bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work engagement, burnout and related constructs as predictors of turnover intentions
Authors: Du Plooy Janine , Roodt Gert
Published: December 2010

Orientation: The focus of the study was to investigate the predictive relationship between the work engagement-burnout continuum and turnover intentions.Research purpose: The main purpose of the study was to determine whether work engagement, burnout, organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB) and work alienation are predictors of turnover intentions.Motivation for the study: Organisations operating within the 21st century face significant challenges in the management of talent and human capital. One in particular is voluntary employee turnover and the lack of appropriate business models to track this process.Research design, approach and method: A secondary data analysis (SDA) was performed in a quantitative research tradition on the cross-sectional survey data collected from a large South African Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sector company (n = 2429).Main findings: The results of the study confirmed the predictive model (work engagement, burnout, OCB and work alienation) of turnover intention. Specifically, work engagement and OCBs were significantly negatively related to turnover intention; whilst burnout and work alienation were significantly positively related to turnover intention. Several third-variable relationships, such as biographic and demographic variables, indicated statistical significance.Practical/managerial implications: Practical implications of the study could impact on human resource (HR) value-chain activities in the form of evidence-based and improved recruitment and selection procedures, employee retention strategies and training and development interventions. Issues concerning talent management could also be addressed.Contribution/value-add: The study described in this article took Industrial/Organisational (I/O) psychological concepts and linked them in unique combinations to establish better predictive validity of a new turnover intentions model.
Inhomogeneous dominance patterns of competing phytoplankton groups in the wake of an island
Authors: Bastine D. , Feudel U.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. We investigate the competition between two different functional groups of phytoplankton in the wake of an island close to a coastal upwelling region. We couple a simple biological model with three trophic levels and a hydrodynamic model of a von Kármán vortex street. The spatio-temporal abundance shows that the different phytoplankton groups dominate in different regions of the flow. The composition of the phytoplankton community varies e.g. for the different vortices. We study the mechanism leading to these inhomogeneous dominance patterns by investigating the nutrient transport in the flow and the interplay of hydrodynamic and biological time scales.
Productive and participatory: Basic education for high‐performing and actively engaged workers
Authors: Jurmo Paul
Published: December 2010

The author argues that worker education should facilitate both technical efficiency and high levels of worker participation and gives examples of how this can be done.
Multicomponent Cascade Reactions: A Novel and Expedient Approach to Functionalized Indoles by an Unprecedented Nucleophilic Addition‐Heterocyclization‐Oxidative Alkoxycarbonylation Sequence
Authors: Gabriele Bartolo , Veltri Lucia , Salerno Giuseppe , Mancuso Raffaella , Costa Mirco
Published: December 2010

A novel multicomponent cascade process is reported, based on the sequential combination between an initial nucleophilic attack step to an imine moiety and a palladium‐catalyzed oxidative heterocyclization‐alkoxycarbonylation process. By this new process, five simple molecules [2‐alkynylaniline imines, alcohol (ROH), carbon monoxide (CO), alcohol (ROH), and oxygen (O2)] are sequentially activated, selectively leading to high value‐added functionalized indole derivatives in a single operation.
Organocatalytic Enantioselective Aziridination of α‐Substituted α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes: Asymmetric Synthesis of Terminal Aziridines
Authors: Deiana Luca , Zhao Gui‐Ling , Lin Shuangzheng , Dziedzic Pawel , Zhang Qiong , Leijonmarck Hans , Córdova Armando
Published: December 2010

The first example of a highly enantioselective organocatalytic aziridination of α‐substituted α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes is presented. The reaction is catalyzed by simple chiral amines and gives access to highly functional terminal azirdines containing an α‐tertiary amine stereocenter in high yields and enantiomeric ratios (95.5:4.5–98:2).
Nuclear transport impairment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis‐linked mutations in FUS/TLS
Authors: Ito Daisuke , Seki Morinobu , Tsunoda Yoshiko , Uchiyama Hidemi , Suzuki Norihiro
Published: December 2010

Objective:

The fused in sarcoma/translated in liposarcoma (FUS/TLS) protein was recently identified as a cause of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), as well as a major component of the inclusion bodies found in subtypes of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). These diseases now are collectively known as the novel clinical spectrum, FUS proteinopathy. ALS‐linked mutations of FUS are clustered in the C‐terminal region; however, the molecular properties of mutant FUS remain unclear. To gain insight into the pathogenesis of FUS proteinopathy, we examined the biochemical and cellular characteristics of mutant FUS in expressing cells.

Methods and Results:

Expression of ALS‐linked FUS mutations resulted in their assembly into cytoplasmic stress granules (SGs), cellular structures that package mRNA and RNA‐binding proteins during cell stress. A deletion mutant series revealed that the C‐terminal region in FUS is critical for nuclear retention via Ran guanosine triphosphatase‐dependent transport machinery. A parallel study of subcellular distribution revealed that ALS‐linked mutants additively disturb the function of the C‐terminus for nuclear traffic, resulting in cytoplasmic accumulation and the formation of SGs.

