bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synchronized Cell Cycle Arrest Promotes Osteoclast Differentiation
Authors: Kwon Minsuk , Kim Jin-Man , Lee Kyunghee , Park So-Young , Lim Hyun-Sook , Kim Taesoo , Jeong Daewon
Published: August 2016

Osteoclast progenitors undergo cell cycle arrest before differentiation into osteoclasts, induced by exposure to macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). The role of such cell cycle arrest in osteoclast differentiation has remained unclear, however. We here examined the effect of synchronized cell cycle arrest on osteoclast formation. Osteoclast progenitors deprived of M-CSF in culture adopted a uniform morphology and exhibited cell cycle arrest at the G0–G1 phase in association with both down-regulation of cyclins A and D1 as well as up-regulation of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27Kip1. Such M-CSF deprivation also promoted the differentiation of osteoclast progenitors into multinucleated osteoclasts expressing high levels of osteoclast marker proteins such as NFATc1, c-Fos, Atp6v0d2, cathepsin K, and integrin β3 on subsequent exposure to M-CSF and RANKL. Our results suggest that synchronized arrest and reprogramming of osteoclast progenitors renders them poised to respond to inducers of osteoclast formation. Further characterization of such effects may facilitate induction of the differentiation of heterogeneous and multipotent cells into desired cell lineages.
Binding and Fusion of Extracellular Vesicles to the Plasma Membrane of Their Cell Targets
Authors: Prada Ilaria , Meldolesi Jacopo
Published: August 2016

Exosomes and ectosomes, extracellular vesicles of two types generated by all cells at multivesicular bodies and the plasma membrane, respectively, play critical roles in physiology and pathology. A key mechanism of their function, analogous for both types of vesicles, is the fusion of their membrane to the plasma membrane of specific target cells, followed by discharge to the cytoplasm of their luminal cargo containing proteins, RNAs, and DNA. Here we summarize the present knowledge about the interactions, binding and fusions of vesicles with the cell plasma membrane. The sequence initiates with dynamic interactions, during which vesicles roll over the plasma membrane, followed by the binding of specific membrane proteins to their cell receptors. Membrane binding is then converted rapidly into fusion by mechanisms analogous to those of retroviruses. Specifically, proteins of the extracellular vesicle membranes are structurally rearranged, and their hydrophobic sequences insert into the target cell plasma membrane which undergoes lipid reorganization, protein restructuring and membrane dimpling. Single fusions are not the only process of vesicle/cell interactions. Upon intracellular reassembly of their luminal cargoes, vesicles can be regenerated, released and fused horizontally to other target cells. Fusions of extracellular vesicles are relevant also for specific therapy processes, now intensely investigated.
Fabrication, Polarization of Electrospun Polyvinylidene Fluoride Electret Fibers and Effect on Capturing Nanoscale Solid Aerosols
Authors: Lolla Dinesh , Lolla Manideep , Abutaleb Ahmed , Shin Hyeon , Reneker Darrell , Chase George
Published: August 2016

Electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) fiber mats with average fiber diameters (≈200 nm, ≈2000 nm) were fabricated by controlled electrospinning conditions. These fiber mats were polarized using a custom-made device to enhance the formation of the electret β-phase ferroelectric property of the fibers by simultaneous uniaxial stretching of the fiber mat and heating the mat to the Curie temperature of the PVDF polymer in a strong electric field of 2.5 kV/cm. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analyses were performed to characterize both the internal and external morphologies of the fiber mat samples to study polarization-associated changes. MATLAB simulations revealed the changes in the paths of the electric fields and the magnetic flux inside the polarization field with inclusion of the ferroelectric fiber mats. Both polarized and unpolarized fiber mats were challenged as filters against NaCl particles with average particle diameters of about 150 nm using a TSI 8130 to study capture efficiencies and relative pressure drops. Twelve filter experiments were conducted on each sample at one month time intervals between experiments to evaluate the reduction of the polarization enhancement over time. The results showed negligible polarization loss for the 200-nm fiber sample. The polarized mats had the highest filter efficiencies and lowest pressure drops.
Cubitanoids and Cembranoids from the Soft Coral Sinularia nanolobata
Authors: Chao Chih-Hua , Wu Chia-Yun , Huang Chiung-Yao , Wang Hui-Chun , Dai Chang-Feng , Wu Yang-Chang , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: August 2016

