bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelo de rendimiento de microtuneladoras (MTBM)
Authors: Gallo J. , Pérez-Acebo H.
Published: June 2017

Desde las últimas décadas del siglo XX se han propuesto diversas fórmulas para estimar el rendimiento de la excavación de túneles mediante el uso de discos cortadores, empleados principalmente en tuneladoras, Tunnelling Boring Machines (TBM). Sin embargo, no se ha verificado su validez en microtuneladoras, Micro Tunnelling Boring Machines (MTBM), de menor diámetro de excavación, entre 1.000 y 2.500 mm y de útiles de corte más pequeños, donde parámetros como el espaciamiento entre juntas pueden tener una influencia distinta. Este artículo analiza esos modelos propuestos para TBM y, tras observar su escasa correlación con los datos obtenidos en 15 tramos de microtúneles, desarrolla un modelo ajustado a los parámetros geomecánicos disponibles en este tipo de obras. Además, se presenta un método para el cálculo del número de horas totales necesarias para la realización de microtúneles, incluyendo todas las tareas del ciclo de excavación, la instalación y la retirada.
Airplane Health Surveillance System
Authors: Rachana N. B. , Srinivasa K. G. , Seema S.
Published: June 2017

The Airplane Health Surveillance System is an information system which is designed to guide the pilot to make decision under uncertainty. The system is expected to detect the defect along with cause for the delay and airplane crashes which has high impact on society. The system is capable of detecting and diagnosing the defects which may be initiated during a flight. There by trigger a maintenance procedure to safeguard the airplane from possible odds by analyzing the effects caused by the defect detected. Airplane health surveillance system collects data in real-time from flying fleet and makes it available to ground operations. Ground system aims at incorporating new technical and functional features to provide best in class features for operational and strategic insight. In this work two actors are considered namely supplier (airplane manufacturer who delivers the services) and operator (operates the airplane in day to day life). This is a user friendly though has a very powerful impact on the aerospace division by eliminating the uncertain economic loss.
Airline Hangars Balanced Manpower Utilization
Authors: Bazargan Massoud
Published: June 2017

Airlines on average spend 10%-15% of their total operating cost on aircraft maintenance checks. Many airlines conduct their light checks in-house. These checks are inherently very labor intensive. This study offers a mathematical model to help airlines with scheduling their in-house light maintenance checks to achieve a high and even utilization of manpower among all hangars. The model attempts to minimize the utilization imbalances by assigning light maintenance checks, during their feasible time-windows, to available and certified hangars on daily, weekly and monthly. It incorporates daily flight schedule, maintenance requirements for each fleet type, certification and availability of manpower at each hangar. Furthermore, the model highlights the utilization imbalances and thus provides some guidelines in terms of increasing/decreasing manpower capacities at each hangar. The model is applied to 3 US and 2 European airlines with encouraging results.
IFN-γ–Expressing Th17 Cells Are Required for Development of Severe Ocular Surface Autoimmunity
Authors: Chen Yihe , Chauhan Sunil K. , Shao Chunyi , Omoto Masahiro , Inomata Takenori , Dana Reza
Published: June 2017

Th17 cells are critical effectors mediating the ocular surface autoimmunity in dry eye disease (DED). Increased IFN-γ has also been implicated in DED; however, it remains unclear to what extent Th1 cells contribute to DED pathogenesis. In this study, we investigated the cellular source of IFN-γ and assessed its contribution to corneal epitheliopathy in DED mice. We discovered a significant IL-17A+IFN-γ+ (Th17/1) population and determined that these cells are derived from Th17 precursors. Adoptive transfer of Th17/1, but not Th1, cells confers the disease to naive recipients as effectively as do Th17 cells alone. DED-induced IL-12 and IL-23 are required for in vivo transition of pathogenic Th17 cells to IFN-γ producers. Furthermore, using IFN-γ–deficient Th17 cells, we demonstrate the disease-amplifying role of Th17-derived IFN-γ in DED pathogenesis. These results clearly demonstrate that Th17 cells mediate ocular surface autoimmunity through both IL-17A and IFN-γ.
Activation of Complement by Pigment Epithelium–Derived Factor in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Vogt Leonie M. , Talens Simone , Kwasniewicz Ewa , Scavenius Carsten , Struglics André , Enghild Jan J. , Saxne Tore , Blom Anna M.
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to identify molecules that trigger complement activation in rheumatic joints. C4d, the final cleavage product of C4 activation, is found in the diseased joint and can bind covalently to complement-activating molecules. By using a highly specific Ab against a cleavage neoepitope in C4d, several molecules that were specifically bound to C4d were identified from pooled synovial fluid (SF) from four rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. One of these molecules, pigment epithelium–derived factor (PEDF), is a broadly expressed multifunctional member of the serine proteinase inhibitor family. Using ELISA, we confirmed the presence of various amounts of complexes between PEDF and C4d in the SF from 30 RA patients, whereas none were detected in SF from control subjects. Correlation analyses suggested that, in arthritis patients, C4d–PEDF complexes found in sera arise from the joints, as well as from other tissues, and levels of the complexes did not differ in sera of RA patients and healthy controls. When immobilized, recombinant PEDF expressed in eukaryotic cells activated the classical complement pathway but not the alternative or lectin pathways. C1q protein was demonstrated to bind immobilized PEDF, and PEDF was shown to bind to immobilized C1q, in particular its head regions, which are known to interact with other activators of the classical pathway. Our results call for further investigation into the role of PEDF in inflammatory processes in the joint, which, in combination with classical complement activation, appears to be part of a (patho-)physiologic response.
Are we hearing the voices? Africanisation as part of community development
Authors: Van der Westhuizen Marichen , Greuel Thomas , Beukes Jacques W.
Published: June 2017

