bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-color fluorescent analysis of connexin 36 turnover: relationship to functional plasticity
Authors: Wang Helen Yanran , Lin Ya-Ping , Mitchell Cheryl K. , Ram Sripad , O'Brien John
Published: September 2015

Gap junctions formed of connexin 36 (Cx36, also known as Gjd2) show tremendous functional plasticity on several time scales. Changes in connexin phosphorylation modify coupling in minutes through an order of magnitude, but recent studies also imply involvement of connexin turnover in regulating cell–cell communication. We utilized Cx36 with an internal HaloTag to study Cx36 turnover and trafficking in cultured cells. Irreversible, covalent pulse-chase labeling with fluorescent HaloTag ligands allowed clear discrimination of newly formed and pre-existing Cx36. Cx36 in junctional plaques turned over with a half-life of 3.1 h, and the turnover rate was unchanged by manipulations of protein kinase A (PKA) activity. In contrast, changes in PKA activity altered coupling within 20 min. New Cx36 in cargo vesicles was added directly to existing gap junctions and newly made Cx36 was not confined to points of addition, but diffused throughout existing gap junctions. Existing connexins also diffused into photobleached areas with a half-time of less than 2 s. In conclusion, studies of Cx36-HaloTag revealed novel features of connexin trafficking and demonstrated that phosphorylation-based changes in coupling occur on a different time scale than turnover.
Uncoupling PIP2-calmodulin regulation of Kv7.2 channels by an assembly destabilizing epileptogenic mutation
Authors: Alberdi Araitz , Gomis-Perez Carolina , Bernardo-Seisdedos Ganeko , Alaimo Alessandro , Malo Covadonga , Aldaregia Juncal , Lopez-Robles Carlos , Areso Pilar , Butz Elisabeth , Wahl-Schott Christian , Villarroel Alvaro
Published: September 2015

We show that the combination of an intracellular bi-partite calmodulin (CaM)-binding site and a distant assembly region affect how an ion channel is regulated by a membrane lipid. Our data reveal that regulation by phosphatidylinositol(4,5)bisphosphate (PIP2) and stabilization of assembled Kv7.2 subunits by intracellular coiled-coil regions far from the membrane are coupled molecular processes. Live-cell fluorescence energy transfer measurements and direct binding studies indicate that remote coiled-coil formation creates conditions for different CaM interaction modes, each conferring different PIP2 dependency to Kv7.2 channels. Disruption of coiled-coil formation by epilepsy-causing mutation decreases apparent CaM-binding affinity and interrupts CaM influence on PIP2 sensitivity.
Health and the Economy in the United States from 1750 to the Present
Authors: Costa Dora L.
Published: September 2015

I discuss the health transition in the United States, bringing new data to bear on health indicators and investigating the changing relationship between health, income, and the environment. I argue that scientific advances played an outsize role and that health improvements were largest among the poor. Health improvements were not a precondition for modern economic growth. The gains to health are largest when the economy has moved from “brawn” to “brains” because this is when the wage returns to education are high, leading the healthy to obtain more education. More education may improve use of health knowledge, producing a virtuous cycle. ( JEL H51, I10, J13, N31, N32)
O PROCESSO DE INSTITUCIONALIZAÇÃO DE UM CAMPO CULTURAL SEM A DEPENDÊNCIA DE MACROATORES: O CAMPO DO HUMOR NO CEARÁ
Authors: Correia-Lima Bruno Chaves , Cabral Augusto Cézar de Aquino , Bandeira-de-Mello Rodrigo , Pessoa Maria Naiula Monteiro , Santos Sandra Maria dos
Published: September 2015

Neste trabalho é analisado o processo de institucionalização de um campo relacionado à cultura que apresenta longevidade institucional sem apresentar dependência de macroatores públicos ou privados quanto à sua governança e à sua sustentabilidade econômica, configurando-se como exceção à condição de dependência comumente apresentada em estudos empíricos anteriores da institucionalização de organizações culturais no Brasil. Trata-se do campo do humor no Estado do Ceará, cuja evolução do seu processo de institucionalização foi analisada à luz do modelo de Tolbert e Zucker (1999) e de fatores apontados por teóricos institucionais como influentes nesse processo. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória e descritiva, de natureza qualitativa, com a realização de quinze entrevistas com representantes organizacionais participantes do campo. Os resultados indicam que, mesmo sem apresentar governança concentrada (governamental ou empresarial) e nível alto de formalização de relações e normas, o campo está em fase intermediária do seu processo de institucionalização em direção à sua sedimentação. A partir da análise do campo do humor no Ceará, infere-se como fatores que potencializam a legitimidade e a longevidade de campos culturais: a existência de relação entre rotinas sociais locais e o objeto cultural em questão; a formação de enlaces interorganizacionais que evidenciem parcerias com ganhos multilaterais com micro e pequenas empresas, especialmente àquelas relacionadas ao turismo local; e a ocorrência de isomoformismos miméticos que possibilitem a multiplicação de estruturas e práticas legitimadas.
CONTABILIDADE GERENCIAL EM HOSPITAIS: ANÁLISE BIBLIOMÉTRICA DE ARTIGOS PUBLICADOS NO PERÍODO 1950 A 2011
Authors: Silva Marcia Zanievicz da , Beuren Ilse Maria
Published: September 2015

