bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Wave-Induced Artificial Upwelling
Authors: Lin Shan , Chen Jiawang , Liang Naikuang , Chen Ying
Published: February 2016

AbstractArtificial upwelling, a general technique to enhance the marine primary productivity and fishery resources by means of pumping the nutrient-rich deep ocean water (DOW) to the euphotic layer, has attracted great attention in recent years. One of the most practical
methods of artificial upwelling is utilizing ocean waves. In this article, the wave-induced method, which can induce artificial upwelling immediately without external power, is discussed. This method is based on the Bernoulli equation of the small amplitude wave and utilizes a floating structure.
The upwelling water head of the nonlinear characteristics in the wave motion is calculated, which is deduced by linear wave theory. This method predicts and estimates the upwelling flow rate, which is determined by the water head difference induced by waves. For example, when the sea depth
is 100 m with an ideal regular progressive wave of 5 m in height and 0.1 Hz in frequency under an ideal condition, it could produce a 2,200 m3/h flow rate upwelling. However, in the real sea field, the efficiency of floating structure upwelling declined due to the increase of actual
resistance.
Restoration of ATM Expression in DNA-PKcs–Deficient Cells Inhibits Signal End Joining
Authors: Neal Jessica A. , Xu Yao , Abe Masumi , Hendrickson Eric , Meek Katheryn
Published: February 2016

Unlike most DNA-dependent protein kinase, catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs)–deficient mouse cell strains, we show in the present study that targeted deletion of DNA-PKcs in two different human cell lines abrogates VDJ signal end joining in episomal assays. Although the mechanism is not well defined, DNA-PKcs deficency results in spontaneous reduction of ATM expression in many cultured cell lines (including those examined in this study) and in DNA-PKcs–deficient mice. We considered that varying loss of ATM expression might explain differences in signal end joining in different cell strains and animal models, and we investigated the impact of ATM and/or DNA-PKcs loss on VDJ recombination in cultured human and rodent cell strains. To our surprise, in DNA-PKcs–deficient mouse cell strains that are proficient in signal end joining, restoration of ATM expression markedly inhibits signal end joining. In contrast, in DNA-PKcs–deficient cells that are deficient in signal end joining, complete loss of ATM enhances signal (but not coding) joint formation. We propose that ATM facilitates restriction of signal ends to the classical nonhomologous end-joining pathway.
Grb2 Is Important for T Cell Development, Th Cell Differentiation, and Induction of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Radtke Daniel , Lacher Sonja M. , Szumilas Nadine , Sandrock Lena , Ackermann Jochen , Nitschke Lars , Zinser Elisabeth
Published: February 2016

The small adaptor protein growth factor receptor–bound protein 2 (Grb2) modulates and integrates signals from receptors on cellular surfaces in inner signaling pathways. In murine T cells, Grb2 is crucial for amplification of TCR signaling. T cell–specific Grb2fl/fl Lckcretg Grb2-deficient mice show reduced T cell numbers due to impaired negative and positive selection. In this study, we found that T cell numbers in Grb2fl/fl CD4cretg mice were normal in the thymus and were only slightly affected in the periphery. Ex vivo analysis of CD4+ Th cell populations revealed an increased amount of Th1 cells within the CD4+ population of Grb2fl/fl CD4cretg mice. Additionally, Grb2-deficient T cells showed a greater potential to differentiate into Th17 cells in vitro. To test whether these changes in Th cell differentiation potential rendered Grb2fl/fl CD4cretg mice more prone to inflammatory diseases, we used the murine Th1 cell– and Th17 cell–driven model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). In contrast to our expectations, Grb2fl/fl CD4cretg mice developed a milder form of EAE. The impaired EAE disease can be explained by the reduced proliferation rate of Grb2-deficient CD4+ T cells upon stimulation with IL-2 or upon activation by allogeneic dendritic cells, because the activation of T cells by dendritic cells and the subsequent T cell proliferation are known to be crucial factors for the induction of EAE. In summary, Grb2-deficient T cells show defects in T cell development, increased Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation capacities, and impaired proliferation after activation by dendritic cells, which likely reduce the clinical symptoms of EAE.
Sema3e/Plexin D1 Modulates Immunological Synapse and Migration of Thymocytes by Rap1 Inhibition
Authors: Ueda Yoshihiro , Kondo Naoyuki , Ozawa Madoka , Yasuda Kaneki , Tomiyama Takashi , Kinashi Tatsuo
Published: February 2016