The aim of the article is to report on research findings that could contribute to the development of decolonised academic material. Africanisation of curricula implies that education and training as well as praxis be informed by the reality of the South African context, the viewpoints of the people of South Africa and their descriptions of what is needed to build a just society. This is relevant to a variety of service professions. This article was presented from a trans-disciplinary framework, and the term ‘professional carers’, including the social service and theology professions, was used. The discussion explored how academia can approach the development of curricula that will inform praxis and which is relevant to the African context. The terms ‘Africanisation’, ‘decolonisation’ and ‘contextualisation’ were linked, whereafter a developmental approach to the development of the content and presentation of academic material was proposed. The article is concluded with recommended strategic options for the development of Africanised curricula.
Expository preaching from the Psalms
Authors: Van Rooy Herculaas F.
Published: June 2017

No abstract available.
Differential virulence and tsetse fly transmissibility of Trypanosoma congolense and Trypanosoma brucei strains
Authors: Gitonga Purity K. , Ndung’u Kariuki , Murilla Grace A. , Thande Paul C. , Wamwiri Florence N. , Auma Joanna E. , Ngae Geoffrey N. , Kibugu James K. , Kurgat Richard , Thuita John K.
Published: June 2017

African animal trypanosomiasis causes significant economic losses in sub-Saharan African countries because of livestock mortalities and reduced productivity. Trypanosomes, the causative agents, are transmitted by tsetse flies (Glossina spp.). In the current study, we compared and contrasted the virulence characteristics of five Trypanosoma congolense and Trypanosoma brucei isolates using groups of Swiss white mice (n = 6). We further determined the vectorial capacity of Glossina pallidipes, for each of the trypanosome isolates. Results showed that the overall pre-patent (PP) periods were 8.4 ± 0.9 (range, 4–11) and 4.5 ± 0.2 (range, 4–6) for T. congolense and T. brucei isolates, respectively (p < 0.01). Despite the longer mean PP, T. congolense–infected mice exhibited a significantly (p < 0.05) shorter survival time than T. brucei–infected mice, indicating greater virulence. Differences were also noted among the individual isolates with T. congolense KETRI 2909 causing the most acute infection of the entire group with a mean ± standard error survival time of 9 ± 2.1 days. Survival time of infected tsetse flies and the proportion with mature infections at 30 days post-exposure to the infective blood meals varied among isolates, with subacute infection–causing T. congolense EATRO 1829 and chronic infection–causing T. brucei EATRO 2267 isolates showing the highest mature infection rates of 38.5% and 23.1%, respectively. Therefore, our study provides further evidence of occurrence of differences in virulence and transmissibility of eastern African trypanosome strains and has identified two, T. congolense EATRO 1829 and T. brucei EATRO 2267, as suitable for tsetse infectivity and transmissibility experiments.
Uso didáctico de la poesía en el aula de español como lengua extranjera. Lectura y aplicación de un poema de Eloy Sánchez Rosillo al nivel avanzado de EEOOII
Authors: Sánchez García Remedios , Lanseros Sánchez Raquel
Published: June 2017