O estudo objetiva analisar a produção intelectual sobre a temática de contabilidade gerencial em hospitais publicada entre 1950 e 2011 e testar empiricamente se está alinhada às leis e aos princípios bibliométricos. Tendo como base teórica a bibliometria e fundamentada nas Leis de Lotka, Zipf e Bradford e em indicadores de colaboração e produtividade dos autores, a pesquisa de natureza quantitativa foi realizada por meio da análise de 434 artigos publicados em periódicos indexados no Scopus das áreas Sciences & Humanities e Social Health Sciences. Os resultados mostram que os artigos tiveram maior aderência em periódicos da área da saúde comparativamente à área de contabilidade e que os Estados Unidos possuem o maior número (48,5%) de artigos publicados. Na aplicação empírica das Leis de Lotka e de Bradford e dos pressupostos de produtividade, os achados não permitiram confirmar os pressupostos e as leis bibliométricas testados, o que pode ser um indicativo de não consolidação do tema, com um corpo de autores, instituições e periódicos. Porém, o aumento no volume anual de publicações e na taxa média de citações indica que há espaço e demanda para tais pesquisas na comunidade acadêmica, além de sinalizar demanda. Conclui-se que, apesar da falta de evidências de consolidação, pesquisadores interessados no tema podem recorrer aos periódicos da área da saúde para consubstanciar seus estudos.
Henry James' andere Szene
Authors: Witt Sophie
Published: September 2015

»I realise - none too soon - that the scenic method is my absolute, my imperative, my only salvation«, so der US-amerikanisch-britische Romancier und Kritiker Henry James. Dieses leidenschaftliche Bekenntnis zum Szenischen und James' liaisons dangereuses mit dem modernen Roman sind Aufhänger der komparatistischen Studie von Sophie Witt, die James' Romane als Kristallisationspunkt einer Romangeschichte und -theorie setzt, in der die theatrale Szene als Schauplatz der Konstituierung und als Reflexion auf die natürliche und symbolische Dimension der Gattung fungiert. Diese Theatralisierung generiert einen neuartigen und genuin kulturwissenschaftlichen Typus von Theorie und Wissen, der in der Konstellation von Psychoanalyse und Theatralität, im Schwellenbereich von Natur- und Kulturgeschichte untersucht wird.
Effective Structure of Reinsurance Function for Disaster Risk in the Asia-Oceania Region
Authors: Kato Nobuhiro
Published: September 2015

In the Asia-Oceania region with its vulnerable infrastructure, people continue to suffer from natural disasters such as earthquakes, cyclones or floods. In order to construct resilient society, the risk control for prevention-reduction of disasters and the risk finance for restoration and revival is indispensable. This article shows the necessity of building reinsurance functions which enables the underwriting of natural disasters in this area and arrangements of its requirements and conditions. The improvement of infrastructure for natural disaster and the alleviating of poverty are the premises of these issues and have close relations with developing financial markets and diversifying financial-insurance measures. This article shines light on the integrated framework of these factors and the methodology. Ensuring resilience against natural disaster must be shared objectives among the countries in this region with low insurance diffusion and multifarious backgrounds of economy, society and culture. The regional partnership and the support of the global community should play an important role for ensuring resilience. Building the reinsurance function of natural disasters in this region follows the same path with the realization of “Principles for Sustainable Insurance”.
Ovidius christianus und Antiovidianus
Authors: Meier Christel
Published: September 2015

During the millenium of medieval Christian culture the pagan mythology of Ovide’s ›Metamorphoses‹ was a matter of permanent controversy. It was not before the 14
Obesity, food intake and exercise: Relationship with ghrelin
Authors: Tiryaki-Sonmez Gul , Vatansever Serife , Olcucu Burcin , Schoenfeld Brad
Published: September 2015

Obesity, a disorder of body composition, is defined by a relative or absolute excess of body fat. In general adult population, obesity has been associated with a diverse array of adverse health outcomes, including major causes of death such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, as well as functional impairment from problems such as osteoarthritis and sleep apnea. Ghrelin is a newly discovered peptide hormone which plays an important role in obesity. It is a powerful, endogenous orexigenic peptide and has a crucial function in appetite regulation, as well as short – and long-term energy homeostasis. In the presence of increased obesity, decreased physical activity, and high food consumption, the relationship between exercise, appetite, food intake and ghrelin levels has important implications. In this review, we discuss the effect of acute and chronic exercise performance on appetite, food intake and ghrelin and their relationships.
Retraction Note to the article “Up-regulation of miR-125b reverses epithelial-mesenchymal transition in paclitaxel-resistant lung cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Yu , Huang Shaoxiang
Published: September 2015

No abstract available
Factors associated with participation in physical activity among adolescents in Malaysia
Authors: Cheah Yong Kang , Lim Hock Kuang , Kee Chee Cheong , Ghazali Sumarni Mohd
Published: September 2015

Background:

The rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has become a serious public health issue. Among the multi-factorial drivers behind NCDs are modifiable health risk factors, most notably, physical inactivity.

Objective:

In response to the nearly global policy priority of encouraging regular participation in physical activity, the objective of the present study is to examine the factors that determine participation in physical activity among Malaysian adolescents.

