bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PTPN22 Is a Critical Regulator of Fcγ Receptor–Mediated Neutrophil Activation
Authors: Vermeren Sonja , Miles Katherine , Chu Julia Y. , Salter Donald , Zamoyska Rose , Gray Mohini
Published: November 2016

Neutrophils act as a first line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections, but they are also important effectors of acute and chronic inflammation. Genome-wide association studies have established that the gene encoding the protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor 22 (PTPN22) makes an important contribution to susceptibility to autoimmune disease, notably rheumatoid arthritis. Although PTPN22 is most highly expressed in neutrophils, its function in these cells remains poorly characterized. We show in this article that neutrophil effector functions, including adhesion, production of reactive oxygen species, and degranulation induced by immobilized immune complexes, were reduced in Ptpn22−/− neutrophils. Tyrosine phosphorylation of Lyn and Syk was altered in Ptpn22−/− neutrophils. On stimulation with immobilized immune complexes, Ptpn22−/− neutrophils manifested reduced activation of key signaling intermediates. Ptpn22−/− mice were protected from immune complex–mediated arthritis, induced by the transfer of arthritogenic serum. In contrast, in vivo neutrophil recruitment following thioglycollate-induced peritonitis and in vitro chemotaxis were not affected by lack of PTPN22. Our data suggest an important role for PTPN22-dependent dephosphorylation events, which are required to enable full FcγR-induced activation, pointing to an important role for this molecule in neutrophil function.
Suppression of IRAK1 or IRAK4 Catalytic Activity, but Not Type 1 IFN Signaling, Prevents Lupus Nephritis in Mice Expressing a Ubiquitin Binding–Defective Mutant of ABIN1
Authors: Nanda Sambit K. , Lopez-Pelaez Marta , Arthur J. Simon C. , Marchesi Francesco , Cohen Philip
Published: November 2016

Polymorphisms in the TNIP1 gene encoding A20-binding inhibitor of NF-κB1 (ABIN1) predispose to lupus and other autoimmune diseases in at least eight human populations. We found previously that knock-in mice expressing a ubiquitin-binding–defective mutant of ABIN1 (ABIN1[D485N]) develop autoimmunity as they age and succumb to a disease resembling lupus nephritis in humans. In this article, we report that Flt3-derived dendritic cells from these mice overproduced type 1 IFNs upon stimulation with ligands that activate TLR7 or TLR9. However, crossing ABIN1[D485N] mice to IFNAR1-knockout mice that do not express the α-subunit of the type 1 IFNR did not prevent splenomegaly, the appearance of high serum levels of autoantibodies and other Igs, or liver inflammation and only reduced kidney inflammation modestly. In contrast, crossing ABIN1[D485N] mice to knock-in mice expressing catalytically inactive mutants of IRAK1 or IRAK4 prevented splenomegaly, autoimmunity, and liver and kidney inflammation. Our results support the notion that IRAK1 and/or IRAK4 are attractive targets for the development of drugs to prevent, and perhaps treat, lupus nephritis and other autoinflammatory diseases caused by the decreased ability of ABIN1 or other proteins to restrict the strength of MyD88 signaling.
Type I CD20 Antibodies Recruit the B Cell Receptor for Complement-Dependent Lysis of Malignant B Cells
Authors: Engelberts Patrick J. , Voorhorst Marleen , Schuurman Janine , van Meerten Tom , Bakker Joost M. , Vink Tom , Mackus Wendy J. M. , Breij Esther C. W. , Derer Stefanie , Valerius Thomas , van de Winkel Jan G. J. , Parren Paul W. H. I. , Beurskens Frank J.
Published: November 2016

Human IgG1 type I CD20 Abs, such as rituximab and ofatumumab (OFA), efficiently induce complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) of CD20+ B cells by binding of C1 to hexamerized Fc domains. Unexpectedly, we found that type I CD20 Ab F(ab′)2 fragments, as well as C1q-binding–deficient IgG mutants, retained an ability to induce CDC, albeit with lower efficiency than for whole or unmodified IgG. Experiments using human serum depleted of specific complement components demonstrated that the observed lytic activity, which we termed “accessory CDC,” remained to be dependent on C1 and the classical pathway. We hypothesized that CD20 Ab-induced clustering of the IgM or IgG BCR was involved in accessory CDC. Indeed, accessory CDC was consistently observed in B cell lines expressing an IgM BCR and in some cell lines expressing an IgG BCR, but it was absent in BCR− B cell lines. A direct relationship between BCR expression and accessory CDC was established by transfecting the BCR into CD20+ cells: OFA-F(ab′)2 fragments were able to induce CDC in the CD20+BCR+ cell population, but not in the CD20+BCR− population. Importantly, OFA-F(ab′)2 fragments were able to induce CDC ex vivo in malignant B cells isolated from patients with mantle cell lymphoma and Waldenström macroglobulinemia. In summary, accessory CDC represents a novel effector mechanism that is dependent on type I CD20 Ab–induced BCR clustering. Accessory CDC may contribute to the excellent capacity of type I CD20 Abs to induce CDC, and thereby to the antitumor activity of such Abs in the clinic.
A Systematic Approach to Programmatic Assessment
Authors: Moffit Dani M. , Mansell Jamie L. , Russ Anne C.
Published: November 2016

Context: Accrediting bodies and universities increasingly require evidence of student learning within courses and programs. Within athletic training, programmatic assessment has been a source of angst for program directors. While there are many ways to assess educational programs, this article introduces 1 systematic approach.

