bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Student Development of E-Workbooks
Authors: Chan Selena , Fisher Katrina , Sauer Peter
Published: July 2013

The project reported in this chapter is based on the combination, inter-relationships and synergies of four pedagogical approaches to improve student engagement with learning. These approaches are mobile learning; constructivist learning, with contemporary emphasis in the form of connectivism; situated learning of skills in purpose-built workrooms and workshops mirroring ‘real-world’ practice environments; and multimodal and multi-literate user interactivity. In the project, the interactions of the above four pedagogical approaches, led to the development of ‘situated-technology-enhanced learning’ (STEL). Situated-technology enhanced learning is enabled through the deployment of net tablets in the form of ipad2s and Android operating system tablets and a selection of mobile apps. Of importance is the use of net tablets to encourage students to create their own E-textbooks or E-workbooks. These E-workbooks are collated by collecting and annotating photos, videos, and notes of students’ progressive skills and knowledge learning as practical learning and theory-based learning activities occur in specialised workshops/workrooms. This project evaluated how to best deploy situated-technology enhanced learning to increase student engagement in learning; encourage teaching and learning activities based on student-centred and student-generated learning approaches; and develop teaching staff and student capability in using technology to support student learning. The overarching theme arising from the study was the need to enable students and staff to utilise technology for learning. An outcome of this project is the derivation of guidelines, achieved through the project’s participative action research approach, to assist other vocational educational institutions to introduce net tablets into trades-based learning spaces.
Podcasting and Pedagogy
Authors: Kendall Ross
Published: July 2013

This chapter explores the engagement of tertiary students in interviewing “green” experts. Using Engeström’s expansive activity model, the study finds that integrating podcasting into a course with strong links to other activities and resources helped students assimilate and develop the concepts of the course. The project promotes functionalist values of independent, experimental learning and deep engagement with learning material, it invokes authentic field experience, accommodates different learning styles and it provides considerable motivation. The study suggests that mobile learning embodies the means to change relationships between learner and expert and that such connecting is a key attribute of contemporary subjective association and recontextualization. The chapter provides a brief review of the literature on podcasting in education, followed by the teaching and learning context and the application of Engeström’s “expansive activity model” (1994, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2008, 2010). I describe the student group undertaking the exercises in a Level 5 Sociology course, and the project (which subsequently extended into a later course: “The Sustainable Business Environment”, because many of the podcast students had pre-enrolled in that course). The paper discusses the methodological approach that was used, offering two strands of analysis: students’ use of the podcasts and how the latter were placed in their learning about sustainable development. The discussion section elaborates the model and offers suggestions for advancing the educational use of podcasts. Last, I offer some thoughts on how Engeström’s model might be extended in education to develop not just new objects, but also the new use of objects.
Journalism and Media
Authors: Walck Pamela E. , Kalyango Yusuf
Published: July 2013

This chapter investigates how fast-changing mobile technology has transformed the traditional approach to journalism education at some major mass communication schools, media organizations, and institutions in the United States. This traditional approach to instruction, referred to here as its pedagogical niche, is defined as instructional methods, content, and tools used in mass communication academic, practice and training units. The first and primary objective of this chapter will be to determine how journalism academic institutions are using the rapidly changing media and communication technologies, particularly mobile tools, to reinvent themselves and to enhance their curricula and teaching effectiveness. The second objective is to determine how media organizations have adapted to the increasing use of mobile technologies in journalism.
The Changing Nature of Information Behavior and the Information Environment
Authors: Al-Suqri Mohammed Nasser
Published: July 2013

This chapter examines the changing nature of the information environment and its implications for Library and Information Science (LIS), with a focus on developing countries in general and the Arab Gulf states in particular. Drawing on key findings from previous LIS literature, it explores what is needed to ensure the future viability of the profession in the GCC region so that it can help underpin social and economic development in these states. Examples of successful practice in LIS innovation from other parts of the developing world are included to demonstrate some possible approaches and the chapter concludes by summarizing some key points for consideration by LIS education specialists, library managers, and policymakers in the Gulf States.
“Lose Your Time in a Useful Way”
Authors: Nyce James M. , Bader Gail E. , Klimaszewski Cheryl
Published: July 2013

This chapter looks at the experiences older adults have using computers and the Internet in the context of one e-inclusion effort in Romania. Biblionet – Global Libraries Romania is a project that provides computers to public libraries throughout that country. One of Biblionet’s first public access computer centers located outside of a public library opened at a pensioners’ club in the city of Zalau. Local librarians who have taken Biblionet-sponsored “train the trainer” courses have adapted instructional methods for older users. Ethnographic research at the pensioners’ club has uncovered a variety of experiences around new technology, especially in how computer use is both informed by and extended kin or family work. The project is discussed in the context of NGO-led development initiatives to illustrate the importance of including the wider ICT development landscape (and methods) when studying users, ICTs, and information use.
Undergraduate Students Information Behavior in the Changing Technological Era
Authors: Al-Saleem Naifa Eid
Published: July 2013

