bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
English as Medium of Instruction for Subject Courses in Tertiary Education: Lessons Learned from Thai Undergraduate Students
Authors: Kantavong Pennee
Published: November 2015

This is a classroom action research project conducted in an undergraduate course using English as a medium of instruction. The objectives were to identify good approaches to developing students’ capacity to understand English and to promote a positive attitude towards the English language. Two cycles of action with various instructional approaches were administered. By the end of the action research cycles, 80% of the students showed a positive opinion towards learning with English. During the sessions, 20% of the students needed help regularly. The cooperative learning model was found to be one of the more effective leaning activities, stimulating students to develop their learning and relieve their tensions in using a foreign language. The reflections from students revealed that the learning approaches employed in this study helped students to develop both their English comprehension in the written material and a positive attitude towards learning in English.
An Analysis of the Instructional Leadership Model at an Institution of Higher Education in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Waller Lee Edward , Pettaway Lincoln , Waller Sharon , Khoder Majed
Published: November 2015

Leadership remains key to the successful delivery of instruction. The impact of the global economy and the digitalization of higher education continue to level the playing field for institutions of higher education as the competition for enrollment increases. Universities in the United Arab Emirates are not isolated from these changes as many are determined to emulate models of accepted academic leadership and shared governance in order to obtain institutional and programmatic accreditations from outside the region. This research examined the development, implementation and findings associated with the assessment of one institution’s instructional servant leadership model. The study employed factor analysis (dimension reduction) techniques to identify the underlying components driving responses to an employee quesionaire designed to measure the fundamental aspects of servant leadership. The results identified two major driving forces: (1) a holistic overview of the leadership style and (2) the soft skills associated with intrapersonal interaction. The research reminds leaders of the need to comprehend the power of any or all decisions to distract their followers and of the need to cultivate strong interpersonal skills such as communication and respect for others.
Keywords: leadership, servant-leadership, higher education, United Arab Emirates
The Effect of Mental Training Program on Improving Mental Toughness among Tehran Highschool Student Athletes
Authors: Esfehani Mohamad
Published: November 2015

The attention to mental training program among young athletes has increased in recent decades. In spite of the significant contribution of mental toughness to perform (Jones et al. 2007), little quantitative research has been dedicated to examining this construct or to improve mental toughness. The present study investigated the effect of mental training program on mental toughness among160 participants of high school male and female student athletes. This research was experimental and the participants were selected randomly. Training consisted of one session per week. Mental toughness was assessed by SMTQ (Sheared, Golby, 2008). Factorial MANCOVA analysis indicated that the mental training program was effective in changing the mental toughness in Tehran high school student athletes involved in different types of sport but was not effective in changing the above factor based on gender.

 
Self-Efficacy: As Moderator of the relation between Family Factors and Adolescent Cigarette Smoking Behavior
Authors: GOLESTAN SAMIRA , Abdullah Haslinda Binti
Published: November 2015

In this study, the relationship between family factors (family cohesion and family adaptability) and cigarette smoking behaviour was investigated. The other objective of this research was exploring the moderating impact of self-efficacy on the link of family cohesion and family adaptability with cigarette smoking behaviour among Iranian youngsters in the city of Kerman. Following cluster sampling method, the data was collected from current cigarette smoking adolescents (n = 300) from 22 high schools across Kerman using self-administered questionnaires.

The Structural Equation Model was used to assess the relationship between family cohesion and family adaptability and cigarette smoking behaviour in adolescents. Also, the advanced multiple group system of Structural Equation Modelling analysis using AMOS was used to evaluate the moderating impact of self-efficacy. The findings indicated a significant negative link existed between family cohesion, family adaptability and cigarette smoking behaviour. The findings were also indicative of the existence of significant moderating function of self-efficacy regarding the effect of family adaptability and family cohesion on cigarette smoking behaviour amongst youngsters. The results contribute to the body of knowledge by introducing readers to the important roles of family environment and self-efficacy in preventing the adolescents from exhibiting cigarette smoking behaviour amongst youngsters.
The Relationship among Iranian EFL Learners’ Self-efficacy, Autonomy and Listening Comprehension Ability
Authors: Tabrizi Haleh Mojarrabi , Saeidi Mahnaz
Published: November 2015

This study investigated the interrelationships among EFL learners’ self-efficacy, autonomy and listening comprehension ability. Ninety female learners of intermediate level participated in the study. They were between 16 and 24 years old. In order to obtain the required data on the three variables (i.e., self-efficacy, autonomy, and listening comprehension ability), the researchers, after administering a standard language proficiency test to ensure the participants’ homogeneity, used Listening Self-efficacy Beliefs Questionnaire, Listening Autonomy Questionnaire, and Listening Proficiency Test, respectively. First, the participants were asked to complete the two self-report scales, after which they were given a listening comprehension test to attain their listening comprehension ability. The data were analyzed using three Pearson’s Product-moment correlation coefficients to assess the relationships among the research variables. The findings revealed that there was a positive correlation among Iranian EFL learners’ listening self-efficacy beliefs, listening autonomy, and listening comprehension ability. Accordingly, it is suggested that building self-efficacy and autonomy in listening comprehension is crucial to ensure the success of EFL learners in listening comprehension.
Influencing Factors for the Intercultural Collaboration between Colleagues of an International Enterprise
Authors: Genkova Petia , Richter Annekathrin
Published: November 2015