Objective: This article describes the steps necessary to create an assessment plan that meets the needs of the accrediting body, the program, and the athletic training students.

Background: Assessment helps determine if the program's goals and objectives are meeting the athletic training students' needs. Program review cannot be accomplished in a manner that is helpful unless the assessment plan is systematic, planned, and ongoing.

Recommendation(s): Effective and systematic assessment plans provide a framework for program evaluation, modification, and improvement.

Conclusion(s): Assessment should be an ongoing process which creates opportunities for active learning. Clinical education needs to be included in the overall programmatic assessment, as those courses provide application of didactic learning.
An investigation into the factor structure of the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-Being
Authors: Henn Carolina M. , Hill Carin , Jorgensen Lené I.
Published: November 2016

Orientation: South African studies investigating the factor structure of the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-being (RPWB) are needed to ensure that the instrument is valid and reliable within the South African context.Research purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the factor structure of the RPWB within two South African samples. Motivation for the study: Although a substantial number of studies have been undertaken, results regarding the factor structure of the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-Being are inconclusive. There is a dearth of information in relation to South African studies examining the scales’ factor structure.Research design, approach and method: A quantitative research approach using a crosssectional field survey design was utilised. An adult working group (n = 202) was selected using convenience sampling, and a student group (n = 226) was selected by means of purposive non-probability sampling. An Exploratory Factor Analysis and a Confirmatory Factor Analysis were conducted to examine the factor structure.Main findings: The preferred model was a two-factor model where all the positively worded items were grouped in the first factor and all the negatively worded items were grouped in the second factor.Practical/managerial implications: The factor structure of the original RPWB was not satisfactorily replicated and remains seemingly unsettled. The utility of negatively worded items should be considered carefully, and alternatives such as mixed response options and phrase completion should be explored. The scales should be used with caution.Contribution/value-add: The study contributes to the literature concerning the factor structure of the RPWB with an emphasis on the South African context. It contributes to ensuring that researchers and practitioners use a valid and reliable instrument when measuring psychological well-being.
Procalcitonin is a Better Biomarker than C-Reactive Protein in Newborns Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: The Prokineca Study
Authors: Pérez Sara Bobillo , Rodríguez-Fanjul Javier , García Iolanda Jordan , Hernando Julio Moreno , Sanz Martín Iriondo
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To assess the kinetics of procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in newborns after cardiothoracic surgery (CS), with and without cardiopulmonary bypass, and to assess whether PCT was better than CRP in identifying sepsis in the first 72 hours after CS.

Patients and Methods

This is a prospective study of newborns admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit after CS.

Interventions

PCT and CRP were sequentially drawn 2 hours before surgery and at 0, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after surgery.

Results

A total of 65 patients were recruited, of which 14 were excluded because of complications. We compared the kinetics of PCT and CRP after CS in bypass and non-bypass groups without sepsis; there were no differences in the PCT values at any time (24 hours, P = 0.564; 48 hours, P = 0.117; 72 hours, P = 0.076). Thirty-five patients needed bypass, of whom four were septic (11.4%). Significant differences were detected in the PCT values on comparing the septic group to the nonseptic group at 48 hours after cardiopulmonary bypass ( P= 0.018). No differences were detected in the CRP values in these groups. A suitable cutoff for sepsis diagnosis at 48 hours following bypass would be 5 ng/mL, with optimal area under the curve of 0.867 (confidence interval 0.709–0.958), P< 0.0001, and sensitivity and specificity of 87.5% (29.6–99.7) and 72.6% (53.5–86.4), respectively.

Conclusions

This is a preliminary study but PCT seems to be a good biomarker in newborns after CS. Values over 5 ng/mL at 48 hours after CS should alert physicians to the high risk of sepsis in these patients.
In vitro Comparative Evaluation of the Fracture Resistance of Simulated Immature Teeth reinforced with Different Apical Barriers and Obturation Combination
Authors: Shaheen Neveen A , El-Helbawy Nahla G El-Din
Published: November 2016

Aim

This study aimed to assess and compare the fracture resistance of simulated immature teeth reinforced with Biodentine (BD) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as apical barriers and two root canal backfilling combination (gutta-percha/AH26, MetaSeal).