El presente trabajo es una propuesta didáctica para la aplicación de la poesía al aula de español como lengua extranjera en el nivel avanzado de las EEOOII. Se pretende que el alumnado desarrolle su competencia lectora, su capacidad de análisis literario y su conocimiento de la cultura española, a la vez que se familiarizan con la poesía contemporánea. Para ello, hemos seleccionado un poema de Eloy Sánchez Rosillo cuya temática aborda la construcción de un poema, a fin de brindar una oportunidad de reflexión sobre la escritura y ejercicio de la destreza de expresión escrita. A partir del poema seleccionado, se propone un conjunto de actividades que busca desarrollar y potenciar las cuatro destrezas comunicativas, así como la interpretación del lenguaje poético y su multiplicidad de significación. Asimismo, se propone una serie de instrumentos de evaluación que puedan dar cuenta del rendimiento global del alumnado.
Nucleation modeling of the Antarctic stratospheric CN layer and derivation of sulfuric acid profiles
Authors: Münch Steffen , Curtius Joachim
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Recent analysis of long-term balloon-borne measurements of Antarctic stratospheric condensation nuclei (CN) between July and October showed the formation of a volatile CN layer at 21–27 km altitude in a background of existing particles. We use the nucleation model SAWNUC to simulate these CN in subsiding air parcels and study their nucleation and coagulation characteristics. Our simulations confirm recent analysis that the development of the CN layer can be explained with neutral sulfuric acid–water nucleation and we show that outside the CN layer the measured CN concentrations are well reproduced just considering coagulation and the subsidence of the air parcels. While ion-induced nucleation is expected as the dominating formation process at higher temperatures, it does not play a significant role during the CN layer formation as the charged clusters recombine too fast. Further, we derive sulfuric acid concentrations for the CN layer formation. Our concentrations are about 1 order of magnitude higher than previously presented concentrations as our simulations consider that nucleated clusters have to grow to CN size and can coagulate with preexisting particles. Finally, we calculate threshold sulfuric acid profiles that show which concentration of sulfuric acid is necessary for nucleation and growth to observable size. These threshold profiles should represent upper limits of the actual sulfuric acid outside the CN layer. According to our profiles, sulfuric acid concentrations seem to be below midlatitude average during Antarctic winter but above midlatitude average for the CN layer formation.
Controlled nitric oxide production via O(1D)  + N2O reactions for use in oxidation flow reactor studies
Authors: Lambe Andrew , Massoli Paola , Zhang Xuan , Canagaratna Manjula , Nowak John , Daube Conner , Yan Chao , Nie Wei , Onasch Timothy , Jayne John , Kolb Charles , Davidovits Paul , Worsnop Douglas , Brune William
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Oxidation flow reactors that use low-pressure mercury lamps to produce hydroxyl (OH) radicals are an emerging technique for studying the oxidative aging of organic aerosols. Here, ozone (O3) is photolyzed at 254 nm to produce O(1D) radicals, which react with water vapor to produce OH. However, the need to use parts-per-million levels of O3 hinders the ability of oxidation flow reactors to simulate NOx-dependent secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation pathways. Simple addition of nitric oxide (NO) results in fast conversion of NOx (NO + NO2) to nitric acid (HNO3), making it impossible to sustain NOx at levels that are sufficient to compete with hydroperoxy (HO2) radicals as a sink for organic peroxy (RO2) radicals. We developed a new method that is well suited to the characterization of NOx-dependent SOA formation pathways in oxidation flow reactors. NO and NO2 are produced via the reaction O(1D) + N2O  →  2NO, followed by the reaction NO + O3  →  NO2 + O2. Laboratory measurements coupled with photochemical model simulations suggest that O(1D) + N2O reactions can be used to systematically vary the relative branching ratio of RO2 + NO reactions relative to RO2 + HO2 and/or RO2 + RO2 reactions over a range of conditions relevant to atmospheric SOA formation. We demonstrate proof of concept using high-resolution time-of-flight chemical ionization mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-CIMS) measurements with nitrate (NO3−) reagent ion to detect gas-phase oxidation products of isoprene and α-pinene previously observed in NOx-influenced environments and in laboratory chamber experiments.
A multi-decadal wind-wave hindcast for the North Sea 1949–2014: coastDat2
Authors: Groll Nikolaus , Weisse Ralf
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Long and consistent wave data are important for analysing wave climate variability and change. Moreover, such statistics are also needed in coastal and offshore design and for addressing safety-related issues at sea. Using the third-generation spectral wave model WAM a multi-decadal wind-wave hindcast for the North Sea covering the period 1949–2014 was produced. The hindcast is part of the coastDat database representing a consistent and homogenous met-ocean data set. It is shown that despite not being perfect, data from the wave hindcast are generally suitable for wave climate analysis. In particular comparisons of hindcast data with in situ and satellite observations show on average a reasonable agreement while a tendency towards overestimation of the highest waves could be inferred. Despite these limitations, the wave hindcast still provides useful data for assessing wave climate variability and change as well as for risk analysis, in particular when conservative estimates are needed. Hindcast data are stored at the World Data Center for Climate (WDCC) and can be freely accessed using the https://doi.org/10.1594/WDCC/coastDat-2_WAM-North_Sea (Groll and Weisse, 2016) or via the coastDat web-page http://www.coastdat.de.
A database of paleoceanographic sediment cores from the North Pacific, 1951–2016
Authors: Borreggine Marisa , Myhre Sarah E. , Mislan K. Allison S. , Deutsch Curtis , Davis Catherine V.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. We assessed sediment coring, data acquisition, and publications from the North Pacific (north of 30˚ N) from 1951–2016. There are 2134 sediment cores collected by American, French, Japanese, Russian, and international research vessels across the North Pacific (including the Pacific Subarctic Gyre, Alaskan Gyre, Japan Margin, and California Margin, 1391 cores), Sea of Okhotsk (271 cores), Bering Sea (123 cores), and Sea of Japan (349 cores) reported here. All existing metadata associated with these sediment cores are documented, including coring date, location, core number, cruise number, water depth, vessel metadata, and coring technology. North Pacific age models are based on isotope stratigraphy, radiocarbon dating, magnetostratigraphy, biostratigraphy, tephrochronology, % opal, color, and lithophysical proxies. Here, we evaluate the iterative generation of each published age model and provide documentation of each dating technique used, as well as sedimentation rates and age ranges. We categorized cores according to availability of a variety of proxy evidence, including biological (e.g. benthic and planktonic foraminifera assemblages), geochemical (e.g. heavy metal concentrations), isotopic (e.g. bulk sediment nitrogen and carbon isotopes), and stratigraphic (e.g. preserved laminations) proxies. This database is a unique resource to the paleoceanographic and paleoclimate communities, and provides cohesive accessibility to sedimentary sequences, age model development, and proxies. The data set is publicly available through PANGAEA at https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.875998.
The effect of northern forest expansion on evapotranspiration
overrides that of a possible physiological water saving response to
rising CO2: Interpretations of movement in Budyko Space
Authors: Jaramillo Fernando , Cory Neil , Arheimer Berit , Laudon Hjalmar , van der Velde Ype , Hasper Thomas B. , Teutschbein Claudia , Uddling Johan
Published: June 2017