In the study at hand, country- and organization-related cultural influence factors for the collaboration between colleagues of an internationally acting enterprise are empirically investigated. Problem-focused interviews with 26 probands have been conducted to validate the relevance of the researched influencing factors. The hypotheses have been tested with the help of a quantitative measuring instrument (standardized online survey). Findings indicate, that cultural differences on the country-related and organizational level between German and Singaporean colleagues are indeed greater than between German and American employees. These do not lead to a worse intercultural collaboration. Positive effects for the intercultural collaboration could be proven for the scales of collectivism, outcome- and career-orientation, employee-orientation and work climate. Furthermore, higher shaped collectivism, as well as a higher success- and career-orientation could be proven as indicators for the greater success of the German-Singaporean collaboration.
Effects of Foreign Banks Entry on the Operations of Domestic Banks-Empirical Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Boadi Isaac
Published: November 2015

The purpose of the research is to examine the effects of foreign banks entry on the operations of domestic banks in Ghana. The study employs panel data analysis to examine the effects of foreign banks entry on the operations of domestic banks in Ghana. Data for the study were drawn from the databases of Ghana Association of Bankers, Ghana Statistical Service and Bank of Ghana over the period from 1997 to 2014. Results of the study reveal that entry of foreign banks is significantly associated with increase in net interest income and return on assets. Among the bank-specific determinant variables, only deposit, liquidity and capital reveal statistically significant association with bank profitability. The research could not include more qualitative factors. Future research could include more qualitative factors, for example, management leadership style with the quantitative factors and test for long run effects. The main value of this paper is the analysis of new empirical evidence on the effect of foreign banks entry on the operations of domestic banks operations.
Evaluation of Leadership Styles in the Construction Sector of UAE
Authors: Yousif A. Yousif Eng. , Hossan Chowdhury , McNeil Nicola
Published: November 2015

The construction industry of UAE is huge and requires effective leadership strategies for its development and growth. For the success of the construction industry, transformational and transactional leaderships are to be followed so that the managers can meet the changing situations effectively. The findings obtained from this study consequently revealed that age, nationality, education, work experience and organizational position of the leader plays a significant role in determining the leadership style he/she applies. However, the gender of a leader has no correlation with the style of leadership.
IoT-Based Asset Management System for Healthcare-Related Industries
Authors: Man Lee Carman Ka , Na Cheng Mei , Kit Ng Chun
Published: November 2015

The healthcare industry has been focusing efforts on optimizing inventory management procedures through the incorporation of Information and Communication Technology, in the form of tracking devices and data mining, to establish ideal inventory models. In this paper, a roadmap is developed towards a technological assessment of the Internet of Things (IoT) in the healthcare industry, 2010–2020. According to the roadmap, an IoT-based healthcare asset management system (IoT-HAMS) is proposed and developed based on Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Fuzzy Logic (FL), incorporating IoT technologies for asset management to optimize the supply of resources.
Pour une grille d’analyse appropriée à l’élite de la francophonie canadienne
Authors: Dupuis Serge
Published: November 2015

Ce texte avance qu’on ne peut emprunter la grille d’analyse appliquée habituellement aux élites des grandes sociétés pour étudier le rôle que joue l’élite dans une collectivité minoritaire. L’auteur prend l’exemple historique des Canadiens français, après la Conquête anglaise et au xxie siècle, pour illustrer la sous-représentation des francophones minoritaires dans certains secteurs clés de l’économie, comme la finance et les affaires.
La francophonie dans la région de la capitale nationale : réflexion sur le pouvoir exercé par la Commission de la capitale nationale
Authors: Legris-Dumontier Sophie-Hélène
Published: November 2015

La Commission de la capitale nationale (CCN) est un acteur important dans le développement urbain de la région de la capitale nationale. En 1969, sa juridiction s’étend à Hull. On lui confie la coordination des travaux de construction des édifices fédéraux sur l’île de Hull, puis elle se fait octroyer par le gouvernement Trudeau le mandat de promouvoir le bilinguisme à la suite de la commission Laurendeau-Dunton. La région de la capitale nationale doit refléter une image harmonieuse du Canada. En se penchant sur la mission de la CCN et sur ses interventions en matière de bilinguisme, on constate qu’elle a eu beaucoup de pouvoir afin de tenter de construire une capitale de renom.
CANVI CLIMÀTIC I FLORA SINGULAR: EL CAS DE LES PLANTES VALENCIANES AMENAÇADES
Authors: Laguna Lumbreras Emilio , Ferrer Gallego Pedro Pablo
Published: November 2015

Els efectes previstos del canvi climàtic per a les properes dècades poden incloure un agreujament de la situació de nombroses plantes actualment amenaçades al territori valencià, sense excloure l’extinció in situ d’algunes espècies sense possibles hàbitats de reposició. S’analitza ací el cas de 4 ambients afectats: els sistemes litorals, els humedals, els boscos submediterranis d’obac i la vegetació cacuminal de l’alta muntanya.
La reconstrucción inacabada del ancestro universal
Authors: Becerra Arturo , Delaye Luis
Published: November 2015

