bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief Communication: Twelve-year cyclic surging episode at Donjek Glacier in Yukon, Canada
Authors: Abe T. , Furuya M. , Sakakibara D.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. Surge-type glaciers repeat their short active phase and much longer quiescent phase usually every several decades or longer, but detailed observations of the evolution cycles have been limited to a few glaciers. Here we report three surging episodes in 1989, 2001, and 2013 at Donjek Glacier in the Yukon, indicating remarkably regular and short repeat cycles of 12 years. The surging area is limited within the ~ 20 km section from the terminus, where the flow width significantly narrows than upstream, suggesting a strong control of the valley constriction on the surge dynamics.
Improved measurement of ice layer density in seasonal snowpacks
Authors: Watts T. , Rutter N. , Toose P. , Derksen C. , Sandells M. , Woodward J.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. Ice layers in snowpacks introduce uncertainty in satellite derived estimates of snow water equivalent, have ecological impacts on plants and animals, and change the thermal and vapour transport properties of the snowpack. The microstructure and specifically the density of ice layers is poorly quantified. Here we present a new field method, for measuring the density of ice layers caused by melt or rain-on-snow events. The method was used on 87 ice layer samples in the Canadian Arctic and mid-latitudes; the mean measured ice layer density was 909 ± 18 kg m−3 with a standard deviation of 23 kg m−3, significantly higher than values typically used in the literature.
Evaluating Self-access Learning in Online Resource-based Context
Authors: Cheng Wen-wen , Lin Su-ching , Wu Ming-sui
Published: November 2015

For the past two decades, language center in almost every university in Taiwan has attempted to implement the notion of independent learning through online learning resources. To many student learners, the easy and inexpensive access of Internet has made innumerable learning resources provided by language centers available for self-access language learning. However, whether students have cultivated self-access learning ability through appropriate learning practices online is the main point that school authorities are eager to find out. In order to know the effectiveness of self-access learning in online resource-based context, many universities take different ways to evaluate students’ achievement. Since evaluations of self-access learning are important for student learners to know if they gradually and individually move towards autonomy, their assessments must be more objective. The purpose of this one-year study, therefore, was to examine whether selected online learning resources and evaluation methods affected students’ self-access learning attitudes and whether students cultivated self-access learning ability and learned successfully in online resource-based context. To gather the data, one hundred and twelve non-English majored students from a university of Southern Taiwan were recruited as samples and two types of objective evaluation, an assessment test and online learning records, were used in this study. Major findings indicated that language students’ self-access learning attitudes improved and they did make progress in online resource-based context. However, the training for students toward self-access learning needs to be strengthened. Suggestions were also included in this paper.
Efficacy of amelogenin-chitosan hydrogel in biomimetic repair of human enamel in pH-cycling systems
Authors: Ruan Qichao , Liberman David , Bapat Rucha , Chandrababu Karthik Balakrishna , Phark Jin-Ho , Moradian-Oldak Janet
Published: November 2015

Amelogenin-chitosan (CS-AMEL) hydrogel has shown great potential for the prevention, restoration, and treatment of defective enamel. As a step prior to clinical trials, this study aimed to examine the efficacy of CS-AMEL hydrogel in biomimetic repair of human enamel with erosive or caries-like lesions in pH-cycling systems. Two models for enamel defects, erosion and early caries, were addressed in this study. Two pH-cycling systems were designed to simulate the daily cariogenic challenge as well as the nocturnal pH conditions in the oral cavity. After pH cycling and treatment with CS-AMEL hydrogel, a synthetic layer composed of oriented apatite crystals was formed on the eroded enamel surface. CS-AMEL repaired the artificial incipient caries by re-growing oriented crystals and reducing the depth of the lesions by up to 70% in the pH-cycling systems. The results clearly demonstrate that the CS-AMEL hydrogel is effective at the restoration of erosive and carious lesions under pH-cycling conditions.
Understanding Medical Tourists’ Perception of Private Hospital Service Quality in Penang Island
Authors: Nazem Golnaz , Mohamed Badaruddin
Published: November 2015

Medical tourism is one of the most successful types of tourism in Penang Island. Traveling beyond borders to obtain medical treatments is referred to as medical tourism. The purpose of this paper is to identify medical tourists’ perception of service quality based on the three elements of core product, physical environment, and interaction. Qualitative analysis is used; and twelve respondents are interviewed from a selected private hospital in Penang Island. The study found that there is an overall positive perception of medical tourism in Penang Island and X hospital with a 100% of the respondents willing to make the same choice of destination and hospital in the future for the purpose of medical tourism. Factors such as communication, staff, hospital facilities, and service influenced the positive perception. The results show that there are a few negative factors affecting medical tourists’ perception such as: lack of following established procedures among hospital staff, hospital building problems, and lack of information for international patients.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Vol. 4, No. 2
Authors: Grey Lexie
Published: November 2015

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Vol. 4, No. 2, 2015
Using Supplementary Materials in the Teaching of English: Pedagogic Scope and Applications
Authors: Thakur Vijay Singh
Published: November 2015