There has been a great deal of research conducted to investigate the information-seeking behavior of difference group of users. A search of current literature, however, reveals few studies dealing with information-seeking strategies of undergraduates in the electronic era. This chapter presents the results of a preliminary study of information-seeking among 675 undergraduates at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU). The study was designed to 1) explore undergraduates’ information-seeking behavior with e-resources; 2) identify the role of faculty members and librarians in assisting undergraduates to attain search skills; and 3) discover the differences between undergraduates in terms of their age, gender, academic year, and college. The study results indicated that only 3% of undergraduates use the electronic services and databases subscribed to by the SQU main library. In addition, the results showed that 57.7% of the undergraduate students at SQU used the Google search engine for their initial search. There is a statistical difference between undergraduate students in terms of their age and use of e-resources. Finally, this study found the role of faculty members and librarians in assisting undergraduates to learn search strategies is almost absent.
Pathway to Independence
Authors: Krishnaswamy Kavita , Oates Tim
Published: July 2013

Robotic technologies can provide people with disabilities the invaluable tools to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADL). Few studies have investigated how effective and accessible the control of robotic aids is for people with severe physical disabilities with respect to their needs and current facility with technology. Though present-day robotic aids can help people with disabilities with important daily living tasks, there is still room for improvement. In this chapter, an overview of the state-of-the-art robotics that help promote independence for people with disabilities, especially individuals with physical limitations, is presented. Active research areas supporting tasks and services for persons with physical disabilities include development of robotic prototypes, designed specifically for domestic applications, rehabilitation, mobility assistance, personal hygiene care and meal assistance, and education and employment. Existing challenges and recommendations to support and increase independence for persons with motor limitations with robotics technologies are provided as insight to advance research.
Camera-Based Motion Tracking and Performing Arts for Persons with Motor Disabilities and Autism
Authors: Kontogeorgakopoulos Alexandros , Wechsler Robert , Keay-Bright Wendy
Published: July 2013

The aim of this chapter is to discuss a range of computer applications designed to enable people with disabilities to interact through music, dance, and the visual arts. A review of the main motion tracking algorithms and software environments is included as well as an overview of theoretical positions regarding the mapping of real time extracted motion features to sound, interactive music, and computer-generated or modified visual content. The chapter concludes with descriptions of how the concepts have been applied to research projects undertaken with different groups of young people with motor limitations and autism spectrum disorders.
Hepatitis C virus and HIV type 1 co-infection
Authors: Gupta Priyanka
Published: July 2013

Around 33 million people worldwide are living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, and approximately 20-30% of HIV-infected individuals are also infected with Hepatitis C virus (HCV). The main form of HCV transmission is via the blood borne route; high rates of co-infection are found in intravenous drug users with HCV prevalence rates as high as 90%. Introduction of effective anti-retroviral therapy (ART) has led to a significant decline in HIV-related morbidity, but at the same time the incidence of HCV related liver disease is increasing in the co-infected population. Meta analysis has revealed that individuals who are co-infected with HIV/HCV harbor three times greater risk of progression to liver disease than those infected with HCV alone. Increased risk of progression to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and AIDS-related deaths is shown among the co-infected patients by some studies, suggesting that HCV infection may accelerate the clinical course of HIV infection. HCV may also affect the incidence of liver toxicity associated with ART, affecting the management of HIV infection. There is a lack of optimal therapeutic approaches to treat HCV infection in HIV co-infected patients. This review discusses recent literature pertaining HIV/HCV co-infection, in addition to providing a snapshot of impact of co-infection on human genome at the level of gene expression and its regulation by microRNAs (miRNAs).
A study of the woman in the crowd and her desperate courage (Mark 5:21–43)
Authors: Branch Robin G.
Published: July 2013

This article examines the cameo appearance of an unnamed woman in the gospel of Mark, a member of a crowd following Jesus (Mk 5:24b–34). Chronically ill and probably dying, she thinks she is inconspicuous. The text identifies her in terms of her gender, illness, covenant status, prolonged suffering and penury. Yet, a careful reading reveals her stealth, desperation, courage and eloquence − all elements of character and, it turns out, of a faith focused on Jesus. Combining both literary and canonical insights, this article shows how the story of the anonymous woman, set within the larger context of the healing of Jairus’ daughter, sheds light on the developing concepts of faith, fear, purity, discipleship, confession and family matters in Mark. The woman’s interaction with Jesus adds depth to Mark’s portrait of him and contributes to the ongoing revelation in Mark that Jesus is indeed the Son of God (Mk 1:1).Hierdie artikel ondersoek die reliëfverskyning van ’n naamlose vrou in die evangelie van Markus. Sy was deel van die skare wat Jesus gevolg het (Mark 5:24b–34). Omdat sy kronies siek en moontlik sterwend was, het sy gedink sy is onopvallend in die skare. Sy word in die teks geïdentifiseer in terme van haar geslag, siekte, verbondstatus, langdurige lyding en armoedige voorkoms. ’n Noukeurige bestudering van die gedeelte openbaar ook haar heimlikheid, desperaatheid, moed en welsprekendheid – alles eienskappe van ’n sterk karakter en, soos dit later blyk, haar gefokusde geloof op Jesus. Deur die letterkundige en kanonieke insigte te kombineer, wys die artikel hoe die verhaal van die anonieme vrou, gesien teen die agtergrond van die genesing van Jaïrus se dogtertjie, lig werp op die ontwikkelende konsepte van geloof, vrees, suiwerheid, dissipelskap, belydenis en familie-aangeleenthede in die boek Markus. Die vrou se interaksie met Jesus verskaf diepte aan Markus se uitbeelding van Hom en maak ’n bydrae tot Markus se deurgaanse openbaring dat Jesus inderdaad die Seun van God is (Mark 1:1).
The application of design criteria for locating a hub configured supply chain for a restaurant cluster in the Stellenbosch area
Authors: Struwig Claudia B. , Ruthven George A. , Von Leipzig Konrad
Published: July 2013