El cenancestro se define como el último ancestro común de todos los seres vivos que existen actualmente. Su naturaleza se ha inferido a partir de la identificación de los genes homólogos entre los linajes de arqueas, bacterias y eucariontes. Estas inferencias indican que el cenancestro poseía un sistema de traducción de proteínas relativamente moderno y era similar en complejidad a una célula actual. Sin embargo, las enzimas claves que se encargan tanto de la replicación del material genético como de la biosíntesis de membranas celulares no son homólogas entre los linajes celulares. Aquí revisamos brevemente la historia del concepto del último ancestro común y las distintas hipótesis que se han esgrimido sobre su biología.
Reflexiones sobre el origen de vida: algo más que un problema 'evolutivo'
Authors: Ruiz-Mirazo Kepa , Moreno Alvaro
Published: November 2015

This paper argues that the question of the origin of life cannot be explained by appealing exclusively to Darwinian evolutionary mechanisms, as many experts tend to assume, but requires a profound change in perspective. Accordingly, we highlight the fact that, in order to operate as a diversification force (and indirectly, a force for a potential increase in complexity), natural selection requires a number of conditions to be met in order for it to be possible: specifically, self-sustained and self-(re-)productive chemical organisation within a sufficiently large phenotypic space (that is, a wide range of functions). Therefore, we suggest an extension of the «self-organising» paradigm towards a «self-(re-)productive» one as an alternative to the main proposals regarding the origin of life, based on molecular populations (typically RNA) subject to Darwinian evolution. Such a paradigm would adequately portray the specificity of the biological phenomenon (particularly, its metabolic and cellular dimension) and would be relevant before, during, and after natural selection started to operate.
Titan’s organic chemistry: A planetary-scale laboratory to study primitive Earth
Authors: Coustenis Athena
Published: November 2015

Saturn’s largest satellite, Titan, has been revealed by extended ground-based and space observations, and recently by the Cassini-Huygens mission. Titan’s atmosphere hosts a complex organic chemistry in the solar system starting with nitrogen and methane and leading to the formation of hydrocarbons and nitriles, including prebiotic molecules. The atmosphere also contains traces of oxygen compounds. This system is subject to seasonal variations and different physical, dynamic, and photochemical processes. Interactions between the atmosphere, the surface, and the interior also play an important role in the astrobiological potential of the satellite.
The RNA World: Piecing together the historical development of a hypothesis
Authors: Lazcano Antonio
Published: November 2015

The concept of an RNA world is a hypothesis firmly rooted in empirical data and is part of a long and complex scientific perspective that goes back more than fifty years to the discovery of the central role RNA and ribonucleotides play in protein synthesis and biochemical reactions took place. As the understanding of RNA biology progressed, several independent proposals of protein-free primordial life forms were suggested. Although this possibility was strongly reinforced with the discovery of ribozymes, there are many definitions of the RNA world, including several contradictory ones. One could say that it was an early, perhaps primordial, stage during which RNA molecules played a much more conspicuous role in heredity and metabolism and, particularly, in the origin and early evolution of protein biosynthesis. The overwhelming evidence for the catalytic, regulatory, and structural properties of RNA molecules, combined with their ubiquity in cellular processes, can only be explained with the proposal that they played a key role in early evolution and perhaps in the origin of life itself.
Noninvasive Monitoring and Evaluation of the Renal Structure and Function in a Mouse Model of Unilateral Ureteral Occlusion Using Microcomputed Tomography
Authors: Hou Jiangang , Fujino Masayuki , Cai Songjie , Ding Qiang , Li Xiao-Kang
Published: November 2015

Mouse unilateral ureteral occlusion (UUO) is widely used as a model of renal experimental obstructive nephropathy with interstitial fibrosis. Microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) imaging has the potential to produce quantitative images. The aim of this study was to establish standard images of micro-CT for renal anatomic and functional evaluations in a mouse model of UUO. UUO was induced in adult male mice BALB/c. In total, 27 mice were used in this study. Three mice per group (a total of 6 groups) were examined with contrast-enhanced micro-CT prior to UUO (day 0) and on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 14 after UUO. In order to determine the histopathologic correlations at each point in time, contrast-enhanced micro-CT imaging was performed in the 18 remaining mice. All animals were sacrificed, and both kidneys were harvested after the final micro-CT examination. UUO resulted in hydronephrosis and changes in the renal parenchyma. The predominant alteration was substantial changes in the hemodynamics of the renal vascular system after ureteral obstruction for 24 hours or longer, which may be resulting from increased action of vasoconstrictors versus vasodilators. The renal parenchyma was significantly reduced after 1 week, and the features of the histologic changes supported the findings of the micro-CT images. In the contralateral unobstructed kidneys, the images showed a normal structure and function and the pathohistology revealed a normal histoarchitecture. Micro-CT is a useful tool for providing noninvasive monitoring and evaluating the renal structure and function.
Assessment of Graft Selection Criteria in Living-Donor Liver Transplantation: The Jikei Experience
Authors: Shiba Hiroaki , Wakiyama Shigeki , Futagawa Yasuro , Iida Tomonori , Matsumoto Michinori , Haruki Koichiro , Ishida Yuichi , Misawa Takeyuki , Yanaga Katsuhiko
Published: November 2015

