC are taken up and metabolised differently in THP-1 cells, which determine their biological activity. The remarkable differential cellular uptake of CUR, relative to THC and other similar molecules, may imply that the CUR uptake into cells may occur via a transporter.
Thermal behavior change in the self-focusing of an intense laser beam in magnetized electron-ion-positron plasma
Authors: Javan N. Sepehri , Azad M. Hosseinpour
Published: April 2014

Self-focusing of an intense circularly-polarized laser beam in a hot electron-positron-ion magneto-plasma is studied. Using a relativistic fluid model, nonlinear equation describing laser-plasma interaction in the quasi-neutral approximation is derived. Expanding nonlinear current density in terms of normalized vector potential and saving only the parabolic terms, we investigated the self-focusing phenomenon for right- and left-hand circularly polarized laser beams. The evolution of laser beam spot size with Gaussian profile is considered. Effects of the external magnetic field, fraction of electron-positron pairs, and also the kind of polarization on the self-focusing property are studied. It is shown that a mixture of electron-positron pairs to the ion-electron plasma modifies the behavior of plasma with respect to the external magnetic field.
A Proposal for Improved Helium Microscopy
Authors: Martin Frederick W.
Published: April 2014

Elimination of the electrostatic objective lens and alternative use of a Cc- and Cs-corrected quadrupole doublet may increase the useful working distance of the helium microscope, improve its resolution from 3 to 0.3 Å, and improve its optimum convergence angle from 0.4 to 4 mrad.
Ultra Q-bodies: quench-based antibody probes that utilize dye-dye interactions with enhanced antigen-dependent fluorescence
Authors: Abe Ryoji , Jeong Hee-Jin , Arakawa Dai , Dong Jinhua , Ohashi Hiroyuki , Kaigome Rena , Saiki Fujio , Yamane Kyosuke , Takagi Hiroaki , Ueda Hiroshi
Published: April 2014

Recently, we described a novel reagentless fluorescent biosensor strategy named Quenchbody, which functions via the antigen-dependent removal of the quenching effect on a fluorophore that is attached to a single-chain antibody variable region. To explore the practical utility of Quenchbodies, we prepared antibody Fab fragments that were fluorolabeled at either one or two of the N-terminal regions, using a cell-free translation-mediated position-specific protein labeling system. Unexpectedly, the Fab fragment labeled at the heavy chain N-terminal region demonstrated a deeper quenching and antigen-dependent release compared to that observed using scFv. Moreover, when the Fab was fluorolabeled at the two N-termini with either the same dye or with two different dyes, an improved response due to enhanced quenching via dye-dye interactions was observed. On the basis of this approach, several targets, including peptides, proteins and haptens, as well as narcotics, were quantified with a higher response up to 50-fold. In addition, differentiation of osteosarcoma to osteoblasts was successfully imaged using a similarly fluorolabeled recombinant Fab protein prepared from E. coli. Due to its versatility, this “Ultra-Quenchbody” is expected to exhibit a range of applications from in vitro diagnostics to the live imaging of various targets in situ.
Enzyme-free Passage of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells by Controlling Divalent Cations
Authors: Ohnuma Kiyoshi , Fujiki Ayaka , Yanagihara Kana , Tachikawa Saoko , Hayashi Yohei , Ito Yuzuru , Onuma Yasuko , Chan Techuan , Michiue Tatsuo , Furue Miho K. , Asashima Makoto
Published: April 2014

Enzymes used for passaging human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) digest cell surface proteins, resulting in cell damage. Moreover, cell dissociation using divalent cation-free solutions causes apoptosis. Here we report that Mg2+ and Ca2+ control cell-fibronectin and cell-cell binding of hPSCs, respectively, under feeder- and serum-free culture conditions without enzyme. The hPSCs were detached from fibronectin-, vitronectin- or laminin-coated dishes in low concentrations of Mg2+ and remained as large colonies in high concentrations of Ca2+. Using enzyme-free solutions containing Ca2+ without Mg2+, we successfully passaged hPSCs as large cell clumps that showed less damage than cells passaged using a divalent cation-free solution or dispase. Under the same conditions, the undifferentiated and early-differentiated cells could also be harvested as a cell sheet without being split off. Our enzyme-free passage of hPSCs under a serum- and feeder-free culture condition reduces cell damage and facilitates easier and safer cultures of hPSCs.
Mapping of Topological Quantum Circuits to Physical Hardware
Authors: Paler Alexandru , Devitt Simon J. , Nemoto Kae , Polian Ilia
Published: April 2014