Regulation of thymocyte trafficking plays an important role during thymic selection, but our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes is limited. In this study, we demonstrated that class III semaphorin E (sema3e), a guidance molecule during neural and vascular development, directly inhibited Rap1 activation and LFA-1–dependent adhesion through the GTPase-activating protein activity of plexin D1. Sema3e inhibited Rap1 activation of thymocytes in response to chemokines and TCR stimulation, LFA-mediated adhesion, and T cell–APC interactions. Immunological synapse (IS) formation in mature thymocytes on supported lipid bilayers was also attenuated by sema3e. Impaired IS formation was associated with reduced Rap1 activation on the contact surface and cell periphery. Moreover, a significant increase of CD4+ thymocytes was detected in the medulla of mice with T cell lineage–specific deletion of plexin D1. Two-photon live imaging of thymic explants and slices revealed enhanced Rap1 activation and migration of CD69+ double-positive and single-positive cells with plexin D1 deficiency. Our results demonstrate that sema3e/plexin D1 modulates IS formation and Ag-scanning activities of thymocytes within thymic tissues.
Methodology for Rapid Technology Valuation with Restricted Incomes
Authors: Vega-González Luis Roberto , Velasco Gustavo Rivera
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study is to present a rapid methodology to valuate the technology developed at R&D university institutions. The methodology is a variation of the classical Income method and is based on the calculation of total permutations obtained from the data of an array of highly punished yearly incomes expected for previously defined multi-scenarios and the statistical averaging of such permutations. The method is applied to valuate an energy saving technology device, in order to illustrate its process of implementation. This methodology results in a practical and useful method for obtaining a first monetary value for the technology which allows the realization of vital and rapid decision making in a global economic dynamic in which the speed and reliability in decision making is vital for the competitiveness. Final results of the presented case shown that the presented methodology can be adapted to be used to obtain a first monetary value for almost any field new technology products with promising commercial expectations, which could have many different application opportunities. It can be used for the R&D developers in order to obtain the value of the technologies under development along the different prototype versions available. Generally speaking, valuation techniques are time consuming and it is difficult to have some results that permits to get into first negotiations. The methodology presented can help to solve this problem allowing extra time to obtain additional data like final product production costs to improve the accuracy of the estimations.
Determinants of Performance Management Practices: A Case Study of National Bank of Pakistan
Authors: Yaseen Ayesha , Afghan Sehrish
Published: February 2016

There is drive and momentum to implement changes in the public sector organizations and for such changes it is first and foremost dilemma to analyze the performance management system and practices implemented in such organizations. This study explores the performance management system at National bank of Pakistan. It’s a descriptive study and main focus of this study is to identify the flaws in performance management system that are currently prevailing at National bank of Pakistan and suggesting new ideas to bring positive changes ultimately getting competitive advantage through Human Resource Management (HRM). For analyzing the study, a sample of 100 employees has been selected on convenient basis form Bahawalpur Region and reposes are obtained on the fully structured questionnaires and analyze the results through Chi-Square technique.
European Innovation Policy Concepts and the Governance of Innovation
Authors: Gebhardt Christiane , Stanovnik Peter
Published: February 2016

This paper examines the interdependency of European Policy and governance of innovation. The authors elaborate on the policy implementation context of Slovenia, a small and less advanced European member state in a transition process. The literature on innovation policy, governance and existing innovation concepts aiming to accelerate economic development, European integration and growth is reviewed and integrated. Within this framework, the authors then review the capability and capacity of the Slovenian national government to channel European funding and organize complex projects, such as the enabling, advancement and integration of regional innovation systems as a key concept of regional innovation strategy and smart specialization (RISS). They discuss the governance of innovation in the research tradition of neo-institutionalism and policy impact analysis related to problems of national and regional innovation systems. The paper outlines the importance of organizational readiness at the national level for the translation of high-level concepts, effective policies and efficient strategy implementation.
An Impact Analysis of Regional Industry—University Interactions
Authors: Gustavsson Linda , Nuur Cali , Söderlind Johan
Published: February 2016

The authors discuss Triple Helix collaborations in the context of regional competitiveness. Through an exploratory case study, they identify and analyse the impact of the establishment of industrial PhD schools for participating industry and universities. The study was conducted in Sweden in 2014 and focuses on three industry–university initiatives involving a total of 57 doctoral students, 9 universities and 39 companies. The results indicate that PhD schools based on the dynamics of the Triple Helix can be of great benefit for both industry and regional universities. In addition, the paper identifies critical success factors for industry–university collaborations involving joint PhD education.
Government and Governance of Regional Triple Helix Interactions
Authors: Danson Mike , Todeva Emanuela
Published: February 2016