Restaurants, in general, utilise numerous suppliers. Normally they deliver on different days in the week and at different times during the day, logistically not an optimum approach. Not only does the current practice cause frequent interruptions, but by segregating the food supply chain unnecessary traffic is generated. This article investigated the need for developing a third party supplier hub, the best positioning of that hub and the most economical routes to the customers. With the aim of providing non-franchised restaurants with the necessary leverage to become market leaders, the hub is planned to only service the restaurants within the vicinity of the Stellenbosch area. In such a hub-configured supply chain, the suppliers would be delivering to the proposed hub, from where once-off deliveries to all the restaurants may be made on days and/or times determined by them. In order to investigate the benefits of providing such a hub structure, a systematic implementation approach was used. The first step was to do market research in order to establish the need for such a hub. That is, the viability of the hub from a restaurant’s perspective was established. The next step entailed the investigation of the design criteria needed in determining a favourable hub location. Four possible hub locations were identified. The Clark and Wright’s savings algorithm was then used to determine the optimal hub location and the feasibility of the results was verified with the aid of a global positioning system (GPS) device. The last steps followed involved the determination of an effective hub floor plan that may be utilised, possible products that can be supplied to the restaurants and the necessary assets needed to provide the hub’s service. Finally, by incorporating all these facets, a cost analysis was done to determine the hub’s profitability.
Duplex ultrasound: A diagnostic tool for carotid stenosis management in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kisten Yogan , Govender Pravesen , Naidoo Nadraj G. , Gihwala Dhiro , Isaacs Ferial
Published: July 2013