Topological quantum computation is a promising technique to achieve large-scale, error-corrected computation. Quantum hardware is used to create a large, 3-dimensional lattice of entangled qubits while performing computation requires strategic measurement in accordance with a topological circuit specification. The specification is a geometric structure that defines encoded information and fault-tolerant operations. The compilation of a topological circuit is one important aspect of programming a quantum computer, another is the mapping of the topological circuit into the operations performed by the hardware. Each qubit has to be controlled and measurement results are needed to propagate encoded quantum information from input to output. In this work, we introduce an algorithm for mapping an topological circuit to the operations needed by the physical hardware. We determine the control commands for each qubit in the computer and the relevant measurements that are needed to track information as it moves through the circuit.
Photocatalytic activity of transition-metal-ion-doped coordination polymer (CP): photoresponse region extension and quantum yields enhancement via doping of transition metal ions into the framework of CPs
Authors: Xu Xin-Xin , Cui Zhong-Ping , Gao Xin , Liu Xiao-Xia
Published: April 2014

To enhance the photocatalytic activity of CP1, TMI/CP1 were synthesized and their photocatalytic activities were studied.
Inactivation of two newly identified tobacco heavy metal ATPases leads to reduced Zn and Cd accumulation in shoots and reduced pollen germination
Authors: Hermand Victor , Julio Emilie , Dorlhac de Borne François , Punshon Tracy , Ricachenevsky Felipe K. , Bellec Arnaud , Gosti Françoise , Berthomieu Pierre
Published: April 2014

Using NtHMA mutants and NtHMA-silenced lines we successfully developed tobacco plants with reduced cadmium concentration in shoots.
Interrelationship between cross-linking structure, molecular stability, and cytocompatibility of amniotic membranes cross-linked with glutaraldehyde of varying concentrations
Authors: Lai Jui-Yang
Published: April 2014

Chemical cross-linker concentration has a marked influence on the interrelationship between cross-linking structure, molecular stability, and cytocompatibility of a glutaraldehyde-treated amniotic membrane for a limbal stem cell niche.
Insertion of carbon monoxide into an aldehyde CO double bond induced by an (η3-α-silabenzyl)carbonylmolybdenum complex
Authors: Kanno Yuto , Komuro Takashi , Tobita Hiromi
Published: April 2014

An (η3-α-silabenzyl)carbonylmolybdenum complex reacted with alkylaldehyde to give an η3-oxaallyl complex through CO insertion into a metallacycle C–O bond.
Vibration characteristics of double‐piezoelectric‐nanoplate‐systems
Authors: Asemi Saeid Reza , Farajpour Ali
Published: April 2014

In this reported work, the vibration response of a double‐piezoelectric‐nanoplate‐system (DPNPS) under an external electric voltage is investigated. The two piezoelectric nanoplates are coupled by a polymer matrix. Small scale effects are taken into consideration using the non‐local elasticity theory. Hamilton's principle is employed to derive the differential equations of motion. Explicit closed‐form expressions are derived for the natural frequencies and critical electric voltages of the DPNPS. The numerical results are presented for both in‐phase and out‐of‐phase vibrational modes. It is shown that the natural frequencies of the DPNPS are quite sensitive to the vibrational mode and non‐local parameter. The present work is likely to prove very useful in the designing of micro‐/nanodevices using smart nanocomposite.
Suppression of Aggressive Strains of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’ by Mild Strains in Catharanthus roseus and Nicotiana occidentalis and Indication of Similar Action in Apple Trees
Authors: Schneider Bernd , Sule Sandor , Jelkmann Wilhelm , Seemüller Erich
Published: April 2014