This conceptual paper contributes to the discussion of the role of regional government and regional Triple Helix constellations driving economic development and growth within regional boundaries. The impact of regionalism and subsidiarity on regional Triple Helix constellations, and the questions of governmentality, governance and institutional development at the regional level, were investigated. It is emphasized that the position of regional authorities in the structure of government and policy boundaries is best implemented at the regional level (the principles of regionalism and subsidiarity), and that localized policy practices represent a more precise view of government–industry– university interactions (the principle of governmentality). In addition, the regional Triple Helix context as a prerequisite for stakeholder engagement, enhancing innovation capabilities and entrepreneurial behaviour, was studied. The paper identifies the drivers behind regional competitiveness and economic development and investigates the positive externalities from strong Triple Helix constellations, as well as the impact of government support and institutionalized cooperation on value creation and value capture at the level of the locale. The paper offers a stylized model of the conditions for value creation and value capture, and presents a critical overview of the debates about the rationale for regional governments. Examples are drawn from Scotland, England and other, comparable parts of Europe.
Prediction Accuracy: The Role of Feedback in 6th Graders’ Recall Predictions
Authors: Al-Harthy Ibrahim S.
Published: February 2016

The current study focused on the role of feedback on students’ prediction accuracy (calibration). This phenomenon has been widely studied, but questions remain about how best to improve it. In the current investigation, fifty-seven students from sixth grade were randomly assigned to control and experimental groups. Thirty pictures were chosen from the curriculum and these were the same in the trials for both groups, 10 for each trial. The pilot study showed all pictures had the same difficulty level and that they were appropriate for 6th graders. During three trials, students in the experimental group received feedback about their prediction and recall. The purpose of the feedback was to assist students in monitoring their learning. Results demonstrated that students in the experimental group showed improvement in predication and prediction accuracy in trials 2 and 3. Significant differences were found among groups in trials 2 and 3, but not in trial 1. Implications and future studies are recommended.
Empirical Analysis of Cost Estimation Accuracy in Procurement Auctions
Authors: Fry Timothy D. , Leitch Robert A. , Philipoom Patrick R. , Tian Yu
Published: February 2016

This paper explores the impact of better cost estimation accuracy for a firm that bids on projects. Specifically, we investigate the effect of cost estimation accuracy on firms’ ability to submit lower bids amounts and their likelihood of winning in a bidding environment. We analyze highway construction bidding data between year 2001 and 2009 from a state department of transportation. Our results suggest that firms with more accurate cost estimation are more likely to lower their bids amounts and thus are more likely to win more bids than firms that have less cost estimation accuracy. The findings help us better understand the process and effect of cost estimation accuracy in the bidding environment and provide practical implications.

 
Identity Processes to Trigger Turnaround in Response to Organizational Decline
Authors: Rockwell Sam
Published: February 2016

This article proposes a model of identity-related social processes that, when applied during organizational decline, is hypothesized to support turnaround and avoid organizational death. The social processes are retiring, reclaiming, reaffirming, regenerating, and reimagining identity attributes. Although this model is rooted in past studies and literature on organizational decline and organizational identity, empirical research is needed to validate or adjust the model. Future work could involve examination of identity negotiations within past cases of organizational decline and turnaround as well as devising and testing specific retiring, reclaiming, reaffirming, regenerating, and reimagining interventions.
Factors Affecting Students’ Choice for MBA Program in Kuwait Universities
Authors: AL-Mutairi Abdullah , Saeid Muna
Published: February 2016

The attempt is made in this study to identify students’ motives and reasons behind enrolling in a MBA program offered by universities operating in Kuwait. It also explores criterion used to select the program. To achieve these objectives, data were collected through a well-designed and structured questionnaire and pre-testing was carried out to examine the efficiency of the instrument. The study showed that the main reasons behind selecting the MBA program by students are to satisfy their personal concerns and improve their knowledge and skills. Moreover, the students used program alumni and campus visit as main sources of information followed by friends’ suggestions and university websites. When evaluating the MBA programs, the students cited overseas accreditation as the most used criteria followed by faculty reputation, institution reputation and admission requirements.
The Impact of Internal Marketing on Employees’ Performance in Private Jordanian Hospitals Sector
Authors: Magatef Sima Ghaleb , Ahmad Momani Raed
Published: February 2016