Background: Diabetic patients are at increased risk of developing cardiac events and stroke, and prevention of diabetes mellitus is therefore desirable. Marked geographical and ethnic variation in the prevalence of diabetes caused by urbanisation, demographic and epidemiological transitions has rendered this one of the major non-communicable diseases in South Africa. Duplex ultrasound (DUS) plays an important role in primary health care in early detection of carotid atherosclerotic disease and the degree of carotid stenosis present. It is a reliable, cost-effective and non-invasive diagnostic tool. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of ultrasound in carotid stenosis management in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Objectives: To determine the prevalence of carotid stenosis in a selected T2DM population using DUS and to correlate these findings with other predisposing atherosclerotic risk factors.Methods: The study setting was at an academic hospital in the Western Cape using carotid DUS reports of 103 diabetic subjects ≥ 35 years old. Predisposing risk factors were correlated with degree of carotid stenosis present. Data were analysed using the Fischer exact test, Chisquare and Student t-test.Results: Carotid DUS reports of 63 out of 103 T2DM patients revealed no evidence of a carotid stenosis, thereby lowering the risk profile. Forty patients were identified as having carotidstenosis; 22 symptomatic patients had a > 70% carotid stenosis which warranted surgicalintervention. A greater prevalence of stenosis in the Caucasian group, in both the male (p =0.0411) and female (p = 0.0458) cohorts, was noted. The overall trend suggested a relationship between T2DM and lifestyle, and a statistically significant relationship (p = 0.0063) between smoking and carotid stenosis was observed.Conclusion: T2DM and predisposing atherosclerotic risk factors significantly increased thepossibility of carotid stenosis development.
Automated quality control methods for sensor data: a novel observatory approach
Authors: Taylor J. R. , Loescher H. L.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. National and international networks and observatories of terrestrial-based sensors are emerging rapidly. As such, there is demand for a standardized approach to data quality control, as well as interoperability of data among sensor networks. The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) has begun constructing their first terrestrial observing sites, with 60 locations expected to be distributed across the US by 2017. This will result in over 14 000 automated sensors recording more than > 100 Tb of data per year. These data are then used to create other datasets and subsequent "higher-level" data products. In anticipation of this challenge, an overall data quality assurance plan has been developed and the first suite of data quality control measures defined. This data-driven approach focuses on automated methods for defining a suite of plausibility test parameter thresholds. Specifically, these plausibility tests scrutinize the data range and variance of each measurement type by employing a suite of binary checks. The statistical basis for each of these tests is developed, and the methods for calculating test parameter thresholds are explored here. While these tests have been used elsewhere, we apply them in a novel approach by calculating their relevant test parameter thresholds. Finally, implementing automated quality control is demonstrated with preliminary data from a NEON prototype site.
Atmospheric turbulence triggers pronounced diel pattern in karst carbonate geochemistry
Authors: Roland M. , Serrano-Ortiz P. , Kowalski A. S. , Goddéris Y. , Sánchez-Cañete E. P. , Ciais P. , Domingo F. , Cuezva S. , Sanchez-Moral S. , Longdoz B. , Yakir D. , Van Grieken R. , Schott J. , Cardell C. , Janssens I. A.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. CO2 exchange between terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere is key to understanding the feedbacks between climate change and the land surface. In regions with carbonaceous parent material, CO2 exchange patterns occur that cannot be explained by biological processes, such as disproportionate outgassing during the daytime or nighttime CO2 uptake during periods when all vegetation is senescent. Neither of these phenomena can be attributed to carbonate weathering reactions, since their CO2 exchange rates are too small. Soil ventilation induced by high atmospheric turbulence is found to explain atypical CO2 exchange between carbonaceous systems and the atmosphere. However, by strongly altering subsurface CO2 concentrations, ventilation can be expected to influence carbonate weathering rates. By imposing ventilation-driven CO2 outgassing in a carbonate weathering model, we show here that carbonate geochemistry is accelerated and does play a surprisingly large role in the observed CO2 exchange pattern of a semi-arid ecosystem. We found that by rapidly depleting soil CO2 during the daytime, ventilation disturbs soil carbonate equilibria and therefore strongly magnifies daytime carbonate precipitation and associated CO2 production. At night, ventilation ceases and the depleted CO2 concentrations increase steadily. Dissolution of carbonate is now enhanced, which consumes CO2 and largely compensates for the enhanced daytime carbonate precipitation. This is why only a relatively small effect on global carbonate weathering rates is to be expected. On the short term, however, ventilation has a drastic effect on synoptic carbonate weathering rates, resulting in a pronounced diel pattern that exacerbates the non-biological behavior of soil–atmosphere CO2 exchanges in dry regions \\mbox{with carbonate soils}.
Assimilating in situ and radar altimetry data into a large-scale hydrologic-hydrodynamic model for streamflow forecast in the Amazon
Authors: Paiva R. C. D. , Collischonn W. , Bonnet M.-P. , de Gonçalves L. G. G. , Calmant S. , Getirana A. , Santos da Silva J.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. In this work, we introduce and evaluate a data assimilation framework for gauged and radar altimetry-based discharge and water levels applied to a large scale hydrologic-hydrodynamic model for stream flow forecasts over the Amazon River basin. We used the process-based hydrological model called MGB-IPH coupled with a river hydrodynamic module using a storage model for floodplains. The Ensemble Kalman Filter technique was used to assimilate information from hundreds of gauging and altimetry stations based on ENVISAT satellite data. Model state variables errors were generated by corrupting precipitation forcing, considering log-normally distributed, time and spatially correlated errors. The EnKF performed well when assimilating in situ discharge, by improving model estimates at the assimilation sites (change in root-mean-squared error Δrms = −49%) and also transferring information to ungauged rivers reaches (Δrms = −16%). Altimetry data assimilation improves results, in terms of water levels (Δrms = −44%) and discharges (Δrms = −15%) to a minor degree, mostly close to altimetry sites and at a daily basis, even though radar altimetry data has a low temporal resolution. Sensitivity tests highlighted the importance of the magnitude of the precipitation errors and that of their spatial correlation, while temporal correlation showed to be dispensable. The deterioration of model performance at some unmonitored reaches indicates the need for proper characterisation of model errors and spatial localisation techniques for hydrological applications. Finally, we evaluated stream flow forecasts for the Amazon basin based on initial conditions produced by the data assimilation scheme and using the ensemble stream flow prediction approach where the model is forced by past meteorological forcings. The resulting forecasts agreed well with the observations and maintained meaningful skill at large rivers even for long lead times, e.g. >90 days at the Solimões/Amazon main stem. Results encourage the potential of hydrological forecasts at large rivers and/or poorly monitored regions by combining models and remote-sensing information.
Snow spectral albedo at Summit, Greenland: measurements and numerical simulations based on physical and chemical properties of the snowpack
Authors: Carmagnola C. M. , Domine F. , Dumont M. , Wright P. , Strellis B. , Bergin M. , Dibb J. , Picard G. , Libois Q. , Arnaud L. , Morin S.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The broadband albedo of surface snow is determined both by the near-surface profile of the physical and chemical properties of the snowpack and by the spectral and angular characteristics of the incident solar radiation. Simultaneous measurements of the physical and chemical properties of snow were carried out at Summit Camp, Greenland (72°36´ N, 38°25´ W, 3210 m a.s.l.) in May and June 2011, along with spectral albedo measurements. One of the main objectives of the field campaign was to test our ability to predict snow spectral albedo by comparing the measured albedo to the albedo calculated with a radiative transfer model, using measured snow physical and chemical properties. To achieve this goal, we made daily measurements of the snow spectral albedo in the range 350–2200 nm and recorded snow stratigraphic information down to roughly 80 cm. The snow specific surface area (SSA) was measured using the DUFISSS instrument (DUal Frequency Integrating Sphere for Snow SSA measurement, Gallet et al., 2009). Samples were also collected for chemical analyses including black carbon (BC) and dust, to evaluate the impact of light absorbing particulate matter in snow. This is one of the most comprehensive albedo-related data sets combining chemical analysis, snow physical properties and spectral albedo measurements obtained in a polar environment. The surface albedo was calculated from density, SSA, BC and dust profiles using the DISORT model (DIScrete Ordinate Radiative Transfer, Stamnes et al., 1988) and compared to the measured values. Results indicate that the energy absorbed by the snowpack through the whole spectrum considered can be inferred within 1.10%. This accuracy is only slightly better than that which can be obtained considering pure snow, meaning that the impact of impurities on the snow albedo is small at Summit. In the near infrared, minor deviations in albedo up to 0.014 can be due to the accuracy of radiation and SSA measurements and to the surface roughness, whereas deviations up to 0.05 can be explained by the spatial heterogeneity of the snowpack at small scales, the assumption of spherical snow grains made for DISORT simulations and the vertical resolution of measurements of surface layer physical properties. At 1430 and around 1800 nm the discrepancies are larger and independent of the snow properties; we propose that they are due to errors in the ice refractive index at these wavelengths. This work contributes to the development of physically based albedo schemes in detailed snowpack models, and to the improvement of retrieval algorithms for estimating snow properties from remote sensing data.
¿Aciertan los sondeos electorales? Análisis sobre la bondad de predicción de los sondeos electorales publicados en la prensa
Authors: Caballé Adriá , Grima i Cintas Pere , Marco Almagro Lluís
Published: July 2013