Abstract. During the last six decades, forest biomass has expanded in the Northern basins, mainly due to forest management. This expansion should imply an increasing effect on evapotranspiration. However, increasing global CO2 emissions also trigger physiological plant water saving responses that induce an opposite effect on evapotranspiration. The dominant long-term and large-scale effect on evapotranspiration is still a matter of debate. In this study, we determined the dominant effect on evapotranspiration in Northern forests during the period 1961–2012 by studying change-effects on the ratio of actual evapotranspiration to precipitation, known as the evaporative ratio. We used the Budyko framework of water and energy availability at the basin scale to study the hydroclimatic movements in Budyko space of 65 Swedish basins. We found that changes in the evaporative ratio in 60 % of these basins could not be explained by climatic changes in precipitation and potential evapotranspiration. In both the temperate and boreal basin groups studied, a positive residual effect on the evaporative ratio counteracted the negative climatic effect. Furthermore, temporal change of this residual effect during the period 1961–2012 agreed with that of the standing forest biomass in both the temperate and boreal basin groups as well as with that of the forest cover area in the temperate group. Hence, our long-term and regional-scale results indicate that a positive effect on evapotranspiration from the increasing forest biomass overrode any possible negative stomatal water saving response from increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration. Thus, we suggest that forest expansion is the dominant driver of long-term and large-scale evapotranspiration changes in Northern forests.
Submesoscale CO2 variability across an upwelling front off Peru
Authors: Köhn Eike E. , Thomsen Sören , Arévalo-Martínez Damian L. , Kanzow Torsten
Published: June 2017

Abstract. While being a major source for atmospheric CO2 the Peruvian upwelling region exhibits strong variability in surface fCO2 on short spatial and temporal scales. Understanding the physical processes driving the strong variability is of fundamental importance for constraining the effect of marine emissions from upwelling regions on the global CO2 budget. In this study, a frontal decay on length scales of 𝒪(10 km) was observed off the Peruvian coast following a pronounced decrease in downfrontal wind speed with a time lag of 9 hours. Simultaneously, the sea-to-air flux of CO2 on the inshore (cold) side of the front dropped from up to 80 to 10 mmol m-2 day-1, while the offshore (warm) side of the front was constantly outgassing at a rate of 10–20 mmol m-2 day-1. Based on repeated ship transects the decay of the front was observed to occur in two phases. The first phase was characterized by a development of coherent surface temperature anomalies which gained in amplitude over 6–9 hours. The second phase was characterized by a disappearance of the surface temperature front within 6 hours. Submesoscale mixed layer instabilities were present but seem too slow to completely remove the temperature gradient in this short time period. Dynamics such as a pressure driven gravity current appear to be a likely mechanism behind the evolution of the front.
Seafloor geomorphology of western Antarctic Peninsula bays: a signature of ice flow behaviour
Authors: Munoz Yuribia P. , Wellner Julia S.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Glacial geomorphology has been used in Antarctica to reconstruct ice advance and retreat across the continental shelf during the Last Glacial Maximum. Analogous geomorphic assemblages are found in glaciated fjords and can be used in a similar manner to interpret the glacial history in those areas. In addition, understanding the distribution of submarine landforms in bays and the local controls exerted on ice flow can help improve ice-sheet models through these complicated drainage areas. We present multibeam swath bathymetry from several bays in the South Shetland Islands and the western Antarctic Peninsula. The submarine landforms are described and interpreted in detail. A schematic model was developed showing the features found in the bays; from flutings and moraines in the inner bay, to grounding zone wedges and drumlins in the middle bay, and streamlined features and meltwater channels in the outer bay areas. In addition, we analysed local variables in the bays and observe that: 1) bay length and width exert a control on the number of landforms found in the bays, the geometry of the bays dictates the types of features that form; 2) bays with shallower water depths tend to form geomorphic features that suggest rapid decoupling of grounded ice from the seafloor; 3) the smaller seafloor features are present only in the smaller glacial systems indicating that short-lived atmospheric and oceanographic fluctuations, responsible for the formation of these landforms, are only recorded in these smaller systems; and 4) meltwater channels are abundant on the seafloor, however some are subglacial, carved in bedrock, and some are modern erosional features, carved on soft sediment. Lastly, based on geomorphological evidence, we propose the features found in some of the inner bay areas were formed during a recent glacial advance, likely the Little Ice Age.
Employer Branding Practices in Saudi Arabian Banking Sector
Authors: Nalband Nisar Ahamad , Awadh Mohammed A. Al
Published: June 2017