In living-donor liver transplantation, graft selection is especially important for the safety of the live donor and an acceptable outcome for the recipient. The essential medical requirements for living liver donation at Jikei University Hospital are as follows: an adult aged 65 years or younger, in good general condition, with partial liver volume of more than 35% of the standard liver volume (SLV) for the recipient, and without severe liver steatosis. Based on our criteria, we performed 13 living-donor liver transplantations between 2007 and 2013, including 1 retransplantation. Three cases were outside our standard donor criteria, including age (18 and 66 years) and 33% graft volume (GV) to SLV ratio for the recipient on preoperative volumetry using computed tomography. In 2 cases, the actual GV to SLV ratio at transplantation was less than 35%. Median postoperative hospital stay was 11 days for the donors, and 29 days for the recipients. All donors returned to their preoperative status, and all recipients were discharged in good condition. Our medical requirements for living liver donation seem to be acceptable because of the good outcome.
Application of the Ureteroscope for Diagnosis and Treatment of the Seminal Vesicle Diseases
Authors: Song Yalin , Zhao Jianwen , Dong Yao
Published: November 2015

The objective of this paper is to apply the transurethral endoscopic technique with the ureteroscope for diagnosis and treatment of the seminal vesicle and ejaculatory duct disorders. At present there is no special equipment designed to enter directly into the seminal vesicle cavity under direct vision. Sixty patients with disorders of the seminal vesicle were included in this study. A 6.5 F rigid ureteroscope (Richard Wolf GmbH, Knittlingen, Germany) was inserted into the posterior urethra to find the verumontanum. Then a 3F catheter (Shanghai Kangge JJMC, Shanghai, China) was inserted into the verumontanum. After that the 6.5 F ureteroscope was introduced into the ejaculatory duct and seminal vesicle to examine them under direct observation. A total of 55 patients were diagnosed and cured successfully with the ureteroscope; 42 (76.4%) patients were discovered to have hemospermia. They were given an anti-inflammatory and seminal vesicle washing. Eight (14.5%) patients who had small stones in the seminal vesicle were offered the operation of the stones removal. Five (9.1%) patients were found to have seminal vesicle gland cysts. The orifices of ejaculatory duct were not found in 3 patients among 5 who were operated unsuccessfully. The ureteroscope failed to enter the seminal vesicle in 2 patients. Some diseases of the seminal vesicle and ejaculatory duct can be easily diagnosed and treated in the clinical practice using a ureteroscope. Transurethral endoscopy technique with the ureteroscope for diagnosis and therapy of the seminal vesicle and ejaculatory duct disorders is safe and practicable.
Relationship Between the Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio and Parathyroid Adenoma Size in Patients With Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Zeren Sezgin , Yaylak Faik , Ozbay Isa , Bayhan Zulfu
Published: November 2015

The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and adenoma size in parathyroidectomized patients who underwent a parathyroidectomy. The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio has recently become popular as a biomarker for malignant diseases or for estimating tumor size preoperatively. This study aimed to estimate the relationship between adenoma size and NLR. Furthermore, we assessed whether a higher level of NLR is correlated with the presence of parathyroid carcinoma. A retrospective chart review was performed for patients with parathyroid adenoma who underwent parathyroidectomy between January 2012 and August 2014. Data related to age, sex, NLR, parathyroid hormone level (PTH), preoperative calcium, phosphorus, adenoma size, and pathology reports were collected. The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio was significantly correlated with calcium levels, PTH levels, parathyroid adenoma size, and the presence of cancer. However, there was no correlation between NLR and age, sex, and phosphorus levels. This study is the first to document a positive correlation between NLR and parathyroid adenoma size, as well as the presence of cancer, in patients who underwent surgery as a result of primary hyperparathyroidism.
The nonconservative property of dissolved molybdenum in the western Taiwan Strait: Relevance of submarine groundwater discharges and biological utilization
Authors: Wang Deli , Xia Weiwei , Lu Shuimiao , Wang Guizhi , Liu Qian , Moore Willard S. , Arthur Chen Chen‐Tung
Published: November 2015

This study examined dissolved Mo and sedimentary Mo along with hydrochemical parameters in the western Taiwan Strait (WTS) in May and August 2012. The results demonstrate that dissolved Mo could be depleted of as high as 10–20 nM during our May sampling period when the nutrient‐enriched Min‐Zhe coastal current ceased and spring blooms developed. The negative correlation between Chl‐a and dissolved Mo suggests the possible involvement of high algal productivity in removing dissolved Mo out of the water column. Specific oceanographic settings (little currents) permitted a high sedimentary enrichment of Mo (>6 µg/g Mo) within the highly productive waters outside the Jiulong River mouth. Possibly, the high algal productivities and consequent organic matter sinks provide a pathway of Mo burial from water columns into sediments. Dissolved Mo was relatively high in groundwater samples, but we observed that submarine groundwater discharges (SGDs) only contributed to a relatively small percentage of the total dissolved Mo pool in WTS. It is probably attributable to the immediate removal of SGD‐released Mo ions via adsorption onto newly formed Mn oxides once exposed to oxygenated seawater, followed by an elevated sedimentary Mo accumulation near the SGDs (∼5 µg/g). In addition to metal oxide particle scavenging and sulfide precipitation, we estimated that biological uptake along with Mo adsorption onto organic matter carriers could finally provide more than 10% of the annual sedimentary Mo accumulation in WTS.
New methods for unmixing sediment grain size data
Authors: Paterson Greig A. , Heslop David
Published: November 2015