This study aims to identify the impact of internal marketing on the performance of employees in Jordanian private hospitals sector. This study was conducted on all employees of several administrative levels in this sector. The study also aims to find out the impact of independent variables namely, in-house training, incentives, rewards, internal communication, empowerment and culture of the organization, on the dependent variable, which is the performance of employees. To achieve the study objectives, data were collected through the selection of a random sample of workers in private Jordanian hospital sector from various levels. 450 copies of the designed questionnaire were distributed over the targeted sample group. However, only 333 copies of the questionnaire were recovered, and this is 74% of the total number of the distributed copies. The results show that the organization culture has strong impact on the employee’s performance. This variable came first among other variables, followed by the variables about incentives and rewards regarding the impact on the dependent variable employees. On the other hand, the rest of variables showed weak impact on the dependent variable either due to lack of employee’s interest, or the lack of their awareness regarding the importance of these variables and the need to apply them in order to improve the performance of employees and increase their efficiency and effectiveness at work.
The Possibility of Using the Internet to Transform the Role of Its Users to Promoters of Medical Products in Jordan
Authors: Abu-Jalil Muhamad , Aaqoulah Ashraf
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to identify the role of Internet technology in transforming the role of its users to promoters of medical products in Jordan. The study found that there are statistically significant effects of independent variables (multipurpose and advanced Internet programs, reduced costs of the use of Internet programs, collective and interactive communication via the Internet, and Internet information abundance and variety of its resources) on the dependent factor, which is transformation of the role of Internet users to promoters of medical products in Jordan. The study recommended increasing attention on networks to promote medical products in Jordan. This is consistent with the fact that promotion via networks has become an effective way to support and enhance the image of products and its delivery to the target group in all markets around the world.
Underlying Dimensions of the Hindrances to the Application of Forensic Accounting Techniques in Nigeria
Authors: Efiong Eme Joel , Inyang Ethel , Effiong Charles
Published: February 2016

The study identified the underlying factors that hinder the application of forensic accounting techniques in Nigeria. Data for the study were obtained from questionnaire administered on chief financial officers in Ministries, Departments and Agencies in 9 sampled States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The application of factor analysis statistical techniques collapsed the 23 measured variables into three factors. The factors were named ‘legal factor’, ‘educational factor’ and ‘political factor’ in that order of importance. It was concluded that these three factors constitute the major hindrances to the application of forensic accounting techniques for fraud prevention and detection in Nigeria. It is recommended that the legal system should be strengthened to be able to effectively handle fraud cases; educational and training institutions should embark on the training of forensic accountant; and the government should have the political will to prosecute offenders and institutionalize policies beyond what are on ground for the effective application of forensic accounting techniques in the country.
An Empirical Assessment of Health Workers’ Organisational Commitment in Ghana: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Mensah Henry Kofi , Akuoko Kofi Osei , Ellis Florence
Published: February 2016

Organizational commitment has been empirically found to be poor among health workers in Ghana. In this paper, we tried to compare health workers’ organizational commitment in the private and public sectors to understand if organizational commitment remains the same across the two sectors. We collected and used data on healthcare institutions in the two sectors using self-administered questionnaires. Factor analysis was used to analyse data. Results suggest that workers in private healthcare institutions have a favourable organizational commitment, whereas their counterparts in the public sector have poor organizational commitment. The validity of our analysis is based on meeting the Measure of Sampling Adequacy criterion at the levels of individual indicator variables and all variables put together with respect to both the private and public sectors. The Bartlett’s test of sphericity was also significant at the chosen level of significance for both sectors [(Private: Chi-square = 173.68; p = .000); (Public: Chi-square = 235.44; p = .000)]. We therefore provisionally accept the hypothesis that organizational commitment is not the same among private and public health workers. The study recommends that managements of the public health institutions must increase attention on the organizational commitment of health workers by enhancing compensation, ensuring fairness in organizational justice and offer satisfactory job designs.
Towards a Pragmatic Perspective on Business Innovation in Western Balkan Countries: The Case of Albania
Authors: Nientied Peter , Karafili Elona
Published: February 2016

Recent reports and articles on innovation and innovation management in the Western Balkan countries conclude that innovation is quite limited. It is suggested that the development of a national innovation system is needed to increase innovation capacity and innovation outcomes. However, this is a conventional perspective which has so far not worked. In this article we explore Albania as a Western Balkan case. The aim of the article is to learn from a better contextualization of innovation, by taking into account the specific conditions of the Western Balkan countries and Albania in particular. Results of empirical research confirm that the innovation capacity of Albanian firms is rather minimal indeed. They also provide insights that lead to an alternative perspective of fostering business innovation in Albania; not a focus on building a national innovation system but on a pragmatic ‘everyday innovation’ approach. This perspective should be relevant for other Western Balkan countries too.
Missing Link between Quality of Work Life and Productivity of Loan Disbursement: The Ghanaian Perspective
Authors: Ampofo Emmanuel Yaw , Dartey-Baah Kwasi
Published: February 2016

The study examines the impact of credit officers’ Quality of Work Life (QWL) on productivity of loan disbursement in 10 selected Savings and Loans Companies in the Accra, Ghana. The study was quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical. Out of 1602 employees, 310 employees were sampled. Simple random sampling technique was used to select both companies and respondents. 92% of questionnaires were self-administered and 8% were e-mailed. The finding indicated a significant positive impact of credit officers’ QWL on productivity of loan disbursement (β= .274, p<.001). It was suggested that it will be profitable to and prudent on the part of managers not to play with the QWL of credit officers if they really want to experience an increase in loan disbursement. Also, managers’ comprehensive focus on the general happiness of credit officers by ensuring employees’ holistic well-being in the organisation will lead to productivity of loan disbursement. The study becomes the first to research on both credit officers and productivity of loan disbursement in the financial sector of Ghana.
Using of the Balanced Scorecard for Performance Evaluation: Empirical Evidence from the Listed Corporations in the Palestine Exchange (PEX)
Authors: Saad Raed Ibrahim , Daraghma Zahran Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2016