In these days of competition, to be unique in the market the organizations are using many strategies. To design and execute any strategy the organizations needs talented employees.To facilitate the pooling of employees into an organization “employer branding practices” plays a critical role. In the process of attracting the right talent at right time for right job has become immensely important. The human resources management departments have no doubt occupying the fore front in the business organizations of today; yet it has to leave its impact through communicating the employer branding practices properly in an effective way.The present research paper deals with Saudi Arabian Banking Sector where in which the authors have made an attempt to find the practices of employer branding available or not from the human resource management perspective.The research is timely for the reason that Saudi Arabia is implementing “Nitaqat” (a step by step process to encourage local’s employment (the Saudi employment market comprises around 40% of expatriate employees). The companies are on toes to recruit Saudi nationals; the availability of skilled and talented Saudis is less. Therefore there is a need for employer branding practices.The data collected from thirteen banks operating in Saudi Arabia and appropriate tools of statistics used to analyze the data and arrive to a conclusion.From the literature review it is found that academically unanimously it is agreed that employer branding practices will help in attracting and retaining the talent, but the actual practices of employer branding are either not recorded or properly planned. From the research it is found that definitely there is a need for employer branding practices in Saudi Arabian banking sector too.
The Incidence of Dissociated Liners in 4,751 Consecutive Total Hip Arthroplasties Using Pinnacle Polyethylene Acetabular Liners
Authors: Napier Richard J. , Diamond Owen , O'Neill Chris K.J. , O'Brien Seamus , Beverland David E.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Acetabular liner dissociation is a complication exclusive to modular designs. We present a single surgeon series of 8 polyethylene liner dissociations with the Pinnacle Acetabular System (DePuy Orthopaedics) from over 4,750 cases. We also present a review of the literature and data from the UK National Joint Registry (NJR) on dissociation in total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

The Pinnacle Acetabular System has been used exclusively by the senior author since April 2003, and to date 5,882 have been implanted (837 ceramic liners, 4,751 polyethylene liners (1,606 Enduron/3,145 Marathon) and 294 metal liners). We reviewed all cases of liner dissociation from this cohort to determine an overall incidence with polyethylene liners, identify associated risk factors, and report the outcome following revision surgery.

Results

Our incidence of this complication is 8 out of 4,751 cases (0.17%). Review of these cases and the literature suggests that femoral neck impingement against the polyethylene liner and/or edge loading may produce fatigue failure of the locking mechanism and subsequent dissociation.

Conclusions

Ensuring correct liner seating/locking, minimising impingement, achieving appropriate component version and avoiding radiographic cup inclinations >50° should minimise the risk of liner dissociation. Any new noise or squeaking from a polyethylene liner should undergo radiographic investigation to exclude dissociation. We recommend managing late cases of liner dissociation with revision of the acetabular shell if the cup orientation could be improved or if there is any damage to the liner-locking groove, to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Preoperative Optimisation of Anaemia for Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alexander Dinesh P. , Frew Nicholas
Published: June 2017

Background

The 2009 NHS Blood and Transplant national comparative audit on blood use following primary total hip arthroplasty (THR) highlighted that preoperative anaemia was common and undertreated. They recommended that hospitals have a written policy for treating anaemia preoperatively. In our centre, we found that preoperative optimisation of anaemia, significantly reduced blood transfusion rate to <5%. The 2015 national audit showed that even though 48% of patients received tranexamic acid, 85% of patients required transfusion. By conducting a systematic review of literature on blood management for preoperative anaemia in primary THR; we aimed to validate the recommendations of the national audit and increase its awareness in the orthopaedic community.

Methods

A PubMed Search was performed to identify suitable literature limited to randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, meta-analyses and systematic reviews involving primary THR. We excluded any THRs performed for trauma and revision arthroplasty. Our exclusion criteria for the intervention was the use of autologous methods such as cell salvage techniques and preoperative autologous blood donation.

Results

Analysis of 13 publications showed widespread study heterogeneity, which precluded meta-analysis. Preoperative blood management (PBM) interventions included the use of recombinant human erythropoietin and oral iron supplementation in 12/13 and 11/13 studies respectively. There were significant differences in transfusion rates between PBM and control groups in 12/13 studies.

Conclusions

The findings overwhelmingly support preoperative optimisation of anaemia. The main barrier to wider implementation remains the cost effectiveness. We recommend using our validated protocol, which has shown to significantly reduce transfusion rates, length of stay and remain cost effective.
Effects of Fine-Tuning Instruction on Second Language Pronunciation
Authors: Lee Heeju
Published: June 2017

This case study explores the effects of instruction on the acquisition of second language pronunciation. The study examines whether tutoring sessions using Han's (2001) fine-tuning instruction led to changes in the adult learner's persistent errors in vowel pronunciation over a period of 10 weeks and whether these changes are retained in a delayed posttest. Specifically, the research examined Korean vowel pronunciation acquired by a Japanese learner. Data from ten 2-hour tutoring sessions between a native Korean speaker and the Japanese learner were video recorded and subsequently transcribed for analysis. Twenty-three native speakers of Korean used a questionnaire to rate the learner's pronunciation at three time-points; the learner also self-evaluated her pronunciation through reflective journal entries. To map the changes in vowel production, an acoustic analysis was performed on the vowel production at three time points. Results suggest that fine-tuning instruction is effective in improving persistent pronunciation errors and in retaining this improvement.
Safe and ethical living kidney donation in Qatar: A national health system's approach
Authors: Asim Muhammad , Al-Maslamani Yousuf , Al-Malki Hassan
Published: June 2017