Interpretation:

This study demonstrates that mutant FUS, which is missing the nuclear traffic activity of the C‐terminus, is dislocated to cytoplasm and assembled into SGs, indicating that disruption of translational regulation and metabolism of mRNA via inappropriate/excessive SGs may be crucial for FUS proteinopathies. Our findings provide new biological and pathological insights into the FUS protein that should help our understanding of the pathogenesis of ALS/FTLD. Ann Neurol 2010
Poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate)/calcium phosphate nanocomposites: Mechanical, gas permeability, and molecular transport properties
Authors: Thomas P. Selvin , Sreekumar P. A. , Aprem Abi Santhosh , Thomas Sabu
Published: December 2010

Poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) (EVA)‐based nanocomposites were prepared by melt mixing in an internal mixer with nanocalcium phosphate in different weight percentages. The nanocalcium phosphate with 10‐nm size was prepared by the polymer‐induced crystallization technique. The mechanical properties as well as the gas permeability tests were performed to analyze the effect of nanofiller incorporation in to the polymer. Molecular transport of different solvents such as water, benzene, and n‐heptane was undertaken at room temperature for EVA nanocomposites with 0, 3, and 5% filler loading. Among the three, water showed less uptake and benzene showed maximum uptake. Transport parameters such as diffusion coefficient, sorption coefficient, and permeation coefficient were calculated, and all of them showed a decrease with respect to the filler loading. First‐order kinetics model was applied to investigate the transport kinetics. Also, the sorption curves were compared to theoretical predictions and found to be in good agreement except for water. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Hyperbranched polycarboxylates and their nanocomposites with ZnO: Investigations on the humidity‐sensitive properties
Authors: Li Peng , Li Yang , Yang Mujie
Published: December 2010

Hyperbranched polycarboxylates (HBPC) with different alkali metal cations (Li+, Na+, and K+) were prepared and characterized by 1H‐NMR and thermal gravimetric analysis. Thin film humidity sensors based on HBPC and its composite with ZnO nanorods were fabricated. The morphologies of films of HBPC and the nanocomposite were investigated by atomic force microscopy, which revealed uniform distribution of ZnO nanorods in HBPC. The humidity‐sensitive characteristics of HBPC and the nanocomposite were investigated at room temperature. It was found that the type of cations significantly affected the humidity‐sensing behaviors of HBPC. In addition, the nanocomposite exhibited better humidity‐sensitive properties than HBPC alone. Its impedance decreased for about three orders of magnitude over the range 19–97% RH, showing high sensitivity. Moreover, the nanocomposite exhibited fast response (∼ 9 and 10 s for response and recovery time between 97% RH and 33% RH, respectively) and small hysteresis (∼ 1.4% RH). The improved humidity‐sensing behaviors of the nanocomposite over HPBC alone is explained by taking into account the hyperbranched structure of the polymer and the special interactions of the polymer and ZnO with water molecules. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Waterborne polyurethane dispersions obtained by the acetone process: A study of colloidal features
Authors: Sardon H. , Irusta L. , Fernández‐Berridi M. J. , Luna J. , Lansalot M. , Bourgeat‐Lami E.
Published: December 2010

Waterborne polyurethane (PU) dispersions were prepared from isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), 2‐bis(hydroxymethyl) propionic acid (DMPA), 1,4‐butane diol (BD), poly(propylene glycol) (PPG), and triethylamine (TEA) by means of phase inversion through the acetone process. Changes in DMPA content, initial PU content in acetone, phase‐inversion temperature, evaporation conditions, and solvent nature were found to have a great impact on dispersion properties. Using a DMPA concentration of 0.30 mmol/gpol, stable PU dispersions could only be obtained when the initial PU content in acetone was at least 60 wt %, and phase‐inversion temperature was lower than 30°C. However, when increasing the PU content to 75 wt %, stable dispersions were obtained using DMPA concentrations three times lower. Finally, viscosity curves during the water addition step as well as a phase diagram were determined to understand the particle formation mechanism. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Preparation and characterization of high‐molecular‐weight sericin by γ irradiation
Authors: Sung Nak‐Yun , Byun Eui‐Baek , Kwon Sun‐Kyu , Yoo Young‐Choon , Jung Pil‐Mun , Kim Jae‐Hun , Choi Jong‐Il , Kim Mee‐Ree , Lee Ju‐Woon
Published: December 2010

We conducted this study to examine the changes in the molecular structure and physiological activities of silk sericin after γ irradiation. Sericin from Bombyx
mori was extracted with an Na2CO3 solution. The molecular weight distribution of sericin increased in the gel permeation chromatography and sodium dodecyl sulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis results as the irradiation dose increased. Circular dichroism data also revealed that the α‐helix contents decreased with the irradiation dose. Ultraviolet absorption was shown a different pattern between the irradiated and unirradiated sericin. However, the Fourier transform infrared spectrum was not changed in all of the groups. Furthermore, the irradiated sericin was significantly increased in 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl‐hydrazil radical scavenging, and the tyrosinase inhibitory activities increased with irradiation dose. Therefore, γ irradiation was an effective method for producing high‐molecular‐weight sericin and for developing functional foods and cosmetics. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Simultaneous synthesis, stabilization, and self‐assembly of microscale drug particles in polymer films
Authors: Meng Xiangxin , Yang Dachuan , Mitra Somenath
Published: December 2010

