bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Literature in EFL/ESL Classroom
Authors: Khatib Mohammad , Rezaei Saeed , Derakhshan Ali
Published: May 2014

This paper is a review of literature on how literature can be integrated as a language teaching material in EFL/ESL classes. First, it tracks down the place of literature in language classes from the early Grammar Translation Method (GTM) to Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) era. The paper then discusses the reasons for the demise and resurrection of literature as an input for language classes. After that the reasons for and against the use of literature in EFL/ESL classes are enumerated and discussed. For so doing, the researchers draw upon recent ideas on language teaching practice and theories. Finally in a practical move, this paper reviews the past and current approaches to teaching literature in language teaching classes. Five methodological models for teaching literature are proposed.
Abbreviations in Maritime English
Authors: Yang Zhirong
Published: May 2014

Aiming at the phenomena that more and more abbreviations occur in maritime English correspondences, the composing laws of the abbreviations in maritime English correspondence are analyzed, and the correct methods to answer the abbreviations are pointed out, and the translation method of abbreviations are summarized in this article, and the research results are practically significant for the reading, teaching, and scientific research of maritime English.
Iranian Parents’ Resistance to Incompatible Aspects of Western Culture: Implications for ELT Material Development
Authors: Kasaian Seyed Ahmad , Subbakrishna Rangaswamy
Published: May 2014

The British and US varieties of English have now come under suspicion of promoting American and British ways of life and marginalizing the local identities of their learners. Prompted by these suspicions, many scholars and policy makers have voiced doubts about the cultural adequacy of the native speaker-controlled ELT programs. In a recent survey conducted by the present authors (forthcoming), the attitude of the Iranian education officials towards the teaching of English in its western cultural context was surveyed. The findings indicated that they strongly disapproved of the teaching of English along with its western cultural values. To find out whether the above official resistance in Iran has the backing of the general public, a cultural resistance survey was conducted. 393 male and female Iranian parents from different walks of life participated in this survey. The results showed that the high school students’ possible adoption of the western lifestyle and their exposure to the manifestations of incompatible western culture were resisted by their parents. Based on the findings of this research, the researchers made a number of recommendations for international, regional and local ELT material development.
Theme-based Group Teaching of College Oral English: Endorsed by Students in Chinese EFL Context
Authors: Gao Fen
Published: May 2014

In this study the author tries to assess the effects of Theme-based Oral Approach (TOA) on the oral English proficiency of non-English majors as well as students’ leaning motives and interests resulted from the approach in EFL class of China. The study follows the quantitative and qualitative method in light of questionnaire, interview, class observation with the causal-comparative study between treatment group and control group. The result shows that a majority of students with TOA improved their oral English learning more than those with Traditional Teaching Method (TTM). It also finds that TOA is able to motivate the students to speak in class and a certain percentage of students can overcome their psychological problems in expressing ideas. The findings are that TOA affects students’ achievement in a favorable way which provides some theoretical, methodological and practical implications.
Technical Efficiency of the Malaysian Wooden Furniture Industry: A Stochastic Frontier Production Approach
Authors: Radam Alias , Yacob Mohd Rusli , Muslim Huda Farhana Mohd
Published: May 2014

Wood furniture industry is an important component in our manufacturing sector for it significantly contributes to the industrialization of Malaysia’s economy. Evaluating wood furniture industry’s level of efficiency is important to assist and provide a relative direction to small and medium firms on their business. The objective of this research is to examine the efficiency of wooden furniture industry by determining the technical efficiency using stochastic frontier production model. Results show that firm output is 54 per cent less than the maximal output which can be achieved from the existing inputs. The technical inefficiency on individual firm varies from 1.63 to 94.69 per cent and so does the potential to increase firm output from the existing inputs. This evidence suggests that many firms still operate below the efficiency level, confirming the conventional view that labor-intensive firms are most likely inefficient.
The Influence of Sustainable Development on Retail Store Image
Authors: Cacho-Elizondo Silvia , Loussaïef Leïla
Published: May 2014

This article explores young consumers’ perceptions of the sustainable development (SD) initiatives of French food retailers and evaluates their impact on the brand image of the retailers and their relationships with consumers. The methodology incorporated the analysis of the websites of the main French food retailers, a press review, eight in-depth interviews and a face-to-face survey. The findings highlight that young consumers tend to link SD more to ecology and less to social and economic issues. When a retailer’s SD actions are perceived and valued, young consumers show an emotional connection that is translated into positive attitudes, purchasing intentions and a willingness to recommend the retailer. When young consumers are not sensitive to SD actions, they continue to choose their retailer on the basis of geographical proximity. Five key dimensions seem to best describe brand image in relation to SD actions: Sympathy, Innovativeness, Human Touch, Responsibility and Opportunistic Behaviour. This last dimension is the only one with a negative connotation. This is because for some consumers, investments in SD are considered to be mostly driven by profit-seeking.
Energy Use in Agriculture Sector: Input-Output Analysis
Authors: Bekhet Hussain Ali , Abdullah Azlina
Published: May 2014