The increasing incidence of end-stage kidney disease in Qatar has led to growing demand for donor kidneys. The deceased donor kidney program has yet to achieve its full potential; hence, living kidney donation has been widely adopted as an appropriate alternative. The reliance on living kidney donors however, raises a number of social, ethical, and legal concerns surrounding informed consent, voluntarism, psychosocial evaluation, perioperative care, and long-term follow-up of living kidney donors. Many of these concerns become heightened in a multicultural, multilingual society within a Gulf country such as Qatar. This article provides an insight into the challenges that living kidney donation poses in a multiethnic society with significant socioeconomic divides. It also discusses the remedial measures that the Qatari government, healthcare authorities, and transplant community have adopted to address these issues.
Presentación No. 143-144
Authors: Editor El
Published: June 2017

No hay resúmenes disponibles.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.143-144, 2015: 1-2
La investigación en la UCA
Authors: Oliva Andreu
Published: June 2017

No hay resúmenes disponiblesRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 143-144, 2015: 153-158
Presentación No. 145-146
Authors: El Editor
Published: June 2017

No hay resúmenes disponibles.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.145-146, 2015: 1-2
Documentos del Encuentro Nacional “Futuro y retos de la investigación en El Salvador”
Authors: Editor El
Published: June 2017

No hay resúmenes disponibles.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.145-146, 2015: 139-140
Discurso de bienvenida
Authors: Oliva Andreu
Published: June 2017

No hay resúmenes disponibles.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.145-146, 2015: 141-144
La teología producida en la UCA
Authors: De Sivatte Rafael
Published: June 2017

No hay resúmenes disponibles.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.145-146, 2015: 167-179
La cultura y los retos para su investigación
Authors: Roque Baldovinos Ricardo
Published: June 2017

No hay resúmenes disponibles.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No.145-146, 2015: 189-195
Constrictive pericarditis – A challenging diagnosis
Authors: Hejjaji Vittal , Sullivan Claire , Li Jun , Hoit Brian D.
Published: June 2017

Constrictive pericarditis is a challenging diagnosis. This case report describes a patient with constrictive pericarditis (CP) secondary to radiation therapy. As the patient presented with non-specific symptoms, various modalities (both invasive and non-invasive) were used in the diagnosis and differentiation of CP from restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM). This case of surgicallyproven CP demonstrates that a high clinical suspicion based on physical findings should be combined with multiple diagnostic modalities in the diagnosis of CP. It is crucial to differentiate CP from RCM due to the significant variance in treatment.
Higher Education Expansion and Return to Education in China: Evidence from CGSS2005 and CGSS2013
Authors: Ma Xinxin , Zhang Chengcheng
Published: June 2017

We conducted an empirical study to estimate the private internal rate of return to years of schooling (IRR) in China during the period after the implementation of higher education expansion policy using data from the Chinese General Social Survey data conducted in 2006 and 2014 (CGSS2005, CGSS2013). The major conclusions are as follows: first, from 2005 to 2013, IRR decreased from 8.6% to 7.8% for the whole sample, IRR decreased from 8.3% to 7.4% for men, and IRR decreased from 9.0% to 8.2% for women. Second, IRR values among various education category groups are different. IRR is greater for the high-level education group than that for the middle and low-level education groups in both 2005 and 2013. Third, to consider the impact of the higher education expansion policy on IRR, the IRR of the university graduates decreased from 15.4% (2005) to 11.2% (2013), whereas the IRR of the graduate school graduates rose from 10.1% (2005) to 19.0% (2013). The effect of the policy on IRR differs between the university and graduate school graduates. Fourth, the IRR is higher for women than for men. There is a gender disparity for IRR; IRR is different by ownership types, registration system types, industrial and regional groups in both 2005 and 2013.
Using Learning Communities to Support Cantonese/Mandarin Family Child Care Providers in a Professional Development Intervention Program
Authors: Lo Yafen , Yen Shu-Chen , Duh Shinchieh
Published: June 2017

High-impact educational practices can promote student involvement and learning outcomes, but are rarely tested in the community college setting—where involvement is a typical challenge to student success. For Family Child Care (FCC) providers, who tend to be older and overworked, higher-education training can be especially difficult. The present study examined the use of learning communities as a high-impact practice in Project Vista Higher Education Academy (PVHEA), a two-year professional development intervention program for Cantonese/Mandarin FCC providers at the East Los Angeles College in California. Quantitative and qualitative data during the inaugural term (January 2012-December 2013) indicated that PVHEA successfully helped FCC providers access and complete college coursework towards Child Development degrees and credentials. Course completion rate reached 100%, and the providers gradually increased course load while maintaining above-average grades. Positive changes were also observed in self-efficacy, aspirations, and professional image. The associated program challenges were discussed.
From the President of RUSA: Thoughts on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Reference and User Services
Authors: McManus Alesia
Published: June 2017