For many students learning English as a second/foreign language is an uninteresting, dull experience. Quite often teachers present words, sentence patterns, and grammar rules in a very mechanical manner. As a result, people come to think of the teaching of grammar and vocabulary as a monotonous job. But a resourceful, imaginative and creative teacher can always break this monotony using innovative techniques and authentic materials. The present paper is an attempt to demonstrate how jokes, anecdotes, stories and situations, and journalistic cartoons can be effectively exploited as supplementary materials to enliven the classroom atmosphere, ensure better learner motivation and participation, and make the teaching and learning of English an enjoyable, stimulating, and memorable experience.
What Can Be Learned about the Adaptation Process of Farming Systems to Climate Dynamics Using Crop Models?
Authors: Schlindwein Sandro L. , Eulenstein Frank , Lana Marcos , Sieber Stefan , Boulanger Jean-Philippe , Guevara Edgardo , Meira Santiago , Gentile Elvira , Bonatti Michelle
Published: November 2015

The objective of this paper is to reflect and discuss how the use of crop models by aware practitioners might trigger learning of how to think and act differently about the adaptation process of farming systems to climate dynamics. The development of adaptation strategies is discussed from the perspective of contrasting metaphors, since the metaphors in use have distinctive practical implications regarding how crop models might be used for adaptation purposes. Further, in this paper it is pointed out that adaptation should be understood as the result of a learning process and therefore the use of crop models for adaptation purposes must be transformed. Instead of seeing them only as tools to secure yield of cropping systems under a changing climate they must be conceived as components of learning systems for adaptation of whole farming systems.
Decentraliseren zonder recentralisatiereflex
Authors: van den Berg J. , Bosselaar J.H. , van der Veer J.
Published: November 2015

Decentraliseren zonder recentralisatiereflex

De verwachtingen over de uitwerking van decentralisaties in het sociale domein zijn hooggespannen: efficiëntere dienstverlening, een grotere doelmatigheid en meer responsiviteit liggen in het verschiet. Maar zijn deze verwachtingen realistisch? De praktijk leert dat decentralisaties vaak worden gevolgd door recentraliserende maatregelen, waardoor de rijksoverheid de verantwoordelijkheid weer in handen neemt. Bovendien hebben gemeenten de neiging om elkaars beleid te kopiëren, in plaats van er een lokale kleur aan te geven. In deze bijdrage wordt stilgestaan bij deze mechanismen en de vraag hoe hierop kan worden geanticipeerd tijdens de aanstaande decentralisatieoperaties.
Fostering Competitiveness in European Countries with ICT: GCI Agenda
Authors: Zoroja Jovana
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this paper is to identify the influence of the usage of information and communication technology (ICT) on the competitiveness of European countries. Over the last 30 years, the development and usage of ICT has increased. In order to investigate the impact of ICT on the competitiveness of European countries, we conducted a panel regression analysis. We collected data for the period of five years (2007–2011) from the European statistical database – Eurostat and Global Competitiveness Report. We found that ICT plays an important role in the achievement of global competitiveness of European countries. The results also revealed that ICT has the highest impact on the Global Competitiveness Index and Efficiency enhancers' sub-index. Additionally, we found that ICT is less influential on Basic Requirements sub-index and Innovation and Sophistication Factor sub-index.
Optimized Node Deployment Algorithm and Parameter Investigation in a Mobile Sensor Network for Robotic Systems
Authors: Tang Rongxin , Nie Chengfei , Qian Xin , Deng Xiaohua , Chen Zhe , Liu Zhiwei , Zhou Meng , Pang Ye , Xu Xiaojun
Published: November 2015

Mobile sensor networks are an important part of modern robotics systems and are widely used in robotics applications. Therefore, sensor deployment is a key issue in current robotics systems research. Since it is one of the most popular deployment methods, in recent years the virtual force algorithm has been studied in detail by many scientists. In this paper, we focus on the virtual force algorithm and present a corresponding parameter investigation for mobile sensor deployment. We introduce an optimized virtual force algorithm based on the exchange force, in which a new shielding rule grounded in Delaunay triangulation is adopted. The algorithm employs a new performance metric called ‘pair-correlation diversion', designed to evaluate the uniformity and topology of the sensor distribution. We also discuss the implementation of the algorithm's computation and analyse the influence of experimental parameters on the algorithm. Our results indicate that the area ratio, φs, and the exchange force constant, G, influence the final performance of the sensor deployment in terms of the coverage rate, the convergence time and topology uniformity. Using simulations, we were able to verify the effectiveness of our algorithm and we obtained an optimal region for the (φ s, G)-parameter space which, in the future, could be utilized as an aid for experiments in robotic sensor deployment.
Effective Length Design of Humanoid Robot Fingers Using Biomimetic Optimization
Authors: Kim Byoung-Ho
Published: November 2015