To study antagonistic interactions of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’ strains, graft inoculation of Catharanthus roseus and Nicotiana occidentalis was performed with mild strains 1/93Vin and 1/93Tab as suppressors and three aggressive strains as challengers. Inoculation of the suppressors was carried out in either the cross-protection modus prior to grafting of the challengers or by co-inoculating suppressors and challengers. Monitoring using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction assays revealed that, in long-term cross-protection trials with C. roseus, suppressor 1/93Vin was present in all root and randomly collected stem samples over the entire observation period. In contrast, the challengers were never detected in such stem samples and rarely in the roots. Following simultaneous inoculation, the suppressor successively colonized all stem and root regions whereas detection of challenger AT steadily decreased. However, this strain remained detectable in up to 13 and 27% of stem and root samples, respectively. The cross-protection trials with N. occidentalis yielded results similar to that of the cross-protection experiments with C. roseus. Comparison of the symptomatology of infected apple trees with the presence of putatively suppressive strains indicated that suppression of severe strains also occurs in apple. Phylogenetic analysis using a variable fragment of AAA+ ATPase gene AP460 of ‘Ca. P. mali’ revealed that suppressors 1/93Vin and 1/93Tab, together with several other mild strains maintained in apple, cluster distantly from obviously nonsuppressive strains that were predominantly highly virulent.
Molecular characterization of avian influenza H5N1 virus in Egypt and the emergence of a novel endemic subclade
Authors: El-Shesheny Rabeh , Kandeil Ahmed , Bagato Ola , Maatouq Asmaa M. , Moatasim Yassmin , Rubrum Adam , Song Min-Suk , Webby Richard J. , Ali Mohamed Ahmed , Kayali Ghazi
Published: April 2014

Clade 2.2 highly pathogenic H5N1 viruses have been in continuous circulation in Egyptian poultry since 2006. Their persistence caused significant genetic drift that led to the reclassification of these viruses into subclades 2.2.1 and 2.2.1.1. Here, we conducted full-genome sequence and phylogenetic analyses of 45 H5N1 isolated during 2006–2013 through systematic surveillance in Egypt, and 53 viruses that were sequenced previously and available in the public domain. Results indicated that H5N1 viruses in Egypt continue to evolve and a new distinct cluster has emerged. Mutations affecting viral virulence, pathogenicity, transmission, receptor-binding preference and drug resistance were studied. In light of our findings that H5N1 in Egypt continues to evolve, surveillance and molecular studies need to be sustained.
Whole-genome sequencing of six dog breeds from continuous altitudes reveals adaptation to high-altitude hypoxia
Authors: Gou Xiao , Wang Zhen , Li Ning , Qiu Feng , Xu Ze , Yan Dawei , Yang Shuli , Jia Jia , Kong Xiaoyan , Wei Zehui , Lu Shaoxiong , Lian Linsheng , Wu Changxin , Wang Xueyan , Li Guozhi , Ma Teng , Jiang Qiang , Zhao Xue , Yang Jiaqiang , Liu Baohong , Wei Dongkai , Li Hong , Yang Jianfa , Yan Yulin , Zhao Guiying , Dong Xinxing , Li Mingli , Deng Weidong , Leng Jing , Wei Chaochun , Wang Chuan , Mao Huaming , Zhang Hao , Ding Guohui , Li Yixue
Published: April 2014

The hypoxic environment imposes severe selective pressure on species living at high altitude. To understand the genetic bases of adaptation to high altitude in dogs, we performed whole-genome sequencing of 60 dogs including five breeds living at continuous altitudes along the Tibetan Plateau from 800 to 5100 m as well as one European breed. More than 150× sequencing coverage for each breed provides us with a comprehensive assessment of the genetic polymorphisms of the dogs, including Tibetan Mastiffs. Comparison of the breeds from different altitudes reveals strong signals of population differentiation at the locus of hypoxia-related genes including endothelial Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS) domain protein 1 (EPAS1) and beta hemoglobin cluster. Notably, four novel nonsynonymous mutations specific to high-altitude dogs are identified atEPAS1, one of which occurred at a quite conserved site in the PAS domain. The association testing betweenEPAS1genotypes and blood-related phenotypes on additional high-altitude dogs reveals that the homozygous mutation is associated with decreased blood flow resistance, which may help to improve hemorheologic fitness. Interestingly,EPAS1was also identified as a selective target in Tibetan highlanders, though no amino acid changes were found. Thus, our results not only indicate parallel evolution of humans and dogs in adaptation to high-altitude hypoxia, but also provide a new opportunity to study the role ofEPAS1in the adaptive processes.
{[2-Methyl-2-(phenoxymethyl)propane-1,3-diyl]bis(oxy)}dibenzene
Authors: Moussa Ziad , Al-Masri Harbi Tomah , Shraim Amjed , Fettouhi Mohammed
Published: April 2014