Este artículo analiza las predicciones sobre los resultados de laselecciones al Congreso de los Diputados de España publicadas en losprincipales medios de la prensa española. Para comparar su grado deacierto se define una distancia entre la previsión y los resultados reales,y se valora su magnitud comparándola con la que presenta lo que seha denominado “sondeo perfecto”, realizado por simulación a partirde las proporciones realmente obtenidas por cada partido. También seanalizan otros aspectos relacionados con los sondeos publicados,como la relación entre el tamaño de muestra y la calidad de la estimaciónrealizada, o entre el error que se comete (por exceso o por defecto) conun partido y la afinidad ideológica entre dicho partido y el medio quepublica la encuesta.
The Effects of Oil Price Shocks on Stock Market Volatility: Evidence from European Data
Authors: Degiannakis Stavros , Filis George , Kizys Renatas
Published: July 2013

The paper investigates the effects of oil price shocks on stock market volatility in Europe by focusing on three measures of volatility, i.e. the conditional, the realized and the implied volatility. The findings suggest that supply-side shocks and oil specific demand shocks do not affect volatility, whereas, oil price changes due to aggregate demand shocks lead to a reduction in stock market volatility.

More specifically, the aggregate demand oil price shocks have a significant explanatory power on both current- and forward-looking volatilities. The results are qualitatively similar for the aggregate stock market volatility and the industrial sectors’ volatilities. Finally, a robustness exercise using short- and long-run volatility models supports the findings.
Web‐based benchmarking of drinking water utilities in the United States
Authors: Rathor Ankur , Sinha Sunil
Published: July 2013

The American Society of Civil Engineers' annual report card shows a declining trend in the condition of the US drinking water infrastructure during the past 20 years. Maintenance and improvement of the nation's drinking water infrastructure and utilities are required, but this can only be accomplished after the current performance is evaluated and may only be possible when performance metrics are evaluated and benchmarked against those of other utilities. Some initiatives exist in this arena but are hindered by subjectivity, limited scope, the ability to gather utility personnel in one place, and being completed only once. This article documents the results of quantitative, comprehensive, and web‐based performance benchmarking of 10 drinking water utilities in seven key areas. The major contribution of this research is the creation of a database and the web‐based data collection and resulting display platform that is part of the Water Infrastructure Database project.
Segregation of complex acoustic scenes based on temporal coherence
Authors: Teki Sundeep , Chait Maria , Kumar Sukhbinder , Shamma Shihab , Griffiths Timothy D
Published: July 2013

In contrast to the complex acoustic environments we encounter everyday, most studies of auditory segregation have used relatively simple signals. Here, we synthesized a new stimulus to examine the detection of coherent patterns (‘figures’) from overlapping ‘background’ signals. In a series of experiments, we demonstrate that human listeners are remarkably sensitive to the emergence of such figures and can tolerate a variety of spectral and temporal perturbations. This robust behavior is consistent with the existence of automatic auditory segregation mechanisms that are highly sensitive to correlations across frequency and time. The observed behavior cannot be explained purely on the basis of adaptation-based models used to explain the segregation of deterministic narrowband signals. We show that the present results are consistent with the predictions of a model of auditory perceptual organization based on temporal coherence. Our data thus support a role for temporal coherence as an organizational principle underlying auditory segregation.
A mammalian pseudogene lncRNA at the interface of inflammation and anti-inflammatory therapeutics
Authors: Rapicavoli Nicole A , Qu Kun , Zhang Jiajing , Mikhail Megan , Laberge Remi-Martin , Chang Howard Y
Published: July 2013