Materials and methods

A total of 70 extracted human maxillary incisors were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 10). The positive control group was not instrumented. For the other groups, coronal access was made and root canals were instrumented using the ProTaper, up to F5 followed by six Peeso reamers which were allowed to pass 1 mm beyond the apex to size 6 (1.7 mm) to simulate immature teeth. The apical 4 mm of their root canals was filled with either MTA or BD apical barrier, then backfilled with gutta-percha/AH26 or MetaSeal obturation combination. The negative control group was left unfilled. Composite resin was used to restore the coronal access cavities. The maximum load for fracture of each tooth was recorded utilizing a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance.

Results

The noninstrumented group I had the highest fracture resistance and differed significantly (p < 0.05) from the negative control groups. On the contrary, no significant difference was found between BD and MTA groups, regardless of the backfilling combination (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

There was no difference between MTA and BD apical barriers and the backfilling combination regarding their resistance to root fracture.

How to cite this article

Shaheen NA, El-Din El-Helbawy NG. In vitro Comparative Evaluation of the Fracture Resistance of Simulated Immature Teeth reinforced with Different Apical Barriers and Obturation Combination. World J Dent 2016;7(3):113-118.
Dentists’ Outlook on Advertising in their Line of Work in Bengaluru, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Nayak Prajna P , Raju Vamsee K , Kshetrimayum Nandita , Ramesh Laksmikantha , Nayak Sushma Shankar , Kamath Vinayak
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Dentistry, being one of the healing professions, has a commitment to society that its members will adhere to high ethical standards of conduct. Dental Council of India (DCI), the regulating body for dental professionals in the country, has also given certain guidelines and regulations on advertising issues. But, studies on dentists’ opinion on the issues on advertising for dental professionals in India are very meager. Hence, the aim was to evaluate the opinion on advertising issues among practicing dentists from various dental colleges in Bengaluru, India.

Materials and methods

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 258 practicing dentists attached to various dental colleges in Bengaluru city. Chi-square test was used to determine the association of independent variables with each of the main outcome of interest.

Results

Out of 258 practicing dentists, nearly three quarters of practitioners (68.2%) agreed that there is a need for some form of advertising. Among those who agreed that there is a need for advertising, more than half of the practitioners (63.6%) said that it is required for popularity, visibility, and good business. When asked about which form of advertising can largely benefit their dental practice, 29.1% agreed on the patient testimonials, and 25.2% thought ads in magazines and newspapers are useful.

Conclusion

Nearly equal number of practitioners agreed and disagreed on the issue of whether advertising may make dentistry seem more like a trade than a health care service. More than three quarters of them agreed with the use of global advertising and tourism.

How to cite this article

Nayak PP, Raju VK, Kshetrimayum N, Ramesh L, Nayak SS, Kamath V. Dentists’ Outlook on Advertising in their Line of Work in Bengaluru, India: A Cross-sectional Study. World J Dent 2016;7(3):141-145.
Apical Extrusion of Sodium Hypochlorite using Various Mechanical Activators
Authors: Vangala Amulya , Doshi Saurabh R , Aparadh Anisha
Published: November 2016

Aim

To evaluate the volume of sodium hypochlorite extruded from the apex on using various mechanical activators.

Materials and methods

Forty extracted single-rooted mandibular premolar teeth were taken. Standardized access opening with chemicomechanical preparation till protaper F3 was done with 2 mL of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite in between instrumentation of each file. The apical patency was checked with 10 K file. The teeth were then divided into four groups: Group I (n = 10) activation was done with #20 side-vented needle; group II (n = 10) activation was done with GP cones; group III (n = 10) activation was done with Irrisafe tips; group IV (n = 10) activation was done with endoactivator. As much as 10 mL of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite has been used with each group to activate the irrigant. The extruded sodium hypochlorite during activation with various systems was been collected in prepared apparatus. The obtained samples were analyzed for sodium ion concentration. Evaluation of the volume of sodium hypochlorite extruded from the apex was analyzed using absorption spectrometry. Then the above results were then statistically analyzed.

Results

Varying amount of apical extrusion was seen among the above study groups. Minimum amount of apical extrusion was seen with endoactivator. Maximum amount of apical extrusion was seen with needle irrigation followed by GP cones.

How to cite this article

Vangala A, Doshi SR, Aparadh A, Hegde V. Apical Extrusion of Sodium Hypochlorite using Various Mechanical Activators. World J Dent 2016;7(3):146-149.
Effect of Air Pollution on Salivary Interleukin-8 Levels in Children
Authors: Mehrbani Solmaz Pourzare , Babaloo Zohreh , Jamali Zahra , Abdollahian Tahmoores , Eslami Hosein , Sobhani Narges
Published: November 2016

Background

Air pollution in cities has always been a permanent and serious threat for the health of society and the environment, influencing the health of different body organs and systems both acutely and chronically. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of air pollution in saliva Interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels in children.