This manuscript is aiming at testing the extent to which the listed Palestinian corporations in the Palestine Exchange (PEX) are using the four perspectives of the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) in evaluating the performance. In order to achieve the previous objective, this paper uses a questionnaire to investigate the opinions of the financial managers of the listed corporations in thePEX. In relation to the results of the distributed questionnaire forms, there are 37 questionnaire forms, where 32 questionnaire forms were returned (32 out of 37) which presents (86.5%). This study employs the descriptive statistics in order to state the outcomes. However, the findings of this paper state the following points: (1) The financial managers rely on the financial and customer perspectives for evaluating the performance of the listed corporations in thePEX. (2) The Palestinian listed corporations do not rely on the learning and growth indicators for measuring the performance. (3) The Palestinian listed corporations do not rely on the business process indicators for measuring the performance. (4) This paper concludes that the listed corporations in Palestine do not rely on theBSCindicators for measuring the performance in a correct and complete way.
Finally yet importantly, this manuscript strongly recommends the listed corporations in the PEX to adopt the BSC for evaluating the performance. It also recommends the Palestine Exchange to obligate the listed corporations to use the BSC as a tool for strategic planning and performance evaluation.
Promotional Activities for Vaccine’s Market Development in Bangladesh: Advances So Far and Prospects Ahead
Authors: Nath Shobod Deba , Acharjee Mithun Kumar , Tuhin Md. Kashedul Wahab , Forhad Md. Nuruzzaman
Published: February 2016

In this paper we have investigated how to take initiative to increase the awareness among the Bangladeshi people about the vaccine from both government and private sectors. For this purpose, we considered three companies (GlaxoSmithKline, Sanofi Bangladesh and Novartis Bangladesh). The research draws attention to the fact that Non EPI vaccines are being thought of as a segmented item instead of a generalized one. Non EPI vaccine intake is higher mostly among educated people belonging to a medium to high income bracket. Other factors that affect the sales of Non EPI vaccines include a negative general perception about Non EPI vaccines and insufficient level of awareness. Fear of injection was also seen as an important factor. The research concludes with some recommendations, Vaccines are being supplied to the people at the lowest possible prices. Unfortunately these low prices exceed the purchasing power of majority of the population. Awareness level of Non EPI vaccines is low. This is the key issue that companies should focus on. By raising the awareness level, it will be possible to positively change the mindset of possible customers. If the mindset can be positively changed, price sensitivity and fear of injections will automatically drop. Government can either choose to subsidize these vaccines or manufacture these vaccines locally by using the expertise of the multinational companies in the country and the country’s skilled labor force. Provided that the quality is maintained, this initiative will significantly lower the prices of these vaccines.
Importance of Knowledge Management in Establishing Organization Strategy: Study on Saudi Arabian Airlines HR Division, Jeddah
Authors: Yaghi Khalil , Omar Sindi Yaser
Published: February 2016

This study was aimed at determining the awareness of the Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) human resources (HR) division employees about the role of knowledge management in the company. In addition, their understanding of the concept of knowledge management was also evaluated. Further, the degree to which knowledge management processes were practically employed by the HR employees in the company was also determined. A descriptive and analytical course was employed as a proper method in this study. The study sample was selected from Saudi employees working in Jeddah; owing to their large number, a random sample of 60 employees was chosen. The questionnaire method was employed in this study, and several results were obtained. Some of the main results are as follows. The system encouraged the participants to follow the best practices of other organizations and ensure that managers understand that successful knowledge depends on organizational culture. Further, knowledge management is considered as information management, and study participations agreed to some extent to the knowledge management concept for HR employees. In addition, it was pointed out that good and creative ideas for improving competitive advantage are supported and an individual and group initiative culture is spread between employees.
The Research of Factors Affecting the Quality of Audit Activities: Empirical Evidence in Vietnam
Authors: Hai Phan Thanh
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study is to determine the factors that affect the quality of auditing activities in Vietnam. Through the method of qualitative research and quantitative based user auditing reliability Cronbach’s Alpha, testing factors explored (EFA) and the regression analysis, the results of the study showed much weaker influences with different levels of influence on the quality of independent auditing activities. Which elements of the organizational structure, scope of services provided are the factors that have the greatest impact on the quality of the audit. Besides the elements of the cost and staff capacity, ownership of enterprises audit, quality control work inside, quality control work outside also have implications significantly to the quality of audit activities in Vietnam.
The Expiration of the Financial Lease Contract: A Comparative Study between Jordanian Legislation and Egyptian Legislation
Authors: Helalat Mohammad Ali , Shogairat Faisal Mohammad
Published: February 2016