Many sectors rely on energy as input to produce output. Even though the use of energy in agriculture sector is not as high as in other sectors, it is important to study the connectedness between the two sectors as there is no study done so far to show the linkages between them in Malaysia. Input-output analysis has been used to study the connectedness degree between the two sectors using input-output data for 1991-2000. The direct and total backward linkages analyses have shown that there is a significant increase in the use of energy in agriculture sector for the 1991-2000 period but the connectedness is still weak. Among the three energy-related sectors namely; crude oil, natural gas & coal, petrol & coal industries and electricity & gas, it was found that the agriculture sector depends more on inputs from petrol & coal industries as compared to the other two sectors. Based on these results, some policy implications have been proposed to help the decision-makers in economic planning especially on implementing policies related to energy and agriculture sectors.
The Feasibility of Job Sharing as a Mechanism to Balance Work and Life of Female Entrepreneurs
Authors: Gholipour Aryan , Bod Mahdieh , Zehtabi Mona , Pirannejad Ali , Kozekanan Samira Fakheri
Published: May 2014

Balancing life and work is the most important challenge of entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs seek a logical balance between their job and life and this issue is of great importance to Iranian entrepreneur women. Inability to handle the contrast between work and family is the main source of job stress and ends in job and personal dissatisfaction. To overcome these problems we have to look for solutions that not only meet the organization needs but also imposes less stress on entrepreneurs and thus results in improving their productivity.In this article we have studied female entrepreneurs situation and their share in labor market, as well as flexible methods of doing jobs especially job sharing method. We have done structured interviews with entrepreneurs of Azad University and their attitude to possibility of job sharing and its effect on female entrepreneurs at university has been expressed. After performing the qualitative methods, questionnaires were made and the attitude of female entrepreneurs towards job sharing was examined. The results of quantitative research show that they have a positive attitude towards job sharing but we have to notice that job sharing doesn’t lead in weakening the bargaining ability of female entrepreneurs.
Issues on Takaful Affecting the Choice of Accounting Policies: A Case Study of Two Takaful Companies in Malaysia
Authors: Annuar Hairul Azlan , Abu Bakar Nur Barizah
Published: May 2014

The paper adopts a descriptive case study method to examine the impact of juristic views on the operations of two Malaysian takaful companies. In order to achieve this objective, the annual financial reports of both companies were analysed. Interviews with each company’s finance managers and with a member of the Malaysian Shariah Advisory Council were undertaken for a more in-depth coverage. Also a written correspondence with a senior official of the central bank was accomplished. Similarities and differences between the two companies were identified and it is concluded that the differences are serious enough to warrant interventions from the regulators in the form of mandatory disclosures in the annual reports.
Ownership Structure and Cash Flows As Determinants of Corporate Dividend Policy in Pakistan
Authors: Afza Talat , Mirza Hammad Hassan
Published: May 2014

Dividend Policy is among the widely addressed topics in modern financial literature. The inconclusiveness of the theories on importance of dividend in determining firm’s value has made it one of the most debatable topics for the researchers (see for example, Ramcharan, 2001; Frankfurter et. al 2002; Al-Malkawi, 2007). The present study investigates the impact of firm specific characteristics on corporate dividend behavior in emerging economy of Pakistan. Three years data (2005-2007) of 100 companies listed at Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) has been analyzed using Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression. The results show that managerial and individual ownership, cash flow sensitivity, size and leverage are negatively whereas, operating cash-flow and profitability are positively related to cash dividend. Managerial ownership, individual ownership, operating cash flow and size are the most significant determinants of dividend behavior whereas, leverage and cash flow sensitivity do not contribute significantly in determining the level of corporate dividend payment in the firms studied in our sample. Estimated results are robust to alternative proxy of dividend behavior i.e. dividend intensity.
EFFICACY OF DRIVERS’ FATIGUE ON ROAD ACCIDENT IN SELECTED SOUTHWESTERN STATES OF NIGERIA
Authors: Aworemi Joshua Remi , Adegoke Abdul-azeez Ibraheem , Oyedokun Akintunde Jonathan , Adewoye Jonathan Oyerinde
Published: May 2014

study was carried out in the administrative seats of Oyo and Ogun states of Nigeria with the aid of structured questionnaires which were administered on 325 respondents in the study area using simple random sampling approach. The collected data were analysed using multiple regression model.The study revealed that, duration of driving, stress, sleep deficit, alcohol contributed significantly to the causes of driver’s fatigue both at 5% and 10% significant levels.It was concluded that, the safest option is for driver to avoid driving when sleepy on when they are ill or taking medication. And that it is pertinent on them to plan their journeys in such a way that it will include regular rest, break of at least 15 minutes at every two hours.
Correlation Analysis of Service Quality Gaps in a Four-Star Hotel in Iran
Authors: Shahin Arash , Dabestani Reza
Published: May 2014