Materials and methods

A total of 88, 8- to 10-year-old children were included in this descriptive cross-sectional study. Group I, the case group, included 44 children from Tabriz (Iranian Azerbaijan), and group II, the control group, included 44 children from Kalibar Town (of Tabriz). Both groups in this study had a similar economic status. Following sampling and selection of individuals, for measuring the levels of saliva IL-8, ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) method was used. To investigate the difference between the means of the groups, independent t test or its nonparametric equivalent, i.e., Man—Whitney test and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 21 were used. In this study, p-value lower than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The results of this study indicate a significant difference in the levels of saliva IL-8 between the two groups, where the mean level of saliva IL-8 is greater in children residing in the region with higher air pollution level than in the children dwelling in the region with a greater air pollution level (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The results obtained from this study indicated that the level of saliva IL-8 increases in regions with air pollution, potentially causing several mouth problems in children.

How to cite this article

Mehrbani SP, Babaloo Z, Jamali Z, Abdollahian T, Eslami H, Sobhani N. Effect of Air Pollution on Salivary Interleukin-8 Levels in Children. World J Dent 2016;7(4):175-178.
Anatomic Variation in Lingual Foramen: A Cone beam Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Binnal Almas , Ceena Denny E , Jindal Ritika
Published: November 2016

Background

Lingual foramen is usually located in the midline, leveled with or superior to the genial tubercles. The success of implant placements is dependent on the radiological examination, which helps the clinician to determine the parameters of implant placement by revealing the structures like the course of the nerves, location of foramens, height and shape of alveolar bone, etc. The present study was done to assess the appearance, visibility, location, and types of lingual foramen in the mandibular region.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 116 patients who attended the department for various imaging purposes. The examinations were carried out using the Promax three-dimensional (3D) CBCT unit. The cross-sectional images were examined to detect the presence, number, and position of the lingual foramen. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used for comparison of categorical data.

Results

We observed lingual foramen in 116 patients and their number ranged from 1 to 3. When comparing the position, it was observed that lingual foramen was located at approximately two-thirds (60th percentile from the alveolar crest) distance from the alveolar crest to lower border of the mandible and there was no significant difference in various age groups or between both genders.

Conclusion

Lingual foramen transmits neurovascular bundles to surrounding structures, hence any damage to the lingual foramen during surgical procedures can result in hemorrhage and/or neurosensory disturbances. It is therefore mandatory for a dentist to be aware of the structures present in the anterior mandible when considering any surgical procedures or implant planning. Hence, CBCT plays a pivotal role during implant planning and surgical procedures in dentistry.

How to cite this article

Denny CE, Natarajan S, Ahmed J, Binnal A, Jindal R. Anatomic Variation in Lingual Foramen: A Cone beam Computed Tomography Study. World J Dent 2016;7(4):179-181.
Emerging Antibacterial Coated Dental Implants: A Preventive Measure for Peri-implantitis
Authors: Yarramaneni Varun , Balakrishnan Dhanasekar , Aparna IN , Sachdeva Akanksha , Prabhu Nayana
Published: November 2016

Dental implants are the modern marvel and are widely accepted as a reconstructive treatment modality for tooth replacement.

In recent times, there has been a marked progress in the clinical success rates of dental implants, but implant failures as a result of infections are continuing at an alarming rate of 8% per year, translating into 1 million failures worldwide.

Perimucositis and peri-implantitis are the chief complications reported postimplant surgery that effects its short- and long-term success. Peri-implantitis is characterized by clinical and radiological bone loss around the implant accompanied with an inflammatory reaction of the peri-implant mucosa and is an irreversible condition, whereas perimucositis is a reversible inflammatory change.

Implant surfaces provide an ideal substrate for bacterial adhesion forming a biofilm. Biofilm performs vast functions ranging from physical defensive barrier against phagocytic predation to working as a selective permeable barrier. This limits the diffusion of systemic antimicrobial agents that are capable of damaging the bacterial complexes. These rapidly growing bacteria give rise to a chronic infection which is difficult to eradicate by conventional antibiotic therapy.

To inhibit peri-implant infections, various functional modifications in the implant surfaces have been suggested. The coatings on the titanium implant are incorporated with disinfectants, antibiotics as well as antimicrobial peptides AMPs.

This paper is an attempt to review all the antibiotic coatings available for a titanium implant and discuss their prospective future to prevent peri-implant infections.

How to cite this article

Yarramaneni V, Aparna IN, Sachdeva A, Balakrishnan D, Prabhu N. Emerging Antibacterial Coated Dental Implants: A Preventive Measure for Peri-implantitis. World J Dent 2016;7(4):195-198.
Esthetic Correction of Rotated Maxillary Central Incisor by Conservative Approach
Authors: Nanjannawar Girish S , Gadodia Rupal B , Kamat Sharad B , Chopade Rutuja
Published: November 2016

Tooth rotation is a dental anomaly of position, in which there is a displacement of the tooth within the alveolar bone around its longitudinal axis. Although it is a common finding in the premolar—molar region, rotations of the maxillary centrals are extremely rare and such aberrations are multifactorial in their origin.

It is important to have a thorough understanding of such anatomical variation, which can cause occlusal and esthetic problems in patients, to alert the dental surgeons, so that they are well prepared to carry out esthetic and functional rehabilitation of the teeth involved. A successful management of 180° rotated maxillary left central incisor by conservative approach is described here.