In this study, we propose an effective design method for the phalangeal parameters and the total size of humanoid robot fingers based on a biomimetic optimization. For the optimization, an interphalangeal joint coordination parameter and the length constraints inherent in human fingers are considered from a biomimetic perspective. A reasonable grasp formulation is also taken into account from the viewpoint of power grasping, where the grasp space of a humanoid robot finger is importantly considered to determine the phalangeal length parameters. The usefulness of the devised biomimetic optimization method is shown through the design examples of various humanoid robot fingers. In fact, the optimization-based finger design method enables us to determine effectively the proper phalangeal size of humanoid robot fingers for human-like object handling tasks. In addition, we discuss its contribution to the structural configuration and coordinated motion of a humanoid robot finger, and address its practical availability in terms of effective finger design.
JRME Monographs: Looking Back and Thinking Forward
Authors: Groth Randall E.
Published: November 2015

In this editorial, I describe how past monographs have served the four functions listed above. The purpose is to stimulate readers' thinking about aspects of their own work that might be suitable for the monograph series. I also describe a recent change in the monograph review process that is intended to increase proposal submissions.
Robust and Fragile Mathematical Identities: A Framework for Exploring Racialized Experiences and High Achievement Among Black College Students
Authors: McGee Ebony O.
Published: November 2015

I introduce the construct of fragile and robust identities for the purpose of exploring the experiences that influenced the mathematical and racial identities of highachieving Black college students in mathematics and engineering. These students maintained high levels of academic achievement in these fields while enduring marginalization, stereotyping, and other forms of racialization. Their fragile mathematical identities were manifested in the way they were motivated to achieve in order to prove false the negative expectations of others. Their robust mathematical identities were characterized by an evolving sense of self-efficacy and discovery, a growing affinity and passion for mathematics, and a desire to be a mathematically inspiring role model. Extending the work on identity development, I recommend more nuanced interpretations of the interplay of human development, racialized experiences, and distinctly race-related risk and protective factors that complicate mathematical identity formation for Black college students in mathematics and engineering fields.
Generations and Generations//Mid-Parental Height
Authors: Ziniuk Carly
Published: November 2015

Linear models for longevity and height relate family information.
Assessments That Promote Collaborative Learning
Authors: Watanabe Maika , Evans Laura
Published: November 2015

Students practice classroom norms and take responsibility for one another's learning.
Pruning Trees
Authors: Cady Jo Ann , Wells Pamela J.
Published: November 2015

To elicit creative student thinking, this open-ended problem asks solvers to analyze how much time it will take two people to complete a job.
Exploring Algebraic Misconceptions with Technology
Authors: Sakow Matthew , Karaman Ruveyda
Published: November 2015

Long-standing common student misinterpretations concerning expressions and equations can be addressed by using an app such as iSolveIt: MathScaled.
Professional Noticing: Learning to Teach Responsively
Authors: Thomas Jonathan , Fisher Molly H. , Jong Cindy , Schack Edna O. , Krause Lisa R. , Kasten Sarah
Published: November 2015

What it means to be a good problem solver, what a good problem-solving activity looks like, and what teachers should keep in mind as they bring problem-solving activities to the classroom are explored in this month's practical research department.
Common Core Brief: The Fraction Progression
Authors: Englard Lisa
Published: November 2015

This department publishes brief news articles, announcements, and guest editorials on current mathematics education issues that stimulate the interest of TCM readers and cause them to think about an issue or consider a specific viewpoint about some aspect of mathematics education.
Recalibration in Validation Studies of Diabetes Risk Prediction Models: A Systematic Review
Authors: Masconi Katya L. , Matsha Tandi E. , Erasmus Rajiv T. , Kengne Andre P.
Published: November 2015

Background: Poor performance of risk prediction models in a new setting is common. Recalibration methods aim to improve the prediction performance of a model in a validation population, however the extent of its application in the validation of diabetes risk prediction models is not yet known.
Methods: We critically reviewed published validation studies of diabetes prediction models, selected from five recent comprehensive systematic reviews and database searches. Common recalibration techniques applied were described and the extent to which recalibration and impacts were reported analysed.
Results: Of the 236 validations identified, 22.9% (n = 54) undertook recalibration on existent models in the validation population. The publication of these studies was consistent from 2008. Only incident diabetes risk prediction models were validated, and the most commonly validated Framingham offspring simple clinical risk model was the most recalibrated of the models, in 4 studies (7.4%).
Conclusions: This review highlights the lack of attempt by validation studies to improve the performance of the existent models in new settings. Model validation is a fruitless exercise if the model is not recalibrated or updated to allow for greater accuracy. This halts the possible implementation of an existent model into routine clinical care. The use of recalibration procedures should be encouraged in all validation studies, to correct for the anticipated drop in model performance.
Specification of Variance-Covariance Structure in Bivariate Mixed Model for Unequally Time-Spaced Longitudinal Data
Authors: Bahçecitapar Melike , Karadag Özge , Aktas Serpil
Published: November 2015

In medical studies, the longitudinal data sets obtained from more than one response variables and covariates are mostly analyzed to investigate the change in repeated measurements of each subject at different time points. In this study, the usability of multivariate models in the analysis of these kind of data sets is investigated, because it provides the joint analysis of multiple response variables over time and enables researchers to examine both the correlations of response variables and autocorrelation between measurements from each response variable over time. It has been shown that different parameter estimation methods affect the results in the analysis of multivariate unbalanced longitudinal data. We investigated that autocorrelation structure over time between measurements from same response variable should be truly specified. We also illustrated and compared the simpler, more standard models for fixed effects with multivariate models provided by SAS on a real-life data set in the joint analysis of two response variables. Results show that misspecification of autocorrelation structures has a negative impact on the parameter estimates and parameter estimation method should become of interest.
Determinants of Utilization of Maternal Healthcare Services in Ethiopia
Authors: Melese Wondiber Nega , Darak Shirnevas , Tefera Mesay
Published: November 2015