During the past decades, service sector has been known as an important player in the world economy. Considering the significant role of services in the hospitality industry, this research assesses the expectations and perceptions of customers of service quality dimensions in a four-star hotel in Isfahan as the major tourism focal point in Iran. For this purpose, service quality gaps have been measured and studied through correlation analysis in order to determine most important service quality dimensions based on a comprehensive set of service quality dimensions. The findings imply that almost all of the service quality gaps are negative and “price” as a service quality dimension has the highest negative value. “Communication” also has the highest correlation with other service quality dimensions.
A Survey on the Role of System Dynamics Methodology on Fossil Fuel Resources Analysis
Authors: Kiani Behdad , Mirzamohammadi Saeed , Hosseini Seyed Hossein
Published: May 2014

In today’s world, fossil fuel resources are still the main source for energy supply. Many attempts have been done in order to develop alternative sources of energy, since fossil fuel resources are limited and will be depleted soon or late. Despite these efforts, as international energy organizations declare, fossil fuel resources have the largest share in the world’s energy supply. Therefore, the study of exploration, production, and exploitation dynamics of these resources, have been considered a significant topic for many researchers. System dynamics, which is an appropriate method for dynamic studies and policy analysis, has been used as one of the most impressive methodologies in systemic research and application in this area. Besides the illustration of the role of system dynamics in fossil fuel resources analysis, this paper reviews the pioneering system dynamics models in this field. The results of this work would be helpful for researchers who are interested in the dynamic studies of fossil fuel resources’ systems.
InP/ZnS Nanocrystals as Fluorescent Probes for the Detection of ATP
Authors: Massadeh Salam , Nann Thomas
Published: May 2014

This article reports on a study on fluorescence adenosine triphosphate (ATP) detection by InP/ZnS quantum dots (QDs). We present a spectroscopic analysis displaying the effect of enzymatic reactions of glucose oxidase (GOX) and hexokinase (HEX) on the InP/ZnS quantum dots at physiological pH. The InP/ZnS quantum dots act as glucose sensors in the presence of GOX, Glu and ATP, and their luminescence quenches during the release of hydrogen peroxide from the reaction. However, in the presence of adenosine 5′ triphosphate, glucose, and HEX, a significant photobrightening of the InP/ZnS QDs is recorded. This is dependent on the concentration of ATP in the sample. The relationship between the ATP and the emission intensity of InP/ZnS nanocrystals is linear. The present results are the first to report the effect of different by-products released by these enzymatic reactions on the fluorescence of the InP/ZnS QDs.
Using a 3DOF Parallel Robot and a Spherical Bat to Hit a Ping-Pong Ball
Authors: Trasloheros Alberto , Sebastián José M. , Torrijos Jesús , Carelli Ricardo , Roberti Flavio
Published: May 2014

Playing the game of Ping-Pong is a challenge to human abilities since it requires developing skills, such as fast reaction capabilities, precision of movement and high speed mental responses. These processes include the utilization of seven DOF of the human arm, and translational movements through the legs, torso, and other extremities of the body, which are used for developing different game strategies or simply imposing movements that affect the ball such as spinning movements. Computationally, Ping-Pong requires a huge quantity of joints and visual information to be processed and analysed, something which really represents a challenge for a robot. In addition, in order for a robot to develop the task mechanically, it requires a large and dexterous workspace, and good dynamic capacities. Although there are commercial robots that are able to play Ping-Pong, the game is still an open task, where there are problems to be solved and simplified. All robotic Ping-Pong players cited in the bibliography used at least four DOF to hit the ball. In this paper, a spherical bat mounted on a 3-DOF parallel robot is proposed. The spherical bat is used to drive the trajectory of a Ping-Pong ball.
A Fault-tolerable Control Scheme for an Open-frame Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Hai Huang , Lei Wan , Wen-tian Chang , Yong-jie Pang , Shu-qiang Jiang
Published: May 2014

Open-frame is one of the major types of structures of Remote Operated Vehicles (ROV) because it is easy to place sensors and operations equipment onboard. Firstly, this paper designed a petri-based recurrent neural network (PRFNN) to improve the robustness with response to nonlinear characteristics and strong disturbance of an open-frame underwater vehicle. A threshold has been set in the third layer to reduce the amount of calculations and regulate the training process. The whole network convergence is guaranteed with the selection of learning rate parameters. Secondly, a fault tolerance control (FTC) scheme is established with the optimal allocation of thrust. Infinity-norm optimization has been combined with 2-norm optimization to construct a bi-criteria primal-dual neural network FTC scheme. In the experiments and simulation, PRFNN outperformed fuzzy neural networks in motion control, while bi-criteria optimization outperformed 2-norm optimization in FTC, which demonstrates that the FTC controller can improve computational efficiency, reduce control errors, and implement fault tolerable thrust allocation.
Workplace indoor radon survey in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Mersereau H. E. , Scott A. , Whelan K.
Published: May 2014