Methods:

Nationally representative data consisting of a large sample size was used. A censored regression model was developed to estimate the likelihood of participation and time spent on physical activity.

Results:

There are significant relationships between physical activity and gender, ethnicity, self-rated academic performance, maternal education, household size and time spent on physical education.

Conclusion:

The present study provides new insights into the factors affecting physical activity participation among adolescents. Specifically, self-rated excellent academic performance, household size and physical education can increase the likelihood of being physically active. Evidence of the present study implies that policy makers should pay special attention to females, Chinese, adolescents with self-rated poor academic performance and adolescents who have low maternal education.
Lessons learned in building a hospital-wide transition program from pediatric to adult-based health care for youth with special health care needs (YSHCN)
Authors: Hergenroeder Albert C. , Wiemann Constance M. , Bowman Valerie F.
Published: September 2015

Advancements in medicine have increased the likelihood that children with chronic illnesses will survive childhood. The success in treatment for their conditions has not been matched by methods to effectively facilitate their transition to adult care. This short report describes lessons learned in building a hospital-wide health care transition (HCT) planning infrastructure that could help patients transition from pediatric to adult-based care regardless of disease/disability. A solid foundation on which to build a hospital-based HCT planning program includes the following: focusing on structure and processes needed to facilitate medical transition; conducting a baseline assessment of current transition policy/practice; building an understanding of the complexity and necessity of transition planning; identifying advocates for transition planning and adult providers who will accept youth with chronic medical conditions; and establishing methods to evaluate transition program building activities. The implementation of any HCT program will depend on creating a culture that expects successful HCT to be the culmination of successful pediatric care. Hospital support (resources, staff training and an expanded infrastructure into which the program can fit) is necessary for a sustainable HCT planning program.
Evaluation of the tshr gene reveals polymorphisms associated with typical symptoms in primary congenital hypothyroidism
Authors: Cortinhas Alves Erik Artur , Andrade Raissa Coelho , de Melo Amaral Carlos Eduardo , Fernandes Caldato Milena Coelho , Rocha Bastos Adriana Maria , da Silva Luiz Carlos Santana
Published: September 2015

Primary congenital hypothyroidism (PCH) has an incidence of approximately 1 in each 3000–4000 live births. In the last two decades, nearly 50 types of the distinct inactivating mutations have already been described in the coding region of the tshr gene. The aim of present study was to investigate tshr gene mutations in patients with primary congenital hypothyroidism, analyzing a sample of 106 patients that were diagnosed with PCH. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood samples, and 10 exons from the TSH receptor were automatically sequenced. Five nucleotide alterations (P52T, N187N, A459A, L645L, and D727E. N187N and D727E polymorphisms) were associated with positive medical history. In view of the clinical, biochemical and molecular heterogeneity of the etiology of the PCH, the study of polymorphisms is critical for investigating the possible associations with prevailing symptoms of this disorder.
Enhancement in Photovoltaic Properties of Plasmonic Nanostructures Incorporated Organic Solar Cells Processed in Air Using P3HT:PCBM as a Model Active Layer
Authors: Aneesh P.M. , Kumar C. Ram , Reshmi Varma P.C. , Vivek K. , Namboothiry Manoj A.G.
Published: September 2015

The effect of incorporation of plasmonic gold (Au) nanoparticle at the interface between transparent front electrode and hole transporting layer of molybdenum trioxide is studied using bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs) of poly-3- hexylthiophene and phenyl-C
Nanostructured Organosilicon Luminophores for Effective Light Conversion in Organic Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Luponosov Yuriy N. , Surin Nikolay M. , Susarova Diana K. , Buzin Mikhail I. , Anokhin Denis V. , Ivanov Dimitri A. , Troshin Pavel A. , Ponomarenko Sergei A.
Published: September 2015

Full characterization of nanostructured organosilicon luminophores NOL4 and NOL5 based on the donor 2,2’-bithiophene and acceptor 1,4-bis(2,2′- bithiophene-5-yl)benzene units in dilute solutions and thin films by UV-Vis spectroscopy, DSC, TGA and X-ray techniques was reported. It was found that usage of these molecules as dopants (10–20 wt%) to the electroactive polyfluorene host in organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) leads to the efficient spectral long wavelength shifting of the electroluminescence and an increase of the OLED performance as compared to the devices based on pristine polyfluorene, NOL4 and NOL5.
Photochemistry and photophysics of mycosporine-like amino acids and gadusols, nature’s ultraviolet screens
Authors: Losantos Raul , Sampedro Diego , Churio María Sandra
Published: September 2015

Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) and related gadusols are among the most prominent examples of metabolites suggested to act as UV-sunscreens. This review illustrates how experimental and theoretical studies on model MAAs and gadusol offer a helpful description of the photoprotective mechanism at the molecular level. This knowledge may contribute to the rational design of chemical systems with predictable and tuneable response to light stimulus. Synthetic efforts to obtain MAAs and simplified related structures are also discussed.
Advances in preparation, modification, and application of polypropylene membrane
Authors: Himma Nurul F. , Anisah Sofiatun , Prasetya Nicholaus , Wenten I Gede
Published: September 2015