Utilizing maternal healthcare services, such as antenatal care, professionals’ assistance during delivery and postnatal care contributes significant role in reduction of maternal and child mortality. However, there are many factors both at individual and community level that affect utilization of these required services. To determine the levels of effects of socio-economic and demographic factors on uses of Maternal Healthcare services 7764 women who had given birth at least one times have taken from the 2011 Ethiopian DHS. The results showed that the rate of safe motherhood practices among reproductive age group of women in Ethiopia were too low. About 51 percent of them did not use any health care services during pregnancy, childbirth, and post-delivery periods. As WHO recommend only 6.9 percent of women were attending ANC at least four times, assisted by health professional during delivery and received PNC. The result of logistic regression showed that antenatal care, skilled delivery and postnatal care utilizations were commonly influenced by place of residence, wealth status, women’s and husband’s education and parity. Whereas, mother’s working status and husband’s education were found to be uniquely influence the uses of ANC and PNC services, respectively. In addition, both religious affiliation and age of women were also prominent predictors on utilization of ANC and uses of skilled assistance during delivery. Based on these significant factors, it is important to design and promote uses of maternal healthcare services in order to minimize the risk of maternal and child mortality.
De las feminae a las fembres: la misoginia medieval en Cataluña y Provenza
Authors: Cuadrada Coral
Published: November 2015

Este artículo analiza algunas de las causas del deterioro en la consideración de las mujeres desde la Alta Edad Media a la misoginia bajomedieval, en Cataluña y Provenza. Estudio: 1. La filiación matrilineal. En los actos de homenaje de los siglos X-XI los vasallos se hacen hombres o mujeres propios de su señor feudal declarándose hijos o hijas de su madre; 2. La presencia de feminae en la documentación. Estas mujeres fueron mujeres propietarias de bienes fundarios que actuaron con total libertad en compras, ventas o transmisiones, siendo las protagonistas de los negocios sin procuración o acompañamiento de ningún hombre; 3. La exaltación de la mujer en la literatura trovadoresca y el amor cortés. Al declararse la cruzada contra los cátaros se condena también esta poesía hasta prohibirla, por subversiva; y 4. La difusión del culto mariano a partir del siglo XII. Paralelamente, la normatización y elevación a la categoría de sacramento al matrimonio.
«Porque si se offresciere algún aviso o alguna cosa que vuestra merced me quiera screvir de secreto le envío esta cifra». Claves criptográficas conservadas en el archivo particular de Juan Rena durante el primera tercio del siglo XVI
Authors: Serrano Larráyoz Fernando
Published: November 2015

La reciente organización realizada por el Archivo General de Navarra de los papeles procedentes del archivo particular del clérigo veneciano Juan Rena (ca. 1480-1539), mano derecha de Fernando II de Aragón (el Católico) y Carlos V en la reestructuración administrativa del reino de Navarra tras su conquista en 1512, ha permitido conocer diverso material criptográfico tocante a las actividades vinculadas con su persona entre 1520 y 1529. En el presente trabajo se estudian tres cifras desconocidas hasta el momento, enmarcándolas en su contexto cronológico y relacionando sus principales características con otras claves conocidas en el ámbito hispano del siglo XVI. El desconocimiento de la existencia de este tipo de documentación relativa a las élites navarras de la Baja Edad Media y el Renacimiento las hace más interesantes, porque permite comprobar que no debieron de ser infrecuentes entre los sectores privilegiados.
Animal and human mucosal tissue models to study HIV biomedical interventions: can we predict success?
Authors: Dezzutti Charlene S
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Preclinical testing plays an integral role in the development of HIV prevention modalities. Several models are used including humanized mice, non‐human primates and human mucosal tissue cultures.

Discussion

Pharmaceutical development traditionally uses preclinical models to evaluate product safety. The HIV prevention field has extended this paradigm to include models of efficacy, encompassing humanized mice, non‐human primates (typically Asian macaques) and human mucosal tissue (such as cervical and colorectal). As our understanding of the biology of HIV transmission improves and includes the influence of human behaviour/biology and co‐pathogens, these models have evolved as well to address more complex questions. These three models have demonstrated the effectiveness of systemic (oral) and topical use of antiretroviral drugs. Importantly, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships are being developed and linked to information gathered from human clinical trials. The models are incorporating co‐pathogens (bacterial and viral) and the effects of coitus (mucosal fluids) on drug distribution and efficacy. Humanized mice are being tailored in their immune reconstitution to better represent humans. Importantly, human mucosal tissue cultures are now being used in early clinical trials to provide information on product efficacy to more accurately characterize efficacious products to advance to larger clinical trials. While all of these models have made advancements in product development, each has limitations and the data need to be interpreted by keeping these limitations in mind.