Pseudogenes are thought to be inactive gene sequences, but recent evidence of extensive pseudogene transcription raised the question of potential function. Here we discover and characterize the sets of mouse lncRNAs induced by inflammatory signaling via TNFα. TNFα regulates hundreds of lncRNAs, including 54 pseudogene lncRNAs, several of which show exquisitely selective expression in response to specific cytokines and microbial components in a NF-κB-dependent manner. Lethe, a pseudogene lncRNA, is selectively induced by proinflammatory cytokines via NF-κB or glucocorticoid receptor agonist, and functions in negative feedback signaling to NF-κB. Lethe interacts with NF-κB subunit RelA to inhibit RelA DNA binding and target gene activation. Lethe level decreases with organismal age, a physiological state associated with increased NF-κB activity. These findings suggest that expression of pseudogenes lncRNAs are actively regulated and constitute functional regulators of inflammatory signaling.
Sterol homeostasis requires regulated degradation of squalene monooxygenase by the ubiquitin ligase Doa10/Teb4
Authors: Foresti Ombretta , Ruggiano Annamaria , Hannibal-Bach Hans K , Ejsing Christer S , Carvalho Pedro
Published: July 2013

Sterol homeostasis is essential for the function of cellular membranes and requires feedback inhibition of HMGR, a rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway. As HMGR acts at the beginning of the pathway, its regulation affects the synthesis of sterols and of other essential mevalonate-derived metabolites, such as ubiquinone or dolichol. Here, we describe a novel, evolutionarily conserved feedback system operating at a sterol-specific step of the mevalonate pathway. This involves the sterol-dependent degradation of squalene monooxygenase mediated by the yeast Doa10 or mammalian Teb4, a ubiquitin ligase implicated in a branch of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated protein degradation (ERAD) pathway. Since the other branch of ERAD is required for HMGR regulation, our results reveal a fundamental role for ERAD in sterol homeostasis, with the two branches of this pathway acting together to control sterol biosynthesis at different levels and thereby allowing independent regulation of multiple products of the mevalonate pathway.
Digestion of timothy silage and hay in reindeer
Authors: Moen R. , Olsen M. A. , Haga Ø. E. , Sørmo W. , Aagnes Utsi T. H. , Mathiesen S. D.
Published: July 2013

Leafy timothy (Phleum pratense) silage (S), silage mixed with molasses (SM) and hay (H) were fed to nine male reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) calves in winter to investigate rumen function and digestion. Three calves were given S with 18.5% dry matter (DM), three were given SM (21.9% DM) and three were given H (85.0% DM). The content of water soluble carbohydrates (in % of DM) was 8.2% in S, 16.0% in SM and 8.5% in H. Median (range) daily DM food intake per kg BM was 12.9 (9-2-14.4) g in calves fed S, 19.0 (19-0-21.9) g in calves fed SM and 21.0 (19.2¬21.1) g in calves fed H. In vivo digestion of S and SM DM ranged from 78.5-83.1% compared to only 69-9-72.9% in calves fed H. In vitro DM digestion (IVDMD) of cellulose (median) incubated for 48 hours in rumen fluid was, however, significantly (F = 0.05) lower in calves fed S (24.4%) compared to calves fed SM (42.2%). Median IVDMD of cellulose (48 hours) in calves fed H was 36.4%. Total concentration of VFA (range) in the rumen fluid from reindeer fed H (99.7-113.6 mM) and was significantly (P<0.05) higher compared to animals fed S (57.7-85.9 mM) or SM (51.4-72.0 mM). Likewise, the pH of the rumen fluid (range) was significantly (P<0.05) lower in reindeer fed H (6.40-6.78) compared to animals fed S (6.97-7.30) or SM (6.79-7.27). Based on this study it is concluded that leafy timothy preserved as hay seems to be more suitable as emergency feed compared to silage. Supplementation of molasses to silage seems to stimulate food intake and ruminal cellulose digestion in reindeer. The lower intake of S compared to SM or H by reindeer may be explained by ruminal energy deficiency.
Herds of the tundra by Robert Paine
Authors: Elgvin Dag T.
Published: July 2013

1994. Herds of the Tundra: A Portrait of Reindeer Pastoralism. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington and London. 242 pp. Robert Paine's most important contribution to the study of reindeer husbandry (pastoralism).
Miscellanea related to reindeer and reindeer husbandry
Authors: Editor The
Published: July 2013

Dissertations, abstracts, books, proceedings, reports and other issues.
Occurrence of certain microfungi on reindeer pastures in northern Finland during winter 1996-97
Authors: Kumpula Jouko , Parikka Päivi , Nieminen Mauri
Published: July 2013