Polypropylene (PP) is one of the most used polymers for microporous membrane fabrication due to its good thermal stability, chemical resistance, mechanical strength, and low cost. There have been numerous studies reporting the developments and applications of PP membranes. However, PP membrane with high performance is still a challenge. Thus, this article presents a comprehensive overview of the advances in the preparation, modification and application of PP membrane. The preparation methods of PP membrane are firstly reviewed, followed by the modification approaches of PP membrane. The modifications includes hydrophilic and superhydrophobic modification so that the PP membranes become more suitable to be applied either in aqueous applications or in non-aqueous ones. The fouling resistant of hydrophilized PP membrane and the wetting resistant of superhydrophobized PP membrane are then reviewed. Finally, special attention is given to the various potential applications and industrial outlook of the PP membranes.
Radiochemical determination of 129I and 36Cl in
MEGAPIE, a proton irradiated lead-bismuth eutectic spallation target
Authors: Hammer-Rotzler Bernadette , Neuhausen Jörg , Vockenhuber Christof , Boutellier Viktor , Wohlmuther Michael , Türler Andreas , Schumann Dorothea
Published: September 2015

The concentrations of the long-lived nuclear reaction products 129I and 36Cl have been measured in samples from
the MEGAPIE liquid metal spallation target. Samples from the bulk target material (lead-bismuth eutectic, LBE), from the interface of
the metal free surface with the cover gas, from LBE/steel interfaces and from noble metal absorber foils installed in the cover gas
system were analysed using Accelerator Mass Spectrometry at the Laboratory of Ion beam Physics at ETH Zürich. The major part of
129I and 36Cl was found accumulated on the interfaces, particularly at the interface of LBE and the steel walls
of the target container, while bulk LBE samples contain only a minor fraction of these nuclides. Both nuclides were also detected on
the absorber foils to a certain extent (≪ 1% of the total amount). The latter number is negligible concerning the
radio-hazard of the irradiated target material; however it indicates a certain affinity of the absorber foils for halogens, thus
proving the principle of using noble metal foils for catching these volatile radionuclides. The total amounts of 129I and
36Cl in the target were estimated from the analytical data by averaging within the different groups of samples and summing
up these averages over the total target. This estimation could account for about half of the amount of 129I and
36Cl predicted to be produced using nuclear physics modelling codes for both nuclides. The significance of the results and
the associated uncertainties are discussed.
Entmischung von Quellsignalen aus mehrkanaligen Ultraschallmessungen an Beton
Authors: Feller Viktor , Orglmeister Reinhold , Mielentz Frank
Published: September 2015

Dieser Beitrag stellt die aktuellen Fortschritte der Ultraschallprüfung von Betonbauteilen basierend auf dem ICA-Verfahren vor. Das eingesetzte Verfahren wird bereits erfolgreich in anderen Bereichen der Ultraschallprüfung angewendet. Das große Potential dieser Methode liegt in der Möglichkeit, die sich überlagernden Reflexionen der Ultraschallsignale durch nur wenige Messungen in Echtzeit voneinander zu trennen und durch einfache Triangulation zu lokalisieren.

Es wurden Experimente hinsichtlich der Eignung und praktischer Relevanz des JADE-Algorithmus durchgeführt. Die Untersuchungen erfolgten sowohl an Polyamid als auch an Betontestkörpern.
Die Leistungsfähigkeit des JADE-Algorithmus bezüglich der Quellsignaltrennung wird anhand von mehrkanaligen Ultraschallmessungen gezeigt. Die extrahierten Komponenten enthalten Signalanteile, die mit den entsprechenden Echosignalen in der Messung korrelieren.

Zukünftig wird das untersuchte Verfahren mit der Gruppenstrahlertechnik und einem geeigneten Sende-Empfangskonzept kombiniert, um so die Aussagesicherheit der zerstörungsfreien Untersuchungen zu erhöhen.
Castlight Health: Disrupting the Health Care Industry
Authors: Raube Kristiana
Published: September 2015

This case study focuses on Castlight Health, a company that offered web-based health comparison tools for consumers. The company provided its tool through a business-to-business based subscription model where the employees of Castlight's clients could research health care costs before receiving care. The case study focuses on the company's newest product, a reference-based pricing product and whether this concept was a short-term fad or whether Castlight Health could successfully implement this new product and strategy.
Overcoming Barriers to Entry in an Established Industry: Tesla Motors
Authors: Stringham Edward Peter , Miller Jennifer Kelly , Clark J.R.
Published: September 2015

The automobile industry's high costs of entry, economies of scale, and network effects from distribution, fueling, and service lead many to conclude that new entrants have no chance. Tesla Motors has overcome many barriers to pioneer electric cars. Starting with partnerships and a minimum viable product, Tesla is working to innovate and scale up. Tesla now produces a top-selling luxury car and has a market capitalization twice that of Fiat Chrysler and half that of General Motors or Ford. Tesla has shown that a startup can enter and disrupt the status quo in one of the most established industries.
Stomaching Notch
Authors: Yin Xiaolei , Karp Jeffrey M
Published: September 2015