How to cite this article

Nanjannawar GS, Gadodia RB, Kamat SB, Chopade R. Esthetic Correction of Rotated Maxillary Central Incisor by Conservative Approach. World J Dent 2016;7(4):217-220.
Unexpectedly acidic nanoparticles formed in dimethylamine–ammonia–sulfuric-acid nucleation experiments at CLOUD
Authors: Lawler Michael J. , Winkler Paul M. , Kim Jaeseok , Ahlm Lars , Tröstl Jasmin , Praplan Arnaud P. , Schobesberger Siegfried , Kürten Andreas , Kirkby Jasper , Bianchi Federico , Duplissy Jonathan , Hansel Armin , Jokinen Tuija , Keskinen Helmi , Lehtipalo Katrianne , Leiminger Markus , Petäjä Tuukka , Rissanen Matti , Rondo Linda , Simon Mario , Sipilä Mikko , Williamson Christina , Wimmer Daniela , Riipinen Ilona , Virtanen Annele , Smith James N.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. New particle formation driven by acid–base chemistry was initiated in the CLOUD chamber at CERN by introducing atmospherically relevant levels of gas-phase sulfuric acid and dimethylamine (DMA). Ammonia was also present in the chamber as a gas-phase contaminant from earlier experiments. The composition of particles with volume median diameters (VMDs) as small as 10 nm was measured by the Thermal Desorption Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometer (TDCIMS). Particulate ammonium-to-dimethylaminium ratios were higher than the gas-phase ammonia-to-DMA ratios, suggesting preferential uptake of ammonia over DMA for the collected 10–30 nm VMD particles. This behavior is not consistent with present nanoparticle physicochemical models, which predict a higher dimethylaminium fraction when NH3 and DMA are present at similar gas-phase concentrations. Despite the presence in the gas phase of at least 100 times higher base concentrations than sulfuric acid, the recently formed particles always had measured base : acid ratios lower than 1 : 1. The lowest base fractions were found in particles below 15 nm VMD, with a strong size-dependent composition gradient. The reasons for the very acidic composition remain uncertain, but a plausible explanation is that the particles did not reach thermodynamic equilibrium with respect to the bases due to rapid heterogeneous conversion of SO2 to sulfate. These results indicate that sulfuric acid does not require stabilization by ammonium or dimethylaminium as acid–base pairs in particles as small as 10 nm.
Effect of aerosol subgrid variability on aerosol optical depth and cloud condensation nuclei: implications for global aerosol modelling
Authors: Weigum Natalie , Schutgens Nick , Stier Philip
Published: November 2016