The title compound, C23H24O3, was obtained in a one-step (60% yield) synthesis from 1,1,1-tris(hydroxymethyl)ethane. It features a tripodal ligand capable of complexing metal centres. One of the three conformations involving the methyl group, the central C—C bond and the phenoxy substituents is antiperiplanar while the two others are synclinal [the corresponding C—C—C—O torsion angles are −174.6 (1), −53.2 (2) and −47.3 (2)°]. In the crystal, C—H...O interactions link the molecules into [010] chains.
2-(Trimethylazaniumyl)ethyl hydrogen phosphate (phosphocholine) monohydrate
Authors: Nikawa Yohsuke , Fujita Kyoko , Noguchi Keiichi , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: April 2014

In the crystal structure of the title compound, C5H14NO4P·H2O, the zwitterionic phosphocholine molecules are connected by an O—H...O hydrogen bond between the phosphate groups, forming a zigzag chain along theb-axis direction. The chains are further connected through O—H...O hydrogen bonds involving water molecules, forming a layer parallel to (101). Three and one C—H...O interactions are also observed in the layer and between the layers, respectively. The conformation of the N—C—C—O backbone isgauchewith a torsion angle of −75.8 (2)°
(Z)-N-[1-(Aziridin-1-yl)-2,2,2-trifluoroethylidene]-4-bromoaniline
Authors: Bunev Alexander S. , Vasiliev Maksim A. , Ostapenko Gennady I. , Peregudov Alexander S. , Khrustalev Victor N.
Published: April 2014

The title compound, C10H8BrF3N2, crystallizes with two independent molecules in the asymmetric unit, which can be considered as being related by a pseudo-inversion center, so their conformations are different; the corresponding N=C—N—C torsion angles are 54.6 (5) and −50.5 (5)°. In the crystal, molecules related by translation in [001] interact through short intermolecular Br...F contacts [3.276 (2) and 3.284 (2) Å], thus forming two types of crystallographically independent chains.
Are parents eating their greens? Fruit and vegetable consumption during a school intervention
Authors: Aschemann-Witzel Jessica , Bech-Larsen Tino , Grønhøj Alice
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to study the extent of change in parents' fruit and vegetable consumption during a period when their children participate in a school-based healthy eating intervention.

Design/methodology/approach

– A total of 256 12-year-old Danish schoolchildren took part in a text-message feedback intervention promoting fruit and vegetable consumption. One parent of each child filled out self-administered questionnaires at three points during the 40-week study period. In the questionnaire, stated consumption, perceived influence factors on their consumption and self-efficacy and self-regulation were measured.

Findings

– Only half of the parents stated that they met the “five a day” target. These parents reported good availability of fruit and vegetables in their household, high consumption among their friends and frequent exercise and they were characterised by high self-efficacy levels. Stated consumption increased during the period of the intervention targeted at their children. Parents that reported an increase had, at the start of the intervention, reported low levels of consumption, lack of encouragement to eat healthy at their workplace and lower autonomous self-regulation.

Research limitations/implications

– The consumption data is limited to self-report.

Practical implications

– The results indicate that parents can be influenced indirectly by school-based interventions targeted at their children. Future interventions should include the family with the intent to support positive interaction that might further promote and sustain healthy eating habits.

Originality/value

– The study considers the possible effects school interventions targeting children may have on the immediate family, an aspect generally overlooked in school-based health initiatives.
Impact of IFRS: evidence from Spanish listed companies
Authors: González Mariano , M. Nave Juan , Toscano David
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– In this paper, the authors aim to analyze the impact of International Financial Reporting Standards' (IFRS) mandatory adoption on the financial statements of Spanish listed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors estimate a panel data model by generalized least squares' within-between in order to contrast the possible structural breaks in the relations between income statement items and balance sheet items, using data from the 35 largest listed companies.