The self‐renewal and differentiation of tissue stem cells must be tightly controlled. Unrestrained self‐renewal leads to over‐proliferation of stem cells, which may cause tumor formation, while uncontrolled differentiation leads to depletion of the stem cell pool. In this issue of The EMBO Journal, Demitrack et al (2015) show that the Notch pathway is a key regulator of Lgr5 antral stem cell self‐renewal and differentiation. Notch signaling controls the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells as well as gastric tissue growth, while uncontrolled Notch activity in stem cells leads to polyp formation.
Phase plane tuning of fuzzy controller for 1 DoF helicopter model
Authors: Jancskar Ildiko , Sári Zoltan , Schiffer Adam , Várady Geza
Published: September 2015

The paper suggests a design procedure for fuzzy cascade control. The expert knowledge based tuning procedure is supported by investigation the phase plane of the reference tracking. The plant is a one degree of freedom helicopter model with highly non-linear dynamics in a hardware-in-the-loop arrangement. Starting from a common fuzzy-PI controller in the outer loop and classic PI-controller in the inner loop, the presented tuning procedure enables to obtain fuzzy-adaptive parameter settings of the inner-loop and a heuristic modified rule base in the outer loop. The developed control strategy proves to be very successful: both the settling times and overshoots have become well regulated.
Reflexive photography, attitudes, behavior, and CALL: ITAs improving spoken English intelligibility
Authors: Wallace Lara
Published: September 2015

Research in the field of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) has frequently taken a top-down approach when investigating learners’ attitudes and behavior, often in the form of surveys, case studies, usage tracking, and experiments (Levy & Stockwell, 2006;
The role of qualitative approaches to research in CALL contexts: Closing in on the learner’s experience
Authors: Levy Mike
Published: September 2015

The article considers the role of qualitative research methods in CALL through describing a series of examples. These examples are used to highlight the importance and value of qualitative data in relation to a specific research objective in CALL. The use of qualitative methods in conjunction with other approaches as in mixed method research designs are a particular focus. It is argued that qualitative methods are especially effective when used in this way.

The discussion also aims to elaborate upon the role of qualitative approaches within CALL specifically, as a domain for research study with particular attributes that require a qualitative orientation. Here the use of electronic dictionaries is considered. Dictionary use is suited to such a discussion because it occurs frequently in everyday life, suggesting a qualitative approach, as well as in research studies that are strictly controlled, as in a quantitative approach. The contrast is instructive and helps demonstrate the respective strengths and limitations of each method.

Also central to the discussion is the language learner. A number of the studies described emphasize the importance of listening to the students’ voice in the qualitative component (e.g., Conole, 2008; Jones, 2003). It is in the unpacking of what students actually do moment-by-moment in CALL tasks and activities that best illustrate the strengths of qualitative methods in enhancing our understanding of mediated learning and thereby driving productive research agendas.
Using Netnography to Explore the Culture of Online Language Teaching Communities
Authors: Kulavuz-Onal Derya
Published: September 2015

Netnography (Kozinets, 2010) is an ethnographic approach to study communities that exist primarily online. Engaging in online participant observation, the netnographer connects to the online community through a computer screen, and the field takes place inside the screen. Although having been used in marketing research extensively, netnography is a relatively new methodology in educational research. In this paper, I overview netnography and its applicability in studying online language learning and teaching communities. Drawing upon a netnography of a globally-distributed online community of practice of English language teachers, Webheads in Action, I provide detailed accounts of my experiences as I made particular methodological considerations during data collection in netnography in order to shed light on the often untold aspects of an ethnographic design in online research that involves participant observation. I conclude with a discussion of possible benefits of participant observer approach in netnography in understanding the culture of online language learning and teaching communities, and invite CALL researchers of such online communities to consider netnography and online participant observation in their future studies.
Conversation analysis in Computer-assisted Language Learning
Authors: González-Lloret Marta
Published: September 2015

The use of Conversation Analysis (CA) in the study of technology-mediated interactions is a recent methodological addition to qualitative research in the field of Computer-assisted Language Learning (CALL). The expansion of CA in Second Language Acquisition research, coupled with the need of qualitative techniques to explore how people interact in technology-mediated environments, has stimulated a small but growing body of research. This article reviews CALL research that employed a CA approach to the collection, microanalysis, and understanding of the data in a variety of technology-mediated fields (text, audio and video SCMC, email, forums and bulletin boards, social networks, and games), with participants from different contexts and languages, interacting in an L2 either among themselves or with native/more expert speakers of the language. Most research up to now has been descriptive in nature, illustrating the sequential organization of interaction, interactional and linguistic resources employed by the participants, and affordances and challenges of the media to promote language learning. In addition, a few studies have directly explored “learning” through the microanalysis of longitudinal data for any changes in the learners’ linguistic and interactional patterns of engagement. The review of studies is followed by those challenges that affect the implementation of CA in CALL research and a vision of the future of CA for CALL in the larger field of Applied Linguistics.
Qualitative Research in CALL
Authors: Stickler Ursula , Hampel Regine
Published: September 2015