Abstract. A fundamental limitation of grid-based models is their inability to resolve variability on scales smaller than a grid box. Past research has shown that significant aerosol variability exists on scales smaller than these grid boxes, which can lead to discrepancies in simulated aerosol climate effects between high- and low-resolution models. This study investigates the impact of neglecting subgrid variability in present-day global microphysical aerosol models on aerosol optical depth (AOD) and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). We introduce a novel technique to isolate the effect of aerosol variability from other sources of model variability by varying the resolution of aerosol and trace gas fields while maintaining a constant resolution in the rest of the model. We compare WRF-Chem (Weather and Research Forecast model) runs in which aerosol and gases are simulated at 80 km and again at 10 km resolutions; in both simulations the other model components, such as meteorology and dynamics, are kept at the 10 km baseline resolution. We find that AOD is underestimated by 13 % and CCN is overestimated by 27 % when aerosol and gases are simulated at 80 km resolution compared to 10 km. The processes most affected by neglecting aerosol subgrid variability are gas-phase chemistry and aerosol uptake of water through aerosol–gas equilibrium reactions. The inherent non-linearities in these processes result in large changes in aerosol properties when aerosol and gaseous species are artificially mixed over large spatial scales. These changes in aerosol and gas concentrations are exaggerated by convective transport, which transports these altered concentrations to altitudes where their effect is more pronounced. These results demonstrate that aerosol variability can have a large impact on simulating aerosol climate effects, even when meteorology and dynamics are held constant. Future aerosol model development should focus on accounting for the effect of subgrid variability on these processes at global scales in order to improve model predictions of the aerosol effect on climate.
Mercury emissions of a coal-fired power plant in Germany
Authors: Weigelt Andreas , Slemr Franz , Ebinghaus Ralf , Pirrone Nicola , Bieser Johannes , Bödewadt Jan , Esposito Giulio , van Velthoven Peter F. J.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Hg ∕ SO2, Hg ∕ CO, NOx ∕ SO2 (NOx being the sum of NO and NO2) emission ratios (ERs) in the plume of the coal-fired power plant (CFPP), Lippendorf, near Leipzig, Germany, were determined within the European Tropospheric Mercury Experiment (ETMEP) aircraft campaign in August 2013. The gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM) fraction of mercury emissions was also assessed. Measured Hg ∕ SO2 and Hg ∕ CO ERs were within the measurement uncertainties consistent with the ratios calculated from annual emissions in 2013 reported by the CFPP operator, while the NOx ∕ SO2 ER was somewhat lower. The GOM fraction of total mercury emissions, estimated using three independent methods, was below ∼ 25 %. This result is consistent with other findings and suggests that GOM fractions of ∼ 40 % of CFPP mercury emissions in current emission inventories are overestimated.
Consistency between GRUAN sondes, LBLRTM and IASI
Authors: Calbet Xavier , Peinado-Galan Niobe , Ripodas Pilar , Trent Tim , Dirksen Ruud , Sommer Michael
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Radiosonde soundings from the GRUAN data record are shown to be consistent with IASI measured radiances via the LBLRTM radiative transfer model in the part of the spectrum that is mostly affected by water vapour absorption in the upper troposphere (from 700 hPa up). This result is key to have consistency between radiosonde and satellite measurements for climate data records, since GRUAN, IASI and LBLRTM constitute reference measurements in each of their fields. This is specially the case for night time radiosonde measurements. Although the sample size is small (16 cases), day time GRUAN radiosonde measurements seem to have a small dry bias of 2.5 % in absolute terms of relative humidity, located mainly in the upper troposphere, with respect to LBLRTM and IASI.
Observational evidence for new instabilities in the midlatitude E and F region
Authors: Hysell David L. , Larsen Miguel , Sulzer Michael
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Radar observations of the E- and F-region ionosphere from the Arecibo Observatory made during moderately disturbed conditions are presented. The observations indicate the presence of patchy sporadic E (Es) layers, medium-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs), and depletion plumes associated with spread F conditions. New analysis techniques are applied to the dataset to infer the vector plasma drifts in the F region as well as vector neutral wind and temperature profiles in the E region. Instability mechanisms in both regions are evaluated. The mesosphere–lower-thermosphere (MLT) region is found to meet the conditions for neutral dynamic instability in the vicinity of the patchy Es layers even though the wind shear was relatively modest. An inversion in the MLT temperature profile contributed significantly to instability in the vicinity of one patchy layer. Of particular interest is the evidence for the conditions required for neutral convective instability in the lower-thermosphere region (which is usually associated with highly stable conditions) due to the rapid increase in temperature with altitude. A localized F-region plasma density enhancement associated with a sudden ascent up the magnetic field is shown to create the conditions necessary for convective plasma instability leading to the depletion plume and spread F. The growth time for the instability is short compared to the one described by [Perkins(1973)]. This instability does not offer a simple analytic solution but is clearly present in numerical simulations. The instability mode has not been described previously but appears to be more viable than the various mechanisms that have been suggested previously as an explanation for the occurrence of midlatitude spread F.
Snow avalanche friction relation based on extended kinetic theory
Authors: Rauter Matthias , Fischer Jan-Thomas , Fellin Wolfgang , Kofler Andreas
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Rheological models for granular materials play an important role in the numerical simulation of dry dense snow avalanches. This article describes the application of a physically based model from the field of kinetic theory to snow avalanche simulations. The fundamental structure of the so-called extended kinetic theory is outlined and the decisive model behavior for avalanches is identified. A simplified relation, covering the basic features of the extended kinetic theory, is developed and implemented into an operational avalanche simulation software. To test the obtained friction relation, simulation results are compared to velocity and runout observations of avalanches, recorded from different field tests. As reference we utilize a classic phenomenological friction relation, which is commonly applied for hazard estimation. The quantitative comparison is based on the combination of normalized residuals of different observation variables in order to take into account the quality of the simulations in various regards. It is demonstrated that the extended kinetic theory provides a physically based explanation for the structure of phenomenological friction relations. The friction relation derived with the help of the extended kinetic theory shows advantages to the classic phenomenological friction, in particular when different events and various observation variables are investigated.
Film Clips as Classroom Input in an Elective Audio-Visual College English Course in Mainland China
Authors: Liu Suiling
Published: November 2016

The present study introduces the design of classroom input for an elective Audio-visual College English course in Mainland China with the purpose of developing students’ intercultural communicative competence (ICC). Four groups of nineteen film clips in total, chosen from the Intercultural Film Database on four different cultural dimensions, are used as classroom input in the elective College English course, followed by classroom activities like group discussion, pair discussion and role play. Finally, topics for pair and group discussion for each cultural dimension are proposed.
The Expressive and Emotive Function in the Jordanian Parent-Child Interactions
Authors: Wardat Mamud , Alkhateeb Omar
Published: November 2016