Radon is a naturally occurring gas emitted from the radioactive decay of uranium. A systematic radon assessment carried out in Nova Scotia (NS) has shown that many areas in the province are radon prone due to elevated levels of natural radioactivity in soil. Very little occupational radon data is available for NS, so this survey was designed to collect basic radon information from several NS workplaces in a nonrandomized fashion. Twenty three workplaces were contacted for participation in the study, and 21 participated for a 91% participation rate. The survey was conducted by placing 170 alpha track detectors within 21 workplaces for a minimum three-month sampling period and comparing the results with the Canadian Guidelines for the Management of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) and the Health Canada Guidelines. The results indicated that 19 of the workplaces had average radon concentrations below 150 Bqm−3, with only two workplaces having at least one measurement above this concentration. Both workplaces with elevated measurements had fewer than 25 employees and a lack of mechanical ventilation. The range of results for all workplaces was from −2.0 to 202.1 Bqm−3, with an overall average of 25.7 Bqm−3 for all workplaces. Future surveys should focus on small workplaces (<25 employees) with a lack of mechanical ventilation.
Should helmets be mandatory for skiers and snowboarders in Ontario?
Authors: Alsop Janet , Burlatschenko Sue , Gouveia Sophie , Gowdy Karen
Published: May 2014

Every year, approximately 15% of Canadians participate in snow sports. Among skiers and snowboarders, 9%–19% suffer potentially disabling injuries to the head. Case-control studies have shown that ski helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by 29%–60%. Opponents of mandatory ski helmet use have presented a series of arguments against ski helmets. However, numerous studies have demonstrated that ski helmets improve the safety of skiers and represent a benefit. Currently, there is no ski helmet legislation in Ontario. Few jurisdictions have legislation mandating the use of ski helmets. In Canada, only Nova Scotia has legislation regarding the use of ski helmets. In Canada, there are no mandatory safety standards for the manufacturing of ski helmets despite the publication of standards by the Canadian Standards Association in 2008.
Water system optimization: Aligning energy efficiency, system performance, and water quality
Authors: Jones Steven C. , Sowby Robert B.
Published: May 2014

Operational improvements identified through an optimization study can bring the system into a balance that achieves cost savings through energy efficiency, greater system performance and reliability, and improved water quality ‐ with no capital expenses.
Poster Competition on Improved Water Quality in Burnsville, Minn., Yields Professional Benefits
Authors: Markos Adam
Published: May 2014

In June 2013 the author had the honor of competing in the AWWA Fresh Ideas Poster Competition at ACE13, AWWA's Annual Conference and Exposition, which was held in Denver, Colo. As the Minnesota Section winner, he was sent to ACE to represent my state in a competition with posters from other AWWA sections. Participants ranged from students to operators and from engineers to regulators, covering diverse subject matter. The Fresh Ideas Poster Competition is designed to encourage Young Professionals (AWWA members with fewer than 15 years of experience) to participate in AWWA section meetings and ACE. The competition allows participants to share the results of their work or projects using the latest technologies and best practices for providing safe water.
Simvastatin Radiosensitizes Differentiated and Stem-Like Breast Cancer Cell Lines and Is Associated With Improved Local Control in Inflammatory Breast Cancer Patients Treated With Postmastectomy Radiation
Authors: Lacerda Lara , Reddy Jay P. , Liu Diane , Larson Richard , Li Li , Masuda Hiroko , Brewer Takae , Debeb Bisrat G. , Xu Wei , Hortobágyi Gabriel N. , Buchholz Thomas A. , Ueno Naoto T. , Woodward Wendy A.
Published: May 2014

Reported rates of local failure after adjuvant radiation for women with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) and triple-negative non-IBC are higher than those of women with receptor-expressing non-IBC. These high rates of locoregional recurrence are potentially influenced by the contribution of radioresistant cancer stem cells to these cancers. Statins have been shown to target stem cells and improve disease-free survival among IBC patients. We examined simvastatin radiosensitization of multiple subtypes of breast cancer cell lines in vitro in monolayer and mammosphere-based clonogenic assays and examined the therapeutic benefit of statin use on local control after postmastectomy radiation (PMRT) among IBC patients. We found that simvastatin radiosensitizes mammosphere-initiating cells (MICs) of IBC cell lines (MDA-IBC3, SUM149, SUM190) and of the metaplastic, non-IBC triple-negative receptor cell line (SUM159). However, simvastatin radioprotects MICs of non-IBC cell lines MCF-7 and SKBR3. In a retrospective clinical study of 519 IBC patients treated with PMRT, 53 patients used a statin. On univariate analysis, actuarial 3-year local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) was higher among statin users, and on multivariate analysis, triple negative breast cancer, absence of lymphatic invasion, neoadjuvant pathological tumor response to preoperative chemotherapy, and statin use were independently associated with higher LRFS. In conclusion, patients with IBC and triple-negative non-IBC breast cancer have the highest rates of local failure, and there are no available known radiosensitizers. We report significant improvement in local control after PMRT among statin users with IBC and significant radiosensitization across triple-negative and IBC cell lines of multiple subtypes using simvastatin. These data suggest that simvastatin should be justified as a radiosensitizing agent by a prospective clinical trial.
Nesse fascículo de ABCS Health Sciences
Authors: Souto Ricardo Peres do
Published: May 2014