Grain size distribution (GSD) data are widely used in Earth sciences and although large data sets are regularly generated, detailed numerical analyses are not routine. Unmixing GSDs into components can help understand sediment provenance and depositional regimes/processes. End‐member analysis (EMA), which fits one set of end‐members to a given data set, is a powerful way to unmix GSDs into geologically meaningful parts. EMA estimates end‐members based on covariability within a data set and can be considered as a nonparametric approach. Available EMA algorithms, however, either produce suboptimal solutions or are time consuming. We introduce unmixing algorithms inspired by hyperspectral image analysis that can be applied to GSD data and which provide an improvement over current techniques. Nonparametric EMA is often unable to identify unimodal grain size subpopulations that correspond to single sediment sources. An alternative approach is single‐specimen unmixing (SSU), which unmixes individual GSDs into unimodal parametric distributions (e.g., lognormal). We demonstrate that the inherent nonuniqueness of SSU solutions renders this approach unviable for estimating underlying mixing processes. To overcome this, we develop a new algorithm to perform parametric EMA, whereby an entire data set can be unmixed into unimodal parametric end‐members (e.g., Weibull distributions). This makes it easier to identify individual grain size subpopulations in highly mixed data sets. To aid investigators in applying these methods, all of the new algorithms are available in AnalySize, which is GUI software for processing and unmixing grain size data.
Reevaluating the contribution of sulfuric acid and the origin of organic compounds in atmospheric nanoparticle growth
Authors: Vakkari Ville , Tiitta Petri , Jaars Kerneels , Croteau Philip , Beukes Johan Paul , Josipovic Miroslav , Kerminen Veli‐Matti , Kulmala Markku , Venter Andrew D. , van Zyl Pieter G. , Worsnop Douglas R. , Laakso Lauri
Published: November 2015

Aerosol particles formed in the atmosphere are important to the Earth's climate system due to their ability to affect cloud properties. At present, little is known about the atmospheric chemistry responsible for the growth of newly formed aerosol particles to climate‐relevant sizes. Here combining detailed aerosol measurements with a theoretical framework we found that depending on the gaseous precursors and size of the newly formed particles, the growth was dominated by either sulfuric acid accompanied by ammonium or organic compounds originating in either biogenic emissions or savannah fires. The contribution of sulfuric acid was larger during the early phases of the growth, but in clean conditions organic compounds dominated the growth from 1.5 nm up to climatically relevant sizes. Furthermore, our analysis indicates that in polluted environments the contribution of sulfuric acid to the growth may have been underestimated by up to a factor of 10.
Shelf/fjord exchange driven by coastal‐trapped waves in the Arctic
Authors: Inall Mark E. , Nilsen Frank , Cottier Finlo R. , Daae Ragnhild
Published: November 2015

In this article, we show that the class of low frequency (subinertial) waves known as coastal‐trapped waves (CTWs) are a significant agent of water volume exchange in a west Svalbard fjord, and by extension more widely along the west Svalbard and east Greenland margins where similar conditions prevail. We show that CTWs generated by weather systems passing across the sloping topography of the shelf break propagate into the fjord, steered by the topography of an across‐shelf trough. The CTWs have characteristic periods of ∼2 days, set by the passage time of weather systems. Phase speeds and wavelengths vary seasonally by a factor of two, according to stratification: winter (summer) values are Cp = 0.25 ms−1 (0.5 ms−1) and λ = 40 km (84 km). CTW‐induced flow velocities in excess of 0.2 ms−1 at 100 m water depth are recorded. Observationally scaled CTW model results allow their explicit role in volume exchange to be quantified. Of the estimated exchange terms, estuarine exchange is weakest (
m3s−1), followed by barotropic tidal pumping (
m3s−1), with intermediary exchange dominating (
m3s−1). Oscillatory flows display greatest activity in the 1–5 day period band, and CTW activity is identified as the likely source of variability in the 40–60 h period band. Within that band, intermediary exchange driven by CTWs is estimated as
m3s−1; an exchange rate exceeding both barotropic and estuarine exchange estimates.
Short‐term sea ice forecasting: An assessment of ice concentration and ice drift forecasts using the U.S. Navy's Arctic Cap Nowcast/Forecast System
Authors: Hebert David A. , Allard Richard A. , Metzger E. Joseph , Posey Pamela G. , Preller Ruth H. , Wallcraft Alan J. , Phelps Michael W. , Smedstad Ole Martin
Published: November 2015