Thick snow covering on warm and unfrozen soil in late autumn is believed to promote mould growth on the winter pastures of reindeer. Natural feed containing potential mycotoxins is suggested to affect the condition and health of the reindeer. During this kind of winter and spring 1996-97 we collected 30 samples from winter forage plants on three winter ranges in nothern Finland. We identified altogethet 12 different species or species groups of fungi in plant samples. Most microfungi were found when the soil temperatute under the snow in winter was above 0 °C and when the snow was just melted in spring. Abundant fungi wete Mortierella spp., Pénicillium spp. and Trichoderma viride. Without exception T. viride was, the most abundant when the temperature under the snow was above 0 °C and the soil was unfrozen, and Pénicillium spp. when temperature was below zero and the soil was frozen. Mortierella spp. was abundant in both circumstances. These three fungi or genera were also abundant in samples just after snow melting in spring. Reindeer seemed to avoid digging in the places where fungi were the most abundant. Several Pénicillium species and T. viride are known to be able to produce mycotoxins. Many symptoms observed among reindeer grazing on natural pastures were quite similar to those caused by mycotoxins. Potential mycotoxins on reindeer pastures and their effects on teindeer, should be studied in mote detail.
Sustained Zero‐Order Release of Intact Ultra‐Stable Drug‐Loaded Liposomes from an Implantable Nanochannel Delivery System
Authors: Celia Christian , Ferrati Silvia , Bansal Shyam , van de Ven Anne L. , Ruozi Barbara , Zabre Erika , Hosali Sharath , Paolino Donatella , Sarpietro Maria Grazia , Fine Daniel , Fresta Massimo , Ferrari Mauro , Grattoni Alessandro
Published: July 2013

Metronomic chemotherapy supports the idea that long‐term, sustained, constant administration of chemotherapeutics, currently not achievable, could be effective against numerous cancers. Particularly appealing are liposomal formulations, used to solubilize hydrophobic therapeutics and minimize side effects, while extending drug circulation time and enabling passive targeting. As liposome alone cannot survive in circulation beyond 48 h, sustaining their constant plasma level for many days is a challenge. To address this, we develop, as a proof of concept, an implantable nanochannel delivery system and ultra‐stable PEGylated lapatinib‐loaded liposomes, and we demonstrate the release of intact vesicles for over 18 d. Further, we investigate intravasation kinetics of subcutaneously delivered liposomes and verify their biological activity post nanochannel release on BT474 breast cancer cells. The key innovation of this work is the combination of two nanotechnologies to exploit the synergistic effect of liposomes, demonstrated as passive‐targeting vectors and nanofluidics to maintain therapeutic constant plasma levels. In principle, this approach could maximize efficacy of metronomic treatments.
Plasticization effect of transgenic soybean oil. I. on ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), as substitute for paraffin oil
Authors: Wang Zhao , Han Yue , Zhang Xing , Huang Zhaohui , Zhang Liqun
Published: July 2013

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) compounds were prepared with different amounts of transgenic soybean oil (TSO), a renewable and reactive plasticizer. For comparison, similar compounds were prepared with petroleum‐based paraffin oil (PO), one of the most common plasticizers for EPDM. The plasticization effects of TSO and of PO were studied by Mooney viscometry, capillary rheometry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and rubber processing analysis (RPA). The results showed that TSO has better plasticization effect than PO on EPDM. In addition, the curing characteristics of the EPDM compounds were studied. TSO was found to react with the curing agent dicumyl peroxide (DCP) during the curing process. Excessive amounts of TSO led to low crosslinking density, which was improved by adjusting the added amount of DCP. The mechanical properties, extraction resistance, and thermal stability of the EPDM vulcanizates plasticized with different amounts of TSO and PO were compared to determine the optimum amount of TSO to replace PO. At the same amount and no more than 15 phr of plasticizer, the TSO‐plasticized EPDM vulcanizate has higher tensile and tear strength, elongation at break, extraction resistance, and thermal stability, but lower Shore A hardness than the PO‐plasticized EPDM vulcanizate. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4457–4463, 2013
Effect of air gap on gas permeance/selectivity performance of BTDA‐TDI/MDI copolyimide hollow fiber membranes
Authors: Favvas Evangelos P. , Papageorgiou Sergios K. , Nolan John W. , Stefanopoulos Konstantinos L. , Mitropoulos Athanasios Ch.
Published: July 2013

Fabrication, morphology evaluation, and permeance/selectivity properties of three asymmetric BTDA‐TDI/MDI copolyimide hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) are reported. The asymmetric HFMs were spun using the dry/wet phase inversion process. The effect of one of the major spinning parameters, the air gap, on the permeance/selectivity properties of the produced HFM was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate the morphological characteristics and the macroscopic structure of the developed HFM. The permeance values of He, H2, CH4, CO2, O2, and N2 gases were measured by the variable pressure method at different feed pressures and temperatures and the permselectivity coefficients were calculated. The higher selectivity values were evaluated for the Μ1 membrane and were found to be 49.33, 2.99, 5.13, 5.57, and 9.61 for H2/CH4, O2/N2, CO2/CH4, CO2/N2, and H2/CO2 gas mixtures, respectively. The selectivity experiments of H2/CH4, CO2/CH4, and O2/N2 mixtures were performed at 25°C. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4490–4499, 2013
Physical properties of PVA doped with algal glycerol
Authors: Allam Mohammad , Ayesh Ahmad I. , Mohsin Mahmoud A. , Haik Yousef
Published: July 2013