Resumo não disponível.
Estresse pós-privação de sono: análises morfométricas do fígado
Authors: Oliveira Marília Capuço , Domingos Neide Aparecida Micelli , Martins Alex Tadeu , Azoubel Reinaldo , Miyazaki Maria Cristina De Oliveira Santos , Imperial Rodrigo Estevan , Pires Milton Dorival , De Godoy Moacir Fernandes
Published: May 2014

Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da exposição ao estresse pós-privação de sono em características celulares e nucleares do fígado de ratos. Métodos: 16 ratos (Wistar) machos adultos (200–260 g) foram mantidos em ciclo de luz controlado recebendo dieta com quantidades usuais de sal e livre acesso à água e alimento. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos de oito animais (grupo experimental e grupo controle). Os animais permaneceram na mesma gaiola (dois de cada vez) durante sete dias e, após esse período, foram pesados e separados. O animal do grupo controle continuou na mesma gaiola e o animal do grupo experimental foi colocado em aparato de privação de sono. Após as 96 horas, os dois ratos foram pesados, anestesiados, sacrificados com dose excessiva de anestésico e os fígados foram retirados. Resultados: Não há diferença significante entre o grupo experimental e grupo controle em relação ao peso, embora haja diminuição de peso no grupo experimental. Nas análises cariométricas, houve diferença significante em relação ao diâmetro menor (p=0,03) e volume (p=0,04) do núcleo dos hepatócitos do grupo experimental. Nas análises esteriológicas, houve diferença significante do grupo experimental no núcleo (maior, p=0,036), do citoplasma (menor p=0,009) e outras estruturas (maior p=0,008). Conclusão: O estresse parece contribuir para alteração na estrutura celular hepática.
Caracterização das quedas em idosos socorridos pelo serviço de atendimento móvel de urgência
Authors: Abrantes Kennia Sibelly Marques de , Menezes Taciana Nobre de , Farias Maria do Carmo Andrade Duarte de , Silva Maria Isabel Leandro da , Rolim Vanessa Estrela , Macedo Junior Hugo , Abreu Luiz Carlos de
Published: May 2014

Introdução: Atualmente, o aumento da expectativa de vida tem chamado a atenção quanto às condições de saúde durante esses anos adicionais e quanto à possibilidade de incidências futuras de morbidades e mortalidade e diversos problemas de saúde, como as quedas. Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre as características da queda e o grupo etário. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um formulário específico nos meses de março a junho de 2012 e analisados por meio do Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, versão 17.0). As associações foram verificadas por meio do teste ÷2 de Pearson ou do teste exato de Fisher com extensão de Freeman-Halton, quando apropriado, sendo adotado o nível de significância α<5%. Resultados: Observou-se um total de 93 idosos vítimas de quedas. Prevaleceu o grupo de faixa etária igual ou maior que 80 anos (47,3%), do sexo feminino (62,4%), com ensino fundamental incompleto ou acima (51,6%), sem renda ou com renda de até um salário mínimo (66,7%), residindo sem companheiro (65,6%). A ocorrência de quedas em idosos mostrou associação entre grupo etário e sexo (p=0,004), situação conjugal (p=0,002), hospitalização (p=0,047) e lugar da queda (p=0,006). Conclusão: Os idosos com 70 anos ou mais foram os que se apresentaram em maior proporção no tempo de hospitalização, e, no que se refere ao lugar de ocorrência da queda, observou-se que, entre os idosos mais velhos, destacou-se um maior percentual de quedas em casa, principalmente quando comparados aos idosos mais jovens.
SM proteins Sly1 and Vps33 co-assemble with Sec17 and SNARE complexes to oppose SNARE disassembly by Sec18
Authors: Lobingier Braden T , Nickerson Daniel P , Lo Sheng-Ying , Merz Alexey J
Published: May 2014

Secretory and endolysosomal fusion events are driven by SNAREs and cofactors, including Sec17/α-SNAP, Sec18/NSF, and Sec1/Munc18 (SM) proteins. SMs are essential for fusion in vivo, but the basis of this requirement is enigmatic. We now report that, in addition to their established roles as fusion accelerators, SM proteins Sly1 and Vps33 directly shield SNARE complexes from Sec17- and Sec18-mediated disassembly. In vivo, wild-type Sly1 and Vps33 function are required to withstand overproduction of Sec17. In vitro, Sly1 and Vps33 impede SNARE complex disassembly by Sec18 and ATP. Unexpectedly, Sec17 directly promotes selective loading of Sly1 and Vps33 onto cognate SNARE complexes. A large thermodynamic barrier limits SM binding, implying that significant conformational rearrangements are involved. In a working model, Sec17 and SMs accelerate fusion mediated by cognate SNARE complexes and protect them from NSF-mediated disassembly, while mis-assembled or non-cognate SNARE complexes are eliminated through kinetic proofreading by Sec18.
Conformational dynamics of the nucleotide binding domains and the power stroke of a heterodimeric ABC transporter
Authors: Mishra Smriti , Verhalen Brandy , Stein Richard A , Wen Po-Chao , Tajkhorshid Emad , Mchaourab Hassane S
Published: May 2014