In this study the forecast skill of the U.S. Navy operational Arctic sea ice forecast system, the Arctic Cap Nowcast/Forecast System (ACNFS), is presented for the period February 2014 to June 2015. ACNFS is designed to provide short term, 1–7 day forecasts of Arctic sea ice and ocean conditions. Many quantities are forecast by ACNFS; the most commonly used include ice concentration, ice thickness, ice velocity, sea surface temperature, sea surface salinity, and sea surface velocities. Ice concentration forecast skill is compared to a persistent ice state and historical sea ice climatology. Skill scores are focused on areas where ice concentration changes by ±5% or more, and are therefore limited to primarily the marginal ice zone. We demonstrate that ACNFS forecasts are skilful compared to assuming a persistent ice state, especially beyond 24 h. ACNFS is also shown to be particularly skilful compared to a climatologic state for forecasts up to 102 h. Modeled ice drift velocity is compared to observed buoy data from the International Arctic Buoy Programme. A seasonal bias is shown where ACNFS is slower than IABP velocity in the summer months and faster in the winter months. In February 2015, ACNFS began to assimilate a blended ice concentration derived from Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2 (AMSR2) and the Interactive Multisensor Snow and Ice Mapping System (IMS). Preliminary results show that assimilating AMSR2 blended with IMS improves the short‐term forecast skill and ice edge location compared to the independently derived National Ice Center Ice Edge product.
Potential impacts of climate change on vegetation dynamics in Central Asia
Authors: Li Zhi , Chen Yaning , Li Weihong , Deng Haijun , Fang Gonghuan
Published: November 2015

Observations indicate that although average temperatures in Central Asia showed almost no increases from 1997 to 2013, they have been in a state of high variability. Despite the lack of a clear increasing trend, this 15 year period is still the hottest in nearly half a century. Precipitation in Central Asia remained relatively stable from 1960 to 1986 and then showed a sharp increase in 1987. Since the beginning of the 21st century, however, the increasing rate of precipitation has diminished. Dramatic changes in meteorological conditions could potentially have a strong impact on the region's natural ecosystems, as some significant changes have already occurred. Specifically, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) of natural vegetation in Central Asia during 1982–2013 exhibited an increasing trend at a rate of 0.004 per decade prior to 1998, after which the trends reversed, and the NDVI decreased at a rate of 0.003 per decade. Moreover, our results indicate that shrub cover and patch size exhibited a significant increase in 2000–2013 compared to the 1980s–1990s, including shrub encroachment on grasslands. Over the past 10 years, 8% of grassland has converted to shrubland. Precipitation increased in the 1990s, providing favorable conditions for vegetation growth, but precipitation slightly reduced at the end of the 2000s. Meanwhile, warming intensified 0.93°C since 1997 compared to the average value in 1960–1997, causing less moisture to be available for vegetation growth in Central Asia.
Semiconductor‐Based Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting at the Limit of Very Wide Depletion Region
Authors: Liu Mingzhao , Lyons John L. , Yan Danhua , Hybertsen Mark S.
Published: November 2015

In semiconductor‐based photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, carrier separation and delivery largely relies on the depletion region formed at the semiconductor/water interface. As a Schottky junction device, the trade‐off between photon collection and minority carrier delivery remains a persistent obstacle for maximizing the performance of a water splitting photoelectrode. Here, it is demonstrated that the PEC water splitting efficiency for an n‐SrTiO3 (n‐STO) photoanode is improved very significantly despite its weak indirect band gap optical absorption (α < 104 cm−1), by widening the depletion region through engineering its doping density and profile. Graded doped n‐SrTiO3 photoanodes are fabricated with their bulk heavily doped with oxygen vacancies but their surface lightly doped over a tunable depth of a few hundred nanometers, through a simple low temperature reoxidation technique. The graded doping profile widens the depletion region to over 500 nm, thus leading to very efficient charge carrier separation and high quantum efficiency (>70%) for the weak indirect transition. This simultaneous optimization of the light absorption, minority carrier (hole) delivery, and majority carrier (electron) transport by means of a graded doping architecture may be useful for other indirect band gap photocatalysts that suffer from a similar problem of weak optical absorption.
Rapid Optical Cavity PCR
Authors: Son Jun Ho , Hong SoonGweon , Haack Amanda J. , Gustafson Lars , Song Minsun , Hoxha Ori , Lee Luke P.
Published: November 2015

Recent outbreaks of deadly infectious diseases, such as Ebola and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, have motivated the research for accurate, rapid diagnostics that can be administered at the point of care. Nucleic acid biomarkers for these diseases can be amplified and quantified via polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In order to solve the problems of conventional PCR—speed, uniform heating and cooling, and massive metal heating blocks—an innovative optofluidic cavity PCR method using light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) is accomplished. Using this device, 30 thermal cycles between 94 °C and 68 °C can be accomplished in 4 min for 1.3 μL (10 min for 10 μL). Simulation results show that temperature differences across the 750 μm thick cavity are less than 2 °C and 0.2 °C, respectively, at 94 °C and 68 °C. Nucleic acid concentrations as low as 10–8 ng μL–1 (2 DNA copies per μL) can be amplified with 40 PCR thermal cycles. This simple, ultrafast, precise, robust, and low‐cost optofluidic cavity PCR is favorable for advanced molecular diagnostics and precision medicine. It is especially important for the development of lightweight, point‐of‐care devices for use in both developing and developed countries.
Zero‐Reflectance Metafilms for Optimal Plasmonic Sensing
Authors: Huang Fumin , Drakeley Stacey , Millyard Matthew G. , Murphy Antony , White Richard , Spigone Elisabetta , Kivioja Jani , Baumberg Jeremy J.
Published: November 2015