Findings

– The results show significant changes on these relations, but with different signs and degrees of intensity depending on the balance sheet item analyzed.

Research limitations/implications

– The data choice introduces a size bias that could be taken into account in the generalization of the results to other listed companies.

Originality/value

– This work is developed using a mandatory, local, accounting and panel data framework for first time using Spanish listed companies in order to measure the impact of the IFRS adoption.
Multiple classification schemes for signalling corporate collapse
Authors: Hossari Ghassan
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to undertake an analysis of two recent classification schemes in the literature for ratio-based modelling of corporate collapse; namely the dual-classification scheme (DCS) and the multi-classification scheme (MCS). Its contribution to the literature lies in investigating whether a trade-off exists between the structural efficiency and the practical adeptness of these two schemes.

Design/methodology/approach

– The methodological approach for the DCS relies on a combination of multiple discriminant analysis and multi-level modelling, whereas that for the MCS utilizes multi-classification constrained-covariance regression analysis.

Findings

– Based on a unified data set of 112 collapsed companies and 341 non-collapsed companies utilised across both the DCS and the MCS, the results indicate that whilst both classification schemes are comparable in their predictive accuracy with respect to signalling collapse, they exhibit a trade-off between their structural efficiency and their practical adeptness.

Originality/value

– Whilst novel classification schemes such as the DCS and the MCS have been successful in addressing the inherent problem of identifying unclassifiable companies in the literature for ratio-based modelling of corporate collapse, thus far no attempt has been made to investigate the trade-off between their structural efficiency and their practical adeptness. Moreover, by utilising a unified data set, the robustness of this investigation is enhanced. Accordingly, this paper provides economic insight into more stable financial modelling.
When diversity helps performance
Authors: Ayub Nailah , Jehn Karen
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to explore whether national diversity in the form of national variety (differences in kind, e.g. number of nationalities) has a positive effect on group processes and performance whereas national separation (differences in attitudes and beliefs; i.e. social distance and national stereotypes) has a negative effect.

Design/methodology/approach

– This cross-cultural comparative study examines the moderating role of national diversity in the relationship between social attitudes on conflict and performance across two samples. Participants are presented with one of the two national variety conditions (low or high national variety) who then report on social distance, national stereotype, conflict, and performance.

Findings

– National separation negatively relates to performance and positively relates to conflict. However, there is less conflict and higher performance, despite national separation, when there is high national variety.

Research limitations/implications

– This study is limited to individual perceptions. Research could be extended to experienced conflict and effects of individual national separation on conflict and performance at the group level.

Practical implications

– Although social distances and negative stereotypes may not be completely eliminated, the results imply that managers can modify the effects by promoting and celebrating national variety. The results show that even conflict is modified (task conflict increases while relationship and process conflict decreases) when there is national variety despite social distances and negative stereotypes.

Originality/value

– This study contributes to workgroup research on diversity and conflict management by exploring social attitudes and opinions. Individual attitudes are the bases of group processes and this study attends to two of the social attitudes that need to be added to our understanding of group processes.
Performance metrics analysis for aircraft maintenance process control
Authors: M. Taaffe Kevin , William Allen Robert , Grigg Lindsey
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– Performance measurements or metrics are that which measure a company's performance and behavior, and are used to help an organization achieve and maintain success. Without the use of performance metrics, it is difficult to know whether or not the firm is meeting requirements or making desired improvements. During the course of this study with Lockheed Martin, the research team was tasked with determining the effectiveness of the site's existing performance metrics that are used to help an organization achieve and maintain success. Without the use of performance metrics, it is difficult to know whether or not the firm is meeting requirements or making desired improvements. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– Research indicates that there are five key elements that influence the success of a performance metric. A standardized method of determining whether or not a metric has the right mix of these elements was created in the form of a metrics scorecard.