The antisolvent synthesis of micrometer‐scale particles, their stabilization in suspension, and their subsequent self‐assembly as homogeneous polymer films suitable for drug delivery were studied. Ultrasonic agitation was used in the precipitation of the drug particulates, stabilization was carried out with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and finally, drug‐encapsulated films containing HPMC and polyvinylpyrrolidone were synthesized. These contained as much 28% of the drug Griseofulvin, and the particles were distributed uniformly throughout the films. Most importantly, the redispersion of the drug‐loaded films in an aqueous matrix showed that the crystallinity remained unaltered, and there was no appreciable increase in the particle size distribution. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
The effects of intumescent flame retardant including ammonium polyphosphate/pentaerythritol and fly ash fillers on the physicomechanical properties of rigid polyurethane foams
Authors: Tarakcılar Ali Rıza
Published: December 2010

In this study, rigid polyurethane foams that contain up to 5.0 wt % fly ash (FA) being a by‐product of thermal power stations and being cheap source were successfully produced using a polyurethane injection machine. The effects of FA content on the thermal conductivity, compressive strength, and flammability were investigated. The morphology of the cell was observed under a special microscope. The incorporation of FA in rigid polyurethane foams may dramatically decrease production costs and reduce environmental pollution. In addition, the effects of intumescent flame retardant composed of ammonium polyphosphate and pentaerythritol were examined in pure rigid polyurethane foams and FA‐rigid polyurethane foams. It was found that 5.0 and 7.5 wt % intumescent flame retardant loadings enhanced the thermal stability and improved the flammability resistance of the foams. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Postgraduate fellows as teaching assistants in human anatomy: An experimental teaching model at a Chinese research university
Authors: Cheng Xiao , Wang Lin , Guo Kaihua , Liu Shu , Li Feng , Chu Guoliang , Zhou Li‐Hua
Published: December 2010

Postgraduate fellowship training programs are expanding at Chinese universities. This growing cadre of advanced trainees calls for the development of new learning and training models wherein postgraduate fellows have an ample opportunity to teach more junior learners, thereby expanding their own knowledge base and competitiveness for future employment. Educational reform at Sun Yat‐Sen University has recently allowed postgraduate fellows to act as teaching assistants for undergraduate anatomy courses. This model is common in western countries but is novel in China. Anat Sci Educ. © 2010 American Association of Anatomists.
Non‐linear mixed effect modeling of the time‐variant disposition of erythropoietin in anemic cancer patients
Authors: Ait‐Oudhia Sihem , Vermeulen An , Krzyzanski Wojciech
Published: December 2010

Chemotherapy‐induced anemia is a frequent complication in cancer treatment. The aim was to develop a pharmacokinetic (PK) model that describes the time‐dependent decline of epoetin alfa (rHuEPO) clearance following thrice (t.i.w.) or once (q.w.) weekly subcutaneous injections in cancer patients using a population PK approach. Serum concentrations of rHuEPO were available retrospectively from a phase I study. A one‐compartment model with first‐order elimination described rHuEPO PK. Sequential zero‐ and first‐order (ka) processes with duration (tlag) characterized the absorption. Population PK analysis was performed using NONMEM. The influence of several covariates was tested. Model evaluation was performed using visual predictive check. Precision of parameter estimates was assessed by standard errors and confidence intervals determined by bootstrap analysis. Apparent clearance (CL/F) and volume of distribution (Vc/F) were 25.6% lower and 29.2% higher for q.w. than t.i.w. groups. RHuEPO was absorbed for 10% during 24.6 h through the zero‐order process. Following which 90% of the dose was absorbed through the first‐order process withkaof 0.033 h−1. The most significant covariates were the time‐dependent decrease ofCL/Fwith an increase in body weight, a decrease in reticulocyte count, a decrease in hemoglobin baseline, an increase in total number of chemotherapy cycles, and platinum‐containing chemotherapy. AGE served as an important covariate onFRACandka. Visual predictive check showed no deviation from observed values. The PK model adequately predicted rHuEPO concentration‐profiles in all individuals. Relevant covariates were identified and incorporated into the model. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An efficient and rapid transgenic pollen screening and detection method using flow cytometry
Authors: Moon Hong S. , Eda Shigetoshi , Saxton Arnold M. , Ow David W. , Stewart C. Neal
Published: December 2010