Physical behavior of membrane blends of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) doped with different weight percentage (wt %) of algal glycerol is reported. Solid‐state PVA/glycerol membranes were prepared by the solution casting method. Electrical impedance measurements were conducted to test the effect of varying the percentage of glycerol on the conductivity of the membranes. The measurements were made in the frequency and temperature ranges 1 Hz–1 MHz and 303–423 K, respectively. It was observed that the ionic conductivity increased with the increase of glycerol concentration as well as temperature. The thermal properties of the films were characterized. It was found that the thermal properties, particularly the melting point (Tm), for PVA blends exhibit a reduced value proportional to the algal glycerol content. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was utilized to evaluate the interactions between the glycerol and PVA. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4482–4489, 2013
Synthesis and Absolute Configuration of Demethyl (C‐11) Cezomycin
Authors: Li Shao‐Gang , Wu Yikang
Published: July 2013

The synthesis of (−)‐demethyl (C‐11) cezomycin was achieved through an efficient route that features the use of a Kulinkovich reaction to couple two multifunctionality‐containing fragments and a cascade of ring opening of cyclopropanol/1,5‐hydrogen shift/desilylation–oxidation. The hidden yet undeniable problem of irreproducible specific rotation for this family of compounds was solved by sufficient acidification. The absolute configuration for the natural product was thus established as the mirror image of the synthetic sample.
Reduced Serotonin Receptor Subtypes in a Limbic and a Neocortical Region in Autism
Authors: Oblak Adrian , Gibbs Terrell T. , Blatt Gene J.
Published: July 2013

Autism is a behaviorally defined, neurological disorder with symptom onset before the age of 3. Abnormalities in social‐emotional behaviors are a core deficit in autism, and are characterized by impaired reciprocal–social interaction, lack of facial expressions, and the inability to recognize familiar faces. The posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and fusiform gyrus (FG) are two regions within an extensive limbic‐cortical network that contribute to social‐emotional behaviors. Evidence indicates that changes in brains of individuals with autism begin prenatally. Serotonin (5‐HT) is one of the earliest expressed neurotransmitters, and plays an important role in synaptogenesis, neurite outgrowth, and neuronal migration. Abnormalities in 5‐HT systems have been implicated in several psychiatric disorders, including autism, as evidenced by immunology, imaging, genetics, pharmacotherapy, and neuropathology. Although information is known regarding peripheral 5‐HT in autism, there is emerging evidence that 5‐HT systems in the central nervous system, including various 5‐HT receptor subtypes and transporters, are affected in autism. The present study demonstrated significant reductions in 5‐HT1A receptor‐binding density in superficial and deep layers of the PCC and FG, and in the density of 5‐HT2A receptors in superficial layers of the PCC and FG. A significant reduction in the density of serotonin transporters (5‐HTT) was also found in the deep layers of the FG, but normal levels were demonstrated in both layers of the PCC and superficial layers of the FG. This study provides potential substrates for decreased 5‐HT modulation/innervation in the autism brain, and implicate two 5‐HT receptor subtypes as potential neuromarkers for novel or existing pharmacotherapies. Autism Res 2013, 6: 571–583. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Motility analysis of bacteria‐based microrobot (bacteriobot) using chemical gradient microchamber
Authors: Park Daechul , Park Sung Jun , Cho Sunghoon , Lee Yeonkyung , Lee Yu Kyung , Min Jung‐Joon , Park Bang Ju , Ko Seong Young , Park Jong‐Oh , Park Sukho
Published: July 2013

A bacteria‐based microrobot (bacteriobot) was proposed and investigated as a new type of active drug delivery system because of its useful advantages, such as active tumor targeting, bacteria‐mediated tumor diagnosis, and therapy. In this study, we fabricated a bacteriobot with enhanced motility by selective attachment of flagellar bacteria (Salmonella typhimurium). Through selective bovine serum albumin (BSA) pattering on hydrophobic polystyrene (PS) microbeads, many S. typhimurium could be selectively attached only on the unpatterned surface of PS microbead. For the evaluation of the chemotactic motility of the bacteriobot, we developed a microfluidic chamber which can generate a stable concentration gradient of bacterial chemotactic chemicals. Prior to the evaluation of the bacteriobot, we first evaluated the directional chemotactic motility of S. typhimurium using the proposed microfluidic chamber, which contained a bacterial chemo‐attractant (L‐aspartic acid) and a chemo‐repellent (NiSO4), respectively. Compared to density of the control group in the microfluidic chamber without any chemical gradient, S. typhimurium increased by about 16% in the L‐aspartic acid gradient region and decreased by about 22% in the NiSO4 gradient region. Second, we evaluated the bacteriobot's directional motility by using this microfluidic chamber. The chemotactic directional motility of the bacteriobot increased by 14% and decreased by 13% in the concentration gradients of L‐aspartic acid and NiSO4, respectively. These results confirm that the bacteriobot with selectively patterned S. typhimurium shows chemotaxis motility very similar to that of S. typhimurium. Moreover, the directional motilities of the bacteria and bacteriobot could be demonstrated quantitatively through the proposed microfluidic chamber. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 134–143. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.