Findings

– The scorecard survey was successful in revealing good metric use, as well as problematic metrics. In the quality department, the Document Rejects metric has been reworked and is no longer within the executive's metric deck. It was also recommended to add root cause analysis, and to quantify and track the cost of non-conformance and the overall cost of quality. In total, the number of site wide metrics has decreased from 75 to 50 metrics. The 50 remaining metrics are undergoing a continuous improvement process in conjunction with the use of the metric scorecard tool developed in this research.

Research limitations/implications

– The metrics scorecard should be used site-wide for an assessment of all metrics. The focus of this paper is on the metrics within the quality department.

Practical implications

– Putting a quick and efficient metrics assessment technique in place was critical. With the leadership and participation of Lockheed Martin, this goal was accomplished.

Originality/value

– This paper presents the process of metrics evaluation and the issues that were encountered during the process, including insights that would not have been easily documented without this mechanism. Lockheed Martin Company has used results from this research. Other industries could also apply the methods proposed here.
An empirical study on the relationships between maintenance policies and approaches among Italian companies
Authors: Bottani Eleonora , Ferretti Gino , Montanari Roberto , Vignali Giuseppe
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose an empirical investigation targeting companies operating in Northern Italy and focusing on some main topics of maintenance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Through a combined application of factor analysis and cluster analysis, the paper first identified the main approaches implemented by Italian companies with the purpose of preventing failures and reducing their consequences. Then, the paper grouped companies on the basis of such approaches, and derived the profile of each cluster, in terms of both the company's characteristics and some key maintenance elements, including the maintenance policy or the use of advanced techniques to make maintenance interventions more effective.

Findings

– Results of this study suggest that the approach to maintenance management could be related to the implementation of specific maintenance policies, as well as to other topics, such as the company characteristics, the use of advanced techniques for enhancing maintenance effectiveness and the criteria used for selecting the maintenance policy.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample of companies investigated in this study is quite limited, and prevented the possibility of providing statistical evidence of all outcomes.

Practical implications

– The outcomes of this study can be useful for practitioners to understand the positioning of companies towards the implementation of maintenance policies, as a function of their approach to maintenance management.

Originality/value

– This study complements previous empirical works on maintenance by exploring the relationships between maintenance management, maintenance policies, the application of different tools and techniques for maintenance management, and the criteria adopted for the maintenance policy selection.
Kinetic and diffusion studies of a dye extracted from Sesbania aculeata plant
Authors: Swami C. , Saini S. , Gupta V.B.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the efficacy and kinetics along with diffusion properties of a new source of natural dye obtained from leaves and fine stems of the Sesbania aculeata plant, using metallic mordants for cotton dyeing.

Design/methodology/approach

– The approach followed in this work is to conduct experiments with the application of the natural dye obtained from Sesbania aculeata plant and to study the kinetics, dye uptake and the diffusion properties of this dye.

Findings

– Sesbania aculeata with simultaneous mordanting with different metal mordants imparted shades which varied from cream to light brown to dark brown in case of aqueous extract. The different mordants used not only changed the hue colour and K/S values but also L* and brightness index values. The results of fastness properties of the dyes were found to vary from fair to good. The percentage dye exhaustion values varied with different mordants. The dye uptake value increased with time and reached its saturation limit after 4 hours of dyeing. In the absence of mordants, the diffusion coefficient values increased with increase in the temperature. In the presence of mordants, the diffusion process appears to slow down, which could be attributed to the binding effects of mordants.

Research limitations/implications

– The extraction and dyeing process of Sesbania aculeata plant is less tedious and time consuming compared to the other sources of natural dyes.

Practical implications

– Sesbania aculeata is relatively easier to grow and does not require much tending operations. Thus, it promises to be an affordable source of natural dye. If this dye is commercialised, it will help to generate sustainable employment and income for the farmers in rural and sub-urban areas. This could be both for dyeing and for non-food crop farming.

Originality/value

– An advantageous feature of this plant, in contrast to the other natural dyes based on vegetable and fruit sources, is that its usage in making the natural dye does not result in any wastage of an otherwise highly commercial product. The current experimental study on a new source of natural dye would be a significant contribution to the existing database of knowledge regarding the kinetics and diffusion properties of natural dyes. There are several reported studies in the literature pertaining to the application of natural colourants and evaluation of their dyeing properties on various fibers. However, relatively fewer studies exist on the kinetic and exhaustion aspects. Thus, the current study would help to develop a set of predictable settings for application of natural dyes on various textiles.
Structure and dyeing properties of jade fibre
Authors: Cui Shuling
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– Based on clarifying the structural difference between jade fibre and general polyester fibre, this paper aims to study the dyeing properties and dyeing adsorption mechanism of jade fibre with disperse dye and cationic dye.