Leasing activity has proved its importance as a competitive tool of financing, especially with the growing awareness of a lot of legislations of the benefits provided by leasing as a source of funding, as well as the increasing size of projects and their need for more flexible funding sources that are more liable to respond to the requirements of profitability required by these projects. Since the financial leasing contract is in progressive development just like any other aspect of the economy through which it grows, I preferred that the subject of this research shall be on the expiration of the financial leasing contact in the Jordanian Legislation compared with the Egyptian Legislation. It is clear that a financial lease contract is similar to any other contract in terms that ends on appointed date. However, and because of the particular nature of the financial leasing contract, It differs from what is provided in the General Provisions regarding the expiration of the leasing contract since it is distinguished by the fact that it gives the lessee at the end of the term three choices: The lessee buys the leased assets, or extends the leasing contract or returns the leased asset. A common reason for ending the financial leasing contract is the termination of the contract by revoking it. If any party breaches the obligations rendered on them, the second party may terminate the contract and will be free from any obligations since the financial leasing contract is a binding contract for both parties.
Governance and Constitutional Issues in the Nigerian Local Governments
Authors: Olaiya Taiwo A.
Published: February 2016

A challenge gaining momentous notoriety in the discourse of governance crisis is the pattern of underperformance at the grassroots. This paper delved critically into the factors that accounts for this oft-touted performance crisis, with emphasis on areas of the discourse not hitherto examined. Focusing on peculiar characteristic of the Nigerian state, its ‘unitarised’ federalism occasioned by prolonged military administrations, regional politicking, and constitutional subjugation into excessive control from the component units, the paper interrogated what the fates of the local government might have portend were contrary to be the cases. Added to this is the pervasive corrupt environment and administrative bottlenecks under which the local government administration in Nigeria is subjected. The paper concluded, among others, that proper devolution of powers is critical to enhanced service delivery at the grassroots in Nigeria.
Decentralization as a Tool for Ethnic Diversity Accommodation: A Conceptual Analysis
Authors: Yusoff Mohammad Agus , Sarjoon Athambawa , Hassan Mat Ali
Published: February 2016

With the increase of ethnic conflicts and ethnic groups’ mobilizations for ethno-nationalism to secure and share state power, the concept of decentralization has also been getting attention in ethnically plural countries, and many of them have taken advantages of adopting decentralization policies for the empowerment of diverse groups in their state cum nation-building process. Similarly, the requests and supports for the adaptation of different forms of decentralization as to accommodate number of political and administrative demands and claims emerging from different ethnic groups within a country has also increased in the recent past. This has induced the researcher and international actors to develop different definitions, interpretations, and objectives for decentralization on its ethnic diversity accommodation perspective. This paper attempted to conceptualize the decentralization as a tool for ethnic diversity accommodation through reviewing the existing literary definitions, explanations and with researchers’ interpretive arguments. The finding reveals that decentralization initiatives, like other impacts, in number of ways, contributes to accommodate rights, interests, needs and claims of competing ethnic groups, especially of ethnic minorities and accommodate them within the larger political system and their local attachments. However, the success of this process highly depends on the mechanisms adopted for sharing powers and responsibilities; the nature, subject and decree of decentralized power; and the willingness of authorities to allow the groups to exercise those powers, with other factors.
The Overlap of International Responsibility of Individual and State for Genocide
Authors: Rezaee Hilda , Salimi Sadegh
Published: February 2016

This study examines the overlap ofinternational responsibility of individual and state for genocide. To describe this overlap, the material and psychological elements of genocide are discussed. International criminal law with the distinction between "ordinary state responsibility" and "aggravated state responsibility " drawing the latter offences beyond the State's international responsibility that is mainly focused on the principle of compensation and in which punitive sanctions are not relevant. The result of this change is the establishment of individual criminal responsibility, and aggravated state responsibility.
The goal ofthe research is to Explain The Overlap of international responsibility of individual and state for genocide to argue that the two items are not two separate categories and rather, they complete each other. so that responsibility of individual and state for the same action following primarily, individual criminal responsibility and exclusively, Bring theaggravated state responsibility.
Household Energy Demand in Urban China: Accounting for Regional Prices and Rapid Income Change
Authors: Cao Jing , Ho Mun S. , Liang Huifang
Published: February 2016