Conclusions

Development and refinement of each of these models has been an iterative process and linkages to data generated among each of them and from human clinical trials are needed to determine their reliability. Preclinical testing has evolved from simply identifying products that demonstrate efficacy prior to clinical trials to defining essential pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships under a variety of conditions and has the potential to improve product selection prior to the initiation of large‐scale human clinical trials. The goal is to provide researchers with ample information to make conversant decisions that guide optimized and efficient product development.
A dynamic RNA loop in an IRES affects multiple steps of elongation factor-mediated translation initiation
Authors: Ruehle Marisa D , Zhang Haibo , Sheridan Ryan M , Mitra Somdeb , Chen Yuanwei , Gonzalez Ruben L , Cooperman Barry S , Kieft Jeffrey S
Published: November 2015

Internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs) are powerful model systems to understand how the translation machinery can be manipulated by structured RNAs and for exploring inherent features of ribosome function. The intergenic region (IGR) IRESs from the Dicistroviridae family of viruses are structured RNAs that bind directly to the ribosome and initiate translation by co-opting the translation elongation cycle. These IRESs require an RNA pseudoknot that mimics a codon-anticodon interaction and contains a conformationally dynamic loop. We explored the role of this loop and found that both the length and sequence are essential for translation in different types of IGR IRESs and from diverse viruses. We found that loop 3 affects two discrete elongation factor-dependent steps in the IRES initiation mechanism. Our results show how the IRES directs multiple steps after 80S ribosome placement and highlights the often underappreciated significance of discrete conformationally dynamic elements within the context of structured RNAs.
Attention stabilizes the shared gain of V4 populations
Authors: Rabinowitz Neil C , Goris Robbe L , Cohen Marlene , Simoncelli Eero P
Published: November 2015

Responses of sensory neurons represent stimulus information, but are also influenced by internal state. For example, when monkeys direct their attention to a visual stimulus, the response gain of specific subsets of neurons in visual cortex changes. Here, we develop a functional model of population activity to investigate the structure of this effect. We fit the model to the spiking activity of bilateral neural populations in area V4, recorded while the animal performed a stimulus discrimination task under spatial attention. The model reveals four separate time-varying shared modulatory signals, the dominant two of which each target task-relevant neurons in one hemisphere. In attention-directed conditions, the associated shared modulatory signal decreases in variance. This finding provides an interpretable and parsimonious explanation for previous observations that attention reduces variability and noise correlations of sensory neurons. Finally, the recovered modulatory signals reflect previous reward, and are predictive of subsequent choice behavior.
Phosphorylation and activation of ubiquitin-specific protease-14 by Akt regulates the ubiquitin-proteasome system
Authors: Xu Daichao , Shan Bing , Lee Byung-Hoon , Zhu Kezhou , Zhang Tao , Sun Huawang , Liu Min , Shi Linyu , Liang Wei , Qian Lihui , Xiao Juan , Wang Lili , Pan Lifeng , Finley Daniel , Yuan Junying
Published: November 2015

Regulation of ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), which controls the turnover of short-lived proteins in eukaryotic cells, is critical in maintaining cellular proteostasis. Here we show that USP14, a major deubiquitinating enzyme that regulates the UPS, is a substrate of Akt, a serine/threonine-specific protein kinase critical in mediating intracellular signaling transducer for growth factors. We report that Akt-mediated phosphorylation of USP14 at Ser432, which normally blocks its catalytic site in the inactive conformation, activates its deubiquitinating activity in vitro and in cells. We also demonstrate that phosphorylation of USP14 is critical for Akt to regulate proteasome activity and consequently global protein degradation. Since Akt can be activated by a wide range of growth factors and is under negative control by phosphoinosotide phosphatase PTEN, we suggest that regulation of UPS by Akt-mediated phosphorylation of USP14 may provide a common mechanism for growth factors to control global proteostasis and for promoting tumorigenesis in PTEN-negative cancer cells.
Role of competition between polarity sites in establishing a unique front
Authors: Wu Chi-Fang , Chiou Jian-Geng , Minakova Maria , Woods Benjamin , Tsygankov Denis , Zyla Trevin R , Savage Natasha S , Elston Timothy C , Lew Daniel J
Published: November 2015

Polarity establishment in many cells is thought to occur via positive feedback that reinforces even tiny asymmetries in polarity protein distribution. Cdc42 and related GTPases are activated and accumulate in a patch of the cortex that defines the front of the cell. Positive feedback enables spontaneous polarization triggered by stochastic fluctuations, but as such fluctuations can occur at multiple locations, how do cells ensure that they make only one front? In polarizing cells of the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, positive feedback can trigger growth of several Cdc42 clusters at the same time, but this multi-cluster stage rapidly evolves to a single-cluster state, which then promotes bud emergence. By manipulating polarity protein dynamics, we show that resolution of multi-cluster intermediates occurs through a greedy competition between clusters to recruit and retain polarity proteins from a shared intracellular pool.
Effects of interlayer thickness and the substrate material on the adhesion properties of CrZrN coatings
Authors: Kim Kyu-Sung , Kim Hoe-Kun , La Joung-Hyun , Lee Sang-Yul
Published: November 2015