As is often the case with publication timelines, I’m writing my last RUSQ President’s Column in February but it won’t be published until June. My columns this year have focused on opportunities and challenges for RUSA and this column is no exception. At the 2017 ALA Midwinter Meeting in Atlanta, ALA Council accepted a proposal to add a fourth strategic direction to ALA’s Strategic Plan. Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) is now the fourth strategic direction, joining advocacy, information policy, and professional and leadership development.
Why do Students Seek Help in an Age of DIY? Using a Qualitative Approach to Look Beyond Statistics
Authors: Vinyard Marc , Mullally Colleen , Colvin Jaimie Beth
Published: June 2017

National statistics indicate that academic libraries are experiencing declines in reference transactions, but the references services in some libraries continue to thrive. While many studies explore reasons that students do not seek assistance from librarians, there is limited research explaining why students do ask for help. The authors conducted a study to answer two questions: (1) How do undergraduate students look for information? (2) What prompted the students to seek out help from a librarian? To answer these questions, the authors conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with undergraduate students who had received reference assistance. An important theme that emerged from the interviews was students’ preferences to search independently without assistance. Despite this “do-it-yourself” mentality, students aware of library research consultation services still continue to seek out assistance for librarians when stressful and time-consuming research questions arise. The findings from this study will help librarians better market their research services and understand how students perceive the help-seeking process.
HIV viral load as an independent risk factor for tuberculosis in South Africa: collaborative analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Fenner Lukas , Atkinson Andrew , Boulle Andrew , Fox Matthew P. , Prozesky Hans , Zürcher Kathrin , Ballif Marie , Furrer Hansjakob , Zwahlen Marcel , Davies Mary‐Ann , Egger Matthias ,   for the International Epidemiology Database to Evaluate AIDS in Southern Africa (IeDEA‐SA)
Published: June 2017

Introduction: Chronic immune activation due to ongoing HIV replication may lead to impaired immune responses against opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis (TB). We studied the role of HIV replication as a risk factor for incident TB after starting antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Methods: We included all HIV‐positive adult patients (≥16 years) in care between 2000 and 2014 at three ART programmes in South Africa. Patients with previous TB were excluded. Missing CD4 cell counts and HIV‐RNA viral loads at ART start (baseline) and during follow‐up were imputed. We used parametric survival models to assess TB incidence (pulmonary and extrapulmonary) by CD4 cell and HIV‐RNA levels, and estimated the rate ratios for TB by including age, sex, baseline viral loads, CD4 cell counts, and WHO clinical stage in the model. We also used Poisson general additive regression models with time‐updated CD4 and HIV‐RNA values, adjusting for age and sex.

Results: We included 44,260 patients with a median follow‐up time of 2.7 years (interquartile range [IQR] 1.0–5.0); 3,819 incident TB cases were recorded (8.6%). At baseline, the median age was 34 years (IQR 28–41); 30,675 patients (69.3%) were female. The median CD4 cell count was 156 cells/µL (IQR 79–229) and the median HIV‐RNA viral load 58,000 copies/mL (IQR 6,000–240,000). Overall TB incidence was 26.2/1,000 person‐years (95% confidence interval [CI] 25.3–27.0). Compared to the lowest viral load category (0–999 copies/mL), the adjusted rate ratio for TB was 1.41 (95% CI 1.15–1.75, p < 0.001) in the highest group (>10,000 copies/mL). Time‐updated analyses for CD4/HIV‐RNA confirmed the association of viral load with the risk for TB.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that ongoing HIV replication is an important risk factor for TB, regardless of CD4 cell counts, and underline the importance of early ART start and retention on ART.
Pilot study of large-scale production of mutant pigs by ENU mutagenesis
Authors: Hai Tang , Cao Chunwei , Shang Haitao , Guo Weiwei , Mu Yanshuang , Yang Shulin , Zhang Ying , Zheng Qiantao , Zhang Tao , Wang Xianlong , Liu Yu , Kong Qingran , Li Kui , Wang Dayu , Qi Meng , Hong Qianlong , Zhang Rui , Wang Xiupeng , Jia Qitao , Wang Xiao , Qin Guosong , Li Yongshun , Luo Ailing , Jin Weiwu , Yao Jing , Huang Jiaojiao , Zhang Hongyong , Li Menghua , Xie Xiangmo , Zheng Xuejuan , Guo Kenan , Wang Qinghua , Zhang Shibin , Li Liang , Xie Fei , Zhang Yu , Weng Xiaogang , Yin Zhi , Hu Kui , Cong Yimei , Zheng Peng , Zou Hailong , Xin Leilei , Xia Jihan , Ruan Jinxue , Li Hegang , Zhao Weiming , Yuan Jing , Liu Zizhan , Gu Weiwang , Li Ming , Wang Yong , Wang Hongmei , Yang Shiming , Liu Zhonghua , Wei Hong , Zhao Jianguo , Zhou Qi , Meng Anming
Published: June 2017