Multidrug ATP binding cassette (ABC) exporters are ubiquitous ABC transporters that extrude cytotoxic molecules across cell membranes. Despite recent progress in structure determination of these transporters, the conformational motion that transduces the energy of ATP hydrolysis to the work of substrate translocation remains undefined. Here, we have investigated the conformational cycle of BmrCD, a representative of the heterodimer family of ABC exporters that have an intrinsically impaired nucleotide binding site. We measured distances between pairs of spin labels monitoring the movement of the nucleotide binding (NBD) and transmembrane domains (TMD). The results expose previously unobserved structural intermediates of the NBDs arising from asymmetric configuration of catalytically inequivalent nucleotide binding sites. The two-state transition of the TMD, from an inward- to an outward-facing conformation, is driven exclusively by ATP hydrolysis. These findings provide direct evidence of divergence in the mechanism of ABC exporters.
Utilizing doctors' attitudes toward staff training to inform a chiropractic technology curriculum
Authors: Eberhart Catherine A. , Martel Stacie S.
Published: May 2014

Objective

The purpose of this study is to determine attitudes of doctors of chiropractic regarding the importance of staff training in specific skill areas to inform the curriculum management process of a chiropractic technology program.

Methods

A survey was distributed to registrants of a chiropractic homecoming event. On a 5-point Likert scale, respondents were asked to rate the degree of importance that staff members be trained in specific skills. Descriptive statistics were derived, and a 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test differences between groups based on years in practice and level of staff training.

Results

Doctors place a high level of importance on oral communication skills and low importance on nutrition and physical examinations. Comparing groups based on years in practice revealed differences in the areas of passive physiotherapies (F = 3.61, p = .015), legal issues/regulations (F = 3.01, p = .032), occupational safety and health regulation (F = 4.27, p = .006), and marketing (F = 2.67, p = .049). Comparing groups based on level of staff training revealed differences in the areas of occupational safety and health regulations (F = 4.56, p = .005) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (F = 4.91, p = .003).

Conclusion

With regard to their assistants, doctors of chiropractic tend to place high importance on office skills requiring effective communication and place less importance on clinical skills such as physical examinations and physiotherapy.
Observed improvements in an intern's ability to initiate critical emergency skills in different cardiac arrest scenarios using high-fidelity simulation
Authors: Starmer David J. , Duquette Sean A. , Guiliano Dominic , Tibbles Anthony , Miners Andrew , Finn Kevin , Stainsby Brynne E.
Published: May 2014

Objective

The objective of this study was to report observed changes in an intern's ability to initiate critical emergency skills in different cardiac arrest scenarios with high-fidelity simulation over a 10-month period.

Methods

One intern's performance was retrospectively analyzed using video recordings of 4 simulations at different stages in the training program. The key outcome was the duration of time expired for 4 critical skills, including activating the emergency response system, initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), using an automated external defibrillator (AED), and passively administrating oxygen.

Results

The intern became more efficient in each subsequent simulation for activating the emergency response system and initiating CPR. The time to use the AED stayed relatively constant. The administration of oxygen was inconsistent.

Conclusion

An improvement in the speed of applying emergency critical skills was observed with this intern. These improvements in skill may improve patient outcomes and survival rates. We propose further educational research with high-fidelity simulation in the area of assessing emergency skills.
The large‐scale current system during auroral substorms
Authors: Gjerloev J. W. , Hoffman R. A.
Published: May 2014

We present an empirical model of the equivalent current system in the ionosphere during the peak of a classical bulge‐type auroral substorm. This model is derived from measurements made by ~110 ground magnetometer stations during 116 substorms. The data are temporally and spatially organized using global auroral images obtained by the Polar Visible Imaging System Earth Camera. The empirical equivalent current system displays three key features: a poleward shift of the westward electrojet connecting the postmidnight and premidnight components; a polar cap swirl; and significantly different magnitudes of the postmidnight and premidnight westward electrojets. This leads us to propose a two‐wedge current system linking the ionosphere to the magnetosphere. The bulge current wedge is located in the premidnight region just equatorward of the open‐closed field line boundary while another three‐dimensional current system is located in the postmidnight region well within the auroral oval. We use Biot and Savart calculations and Tsyganenko mapping and show that this new model is a likely solution for the large‐scale current system.
Objective convective updraft identification and tracking: Part 1. Structure and thermodynamics of convection in the rainband regions of two hurricane simulations
Authors: Terwey Wesley D. , Rozoff Christopher M.
Published: May 2014

To better understand the life cycles of convective elements in numerical model simulations, a convective updraft tracking algorithm, dubbed the Statistical and Programmable Objective Updraft Tracker (SPOUT), is developed. SPOUT identifies updraft cores in horizontal slices through a given model data set, links these cores in three dimensions to form vertically coherent updrafts, and then tracks updrafts in time via estimates of the mean local advection. SPOUT is evaluated in idealized hurricane simulations from both the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) and Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF). In both simulations, SPOUT indicates most updrafts live less than 60 min, but some can persist for over 2 h. Updrafts are typically manifested as shallow cumulus, cumulus congestus, and deep cumulonimbus. Overall, there is reasonable agreement between the vigor of convection and the amount of localized conditional convective instability. Also, the majority of updrafts attain a tilted structure that is in accordance with the localized vertical wind shear. Nonetheless, there are striking differences between models, with the higher‐resolution WRF simulation producing around twice as many updrafts as RAMS. Moreover, the WRF updrafts are significantly weaker. This paper highlights the utility of SPOUT for studying convective life cycles in high‐resolution numerical simulations and provides some basic features of convection in two hurricane simulations.
Characterization of melt and ejecta deposits of Kepler crater from remote sensing data
Authors: Öhman T. , Kramer G. Y. , Kring D. A.
Published: May 2014