To confirm the influence of the interlayer thickness and substrate material on adhesion properties, CrZrN coatings with various Cr interlayer thickness were deposited on AISI H13, high speed steel, and tungsten carbide using unbalanced magnetron sputtering. The adhesion strength showed maximum value at 300 nm of the interlayer, but as the interlayer increased further to 450 nm, the adhesion strength decreased. The adhesion properties of the coatings were dependent upon not only interlayer thickness but also the substrate materials. The adhesion strength of the coating were measured 12, 32, 53 N on the tungsten carbide, AISI H13 steel, high speed steel, respectively and three different failure modes such as buckling spallation, wedging spallation, and chipping were observed on each substrate. The difference in adhesion properties could be attributed to the difference in value of elastic strain to failure (H/E) among the CrZrN coating, the interlayer, and the substrates material.
Characteristics of plasma sterilizer using microwave torch plasma with AC high-voltage discharge plasma
Authors: Itarashiki Tomomasa , Hayashi Nobuya , Yonesu Akira
Published: November 2015

Microwave plasma sterilization has recently been attracting attention for medical applications. However, it is difficult to perform low-temperature sterilization in short time periods. Increasing the output power shortens the time required for sterilization but causes the temperature to increase. To overcome this issue, we have developed a hybrid plasma system that combines a microwave torch plasma and a high-voltage mesh plasma, which allows radicals to be produced at low temperatures. Using this system, successful sterilization was shown to be possible in a period of 45 min at a temperature of 41 °C.
How to Understand Disorderly Boys - An Exchange of Didactic Experiences Among Textile-Sloyd Teachers in an Internet-based Community of Practice
Authors: Samuelsson Marcus
Published: November 2015

This paper reports on a case study in which a textile-sloyd teacher sent a message to an internet-based community of practice seeking advice from other textile-sloyd teachers regar­ding how to cope with unruly boys. Two major themes emerged from a interview and the discu­­ssion on the Internet: 1) behaviour analysis and 2) coping attempts The analysis also reve­­aled two themes related to the exchange of experiences: 1) descriptions of the problem as pertaining to the pupils, the process, classroom management, freedom of choice, or conne­ction to everyday life and 2) suggested solutions, such as area of activity, competences, leader­­ship and techniques. The article concludes with a discussion demonstrating that the collegial exch­ange about disorderly boys appears to have strengthened and challenged this internet-based community of practice.
Forskningsbasert kunst- og håndverksundervisning
Authors: Dagsland Torunn Paulsen
Published: November 2015

Artikkelen setter søkelyset på hvordan klasseromforskning fra grunnskolen kan implementeres i, påvirke, endre og innta undervisningen i faget kunst og håndverk på grunnskolelærer­utdanningen og praksisen i grunnskolen. I artikkelen presenteres og drøftes noen utvalgte forskningsresultater fra et prosjekt i faget kunst og håndverk der elever på ungdoms­skole­trinnet er i dialog med kunst. Forskningsresultatene, som er basert på et elevperspektiv, utfordrer til en nyorientering når det gjelder ungdoms møte med kunstverk i skolen i retning av et mer ungdomskulturelt innhold og relasjonelle kunstmøter som er narrative, tolknings­orienterte, dialogiske, opplevelsesorienterte og flerstemmige. Artikkelen viser også hvordan disse forskni­ngs­­resultatene er blitt en viktig del av undervisningen i fagdidaktikk, kunst­historie og praktisk estetisk arbeid i grunnskolelærerutdanningen.
Digital didaktikk sett i lys av kvalifikasjonsrammeverket
Authors: Klæbo Kirsten
Published: November 2015

I 2011 fikk Institutt for estetiske fag, ved Høgskolen i Oslo og Akershus (HiOA) beskjed om å utarbeide nye studieplaner. De nye studieplanene skulle være i tråd med et nytt Nasjon­alt kvalifikasjonsrammeverk (NKR). Kunnskapsdepartementet satte 2012 som frist for imple­mentering i de enkelte fag. Det var ikke mye diskusjon rundt hva innføring av kvalifika­sjon­s­­rammeverket ville innebære, annet enn en forklaring på hva NKR sto for. Artikke­len er basert på en litteraturundersøkelse med fokus på å finne ut hva NKR er, hvor det kommer fra, og hvilke fagdidaktiske konsekvenser det vil ha å gå fra en målstyrt studieplan til en programplan som vektlegger læringsutbytte. Forfatteren har i mange år undervist i digi­­tale medier på bachelorstudium Faglærerutdanning i formgiving, kunst og håndverk. De fagdidaktiske vurderingene er derfor be­gren­set til å omhandle digitale medier.
Statistics of the electromagnetic response of a chaotic reverberation chamber
Authors: Gros J.-B. , Kuhl U. , Legrand O. , Mortessagne F. , Picon O. , Richalot E.
Published: November 2015