N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis is a powerful tool to generate mutants on a large scale efficiently, and to discover genes with novel functions at the whole-genome level in Caenorhabditis elegans, flies, zebrafish and mice, but it has never been tried in large model animals. We describe a successful systematic three-generation ENU mutagenesis screening in pigs with the establishment of the Chinese Swine Mutagenesis Consortium. A total of 6,770 G1 and 6,800 G3 pigs were screened, 36 dominant and 91 recessive novel pig families with various phenotypes were established. The causative mutations in 10 mutant families were further mapped. As examples, the mutation of SOX10 (R109W) in pig causes inner ear malfunctions and mimics human Mondini dysplasia, and upregulated expression of FBXO32 is associated with congenital splay legs. This study demonstrates the feasibility of artificial random mutagenesis in pigs and opens an avenue for generating a reservoir of mutants for agricultural production and biomedical research.
Primary health clinic toilet/bathroom surface swab sampling can indicate community profile of sexually transmitted infections
Authors: Giffard Philip M. , Su Jiunn-Yih , Andersson Patiyan , Holt Deborah C.
Published: June 2017

Background

The microbiome of built environment surfaces is impacted by the presence of humans. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that analysis of surface swabs from clinic toilet/bathroom yields results correlated with sexually transmitted infection (STI) notifications from corresponding human populations. We extended a previously reported study in which surfaces in toilet/bathroom facilities in primary health clinics in the Australian Northern Territory (NT) were swabbed then tested for nucleic acid from the STI agents Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Trichomonas vaginalis. This was in the context of assessing the potential for such nucleic acid to contaminate specimens collected in such facilities. STIs are notifiable in the NT, thus allowing comparison of swab and notification data.

Methods

An assumption in the design was that while absolute built environment loads of STI nucleic acids will be a function of patient traffic density and facility cleaning protocols, the relative loads of STI nucleic acids from different species will be largely unaffected by these processes. Another assumption was that the proportion of swabs testing positive for STIs provides a measure of surface contamination. Accordingly, “STI profiles” were calculated. These were the proportions that each of the three STIs of interest contributed to the summed STI positive swabs or notifications. Three comparisons were performed, using swab data from clinics in remote Indigenous communities, clinics in small-medium towns, and a single urban sexual health clinic. These data were compared with time and place-matched STI notifications.

Results

There were significant correlations between swab and notifications data for the both the remote Indigenous and regional data. For the remote Indigenous clinics the p values ranged from 0.041 to 0.0089, depending on data transformation and p value inference method. Further, the swab data appeared to strongly indicate known higher relative prevalence of gonorrhoeae in central Australia than in northern Australia. Similarly, the regional clinics yielded p values from 0.0088–0.0022. In contrast, swab and notifications data from the sexual health clinic were not correlated.

Discussion

Strong correlations between swab and notifications were observed. However, there was evidence for limitations of this approach. Despite the correlation observed with the regional clinics data, one clinic yielded zero positive swabs for C. trachomatis, although this STI constituted 25.1% of the corresponding notifications. This could be ascribed to stochastic effects. The lack of correlation observed for sexual health clinic data was also likely due to stochastic effects. It was concluded that toilet/bathroom surface swab sampling has considerable potential for public health surveillance. The approach may be applicable in situations other than primary health clinics, and for targets other than STIs.
Diverse habitat use during two life stages of the critically endangered Bahama Oriole (Icterus northropi): community structure, foraging, and social interactions
Authors: Price Melissa R. , Hayes William K.
Published: June 2017

Our ability to prevent extinction in declining populations often depends on effective management of habitats that are disturbed through wildfire, logging, agriculture, or development. In these disturbed landscapes, the juxtaposition of multiple habitat types can be especially important to fledglings and young birds, which may leave breeding grounds in human-altered habitat for different habitats nearby that provide increased foraging opportunities, reduced competition, and higher protection from predators. In this study, we evaluated the importance of three habitat types to two life stages of the critically endangered Bahama Oriole (Icterus northropi), a synanthropic songbird endemic to Andros, The Bahamas. First, we determined the avian species composition and relative abundance of I. northropi among three major vegetation types on Andros: Caribbean pine (Pinus caribaea) forest, coppice (broadleaf dry forest), and anthropogenic areas, dominated by nonnative vegetation (farmland and developed land). We then compared the foraging strategies and social interactions of two age classes of adult Bahama Orioles in relation to differential habitat use. Bird surveys late in the Bahama Oriole’s breeding season indicated the number of avian species and Bahama Oriole density were highest in coppice. Some bird species occurring in the coppice and pine forest were never observed in agricultural or residential areas, and may be at risk if human disturbance of pine forest and coppice increases, as is occurring at a rapid pace on Andros. During the breeding season, second-year (SY) adult Bahama Orioles foraged in all vegetation types, whereas after-second-year (ASY) adults were observed foraging only in anthropogenic areas, where the species nested largely in introduced coconut palms (Cocos nucifera). Additionally, SY adults foraging in anthropogenic areas were often observed with an ASY adult, suggesting divergent habitat use for younger, unpaired birds. Other aspects of foraging (vegetation features, food-gleaning behavior, and food items) were similar for the two age classes. Older Bahama Orioles exhibited relatively higher rates of social interactions (intraspecific and interspecific pooled) in anthropogenic areas, and won more interaction outcomes compared to younger adults. Our findings concur with those of other studies indicating dry broadleaf forest is vitally important to migrating, wintering, and resident birds, including the critically endangered Bahama Oriole, which appears to depend heavily on this vegetation type during certain life stages.