Assaying for transgenic pollen, a major vector of transgene flow, provides valuable information and essential data for the study of gene flow and assessing the effectiveness of transgene containment. Most studies have employed microscopic screening methods or progeny analyses to estimate the frequency of transgenic pollen. However, these methods are time‐consuming and laborious when large numbers of pollen grains must be analyzed to look for rare transgenic pollen grains. Thus, there is an urgent need for the development of a simple, rapid, and high throughput analysis method for transgenic pollen analysis. In this study, our objective was to determine the accuracy of using flow cytometry technology for transgenic pollen quantification in practical application where transgenic pollen is not frequent. A suspension of non‐transgenic tobacco pollen was spiked with a known amount of verified transgenic tobacco pollen synthesizing low or high amounts of green fluorescent protein (GFP). The flow cytometric method detected approximately 75% and 100% of pollen grains synthesizing low and high amounts of GFP, respectively. The method is rapid, as it is able to count 5000 pollen grains per minute‐long run. Our data indicate that this flow cytometric method is useful to study gene flow and assessment of transgene containment.
Use of a centrifugal bioreactor for cartilaginous tissue formation from isolated chondrocytes
Authors: Detzel Christopher J. , Van Wie Bernard J.
Published: December 2010

Although a centrifugal bioreactor (CCBR) supports high‐density mammalian suspension cell cultures by balancing drag, buoyancy, and centrifugal forces, to date anchorage‐dependent cultures have not been tried. Also, steady or intermittent hydrostatic pressures of 8 to 500 kPa, and shears of 0.02 to 1.4 N/m2 can be simultaneously applied in the CCBR. This article demonstrates the use of a CCBR to stimulate chondrogenesis in a high‐density culture. At 3 weeks, histological results show even distribution of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and collagen, with 1,890 ± 270 cells/mm2 cell densities that exceed those of 1,470 ± 270 in pellet cultures. Analysis of collagen content reveals similar levels for all treatment groups; 6.8 ± 3.5 and 5.0 ± 0.4 μg collagen/μg DNA for 0.07 and 0.26 MPa CCBR cultures, respectively, in contrast to 6.6 ± 1.9 values for control pellet cultures. GAG levels of 5.6 ± 1.5 and 4.1 ± 0.9 μg GAG /μg DNA are present for cultures stressed at 0.07 and 0.26 MPa, respectively, in comparison to control pellet cultures at the 8.4 ± 0.9 level. Although results to date have not revealed mechanical stress combinations that stimulate chondrogenesis over unstressed controls, system advantages include continuous culture at cell densities above those in the pellet, precise medium control, the ability to independently vary multiple mechanical stresses over a broad range, and the flexibility for integration of scaffold features for future chondrogenesis stimulation studies. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Designed Spiro‐Bicyclic Analogues Targeting the Ribosomal Decoding Center
Authors: Cottin Thomas , Pyrkotis Constantina , Stathakis Christos I. , Mavridis Ioannis , Katsoulis Ioannis A. , Anastasopoulou Panoula , Kythreoti Georgia , Zografos Alexandros L. , Nahmias Victoria R. , Papakyriakou Athanasios , Vourloumis Dionisios
Published: December 2010

The bacterial ribosome represents the confirmed biological target for many known antibiotics that interfere with bacterial protein synthesis. Aminoglycosides represent a lead paradigm in RNA molecular recognition and constitute ideal starting points for the design and synthesis of novel RNA binders. Previous rational design approaches of RNA‐targeting small molecules have been mainly concentrated on direct functionalization of aminoglycosidic substructures. Herein, we successfully designed and synthesized rigid spirocyclic scaffolds locked in a predicted ribosome‐bound “bioactive” conformation. These analogues are able to mimic many of the interactions of the natural products for the A‐site, as proven by their obtained binding affinities. The development of an optimized approach for their synthesis and their potential to inhibit protein production in vitro are presented. Our results could be further utilized for the development of analogues with improved antibiotic profiles.
Working with women prisoners who seriously harm themselves: Ratings of staff expressed emotion (EE)
Authors: Moore Estelle , Andargachew Sara , Taylor Pamela J
Published: December 2010

Background Prison staff are repeatedly exposed to prisoners' suicidal behaviours; this may impair their capacity to care. Expressed emotion (EE), as a descriptor of the ‘emotional climate’ between people, has been associated with challenging behaviour in closed environments, but not previously applied to working alliances in a prison.

Aims To investigate the feasibility of rating EE between staff and suicidal women in prison; to test the hypothesis that most such staff–inmate alliances would be rated high EE.

Methods All regular staff on two small UK prison units with high suicidal behaviour rates were invited to participate. An audiotaped five‐minute speech sample (FMSS) about work with one nominated suicidal prisoner was embedded in a longer research interview, then rated by two trained raters, independent of the interview process and the prison.

Results Seven prison officers and 8 clinically qualified staff completed interviews; 3 refused, but 17 others were not interviewed, reasons including not having worked long enough with any one such prisoner. Participants and non‐participants had similar relevant backgrounds. Contrary to our hypothesis, EE ratings were generally ‘low’. As predicted, critical comments were directed at high frequency oppositional behaviour.