The present paper investigates the emotive and expressive socio-pragmatic function in the Jordanian parent-child interactions in Irbid City, Jordan. A sample of 100 children from different areas of Irbid was chosen randomly from schools in Irbid governorate in North Jordan. It consisted of pupils at grade 5 who are 11 years old. Half of the sample were males, whereas the second half were females. A questionnaire of 5 items was directed to the school children to measure the expressive and emotive socio-pragmatic function. The results showed that parent-child interactions in Jordanian Arabic exhibit the emotive and expressive socio-pragmatic function. The results also showed that parents' interactions affect the children's personality and behavior positively through applying certain tactics and styles. 
A Descriptive Analysis of Disagreement Strategies: The Case of Iranian EFL Learners
Authors: Farashaiyan Atieh , Muthusamy Paramasivam
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this research was to describe the L2 pragmatic knowledge of Iranian EFL learners by producing the speech act of disagreement in English in different situations. One hundred and twenty Iranian EFL learners took part in this study. The required data were accumulated through a Written Discourse Completion Task (WDCT). The results showed that most participants tended to make use of more indirect strategies (44.85%) to disagree with another speaker’s statement either with higher or lower power or within different social distance.  The respondents’ most frequent strategy use refers to counterclaims with 44.8%. On the other hand, challenges with 8.8% and Irrelevancy of claims with 3.2% were respectively among the least frequent strategies used in all situations. The results showed that learners almost utilized the same strategies in different disagreement situations with the same frequency. Therefore, it indicates that they did not notice the situational variables of social power, distance and imposition to vary their choice of strategy. In other words, they did not have the contextual understanding of the mentioned factors. Therefore, the results can suggest that the learners lack sufficient pragmatic knowledge in performing the studied speech act. The implication of this study is for Iranian language instructors, materials writers and curriculum developers.  
A Model-Based Method for Content Validation of Automatically Generated Test Items
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Gierl Mark
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study is to describe a methodology to recover the item model used to generate multiple-choice test items with a novel graph theory approach. Beginning with the generated test items and working backward to recover the original item model provides a model-based method for validating the content used to automatically generate test items. The methodology is demonstrated using items from a content area in medicine.
Exploring the Relationship between School Growth Mindset and Organizational Learning Variables: Implications for Multicultural Education
Authors: Hanson Janet , Bangert Arthur , Ruff William
Published: November 2016

According to school growth mindset theory a school’s organizational structure influences teachers’ beliefs in their collective ability to help all students grow and learn; including those from diverse cultural, religious, identity, and socioeconomic demographics. The implicit theory of growth mindset has been quantified for a school’s culture on the What’s My School Mindset scale. This exploratory study was an initial effort to examine the content validity of the school growth mindset construct using SPSS to perform correlation analysis with multicultural relevant, organizational learning variables from the literature that were shown to explain improved school outcomes. Regression analysis tested the hypothesis that the independent variables would explain variations in a school’s growth mindset mean. Data was collected from a random stratified sample of middle and high school teachers (n = 64) and administrators (n = 5) in a large northwestern state. Responses were collected on the 19-question Likert-style WMSM survey. The overarching research question was, Is there a relationship between principal openness to change, faculty openness to change, work locus of control, and a school growth mindset? The results revealed organizational learning variables significantly correlated with a growth mindset culture and explained significant variations in the WMSM mean. The results have positive implications for providing school administrators with a way to measure their school’s culture and to provide feedback to teachers that can challenge their beliefs and inform improvements in culturally responsive teaching practices.
Development of a Photocatalytic Filter to Control Indoor Air Quality
Authors: Del Curto Barbara , Tarsini Paolo , Cigada Alberto
Published: November 2016

Background

The aim of this work was the development and characterization of a photocatalytic filter for the treatment of indoor air, characterized by a low pressure drop.

Methods

The filter (photocatalytic filter) was based on a polyester substrate additivated with active carbon (Carbotex 150-6), treated with a sol of titanium dioxide (Sol 121-AB; NextMaterials Ltd.) and illuminated with UV LEDs to induce photocatalytic activity.

Results

Tests showed that this filter, used in a suitable device for air circulation with a very low noise level, had the ability to block solid particulates, to photocatalytically oxidize a major fraction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and deactivate all of the bacteria blocked on the filter, in contrast to traditional commercial air filters on which the bacteria remain viable.

Conclusions

Activated charcoal filters treated with TiO2 and illuminated by UV LEDs were found to be extremely effective in killing bacteria and effective in decreasing VOC and total suspended particulates (TSP).
Anti-Anti-Culturalism: A Response to Edward Bever's “Culture Warrior”
Authors: Ostling Michael
Published: November 2016

In this note, I respond to Edward Bever's response to my critical review of his Realities of Witchcraft (Preternature 4, no. 2 [2015]: 203–10). While Bever's response portrays me as a “culture warrior” (Preternature 5, no. 1 [2016]: 112–20), I prefer to seek a cessation of hostilities between cultural and neurobiological approaches to magic and witchcraft. I suggest that, despite Bever's response, my original worry that his approach is reductively “anti-culturalist” remains warranted, but also point toward the possibility for rapprochement between our respective positions.
A Diary Study on Work-Related Perseverative Cognition and Employees’ Need for Recovery The Role of Emotional Support from Family and Neuroticism
Authors: Foucreault Annie , Ménard Julie , Stevens Celestine
Published: November 2016