We used Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3), Arecibo and Mini‐RF radar, and Diviner radiometer data with Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) Camera and Kaguya Terrain Camera images to characterize the target, ejecta, and impact melt‐rich lithologies in and around lunar central peak crater Kepler. M3 data indicate the impact melt rocks of crater floor to be high‐Ca pyroxene dominated, distinct from the low‐Ca pyroxene‐dominated crater wall. The central uplift is high‐Ca pyroxene dominated, and has higher albedo. These observations are consistent with thin mare basalts underlain by noritic Imbrium ejecta, underlain by gabbroic crustal material. M3 data reveal an enigmatic, splash‐like feature of melt‐rich material on the southeastern (uprange) crater wall and flank. M3 data also highlight halos around Kepler. In detail the halos are slightly variable, but in broad terms they define a consistent feature, offset to the inferred downrange direction, and interpreted to reflect the distribution of glass‐bearing impact breccia. The radar data sets show most of the proximal ejecta to be radar‐bright. However, Diviner rock abundance data do not indicate the presence of blocks on the surface nor can they be seen using LRO Narrow Angle Camera images. Thus, the blocks giving rise to the enhanced radar signal are buried. Beyond the radar‐bright zone, a subtle radar‐dark halo emerges, coincident with a region of very low rock abundance in Diviner data. This multidisciplinary approach provides a robust analysis of the main characteristics of a lunar complex crater and reveals previously unidentified features related to the distribution of impact melt.
The intensity of the geomagnetic field from 2.4 Ga old Indian dykes
Authors: Valet Jean‐Pierre , Besse Jean , Kumar Anil , Vadakke‐Chanat Sayoob , Philippe Edouard
Published: May 2014

Precambrian paleomagnetic records from dyke swarms provide a unique source of information regarding the Archean geomagnetic field and more specifically the average field strength produced by the early dynamo. We sampled 16 paleomagnetic sites from the Dharwar giant dyke swarm in southern India which was emplaced between 2.365 and 2.368 Ga. Despite taking great care in selecting locations exempt of any geological disturbance, only two of these sites provided primary directions with very steep inclinations and therefore were emplaced in close to a magnetic pole. Paleointensity experiments were conducted on a subset of samples from the dyke margins. The characteristic magnetization is carried by single domain magnetite grains with a very narrow range of unblocking temperatures inferred from the sharp decrease by at least 75% of their remanence above 520°C. The paleointensity results indicate an average low field of 9.2 ± 7 µT, consistent with reported values from Canadian dyke swarms for the same period. These results combined with the Thellier‐Thellier determinations obtained so far for the Precambrian suggest that a low field period prevailed from circa 2.3 to 1.8 Ga, while the preceding and following time intervals are characterized by significantly stronger paleointensities. Although this suite of episodes is not fully incompatible with previous models for the long‐term evolution of the geodynamo, it is tempting to make the link with the recent suggestion of an early dynamo sustained within a conductive magma layer at the base of the mantle from 3.5 to 2.5 Ga which progressively declined until convection became sufficiently efficient to reactivate a strong dynamo process within the Earth's liquid core.
Quasi two day wave‐related variability in the background dynamics and composition of the mesosphere/thermosphere and the ionosphere
Authors: Chang Loren C. , Yue Jia , Wang Wenbin , Wu Qian , Meier R. R.
Published: May 2014

Dissipating planetary waves in the mesosphere/lower thermosphere (MLT) region may cause changes in the background dynamics of that region, subsequently driving variability throughout the broader thermosphere/ionosphere system via mixing due to the induced circulation changes. We report the results of case studies examining the possibility of such coupling during the northern winter in the context of the quasi two day wave (QTDW)—a planetary wave that recurrently grows to large amplitudes from the summer MLT during the postsolstice period. Six distinct QTDW events between 2003 and 2011 are identified in the MLT using Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry temperature observations. Concurrent changes to the background zonal winds, zonal mean column O/N2 density ratio, and ionospheric total electron content (TEC) are examined using data sets from Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics Doppler Interferometer, Global Ultraviolet Imager, and Global Ionospheric Maps, respectively. We find that in the 5–10 days following a QTDW event, the background zonal winds in the MLT show patterns of eastward and westward anomalies in the low and middle latitudes consistent with past modeling studies on QTDW‐induced mean wind forcing, both below and at turbopause altitudes. This is accompanied by potentially related decreases in zonal mean thermospheric column O/N2, as well as to low‐latitude TECs. The recurrent nature of the above changes during the six QTDW events examined point to an avenue for vertical coupling via background dynamics and chemistry of the thermosphere/ionosphere not previously observed.
Lipids
Authors: Yeagle Philip L
Published: May 2014