Conclusions EE assessments with prison staff are feasible, but our sample was small and turnover of prisoners high, so the study needs replication. Attributions about problem behaviour to illness, and/or traumatic life experience, tend to confirm generally supportive working relationships in this sample. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DFT/TDDFT Investigation of the Modulation of Photochromic Properties in an Organoboron‐Based Diarylethene by Fluoride Ions
Authors: Liu Shujuan , Sun Shi , Wang Chuanming , Zhao Qiang , Sun Huibin , Li Fuyou , Fan Quli , Huang Wei
Published: December 2010

The diarylethene derivative 1,2‐bis‐(5′‐dimesitylboryl‐2′‐methylthieny‐3′‐yl)‐cyclopentene (1) containing dimesitylboryl groups is an interesting photochromic material. The dimesitylboryl groups can bind to F−, which tunes the optical and electronic properties of the diarylethene compound. Hence, the diarylethene derivative 1 containing dimesitylboryl groups is sensitive to both light and F−, and its photochromic properties can be tuned by a fluoride ion. Herein, we studied the substituent effect of dimesitylboron groups on the optical properties of both the closed‐ring and open‐ring isomers of the diarylethene molecule by DFT/TDDFT calculations and found that these methods are reliable for the determination of the lowest singlet excitation energies of diarylethene compounds. The introduction of dimesitylboron groups to the diarylethene compound can elongate its conjugation length and change the excited‐state properties from π→π* transition to a charge‐transfer state. This explains the modulation of photochromic properties through the introduction of dimesitylboron groups. Furthermore, the photochromic properties can be tuned through the binding of F− to a boron center and the excited state of the diarylethene compound is changed from a charge‐transfer state to a π→π* transition. Hence, a subtle control of the photochromic spectroscopic properties was realized. In addition, the changes of electronic characteristics by the isomerization reaction of diarylethene compounds were also investigated with theoretical calculations. For the model compound 2 without dimesitylboryl groups, the closed‐ring isomer has better hole‐ and electron‐injection abilities, as well as higher charge‐transport rates, than the open‐ring isomer. The introduction of dimesitylboron groups to diarylethene can dramatically improve the charge‐injection and ‐transport abilities. The closed isomer of compound 1 (1 C) has the best hole‐ and electron‐injection abilities, whereas the charge‐transport rates of the open isomer of compound 1 (1 O) are higher than those of 1 C. Importantly, 1 O is an electron‐accepting and ‐transport material. These results show that the diarylethene compound containing dimesitylboryl groups has promising potential to be applied in optoelectronic devices and thus is worth to be further investigated.
Informing resource allocation decision making: economic evaluations of pharmacogenetic tests
Authors: Payne Katherine , Gurwitz David
Published: December 2010

In some countries, economic evaluations now have a prominent role and provide information to use in resource allocation decisions for health care technologies and interventions. This editorial describes the importance of understanding the degree and extent of uncertainty in a published economic evaluation. Some countries have diverted considerable resources toward health technology assessments (HTAs) and appraisals of health care interventions using deliberative decision‐making processes. However, given the scarcity of health care resources on a global scale, there is a growing need to support other countries that do not have the skill base or considerable resources needed to conduct their own HTAs and appraisal of the evidence. As a minimum, it is vital that individual countries are able to understand the relevance of published economic evaluation of an intervention, such as a pharmacogenetic test, to their own practice. Careful appraisal of the relevance of the findings is crucial before decision makers decide that a particular pharmacogenetic test is an appropriate use of scarce health care resources in their country. Drug Dev Res 71: 445–448, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serglycin inhibits the classical and lectin pathways of complement via its glycosaminoglycan chains: Implications for multiple myeloma
Authors: Skliris Antonis , Happonen Kaisa E. , Terpos Evangelos , Labropoulou Vassiliki , Børset Magne , Heinegård Dick , Blom Anna M. , Theocharis Achilleas D.
Published: December 2010

Serglycin (SG) is a proteoglycan expressed by hematopoietic cells and is constitutively secreted by multiple myeloma (MM) cells. SG participates in the regulation of various inflammatory events. We found that SG secreted by human MM cell lines inhibits both the classical and lectin pathways of complement, without influencing alternative pathway activity. The inhibitory effect of SG is due to direct interactions with C1q and mannose‐binding lectin (MBL). C1q‐binding is mediated through the glycosaminoglycan moieties of SG, whereas MBL binds additionally to SG protein core. Interactions between SG and C1q as well as MBL are diminished in the presence of chondroitin sulfate type E. In addition, we localized the SG‐binding site to the collagen‐like stalk of C1q. Interactions between SG and C1q as well as MBL are ionic in character and only the interaction with MBL was found to be partially dependent on the presence of calcium. We found the serum levels of SG to be elevated in patients with MM compared to healthy controls. Moreover, we found that SG expressed from myeloma plasma cells protects these cells from complement activation induced by treatment with anti‐thymocyte immunoglobulins. This might protect myeloma cells during immunotherapy and promote survival of malignant cells.
Evaluation of the controls affecting the quality of spatial data derived from historical aerial photographs
Authors: Walstra Jan , Chandler Jim H. , Dixon Neil , Wackrow Rene
Published: December 2010