This introduction to the Special Issue of the CALICO Journal positions research in Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in the wider field of qualitative and quantitative approaches to research. It discusses the merits of the different approaches and links them to research paradigms that dominate the different subject areas constituting CALL research. The authors put forward arguments for the use of qualitative and mixed-method studies in CALL, claiming that not only the richness of data gathered through qualitative and mixed studies but also the epistemological stance of hermeneutic ‘understanding’ of the learner and learning can add descriptive breadth and theoretical depth to research and advance the field of CALL.
Projeto de desenvolvimento, implantação, suporte e manutenção do Observatório Nacional do Trabalho e da Educação Profissional e Tecnológica
Authors: Silva Neto Romeu e , Serra Rodrigo Valente , Silva Daniel Vasconcelos Corrêa da , Barral Neto Jayme Freitas
Published: September 2015

Este trabalho procura demonstrar os esforços e arranjos envolvidos na construção do Observatório Nacional do
Trabalho e da Educação Profissional e Tecnológica, instrumento essencial para a definição de políticas públicas de
expansão da educação profissional e tecnológica no país a partir do acompanhamento da dinâmica do mundo do
trabalho. Diante disso, além das tarefas de cunho administrativo, foi necessário desenvolver uma metodologia de
análise que contemplasse ao máximo as múltiplas facetas do mundo do trabalho e da educação profissionalizante,
interligando-as de forma a construir indicadores quantitativos e qualitativos que elucidem a realidade das regiões
que fazem parte da área de influência dos vários Cefets espalhados pelo país. A análise da realidade setorial, ocupacional
e educacional das regiões sob influência do Cefet/Campos – RJ, trazida como exemplo neste artigo, traduz
bem estes esforços.
O surgimento da rede federal de educação profissional nos primórdios do regime republicano brasileiro
Authors: Kunze Nádia Cuiabano
Published: September 2015

O objetivo proposto na presente reflexão é o de compreender o processo de criação da rede federal de educação profissional no Brasil.
Esse empreendimento ocorreu no final da década de 1910, quando o governo federal criou e instalou em cada capital brasileira uma Escola de Aprendizes Artífices, com a finalidade de ministrar o ensino de ofícios referentes às especialidades industriais de cada Estado, proporcionar aos considerados ociosos e desprovidos da fortuna uma profissão, um ofício, e formar os futuros operários úteis às indústrias nascentes. O conjunto das dezenove escolas profissionais congêneres foi concebido no âmbito das ações voltadas à afirmação e consolidação da República Federativa Brasileira, bem como, ao seu progresso que foi atribuído à educação do povo, ao controle social e à industrialização, entre outras condições.
O Curso de Engenharia de Operação (anos 1960/ 1970) e sua relação histórica com a criação dos CEFETs
Authors: Brandão Marisa
Published: September 2015

Este trabalho apresenta alguns aspectos da história dos cursos de Engenharia de Operação no Brasil. A discussão sobre estes cursos surge nos primeiros anos da década de 1960; seu currículo mínimo foi fixado em 1965 e, pouco mais de uma década depois, já seriam extintos. Considerando tais cursos como uma das pontas de uma política maior de cursos superiores diferenciados, procura se mostrar como se relacionam com a concepção de um novo tipo de instituição de ensino superior. Iniciando com a idéia de Centros de Engenharia de Operação, esta concepção culminará, no final da década de 1970, com a criação dos primeiros Centros Federais de Educação Tecnológica (CEFETs), que se constituíram em parte da Rede Federal de Educação Profissional e Tecnológica.
Student Research Programs in U.S. Medical Schools and Institutions
Authors: Kim Seok Yong
Published: September 2015

The majority of medical educators agree that scientific education is critical to the development of physician-scientists. However, the proportion of physicians interested or engaged in research has been decreasing. To overcome this deficit of research oriented physicians, many medical schools in the United States have introduced scholarly concentration (SC) programs into their medical curricula since 2000. In contrast, Korea has very few medical schools with such programs. Research programs at American medical schools were surveyed and investigated in order to better design and develop SC programs appropriate for Korean medical schools. Information on SC programs was gathered by reviewing medical school web sites and related articles. The SC programs of Brown Alpert Medical School, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, and Stanford University School of Medicine are discussed in depth. The characteristics of each program were organized into seven parts: program description, administrative structure, orientation, curricular content, mentors and mentoring, student evaluation, and challenges. For a successful SC program in Korea we must consider providing guaranteed time for SC programs with necessary modifications in the core medical curriculum, educating and training of mentors, providing orientation and motivating students to pursue research, developing curricula for SC programs, and evaluating the progress of SC projects.
Improving Soil Fertility and Crop Yield in a Tropical Region with Palisadegrass Cover Crops
Authors: Crusciol Carlos A.C. , Nascente Adriano S. , Borghi Emerson , Soratto Rogério P. , Martins Priscila O.
Published: September 2015