This article presents a study of the electromagnetic re- sponse of a chaotic reverberation chamber (RC) in the pres- ence of losses. By means of simulations and of experi- ments, the fluctuations in the maxima of the field obtained in a conventional mode-stirred RC are compared with those in a chaotic RC in the neighborhood of the Lowest Useable Frequency (LUF). The present work illustrates that the uni- versal spectral and spatial statistical properties of chaotic RCs allow to meet more adequately the criteria required by the Standard IEC 61000-4-21 to perform tests of electro- magnetic compatibility.
Black Box Model of Integrated Circuits for ESD Behavioral Simulation and Industrial Application Case
Authors: Lafon F. , Ramanujan A. , Fernandez-Lopez P.
Published: November 2015

In order to design electronic products for Electro Static Discharges constraints, the use of simulation is fundamental. This is the only solution to justify the design and to manage properly the margin during the development. In order to do so, models are required and especially for the integrated circuits (IC). A Pspice model had been developed and validated for ESD performance prediction of IC implemented inside an electronic product. Nevertheless, the practical implementation of these modeling techniques for IC induced some issues, especially under Pspice, being the targeted tool for our simulation. Divergences issues during time domain simulation were frequently observed and sometimes irresolvable with model previously proposed. We propose in this article new implementation techniques in Pspice. A practical example is used to demonstrate the capability of our model.
Use of Ciliogenesis to Detect Aneugens: The Role of Primary Cilia
Authors: Divi Kathyayini V. , Ward Yvona , Poirier Miriam C. , Olivero Ofelia A.
Published: November 2015

Primary cilia arise from the centrosomes of quiescent or post‐mitotic cells, and serve as sensory organelles that communicate mechanical and chemical stimuli from the environment to the interior of the cell. Cilium formation may, therefore, become a useful end point signaling exposure to genotoxins or aneugens. Here we have used the aneugen, zidovudine (AZT), an antiretroviral drug that induces DNA replication arrest and centrosomal amplification (>2 centrosomes per quiescent cell), to evaluate cilia formation in retinal epithelial (pigmented) cells. Since cilia are derived from centrosomes, and aneugens can induce centrosomal amplification, the production of multiple cilia arising from multiple centrosomes may reveal the aneugenic nature of the agents. Cells were exposed to AZT to induce centrosomal amplification, cultured without serum to allow the centrioles to develop cilia, and immunostained to visualize cilia and centrosomes. Nuclear DNA was stained with DAPI. Preliminary observations suggest that cells with multiple centrosomes are able to generate extra cilia. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model for Toxic Effects of Nanoparticles: Lethality, Growth, and Reproduction
Authors: Maurer Laura L. , Ryde Ian T. , Yang Xinyu , Meyer Joel N.
Published: November 2015

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is extensively utilized in toxicity studies. C. elegans offers a high degree of homology with higher organisms, and its ease of use and relatively inexpensive maintenance have made it an attractive complement to mammalian and ecotoxicological models. C. elegans provides multiple benefits, including the opportunity to perform relatively high‐throughput assays on whole organisms, a wide range of genetic tools permitting investigation of mechanisms and genetic sensitivity, and transparent bodies that facilitate toxicokinetic studies. This unit describes protocols for three nanotoxicity assays in C. elegans: lethality, growth, and reproduction. This unit focuses on how to use these well‐established assays with nanoparticles, which are being produced in ever‐increasing volume and exhibit physicochemical properties that require alteration of standard toxicity assays. These assays permit a broad phenotypic assessment of nanotoxicity in C. elegans, and, when used in combination with genetic tools and other assays, also permit mechanistic insight. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Electroblotting from Polyacrylamide Gels
Authors: Goldman Aaron , Ursitti Jeanine A. , Mozdzanowski Jacek , Speicher David W.
Published: November 2015

Transferring proteins from polyacrylamide gels onto retentive membranes is now primarily used for immunoblotting. A second application that was quite common up to about a decade ago was electroblotting of proteins for N‐terminal and internal sequencing using Edman chemistry. This unit contains procedures for electroblotting proteins from polyacrylamide gels onto a variety of membranes, including polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) and nitrocellulose. In addition to the commonly used tank or wet transfer system, protocols are provided for electroblotting using semidry and dry systems. This unit also describes procedures for eluting proteins from membranes using detergents or acidic extraction with organic solvents for specialized applications. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Isotope‐Coded Affinity Tag Method for Quantitative Protein Profile Comparison and Relative Quantitation of Cysteine Redox Modifications
Authors: Chan James Chun Yip , Zhou Lei , Chan Eric Chun Yong
Published: November 2015

The isotope‐coded affinity tag (ICAT) technique has been applied to measure pairwise changes in protein expression through differential stable isotopic labeling of proteins or peptides followed by identification and quantification using a mass spectrometer. Changes in protein expression are observed when the identical peptide from each of two biological conditions is identified and a difference is detected in the measurements comparing the peptide labeled with the heavy isotope to the one with a normal isotopic distribution. This approach allows the simultaneous comparison of the expression of many proteins between two different biological states (e.g., yeast grown on galactose versus glucose, or normal versus cancer cells). Due to the cysteine‐specificity of the ICAT reagents, the ICAT technique has also been applied to perform relative quantitation of cysteine redox modifications such as oxidation and nitrosylation. This unit describes both protein quantitation and profiling of cysteine redox modifications using the ICAT technique. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The impact of pore structure and surface roughness on capillary trapping for 2‐D and 3‐D porous media: Comparison with percolation theory
Authors: Geistlinger Helmut , Ataei‐Dadavi Iman , Mohammadian Sadjad , Vogel Hans‐Jörg
Published: November 2015