This paper is concerned with the fundamental controls affecting the quality of data derived from historical aerial photographs typically used in geomorphological studies. A short review is provided of error sources introduced into the photogrammetric workflow. Data‐sets from two case‐studies provided a variety of source data and hence a good opportunity to evaluate the influence of the quality of archival material on the accuracy of coordinated points. Based on the statistical weights assigned to the measurements, precision of the data was estimated a priori, while residuals of independent checkpoints provided an a posteriori measure of data accuracy. Systematic discrepancies between the two values indicated that the routinely used stochastic model was incorrect and overoptimistic. Optimized weighting factors appeared significantly larger than previously used (and accepted) values. A test of repeat measurements explained the large uncertainties associated with the use of natural objects for ground control. This showed that the random errors not only appeared to be much larger than values accepted for appropriately controlled and targeted photogrammetric networks, but also small undetected gross errors were induced through the ‘misidentification’ of points. It is suggested that the effects of such ‘misidentifications’ should be reflected in the stochastic model through selection of more realistic weighting factors of both image and ground measurements. Using the optimized weighting factors, the accuracy of derived data can now be more truly estimated, allowing the suitability of the imagery to be judged before purchase and processing. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategy evaluation: Experience at the International Development Research Centre
Authors: Wind Tricia , Carden Fred
Published: December 2010

This chapter examines how the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has framed and used strategic evaluations. Drawing from IDRC's experience, the authors look at Henry Mintzberg's ideas on strategy formation, and explore potential implications for evaluation in an organization that resembles what Mintzberg calls an “adhocracy.” The International Development Research Centre is a Canadian Crown Corporation that supports research in developing countries and undertakes evaluative work at different levels: strategic evaluations, program and project evaluation, and ongoing learning. “Strategic” evaluations examine issues that cut across the Centre's 18 programs. They have focused on programming modalities and broad corporate result areas like capacity building and policy influence. In a decentralized, utilization‐focused approach to evaluation, IDRC has taken the view that strategic‐level evaluation requires separate studies, as opposed to rolling up data from program or project evaluations. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Influence of shift work in process industry on workers' occupational health, productivity, and family and social life: An ergonomic approach
Authors: Dhande Kishor K. , Sharma Sunil
Published: December 2010

Shift work is a major feature of modern work practices. It involves working at times considered unconventional for most workers, such as at night. Although the community often benefits from such work practices, shift work can be hazardous for both the workers and the community. There are increased risks for accidents and errors, increased sleepiness and fatigue due to difficulties sleeping, increased health problems, and disruptions to family and social life. More shift workers complained of sleep disturbance, poor sleep quality, tiredness at awakening, and sleepiness in work than did non‐shift workers. More shift workers also complained of gastrointestinal disturbances than did non‐shift workers. The aim of this article is to provide general information on shift work, work schedules, and the effects of work schedules on sleep, fatigue, performance, the health of the human operator, and productivity. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Designing and evaluating a crew resource management training for manufacturing industries
Authors: Marquardt Nicki , Robelski Swantje , Jenkins Gwendolen Gwyneth
Published: December 2010

This article presents the evaluation of crew resource management (CRM) training specifically designed for employees within manufacturing industries. The central objective of this training program was to improve teamwork, communication, and stress management skills as well as to increase the workers' situational awareness of potential errors that can occur during the manufacturing process. Eighty employees, all of whom were working in a production unit for gearbox manufacturing, participated in the training program in this study. Effectiveness of the CRM training course was evaluated. The results showed a significant improvement in a wide range of CRM‐relevant categories, especially in teamwork‐related skills, in addition to an increase in the workers' situational awareness after the training program. When comparing the data regarding human error occurring in gear production that were derived from the trained group and a control group, mixed results were produced. Based on the results, it can be stated that CRM training, which was originally developed for the aviation industry, can be transferred to the manufacturing industry. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dissecting hospital quality. Antecedents of clinical and perceived quality in hospitals
Authors: García‐Lacalle Javier , Bachiller Patricia
Published: December 2010

Clinical quality (CQ) and patient satisfaction (PS) are key elements on the agenda of European public healthcare systems. This paper seeks to explore the relationship between CQ and PS, at hospital level, as freedom of hospital choice may lead to a trade‐off between them. In addition, the paper studies the influence of some factors—location, size, case‐mix, length of stay and occupancy rate (OR)—on hospital clinical and perceived quality. Correlation analyses and the linear mixed‐effect methodology are used. The study focuses on the Andalusian Health Service, one of the biggest European public health services, and covers the years from 2002 to 2006. The results indicate that CQ and perceived quality are not related. The ‘volume‐expertise’ effect is not confirmed in our study, but we find a ‘complexity‐expertise’ effect, i.e. attending more complex cases may improve CQ. Shorter hospitalizations and higher ORs might negatively affect CQ. Location, size, case‐mix and ORs significantly affect PS. Hospitals with better patient assessments might attract patients without providing a better clinical care. Caution should be taken when evaluating hospital performance and implementing reforms to improve hospital efficiency as quality may be harmed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of water conveyance loss in the ahmetli regulator irrigation system in the lower Gediz Basin Turkey
Authors: Kilic Murat , Tuylu Gokhan I.
Published: December 2010