Lipids are molecular building blocks that form the most fundamental structures in biology, including the serum lipoproteins, the membranes of cells and cellular organelles and the membranes of enveloped viruses. Many lipids spontaneously form lipid bilayers, the fundamental architectural feature of all biological membranes. A nearly uncountable catalogue of lipid molecules is found in nature, their individual structures imparting a wide variety of properties essential to the structures and functions of biological membranes and lipoproteins in all life forms. Lipids regulate, often in specific ways, the functionality of biological membranes, through the properties of the lipid bilayer and by binding to membrane proteins. Lipids are at the centre of membrane fusion events essential for intracellular transport, endocytosis and viral infection of cells by enveloped viruses. Lipids are the metabolic precursors of some hormones and signalling molecules in cells.

Key Concepts:

Phospholipids, as well as many other lipids, spontaneously form bilayer structures in water, as governed by the hydrophobic effect.

Lipid bilayers provide the fundamental architecture upon which all biological membranes are built.

Lipid bilayers in biological membranes are in the liquid crystal state, permitting lateral diffusion of components including proteins and lipids, and internal flexibility essential to membrane enzyme function.

Lipid bilayers determine many of the properties of biological membranes including their limited permeability.

Thousands of different lipid species are found in biological membranes, but they can be organised into a few major lipid classes.

Unsaturation in the hydrocarbon chains of lipid bilayers supports the liquid crystal state of bilayers in biology, essential to the proper functioning of membrane enzymes.

Although bilayers are inherently stable, defects in the bilayer structure are required to initiate critical membrane fusion events.

Individual membrane lipids play specific biological roles in membrane biology by modulating membrane enzyme activity through binding to membrane proteins.

Some lipids are second messengers in intracellular signalling systems.
Possible Viral Zoonoses in Xenotransplantation
Authors: Crossan Claire , Takeuchi Yasu , Scobie Linda
Published: May 2014

Pig‐to‐human xenotransplantation has been proposed as a possible solution to the world shortage of organ donors. Additionally, cell/tissue xenotransplantation shows promise in the treatment of patients with diabetes, neuronal and eye diseases. At present, barriers to xenotransplantation still include graft rejection, physiological compatibility issues and the threat posed by zoonoses. In this article, the current information from recent publications in the field of porcine zoonoses and xenotransplantation is presented. Pathogens of concern including herpesviruses, endogenous retroviruses and hepatitis E virus are known and risk reduction measures against these in xenotranplantation settings are described. Unidentified pathogens pose a separate risk that may not be identified until clinical trials take place and risks vary depending on the diseases, operation practices and graft production processes including geographical factors. Currently, a number of clinical trials are underway using encapsulated porcine islets, which may alter the perceived risks of pathogen transfer.

Key Concepts:

Prevention of pathogen transfer in xenotransplantation.

The risk of porcine zoonoses is one that should be minimised before xenotransplantation is carried out in human trials.

The use of techniques such as encapsulation in cellular xenotransplantation could be used to potentially protect against pathogen transfer.

Donor animals used in xenotransplantation should come from specific pathogen‐free herds which have been screened and tested negative for known and potentially zoonotic viruses, such as Swine influenza, hepatitis E, porcine cytomegalovirus and porcine lymphotropic viruses.

Porcine endogenous retroviruses cannot be eliminated from donor herds and although their zoonotic potential remains unknown, steps should be taken to minimise the possibility of zoonoses by selecting donor pigs with low PERV copy number and absence of known dangerous PERV subtype and loci.

The possibility of unknown zoonotic viruses emerging poses a constant threat. To counteract this a high surveillance and investigatory approach is required, using the most advanced molecular techniques available.
Algal Bioenergy
Authors: Stanley Michele S , Day John G
Published: May 2014

Algae are the ‘engines’ that drive global biogeochemical cycles in the aquatic environment and are directly responsible for >50% of current planetary productivity and geologically for fossil fuel resources. However, their use as a source of biofuels is minimal. The search for new forms of biomass for the production of bioenergy is, and will increasingly be, influenced by the politics of food, water supplies and anthropogenic climate change. Algae that are capable of high levels of productivity and grow in marine ecosystems, or land‐based seawater systems, are one of the few realistic sources of future fuels that avoid compromising ecological sustainability and political stability. Technologies are being developed to cultivate and exploit macroalgae for biofuels, including bioethanol and biomethane, and it is envisaged that these will be a commercial reality in the near future. Microalgal systems present huge potential; however, faced with a range of technical constraints they will take much longer to develop into a commercial reality.

Key Concepts:

Third‐generation biofuels.

Alternative energy supply through cultivation of algae.

Biofuel production without compromising food or water resources.

Microalgal cultivation to generate oils and biomass for biofuel production.

Macroalgal production for biomass production.

Conversion of algal biomass derived from microalgae and/or microalgae for the production of bioethanol and biomethane.