Daily Work-related Perseverative Cognition (WPC) increases employees’ need for recovery by maintaining physical activation of work-related stressors, thus depleting employees’ resources further. The aim of this study was to highlight factors that influence the WPC/need for recovery relationship on a daily basis. It is hypothesized that daily satisfaction with emotional support from family would have both a direct and a moderating effect on the relationship between employees’ daily WPC and need for recovery. Since individuals higher in neuroticism tend to report more distress symptoms and perseverative cognition, it was expected that neuroticism would: (1) have a direct effect on WPC and need for recovery, (2) accentuate the WPC/need for recovery relationship and (3) reduce the buffering effect of emotional support from family on need for recovery. A sample of 31 employees completed diaries for five consecutive days before sleep (122 data points). Results from hierarchical linear modeling analyses revealed that daily family support had no direct effect on daily need for recovery. However, daily family support buffered the WPC/need for recovery relationship but only among individuals low in neuroticism. For those high in neuroticism, daily family support was not associated with a reduction of daily need for recovery from work after resources had been depleted due to WPC. These findings suggest that individual characteristics (neuroticism) should be considered in order to interpret the effect of key resources (family support) on recovery. The discussion highlights how organizations can foster family support and offer alternative strategies for those higher in neuroticism.
Private bijdragen aan publieke veiligheid: effecten van Buurt-WhatsApp
Authors: Vollaard B.
Published: November 2016

Private contributions to public security: Effects of Community WhatsApp

Community WhatsApp consists of a group of local residents sharing information among each other on suspicious situations in the neighborhood through a smartphone app. In the southern Dutch city of Tilburg the author examined whether Community WhatsApp stimulates people to report suspicious situations through the emergency number 112. The stimulus is possibly the appreciation of other participants for being attentive and taking the initiative to call the emergency number. The author found that Community WhatsApp contributes to the diminishing of crime due to the mechanisms of disruption of criminal activities and deterrence.
Percepciones de estudiantes para maestros de educación primaria sobre los modelos analógicos como recurso didáctico
Authors: Jiménez-Tenorio Natalia , Aragón Núñez Lourdes , Oliva Martínez José María
Published: November 2016

En este artículo se investigan las opiniones de 169 alumnos del Grado de Educación Primaria sobre la utilidad de varios modelos analógicos empleados en su formación sobre el fenómeno de las estaciones. Para ello, al finalizar la experiencia de aprendizaje sobre dicho tópico, se les administró un cuestionario al objeto de valorar sus percepciones al respecto. En él, se contemplaron dos variables: el modelo concreto evaluado y la población a la que va dirigido (maestros frente a alumnos de primaria). Los resultados obtenidos mostraron niveles de valoración que iban de moderados a altos. Además, la variabilidad de las respuestas se explicaba mejor a partir de la idiosincrasia del modelo evaluado que en función del tipo de sujeto destinatario. No obstante, no siempre la intencionalidad didáctica depositada por el docente en cada recurso fue adecuadamente percibida por los participantes.
Phylogeography ofArenaria balearicaL. (Caryophyllaceae): evolutionary history of a disjunct endemic from the Western Mediterranean continental islands
Authors: Bobo-Pinilla Javier , Barrios de León Sara B. , Seguí Colomar Jaume , Fenu Giuseppe , Bacchetta Gianluigi , Peñas de Giles Julio , Martínez-Ortega María Montserrat
Published: November 2016

Although it has been traditionally accepted thatArenaria balearica(Caryophyllaceae) could be a relict Tertiary plant species, this has never been experimentally tested. Nor have the palaeohistorical reasons underlying the highly fragmented distribution of the species in the Western Mediterranean region been investigated. We have analysed AFLP data (213) and plastid DNA sequences (226) from a total of 250 plants from 29 populations sampled throughout the entire distribution range of the species in Majorca, Corsica, Sardinia, and the Tuscan Archipelago. The AFLP data analyses indicate very low geographic structure and population differentiation. Based on plastid DNA data, six alternative phylogeographic hypotheses were tested using Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC). These analyses revealed ancient area fragmentation as the most probable scenario, which is in accordance with the star-like topology of the parsimony network that suggests a pattern of long term survival and subsequentin situdifferentiation. Overall low levels of genetic diversity and plastid DNA variation were found, reflecting evolutionary stasis of a species preserved in locally long-term stable habitats.
Germination pretreatments to break hard-seed dormancy in Astragalus cicer L. (Fabaceae)
Authors: Statwick Joseph M.
Published: November 2016

Conservationists often propagate rare species to improve their long-term population viability. However, seed dormancy can make propagation efforts challenging by substantially lowering seed germination. Here I statistically compare several pretreatment options for seeds of Astragalus cicer L.: unscarified controls and scarification via physical damage, hot water, acid, and hydrogen peroxide. Although only 30% of unscarified seeds germinated, just physical scarification significantly improved germination, whereas one treatment, hot water, resulted in no germination at all. I recommend that rare species of Astragalus, as well as other hard-seeded legumes, be pretreated using physical scarification. Other methods may require considerable optimization, wasting precious time and seeds.