Design/methodology/approach

– The chemical structure and microstructure of jade fibre were briefly explained comparing with ordinary polyester fibre. The dyeing rate curve and dyeing adsorption isotherm of disperse dyes and cationic dyes on jade fibre were, respectively, studied. The dyeing uptake, dyeing absorption mechanism, and the main dyeing process parameters were proposed.

Findings

– Jade fibre can be dyed with cationic dye and disperse dye. The suitable exhaust dyeing process is 110°C and 40 minutes for disperse dye, 100°C and 60 minutes for cationic dye. The dyeing uptake on jade fibre with both disperse dyes or cationic dyes is much higher than that on general polyester fibre and acrylic fibre, and the dyeing adsorption mechanism belongs to the combination of Langmuir and Nernst adsorption for disperse dyes and Langmuir adsorption for cationic dyes. Comparing with ordinary polyester fibre, jade fibre has the advantage of low temperature dyeing and reduced effluent, as is significant to energy-saving and emission reduction.

Originality/value

– Jade fibre is a new type of modified polyester fibre with the function of health protection and energy conservation. There are little technical data in the literature at present about the dyeing property of jade fibre.
Team brand extension or licensed product? Examining consumer awareness of two distinct brand strategies
Authors: Walsh Patrick , Rhenwrick Isabell , Williams Antonio , Waldburger Adia
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– While brand extensions and licensing are two distinct brand strategies, recent literature suggests that licensing be treated as an “external” brand extension. As both of these strategies have the ability to have positive and negative effects on the team's brand it is important to understand if consumers are aware if they are purchasing licensed products or extensions. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to examine if consumers are aware when a brand extension or licensing situation is present.

Design/methodology/approach

– This research involved exposing participants to a total of 16 products (eight brand extensions and eight licensed products) and asking participants to indicate who developed the products they were exposed to.

Findings

– The results suggest that participants had a difficult time correctly identifying team licensed products, while in general they were able to successfully identify team brand extensions.

Research limitations/implications

– This study provides empirical evidence suggesting that licensed product should not be classified as brand extensions as has been previously suggested. As such, research on brand extensions may not be applicable to licensing and vice versa.

Practical implications

– As there is some confusion in regards to who is manufacturing team licensed product, it is important that sport properties choose licensees that produce high quality products to limit potential negative effects on their brand.

Originality/value

– This was the first known study to examine differences in consumer awareness of team brand extensions and licensed products.
New world, new tourism, new destinations
Authors: Ajagunna Ibrahim
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to examine the position of tourism in tourism dependent countries in light of newly industrialized countries and how trends in the industry impact these developing tourism dependent nations. International tourism, for example, is now a technologically advanced activity in which some developing countries are lagging behind. These developing countries are challenged in adapting to compatible and new technology, financing, staff training and the relevant to the future of the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study employed a qualitative research methodology using both primary and secondary data drawn from a study conducted on the South Coast of Jamaica with supporting literature from a global perspective.

Findings

– Moves by major players in the international tourism industry to increase their influence and dominance of global markets may reduce consumer choice thereby creating a shift for tourism from old tourism dependent developing nations to newly industrialized countries of the world. This would mean that the old tourism dependent nations need to devise a new way of diversifying their tourism products to attract elite markets seeking clean and un-spoilt environments and destinations.