In tropical regions with dry winters, low plant biomass accumulation during the period between spring–summer crop cultivations can negatively impact soil resources and make the no‐till (NT) system unsustainable. Incorporating palisadegrass [Urochloa brizantha (Hochst. Ex A. Rich.) R.D. Webster] [syn. Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. Ex A. Rich) Stapf] in traditional grain production areas could improve soil quality for subsequent crops and lead to positive effects on grain yield. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of growing palisadegrass on soil fertility, plant nutrition, and grain yield of subsequent cash crops in a tropical region. The experiment was performed in southeastern Brazil in plots that were grown for two consecutive growing seasons (2002–2003 and 2003–2004) with either monocropped corn (Zea mays L.) or corn intercropped with palisadegrass. An initial evaluation of soil fertility was performed in November 2004 when the land was either fallow (following monocropped corn) or covered by palisadegrass (intercropped areas). After the preceding treatments, the following crops were cultivated: soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] during the 2004–2005 and 2005–2006 spring–summer, white oat (Avena sativa L.) during the 2005 and 2006 fall–winter, and corn during the 2006–2007 spring–summer. Intercropping palisadegrass with corn increased the soil fertility compared to monocropped corn. Soybean, white oat, and corn all had higher leaf macronutrient concentrations and grain yields in previously intercropped areas than in monocropped areas. Therefore, the periodic, short‐term incorporation of a perennial forage grass, such as palisadegrass, as a cover crop is recommended to increase grain production and to improve the soil fertility of grain‐production areas.
Removal of Ni(II) from aqueous solution by using micellar enhanced ultrafiltration
Authors: Khalid Mansoor , Usman Muhammad , Siddiq Mohammad , Rasool Nasir , Saif Muhammad Jawwad , Imran Muhammad , Rana Usman Ali
Published: September 2015

To explore the potential of micellar enhanced ultrafiltration (MEUF) process for the treatment of industrial effluent, herein, we report the surfactant-based separation of a metal ion [Ni(II)] from the aqueous solution using two different anionic surfactants viz. dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DSS) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). By following a systematic investigation, we utilized two membranes with different pore sizes viz. 10,000 MWCO (molecular weight cutoff) and 30,000 MWCO and determined the rejection coefficient and permeate flux of the Ni(II) from aqueous at 1.5 bar trans-membrane pressure. The experimental results showed higher percentage of Ni(II) retention upon using the micellar solution of SDS compared with the solution containing DSS surfactant. In addition, the retention of Ni(II) ions incorporated in the micelles of surfactants was also found to be higher upon using 10,000 MWCO membrane compared with 30,000 MWCO membrane. Hence, we suggest that the combination of SDS surfactant and 10,000 MWCO membrane is a potent solution for the removal of metal ions from aqueous solutions via MEUF process.
Determination of number of check dams by artificial neural networks in arid regions of Iran
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Ali Asghar , Kashi Hamed
Published: September 2015

An artificial neural network (ANN) model with six hydrological factors including time of concentration (TC), curve number, slope, imperviousness, area and input discharge as input parameters and number of check dams (NCD) as output parameters was developed and created using GIS and field surveys. The performance of this model was assessed by the coefficient of determination R2, root mean square error (RMSE), values account and mean absolute error (MAE). The results showed that the computed values of NCD using ANN with a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) model regarding RMSE, MAE, values adjustment factor (VAF), and R2 (1.75, 1.25, 90.74, and 0.97) for training, (1.34, 0.89, 97.52, and 0.99) for validation and (0.53, 0.8, 98.32, and 0.99) for test stage, respectively, were in close agreement with their respective values in the watershed. Finally, the sensitivity analysis showed that the area, TC and curve number were the most effective parameters in estimating the number of check dams.
Partial carbonized nanoporous resin for uptake of lead from aqueous solution
Authors: Ghiloufi I. , AL-Hobaib A. S. , El Mir L.
Published: September 2015

Four partial carbonized nanoporous resins (PCNRs), based on organic xerogel compounds, were synthesised by the sol–gel method from pyrogallol and formaldehyde mixtures in water using picric acid as catalyst. The PCNRs were prepared at different pyrolysis temperatures: T1 = 200 °C (PF-200), T2 = 300 °C (PF-300), T3 = 400 °C (PF-400), or T4 = 500 °C (PF-500). The PCNRs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, and nitrogen porosimetry. The obtained results show that PF-200 is more efficient for the removal of Pb2+ from aqueous solution than the other adsorbent prepared in this study. The characteristics of lead uptake by PF-200 were explored using well-established and effective parameters including pH, contact time, initial metal ion concentration and temperature. Optimum adsorption of Pb2+, using PF-200, was observed at pH 4.5. The Langmuir model gave a better fit than the other models, and kinetic studies revealed that the adsorption was well fitted by the pseudo second-order kinetic model and thermodynamic properties, i.e., Gibbs free energy change, enthalpy change and entropy change, showed that adsorption of Pb2+ onto PF-200 was endothermic, spontaneous and feasible in the temperature range of 298–328 K.
Duration and Degree of Weight Gain and Incident Diabetes in Younger Versus Middle-Aged Black and White Adults: ARIC, CARDIA, and the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Wei Gina S. , Coady Sean A. , Reis Jared P. , Carnethon Mercedes R. , Coresh Josef , D’Agostino Ralph B. , Goff David C. , Jacobs David R. , Selvin Elizabeth , Fox Caroline S.
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether duration and degree of weight gain are differentially associated with diabetes risk in younger versus middle-aged black and white adults.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We combined data from three cohort studies: Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC), Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA), and the Framingham Heart Study. A total of 17,404 participants (56% women; 21% black) were stratified by baseline age (younger: ≥30 and <45 years; middle-aged: ≥45 and <60 years) and examined for incident diabetes (median follow-up 9 years). Duration and degree of gain in BMI were calculated as “BMI-years” above one’s baseline BMI.