Understanding the rapidly rising demand for energy in China is essential to efforts to reduce the country’s energy use and environmental damage. In response to rising incomes and changing prices and demographics, household use of various fuels, electricity and gasoline has changed dramatically in China. In this paper, we estimate both income and price elasticities for various energy types using Chinese urban household micro-data collected by National bureau of Statistics, by applying a two-stage budgeting AIDS model. We find that total energy is price and income inelastic for all income groups after accounting for demographic and regional effects. Our estimated electricity price elasticity ranges from -0.49 to -0.57, gas price elasticity ranges from -0.46 to -0.94, and gasoline price elasticity ranges from -0.85 to -0.94. Income elasticity for various energy types range from 0.57 to 0.94. Demand for coal is most price and income elastic among the poor, whereas gasoline demand is elastic for the rich.
Regulation by the quorum sensor from Vibrio indicates a receptor function for the membrane anchors of adenylate cyclases
Authors: Beltz Stephanie , Bassler Jens , Schultz Joachim E
Published: February 2016

Adenylate cyclases convert intra- and extracellular stimuli into a second messenger cAMP signal. Many bacterial and most eukaryotic ACs possess membrane anchors with six transmembrane spans. We replaced the anchor of the AC Rv1625c by the quorum-sensing receptor from Vibrio harveyi which has an identical 6TM design and obtained an active, membrane-anchored AC. We show that a canonical class III AC is ligand-regulated in vitro and in vivo. At 10 µM, the cholera-autoinducer CAI-1 stimulates activity 4.8-fold. A sequence based clustering of membrane domains of class III ACs and quorum-sensing receptors established six groups of potential structural and functional similarities. The data support the notion that 6TM AC membrane domains may operate as receptors which directly regulate AC activity as opposed and in addition to the indirect regulation by GPCRs in eukaryotic congeners. This adds a completely novel dimension of potential AC regulation in bacteria and vertebrates.
Redox‐stable cyclic peptide inhibitors of the SPSB2–iNOS interaction
Authors: Yap Beow Keat , Harjani Jitendra R. , Leung Eleanor W. W. , Nicholson Sandra E. , Scanlon Martin J. , Chalmers David K. , Thompson Philip E. , Baell Jonathan B. , Norton Raymond S.
Published: February 2016

SPSB2 mediates the proteasomal degradation of iNOS. Inhibitors of SPSB2–iNOS interaction are expected to prolong iNOS lifetime and thereby enhance killing of persistent pathogens. Here, we describe the synthesis and characterization of two redox‐stable cyclized peptides containing the DINNN motif required for SPSB2 binding. Both analogues bind with low nanomolar affinity to the iNOS binding site on SPSB, as determined by SPR and 19F NMR, and efficiently displace full‐length iNOS from binding to SPSB2 in macrophage cell lysates. These peptides provide a foundation for future development of redox‐stable, potent ligands for SPSB proteins as a potential novel class of anti‐infectives.
Variability of the directly observed, middepth subpolar North Atlantic circulation
Authors: Palter Jaime B. , Caron Charles‐André , Law Kara Lavender , Willis Joshua K. , Trossman David S. , Yashayaev Igor M. , Gilbert Denis
Published: February 2016

Satellite views of the ocean have suggested a decline of the subpolar North Atlantic surface circulation during the 1990s and 2000s. This was a period of unprecedented observational capacity in the basin, thanks to the presence of many hundreds of profiling floats. We use more than 40,000 subsurface displacements of these floats to characterize the circulation at 1000 m depth, and its evolution from 1997–2013. We show a statistically significant slowdown in the Labrador Sea boundary currents of −0.8 cm s−1 per decade (95% confidence interval of −1.4 to −0.15 cm s—1 per decade, a conservative estimate of the uncertainty). Otherwise, the middepth circulation field was largely stable. Our analysis of the location where the North Atlantic Current crosses the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge shows that profiling floats can reveal steering by bathymetric features, but do not reveal of decadal variability in the position where the current crosses the ridge.
Nitrous oxide in the atmosphere: First measurements of a lower thermospheric source
Authors: Sheese Patrick E. , Walker Kaley A. , Boone Chris D. , Bernath Peter F. , Funke Bernd
Published: February 2016