An ultrathin layer of metasurface that almost completely annihilates the reflection of light (>99.5%) over a wide range of incident angles (>80°) is experimentally demonstrated. Such zero‐reflectance metafilms exhibit optimal performance for plasmonic sensing, since their sensitivity to changes of local refractive index is far superior to films of nonzero reflectance. Since both main detection mechanisms tracking intensity changes and wavelength shifts are improved, zero‐reflectance metafilms are optimal for localized surface plasmon resonance molecular sensing. Such nanostructures have significant opportunities in many areas, including enhanced light harvesting as well as in developing high‐performance molecular sensors for a wide range of chemical and biomedical applications.
Household‐level predictors of maternal mental health and systemic inflammation among infants in Mwanza, Tanzania
Authors: Decaro Jason A. , Manyama Mange , Wilson Warren
Published: November 2015

Objectives

Household conditions and culturally/socially variable childcare practices influence priming of the inflammatory response during infancy. Maternal mental health may partially mediate that effect. Among mother–infant dyads in Mwanza, Tanzania, we hypothesized that poorer maternal mental health would be associated with adverse household ecology, lower social capital, and greater inflammation among infants under the age of one; and that mental health would mediate any effects of household ecology/social capital on inflammation.

Methods

We collected dried blood spots from mother–infant dyads (N = 88) at health centers near Mwanza, Tanzania. To assess household ecology and social capital, we conducted interviews with mothers using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, the MacArthur Subjective Social Status Scale, and a household wealth inventory. We employed the Hopkins Symptom Checklist to assess maternal mental health. A high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (CRP) assay was used to quantify inflammation.

Results

Severe food insecurity (OR: 5.16), lower subjective social status (r =−0.32), and lower household wealth (r = −0.26) were associated with high symptoms of maternal depression. Lower household wealth (r =−0.21) and severe food insecurity (OR: 2.52) were associated with high anxiety. High depression symptoms (OR: 2.56) and severe food insecurity (OR: 2.77) each were associated with greater‐than‐median infant CRP. However, mediation was not supported.

Conclusions

Maternal mental health should be considered alongside nutritional status, pathogen exposure, and education as a potential driver of very early innate immune system development. Proximal mechanisms warrant further investigation. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:461–470, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modulares PROTAC‐Design zum Abbau von onkogenem BCR‐ABL
Authors: Lai Ashton C. , Toure Momar , Hellerschmied Doris , Salami Jemilat , Jaime‐Figueroa Saul , Ko Eunhwa , Hines John , Crews Craig M.
Published: November 2015

PROTAC (“Proteolysis Targeting Chimera”) ist eine schnell wachsende alternative Therapiestrategie, die großes Potenzial hat, aktuelle Herausforderungen der Wirkstoffentwicklung zu bewältigen. Die neue Strategie nutzt niedermolekulare Verbindungen, um Zielproteine zur zellulären Ubiquitinierungsmaschinerie und dadurch an das Proteasom zu rekrutieren. Hier beschreiben wir die Synthese von PROTACs, die den Abbau von c‐ABL und BCR‐ABL durch die Rekrutierung der Cereblon‐ oder Von‐Hippel‐Lindau‐E3‐Ligasen auslösen. Die Fähigkeit eines PROTAC, Proteinabbau zu induzieren, beruht nicht allein auf der Wechselwirkung mit dem Zielprotein – die Identität des Liganden, der an das Zielprotein bindet, und der rekrutierten E3‐Ligase beeinflusst weitgehend das Abbauprofil des PROTAC. Als Ausgangspunkt für weitere Entwicklungen sollten daher sowohl der Ligand, der an das Zielprotein bindet, als auch der E3‐Ligase‐Ligand variiert werden, um auf dem schnellsten Weg einen PROTAC mit gewünschtem Abbauprofil zu erstellen.
Cethren: ein helikal‐chirales Biradikaloid‐Isomer von Heptazethren
Authors: Ravat Prince , Šolomek Tomáš , Rickhaus Michel , Häussinger Daniel , Neuburger Markus , Baumgarten Martin , Juríček Michal
Published: November 2015

Wir stellen die Synthese und Eigenschaften von “Cethren” vor, dem einzigen helikal chiralen Isomer Heptazethrens mit einem biradikaloiden Singulett‐Grundzustand. Cethren zeigt ein gut aufgelöstes EPR‐Spektrum bei Raumtemperatur, und seine Struktur konnte mittels 2D‐NMR‐ und Absorptionsspektroskopie bestätigt werden. Unsere Experimente und Berechnungen zeigen, dass die helikale Verdrehung die elektronischen Eigenschaften beeinflusst und sich die Singulett‐Triplett‐Energielücke im Vergleich zum planaren Heptazethren verkleinert. Cethren durchläuft eine intramolekulare Cyclisierung innerhalb einiger Stunden bei Raumtemperatur.
Methanol Conversion into Dimethyl Ether on the Anatase TiO2(001) Surface
Authors: Xiong Feng , Yu Yan‐Yan , Wu Zongfang , Sun Guanghui , Ding Liangbing , Jin Yuekang , Gong Xue‐Qing , Huang Weixin
Published: November 2015