Originality/value

– This paper is part of a PhD work, which has been published in a book. The key issues raised in the paper are still current and the challenges present now need government and policy makers
'
attention.
Factors used by Ghanaian students in determining career options in the tourism and hospitality industry
Authors: Neequaye Kate , Armoo A. Kobina
Published: April 2014

Purpose

– While colleges have perceived the importance and growth within the tourism and hospitality industry, students in the industry have mixed feelings about career options that are available to them. The purpose of this paper is to discuss factors that underpin students
'
perception of career options in the tourism and hospitality industry and to make recommendations for other developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

– A 21-variable structured questionnaire was used to solicit response from 260 Ghanaian tourism and hospitality students. The data was coded and keyed into MINITAB and SPSS statistical processing software. Various multivariate techniques such as Eigen-analysis, correlation analysis and factor analysis were used to analyze the data. Secondary data was also obtained for student records.

Findings

– The study revealed that, industry-person congeniality, social benefit factors, opportunity for professional development, and job competitiveness, were crucial in determining students
'
choice of career options. Other factors include, career opportunities in tourism and hospitality industry were more easily attainable than in many other sectors of the economy; remuneration in the industry is grossly inadequate.

Research limitations/implications

– A limitation of the study is the use of HTM students of one university. Therefore, replication of this study in other tourism and hospitality institutions of higher in other developing countries is strongly recommended to harmonize the findings of this study.

Practical implications

– Several implications were found including: getting students to be made aware of the career and career development opportunities available in each sector; educational institutions should partner with industry to provide internship and employment opportunities, that would encourage students to have a better perception of the industry; curb the escalating trend of “brain drain” away for the industry, while the industry should reorganize itself to correct the negative perception of low wages and high turnover.

Originality/value

– The study was an original primary study that surveyed students at two tertiary level institutions to determine their perception of the career options available to them. The lessons are of value to stakeholders of Ghana
'
s tourism and hospitality industry and relevance to those in other developing countries.
Richey, Rita C ed (2013) Encyclopedia of terminology for educational communications and technologySpringer (Berlin) isbn 978‐1‐4614‐6572‐0 xxxii+338 pp £117 http://www.springer.com/education+%26+language/learning+%26+instruction/book/978‐1‐4614‐6572‐0
Authors: El‐Farargy Nancy
Published: April 2014

This collection of explanations of terms across the field of educational communications and technology offers scholars and practitioners a comprehensive and coherent overview of the domain. It presents short key educational discussions, annotated explanations, and avenues to further scholarly works. I recommend borrowing the book, and for educational leaders, it could fruitfully feature as a useful reference text in their personal libraries.

Nancy El‐Farargy
Learning from Conservation Planning for the U.S. National Wildlife Refuges
Authors: MERETSKY VICKY J. , FISCHMAN ROBERT L.
Published: April 2014

The U.S. National Wildlife Refuge System has nearly completed its first round of unit‐level, comprehensive conservation plans (CCPs) and will soon begin required revisions. Laws and policies governing refuge planning emphasize ecological integrity, landscape‐scale conservation, and adaptive management. We evaluated 185 CCPs completed during 2005–2011, which cover 324 of 555 national wildlife refuges. We reviewed CCP prescriptions addressing 5 common conservation issues (habitat and game, nongame, imperiled, and invasive species) and 3 specialized topics (landscape‐scale conservation, climate change, and environmental quality). Common conservation issues received prescriptions in >90% of CCPs. Specialized topics received more variable treatment. Prescriptions for aquatic connectivity, water quantity, and climate‐change impacts increased over the study period. Except for climate change, direct actions were the most common type of management prescription, followed by plans or studies. Most CCPs stated a commitment to adaptive management and prescribed monitoring for common conservation objectives; other aspects of planning for adaptive management were often lacking, despite strong support for adaptive management in the conservation planning literature. To better address refuge‐specific threats, we recommend that revised plans explicitly match identified refuge issues with prescriptions, particularly for under‐represented concerns such as novel pests and pathogens. We recommend incorporating triggers into monitoring frameworks and specifying actions that will occur when threshold values are reached to improve support for adaptive management. Revised CCPs should better reflect work that refuges already undertake to extend conservation objectives beyond their borders and better engage with regional conservation efforts to continue this work. More thorough landscape‐scale threat assessments and explicit prioritization of planned actions would further improve conservation effectiveness. Excellent examples of all recommended practices exist within the CCPs we examined; sharing best planning practices would improve planning efficiency within the refuge system.

Aprendiendo de la Planeación de la Conservación para los Refugios Nacionales de Vida Silvestre de EUA