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is an important anthropogenic greenhouse gas, as well as one of the most significant anthropogenic ozone‐depleting substances in the stratosphere. The satellite‐based instrument Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment‐Fourier Transform Spectrometer has been observing the Earth's limb since 2004 and derives profiles of N2O volume mixing ratios in the upper troposphere to the lower thermosphere. The resulting climatology shows that N2O is continuously produced in the lower thermosphere via energetic particle precipitation and enhanced N2O is present at all latitudes, during all seasons. The results are consistent with an N2O production source peaking near or above 94 km via low‐energy particles, as well as a polar wintertime source near 70 km via medium energy particles. N2O produced in the polar upper atmosphere descends each winter to as far down as ~40 km.
Simulation of low‐latitude ionospheric response to 2015 St. Patrick's Day super geomagnetic storm using ionosonde‐derived PRE vertical drifts over Indian region
Authors: Joshi L. M. , Sripathi S. , Singh Ram
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we present low‐latitude ionospheric response over Indian longitude to the recent super geomagnetic storm of 17 March 2015, using the Sami2 is Another Model of the Ionosphere (SAMI2) model which incorporates ionosonde‐derived vertical drift impacted by prompt penetration eastward electric field occurring during the evening prereversal enhancement (PRE) in the vertical drift. The importance of this storm is that (1) Dst reaches as low as −228 nT and (2) prompt penetration of eastward electric field coincided with evening hours PRE. The daytime vertical E × B drifts in the SAMI2 model are, however, considered based on Scherliess‐Fejer model. The simulations indicate a significant enhancement in F layer height and equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) in the post sunset hours on 17 March 2015 vis‐a‐vis quiet day. The model simulations during recovery phase, considering disturbance dynamo vertical E × B drift along with equatorward disturbance wind, indicate suppression of the daytime EIA. SAMI2 simulations considering the disturbance wind during the recovery phase suggest that equatorward wind enhances the ionospheric density in the low latitude; however, its role in the formation of the EIA depends on the polarity of the zonal electric field. Comparison of model derived total electron content (TEC) with the TEC from ground GPS receivers indicates that model does reproduce enhancement of the EIA during the main phase and suppression of the EIA during the recovery phase of the superstorm. However, peculiarities pertaining to the ionospheric response to prompt penetration electric field in the Indian sector vis‐a‐vis earlier reports from American sector have been discussed.
Survey of the frequency dependent latitudinal distribution of the fast magnetosonic wave mode from Van Allen Probes Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument and Integrated Science waveform receiver plasma wave analysis
Authors: Boardsen Scott A. , Hospodarsky George B. , Kletzing Craig A. , Engebretson Mark J. , Pfaff Robert F. , Wygant John R. , Kurth William S. , Averkamp Terrance F. , Bounds Scott R. , Green Jim L. , De Pascuale Sebastian
Published: February 2016

We present a statistical survey of the latitudinal structure of the fast magnetosonic wave mode detected by the Van Allen Probes spanning the time interval of 21 September 2012 to 1 August 2014. We show that statistically, the latitudinal occurrence of the wave frequency (f) normalized by the local proton cyclotron frequency (fcP) has a distinct funnel‐shaped appearance in latitude about the magnetic equator similar to that found in case studies. By comparing the observed E/B ratios with the model E/B ratio, using the observed plasma density and background magnetic field magnitude as input to the model E/B ratio, we show that this mode is consistent with the extra‐ordinary (whistler) mode at wave normal angles (θk) near 90°. Performing polarization analysis on synthetic waveforms composed from a superposition of extra‐ordinary mode plane waves with θk randomly chosen between 87 and 90°, we show that the uncertainty in the derived wave normal is substantially broadened, with a tail extending down to θk of 60°, suggesting that another approach is necessary to estimate the true distribution of θk. We find that the histograms of the synthetically derived ellipticities and θk are consistent with the observations of ellipticities and θk derived using polarization analysis. We make estimates of the median equatorial θk by comparing observed and model ray tracing frequency‐dependent probability occurrence with latitude and give preliminary frequency dependent estimates of the equatorial θk distribution around noon and 4 RE, with the median of ~4 to 7° from 90° at f/fcP = 2 and dropping to ~0.5° from 90° at f/fcP = 30. The occurrence of waves in this mode peaks around noon near the equator at all radial distances, and we find that the overall intensity of these waves increases with AE*, similar to findings of other studies.
Evidence of m = 1 density mode (plasma cam) in Saturn's rotating magnetosphere
Authors: Goldstein J. , Waite J. H. , Burch J. L. , Livi R.
Published: February 2016

Cassini field and plasma data measured in the rotating Saturn Longitude System 3 (SLS3) coordinate system show positive evidence of structure whose dominant azimuthal wave number is m = 1: a long‐lived, nonaxisymmetric, cam‐shaped, global plasma distribution in Saturn's magnetosphere. Previous studies have identified evidence of this plasma cam in wave‐derived electron density data and in Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) W+ ion counts data. In this paper we report the first comprehensive analysis of CAPS ion moments data to identify the m = 1 density cam. We employ a multiyear, multispecies database of 685,678 CAPS density values, binned into a 1 RS by 4.8° discretized grid, spanning 4–19 RS. Fourier (harmonic) analysis shows that at most radial distances the dominant azimuthal mode is m = 1, for both W+ and H+ ion distributions. The majority (63%) of m = 1 ion peaks are clustered in an SLS3 quadrant centered at 330°. The plasma cam's existence has important implications for the global interchange‐driven convection cycle and is a clue to solving the mystery of the rotational periodicities in Saturn's magnetosphere.