Determining the water conveyance loss in large‐scale irrigation systems is important not only from the points of view of irrigation programming and optimum allocation of deficit resources but also for the sustainable operation of the system. The aim of this investigation is to determine the conveyance losses of the concrete‐lined main secondary and tertiary canals in the Right Bank Irrigation System of the Ahmetli Regulator in the Gediz Basin Turkey. The investigation was carried out according to the inflow–outflow method. Average conveyance losses of the main (0.067 l s−1 m−2) secondary (0.119 l s−1 m−2) and tertiary canals (0.030 l s−1 m−2) were found to be higher than either the average conveyance loss of Turkey or the seepage standard of the Bureau of Reclamation. It may be suggested that associations responsible for maintenance repair and operation of the system can be supported financially to reduce conveyance loss. Apart from this application of new technologies with lower cost to the systems will reduce conveyance losses. In addition the participation of farmers in the maintenance of the network will ensure that the system is used more rationally. In this way most of the operational problems of the system can be solved. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Influence of glial‐derived matrix molecules, especially chondroitin sulfates, on neurite growth and survival of cultured mouse embryonic motoneurons
Authors: Klausmeyer Alice , Conrad Rebecca , Faissner Andreas , Wiese Stefan
Published: December 2010

Mechanisms controlling neuronal survival and regeneration play an important role during development, after birth, and under lesion conditions. Isolated embryonic mouse motoneurons have been a useful tool for studying such basic mechanisms. These cultured motoneurons depend on extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, which are potent mediators of survival and axonal growth and guidance in the CNS and in vitro, exhibiting either attractive or repellent guidance cues. Additionally, ECM proteoglycans and glycoproteins are components of the glial scar acting as a growth barrier for regenerating axons. Compared with CNS axon outgrowth, less is known about the cues that guide motoneurons toward their peripheral targets. Because we are interested in the effects of glial‐derived chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), we have worked out a model system for investigating the influences of glial‐derived matrix molecules on motoneuron outgrowth and survival. We used cultured embryonic mouse motoneurons to investigate axon growth effects of matrix molecules produced by the glial‐derived cell lines A7, Neu7, and Oli‐neu primary astrocytes as wellas the immortalized Schwann cell line IMS32. The results indicate that molecules of the ECM, especially chondroitin sulfates, play an important role as axon growth‐promoting cues. We could demonstrate a modifying effect of the matrix components on motoneuron survival and caspase3‐induced apoptosis. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of kinases involved in the phosphorylation of aggregated α‐synuclein
Authors: Waxman Elisa A. , Giasson Benoit I.
Published: December 2010

α‐Synuclein (α‐syn) is the major component of pathological inclusions characteristic of several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease. The major posttranslational modification of α‐syn is phosphorylation at S129, and previous studies estimate that approximately 90% of α‐syn in proteinaceous, pathological inclusions is phosphorylated at this site. α‐Syn can be phosphorylated by polo‐like kinases (PLKs) 1–3 and casein kinases (CK) 1 and 2; however, the kinases associated with the hyperphosphorylation of aggregated α‐syn are still under debate. Using a high‐efficiency cellular model of α‐syn aggregate formation, we found that selective inhibitors for CK2 and PLKs each partially inhibited S129 phosphorylation of soluble (nonaggregated) α‐syn, but only PLK inhibitors modestly attenuated the phosphorylation of aggregated α‐syn. In addition, none of the kinase inhibitors used had a substantial effect on the propensity of α‐syn to aggregate. Overexpression of all PLKs promoted robust phosphorylation of soluble α‐syn, but none altered the propensity of α‐syn to aggregate. Overexpression of only PLK2 increased phosphorylation of aggregated α‐syn at S129, which likely is due to increased phosphorylation of soluble α‐syn, which then was incorporated into aggregates. Overexpression of PLK1 and treatment with BI2536 resulted in a significant reduction of phosphorylated, aggregated α‐syn protein, beyond that of BI2536 treatment alone. These studies suggest that phosphorylation of α‐syn is independent of α‐syn aggregate formation, that PLK1 is involved in the phosphorylation of aggregated α‐syn at S129 in this system, and that mechanisms resulting in hyperphosphorylation of aggregated α‐syn appear to be independent of those responsible for the phosphorylation of soluble α‐syn. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of macrophage inflammatory protein‐1α and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 in glioma‐infiltrating microglia: Involvement of ATP and P2X7receptor
Authors: Fang Kuan‐Min , Wang Ying‐Lan , Huang Ming‐Chao , Sun Synthia H. , Cheng Henrich , Tzeng Shun‐Fen
Published: December 2010