RESULTS

Diabetes incidence per 1,000 person-years in the younger and middle-aged groups was 7.2 (95% CI 5.7, 8.7) and 24.4 (22.0, 26.8) in blacks, respectively, and 3.4 (2.8, 4.0) and 10.5 (9.9, 11.2) in whites, respectively. After adjusting for sex, baseline BMI and other cardiometabolic factors, and age and race interaction terms, gains in BMI-years were associated with higher risk of diabetes in the younger compared with middle-aged groups: hazard ratios for 1-unit increase in log BMI-years in younger versus middle-aged blacks were 1.18 (P = 0.02) and 1.02 (P = 0.39), respectively (P for interaction by age-group = 0.047), and in whites were 1.35 (P < 0.001) and 1.11 (P < 0.001), respectively (P for interaction by age-group = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Although middle-aged adults have higher rates of diabetes, younger adults are at greater relative risk of developing diabetes for a given level of duration and degree of weight gain.
A Phase 2, Randomized, Dose-Finding Study of the Novel Once-Weekly Human GLP-1 Analog, Semaglutide, Compared With Placebo and Open-Label Liraglutide in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Nauck Michael A. , Petrie John R. , Sesti Giorgio , Mannucci Edoardo , Courrèges Jean-Pierre , Lindegaard Marie L. , Jensen Christine B. , Atkin Stephen L.
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the dose-response relationship of semaglutide versus placebo and open-label liraglutide in terms of glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a 12-week, randomized, double-blind phase 2 trial. Patients (n = 415) were randomized to receive a subcutaneous injection of semaglutide once weekly without dose escalation (0.1–0.8 mg) or with dose escalation (E) (0.4 mg steps to 0.8 or 1.6 mg E over 1–2 weeks), open-label liraglutide once daily (1.2 or 1.8 mg), or placebo. The primary end point was change in HbA1c level from baseline. Secondary end points included change in body weight, safety, and tolerability.

RESULTS

Semaglutide dose-dependently reduced the level of HbA1c from baseline (8.1 ± 0.8%) to week 12 by up to −1.7%, and body weight by up to −4.8 kg (1.6 mg E, P < 0.001 vs. placebo). Up to 81% of patients achieved an HbA1c level of <7%. HbA1c level and weight reductions with semaglutide 1.6 mg E were greater than those with liraglutide 1.2 and 1.8 mg (based on unadjusted CIs), but adverse events (AEs) and withdrawals occurred more frequently. The incidence of nausea, vomiting, and withdrawal due to gastrointestinal AEs increased with the semaglutide dose; most events were mild to moderate, transient, and ameliorated by dose escalation. There were no major episodes of hypoglycemia and few cases of injection site reactions.

CONCLUSIONS

After 12 weeks, semaglutide dose-dependently reduced HbA1c level and weight in patients with type 2 diabetes. No unexpected safety or tolerability concerns were identified; gastrointestinal AEs typical of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists were mitigated by dose escalation. On this basis, weekly semaglutide doses of 0.5 and 1.0 mg with a 4-week dose escalation were selected for phase 3.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of NPH Insulin in Type 1 Diabetes: The Importance of Appropriate Resuspension Before Subcutaneous Injection
Authors: Lucidi Paola , Porcellati Francesca , Marinelli Andreoli Anna , Carriero Ilaria , Candeloro Paola , Cioli Patrizia , Bolli Geremia B. , Fanelli Carmine G.
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE

Crystalline NPH insulin comes in a two-phase solution with either a solvent or a rapid-acting insulin (in premixed formulations) and needs adequate mixing for complete resuspension before injection. The aim of this study was to establish pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) after injection of appropriately resuspended versus nonresuspended NPH insulin.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

PK and PD were assessed after subcutaneous injection of NPH insulin 0.35 units/kg at steady state by pen either resuspended (R+, tipping of insulin pen 20 times) or nonresuspended (pen maintained in fixed position either horizontally [R- horizontal] or vertically with tip up [R- up] or tip down [R- down]). Eleven subjects with type 1 diabetes (age 31.5 ± 12 years, diabetes duration 17.5 ± 7.7 years, BMI 22.9 ± 1.5 kg/m2, A1C 7.2 ± 0.4% [55.2 ± 4.4 mmol/mol]) were studied (euglycemic clamp) with a randomized crossover design.

RESULTS

Compared with resuspended NPH insulin (R+), nonresuspended NPH insulin resulted in profound PK/PD differences with either reduced (R- horizontal and R- up) or increased (R- down) plasma insulin concentrations [FIRI_AUC(0–end of study) (free immunoreactive insulin area under the concentration-time curve between 0 and end of study)] and PD activity [glucose infusion rate (GIR)_AUC(0–end of study)] (all P < 0.05). Duration of NPH insulin action was shorter in R- up (9.4 ± 1.7 h) but longer in R- down (15.4 ± 2.3 h) compared with R+ (11.8 ± 2.6 h) (P < 0.05). Within-subject variability (percent coefficient of variation) among studies was as high as 23% for PK [FIRI_AUC(0–end of study)] and 62% for PD [GIR_AUC(0–end of study)].

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with resuspended NPH insulin, lack of resuspension profoundly alters PK/PD and may importantly contribute to day-to-day glycemic variability of type 1 diabetes.