Exploring reactions of methanol on TiO2 surfaces is of great importance in both C1 chemistry and photocatalysis. Reported herein is a combined experimental and theoretical calculation study of methanol adsorption and reaction on a mineral anatase TiO2(001)‐(1×4) surface. The methanol‐to‐dimethyl ether (DME) reaction was unambiguously identified to occur by the dehydration coupling of methoxy species at the fourfold‐coordinated Ti4+ sites (Ti4c), and for the first time confirms the predicted higher reactivity of this facet compared to other reported TiO2 facets. Surface chemistry of methanol on the anatase TiO2(001)‐(1×4) surface is seldom affected by co‐chemisorbed water. These results not only greatly deepen the fundamental understanding of elementary surface reactions of methanol on TiO2 surfaces but also show that TiO2 with a high density of Ti4c sites is a potentially active and selective catalyst for the important methanol‐to‐DME reaction.
Production of Diethyl Terephthalate from Biomass‐Derived Muconic Acid
Authors: Lu Rui , Lu Fang , Chen Jiazhi , Yu Weiqiang , Huang Qianqian , Zhang Junjie , Xu Jie
Published: November 2015

We report a cascade synthetic route to directly obtain diethyl terephthalate, a replacement for terephthalic acid, from biomass‐derived muconic acid, ethanol, and ethylene. The process involves two steps: First, a substituted cyclohexene system is built through esterification and Diels–Alder reaction; then, a dehydrogenation reaction provides diethyl terephthalate. The key esterification reaction leads to improved solubility and modulates the electronic properties of muconic acid, thus promoting the Diels–Alder reaction with ethylene. With silicotungstic acid as the catalyst, nearly 100 % conversion of muconic acid was achieved, and the cycloadducts were formed with more than 99.0 % selectivity. The palladium‐catalyzed dehydrogenation reaction preferentially occurs under neutral or mildly basic conditions. The total yield of diethyl terephthalate reached 80.6 % based on the amount of muconic acid used in the two‐step synthetic process.
Regioselective, Asymmetric Formal Hydroamination of Unactivated Internal Alkenes
Authors: Xi Yumeng , Butcher Trevor W. , Zhang Jing , Hartwig John F.
Published: November 2015

We report the regioselective and enantioselective formal hydroamination of unsymmetrical internal alkenes catalyzed by a copper catalyst ligated by DTBM‐SEGPHOS. The regioselectivity of the reaction is controlled by the electronic effects of ether, ester, and sulfonamide groups in the homoallylic position. The observed selectivity underscores the influence of inductive effects of remote substituents on the selectivity of catalytic processes occurring at hydrocarbyl groups, and the method provides direct access to various 1,3‐aminoalcohol derivatives with high enantioselectivity.
Modular PROTAC Design for the Degradation of Oncogenic BCR‐ABL
Authors: Lai Ashton C. , Toure Momar , Hellerschmied Doris , Salami Jemilat , Jaime‐Figueroa Saul , Ko Eunhwa , Hines John , Crews Craig M.
Published: November 2015

Proteolysis Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) technology is a rapidly emerging alternative therapeutic strategy with the potential to address many of the challenges currently faced in modern drug development programs. PROTAC technology employs small molecules that recruit target proteins for ubiquitination and removal by the proteasome. The synthesis of PROTAC compounds that mediate the degradation of c‐ABL and BCR‐ABL by recruiting either Cereblon or Von Hippel Lindau E3 ligases is reported. During the course of their development, we discovered that the capacity of a PROTAC to induce degradation involves more than just target binding: the identity of the inhibitor warhead and the recruited E3 ligase largely determine the degradation profiles of the compounds; thus, as a starting point for PROTAC development, both the target ligand and the recruited E3 ligase should be varied to rapidly generate a PROTAC with the desired degradation profile.
Influence of plasticizers and cryogenic grinding on the high‐cooling‐rate solidification behavior of PBT/PET blends
Authors: Poulose Anesh Manjaly , Piccarolo Stefano , Carbone Domenico , Al‐Zahrani Saeed M.
Published: November 2015

Two structurally different plasticizers (cyclic and linear) and the effect of cryogenic grinding on the solidification behavior at high cooling rates by a continuous cooling transformation approach of poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(ethylene terephthalate), PBT/PET, blends are described. The solidification curve (density versus cooling rate) is confirmed as an effective tool to compare the differences in crystallization behavior under conditions mimicking processing. In comparison to the bulky cyclic plasticizer, the linear oligomeric one was found to have a more pronounced influence on the crystallization behavior. A 60/40 by weight PBT/PET blend shows a drop‐off of density at ∼50 K/s. In the plasticized sample, the long‐range crystalline order appears up to a cooling rate of ∼250K/s, making the blend comparable to pure PBT. Grinding the components before blending further improves crystallizability and synergy to the addition of the plasticizer. The results suggest the important role of local chain mobility in the solidification behavior at high cooling rates. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43083.