Chemokines can be produced by gliomas, which mediate the infiltration of microglia, a characteristic feature of glioma‐associated neuropathogenesis. ATP that is released at a high level from glioma has been reported to play a regulatory role in chemokine production in cultured glioma cells. The objective of this study was to define the potential role of extracellular ATP in the regulation of macrophage inflammatory protein‐1α (MIP‐1α) and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1(MCP‐1) expression in glioma‐associated microglia/macrophages. The results showed that Iba1+and ED1+microglia existed in the tumor at 3 and 7 day after injection of C6 glioma cells into the rat cerebral cortex (dpi). ED1+microglia/macrophages or Iba1+microglia in the glioma were also colocalized to MIP‐1α‐ and MCP‐1‐expressing cells. In vitro study indicated that treatment with ATP and BzATP (an agonist for ATP ionotropic receptor P2X7R) caused an increase in the intracellular levels of microglial MIP‐1α and MCP‐1. By using an extracellular Ca2+chelator (EGTA) and P2X7R antagonists, oxidized ATP (oxATP) and brilliant blue G (BBG), we demonstrated that BzATP‐induced production of MIP‐1α and MCP‐1 levels was due to P2X7R activation and Ca2+‐dependent regulation. Coadministration of C6 glioma cells and oxATP into the rat cerebral cortex resulted in a reduction of MIP‐1α‐ and MCP‐1‐expressing microglia/macrophages. We suggest, based on the results from in vivo and in vitro studies, that a massive amount of ATP molecules released in the glioma tumor site may act as the regulator with P2X7R signaling that increases MIP‐1α and MCP‐1 expression in tumor‐infiltrating microglia/macrophages. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in growth hormone (GH), GH receptor, and GH signal transduction in hippocampus of congenital hypothyroid rats
Authors: Tang Huiqin , Zhang Yu , Yu Xiaomei , Song Jian , Xu Chengshi , Wan Yu
Published: December 2010

Recent studies have shown that, like thyroid hormone (TH), growth hormone (GH) plays a critical role in development of the brain. However, it is still unclear whether the functions of the two hormones are locally orchestrated in the brain or whether TH has a permissive effect on GH in the central nervous system as it does in the periphery. To address this question, the present study investigated the changes in local expression of GH and GH receptor (GHR) and the activity of GH signaling molecules in the hippocampus of congenitally hypothyroid (CHT) rats. As demonstrated by morphometric measurements and the Y‐maze test, CHT rats had decreased neurons and weaker Nissl staining in the stratum pyramidal/granule in the hippocampus and a reduced acquisition of safe place recognition memory. Analyses of QPCR and Western blot revealed a substantially decreased hippocampal expression of GH and GHR, accompanied by a corresponding decrease in phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT5 in the CHT rats. These changes were, at least in part, corrected by systemic supplement of T3. The findings provide the first direct evidence suggesting that the functional autocrine and paracrine regulation of GH in the CNS is orchestrated by TH. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fragile X mice: Reduced long‐term potentiation and N‐Methyl‐D‐Aspartate receptor‐mediated neurotransmission in dentate gyrus
Authors: Yun Sung Hwan , Trommer Barbara L.
Published: December 2010

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a monogenic mental retardation syndrome that frequently includes autism. The Fmr1‐knockout (Fmr1‐KO) mouse, like FXS‐affected individuals, lacks the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) and models autism as well as FXS. Limited human data and several mouse models have implicated the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) in autism. We therefore investigated whether the Fmr1‐KO mouse exhibited functional changes in DG. We found diminished medial perforant path‐granule cell long‐term potentiation (LTP), complementing previous investigations of synaptic plasticity in Fmr1‐KO demonstrating impaired LTP in CA1, neocortex, and amygdala and exaggerated long‐term depression in CA1. We also found that peak amplitude of NMDA receptor‐mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) was smaller in Fmr1‐KO than control. AMPA receptor‐mediated EPSCs were comparable in the two strains, yielding a lower NMDA/AMPA ratio in Fmr1‐KO mice and suggesting one mechanism by which absent FMRP might contribute to diminished LTP. The clinical hallmarks of autism include both excessive adherence to patterns and impaired detection of socially important patterns. The DG has a putative role in pattern separation (for time, space, and features) that has been attributed to granule cell number, firing rates, adult neurogenesis, and even perforant path LTP. DG also contributes to pattern completion in CA3 via its mossy fiber efferents, whose terminals include abundant FMRP in “fragile X granules.” Together with the present data, these observations suggest that DG is a candidate region for further investigation in autism and that the Fmr1‐KO model may be particularly apt. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Small‐molecule inhibitors of bone morphogenic protein and activin/nodal signals promote highly efficient neural induction from human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Morizane Asuka , Doi Daisuke , Kikuchi Tetsuhiro , Nishimura Kaneyasu , Takahashi Jun
Published: December 2010

The balance of bone morphogenic protein (BMP), transforming growth factor‐β (TGFβ)/activin/nodal, and Wnt signals regulates the early lineage segregation of human embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Here we demonstrate that a combination of small‐molecule inhibitors of BMP (Dorsomorphin) and TGFβ/activin/nodal (SB431542) signals promotes highly efficient neural induction from both human ESCs and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The combination of small molecules had effects on both cell survival and purity of neural differentiation, under conditions of stromal (PA6) cell coculture and feeder‐free floating aggregation culture, for all seven pluripotent stem cell lines that we studied, including three ESC and four iPSC lines. Small molecule compounds are stable and cost effective, so our findings provide a promising strategy for controlled production of neurons in regenerative medicine. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.