We study the impact of pore structure and surface roughness on capillary trapping of nonwetting gas phase during imbibition with water for capillary numbers between 10−7 and 5 × 10−5, within glass beads, natural sands, glass beads monolayers, and 2‐D micromodels. The materials exhibit different roughness of the pore‐solid interface. We found that glass beads and natural sands, which exhibit nearly the same grain size distribution, pore size distribution, and connectivity, showed a significant difference of the trapped gas phase of about 15%. This difference can be explained by the microstructure of the pore‐solid interface. Based on the visualization of the trapping dynamics within glass beads monolayers and 2‐D micromodels, we could show that bypass trapping controls the trapping process in glass beads monolayers, while snap‐off trapping controls the trapping process in 2‐D micromodels. We conclude that these different trapping processes are the reason for the different trapping efficiency, when comparing glass beads packs with natural sand packs. Moreover, for small capillary numbers of 10−6, we found that the cluster size distribution of trapped gas clusters of all 2‐D and 3‐D porous media can be described by a universal power law behavior predicted from percolation theory. This cannot be expected a priori for 2‐D porous media, because bicontinuity of the two bulk phases is violated. Obviously, bicontinuity holds for the thin‐film water phase and the bulk gas phase. The snap‐off trapping process leads to ordinary bond percolation in front of the advancing bulk water phase and is the reason for the observed universal power law behavior in 2‐D micromodels with rough surfaces.
Weight Measurement
Authors: Hurdle Andrew , Guzy Michael
Published: November 2015

This unit provides information to aid in the selection and proper use of a laboratory balance. Laboratory balances are used for measuring the mass of an object and come in two main types: mechanical and electronic. Electronic balances generally come with a computer interface to facilitate the collection, storage, and manipulation of the data. In addition to weighing objects, electronic balances also perform a range of computations, including counting objects, measuring density, statistics, and pipet volume calibration. Balances vary widely in terms of their capacity (how heavy an object they can accurately weigh), precision, accuracy, repeatability, and robustness. Understanding the various characteristics of a laboratory balance is necessary in order to be sure that the balance is well suited for your particular scientific or industrial needs. This unit also discusses the proper use and maintenance of a laboratory balance. In general, laboratory balances are relatively easy to use and require little maintenance. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Overview of qPCR Molecular Probes
Authors: Laikhter Andrei
Published: November 2015

In recent times, varieties of modified synthetic oligonucleotides conjugated with reporter molecules have been employed in hybridization‐based assays. These methods have broad applications in both basic molecular biology research and in clinical diagnostics and screening because they have high specificity to a target nucleic acid sequence. The development of the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) process has improved the performance and utility of these hybridization‐based assays. In this unit, we discuss the main principles of the design and synthesis of the qPCR probes. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Organic–Inorganic Perovskite Light‐Emitting Electrochemical Cells with a Large Capacitance
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Lin Hong , Liang Chunjun , Liu Hong , Liang Jingjing , Zhao Yong , Zhang Wenguan , Sun Mengjie , Xiao Weikang , Li Han , Polizzi Stefano , Li Dan , Zhang Fujun , He Zhiqun , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: November 2015

While perovskite light‐emitting diodes typically made with high work function anodes and low work function cathodes have recently gained intense interests. Perovskite light‐emitting devices with two high work function electrodes with interesting features are demonstrated here. Firstly, electroluminescence can be easily obtained from both forward and reverse biases. Secondly, the results of impedance spectroscopy indicate that the ionic conductivity in the iodide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3) is large with a value of ≈10−8 S cm−1. Thirdly, the shift of the emission spectrum in the mixed halide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3−xBrx) light‐emitting devices indicates that I− ions are mobile in the perovskites. Fourthly, this work shows that the accumulated ions at the interfaces result in a large capacitance (≈100 μF cm−2). The above results conclusively prove that the organic–inorganic halide perovskites are solid electrolytes with mixed ionic and electronic conductivity and the light‐emitting device is a light‐emitting electrochemical cell. The work also suggests that the organic–inorganic halide perovskites are potential energy‐storage materials, which may be applicable in the field of solid‐state supercapacitors and batteries.
Synthesis of Functional Nanomaterials in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Kang Xinchen , Sun Xiaofu , Han Buxing
Published: November 2015

Utilization of ionic liquids (ILs) in material synthesis is a promising field. The unusual properties of ILs provide new opportunities for the design of functional materials, and much excellent work has been reported. Here, the progress in material design and synthesis using ILs, especially nanomaterials, is discussed, including the unitization of ILs as synthetic media, templates, precursors, or components in the synthesis of various categories of nanomaterials. The challenges and opportunities in this interesting and rapid developing area are also discussed.