Two new cubitanoids, nanoculones A and B (1 and 2), and three new cembranoids, nanolobols A–C (3–5), as well as six known compounds, calyculone I (6), sinulariuol A (7), sinulariols C, D, H, and J (8–11), were isolated from the soft coral Sinularia nanolobata, collected off the coast of the eastern region of Taiwan. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis. Cytotoxicity of compounds 1–11 was evaluated. The nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activity of selected compounds was further measured by assay of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated NO production in activated RAW264.7 cells. The results showed that none of 1–11 exhibited cytotoxicity against the tested cancer cell lines, whereas compound 8 was found to significantly reduce NO production.
Anti-Diabetic Activity and Metabolic Changes Induced by Andrographis paniculata Plant Extract in Obese Diabetic Rats
Authors: Akhtar Muhammad , Bin Mohd Sarib Mohamad , Ismail Intan , Abas Faridah , Ismail Amin , Lajis Nordin , Shaari Khozirah
Published: August 2016

Andrographis paniculata is an annual herb and widely cultivated in Southeast Asian countries for its medicinal use. In recent investigations, A. paniculata was found to be effective against Type 1 diabetes mellitus (Type 1 DM). Here, we used a non-genetic out-bred Sprague-Dawley rat model to test the antidiabetic activity of A. paniculata against Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM). Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy in combination with multivariate data analyses was used to evaluate the A. paniculata and metformin induced metabolic effects on the obese and obese–diabetic (obdb) rat models. Compared to the normal rats, high levels of creatinine, lactate, and allantoin were found in the urine of obese rats, whereas, obese-diabetic rats were marked by high glucose, choline and taurine levels, and low lactate, formate, creatinine, citrate, 2-oxoglutarate, succinate, dimethylamine, acetoacetate, acetate, allantoin and hippurate levels. Treatment of A. paniculata leaf water extract was found to be quite effective in restoring the disturbed metabolic profile of obdb rats back towards normal conditions. Thisstudy shows the anti-diabetic potential of A. paniculata plant extract and strengthens the idea of using this plant against the diabetes. Further classical genetic methods and state of the art molecular techniques could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and anti-diabetic effects of A. paniculata water extract.
The Complete Chloroplast Genome Sequence of the Medicinal Plant Swertia mussotii Using the PacBio RS II Platform
Authors: Xiang Beibei , Li Xiaoxue , Qian Jun , Wang Lizhi , Ma Lin , Tian Xiaoxuan , Wang Yong
Published: August 2016

Swertia mussotii is an important medicinal plant that has great economic and medicinal value and is found on the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau. The complete chloroplast (cp) genome of S. mussotii is 153,431 bp in size, with a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 25,761 bp each that separate an large single-copy (LSC) region of 83,567 bp and an a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,342 bp. The S. mussotii cp genome encodes 84 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The identity, number, and GC content of S. mussotii cp genes were similar to those in the genomes of other Gentianales species. Via analysis of the repeat structure, 11 forward repeats, eight palindromic repeats, and one reverse repeat were detected in the S. mussotii cp genome. There are 45 SSRs in the S. mussotii cp genome, the majority of which are mononucleotides found in all other Gentianales species. An entire cp genome comparison study of S. mussotii and two other species in Gentianaceae was conducted. The complete cp genome sequence provides intragenic information for the cp genetic engineering of this medicinal plant.
Phytoestrogen Metabolism by Adult Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Gaya Pilar , Medina Margarita , Sánchez-Jiménez Abel , Landete José
Published: August 2016

Phytoestrogens are plant-derived polyphenols with a structure similar to human estrogens. The three main groups of phytoestrogens, isoflavones, ellagitannins, and lignans, are transformed into equol, urolithins, and enterolignans, respectively, by bacteria. These metabolites have more estrogenic/antiestrogenic and antioxidant activities than their precursors, and they are more bioavailable. The aim of this study was to analyze the metabolism of isoflavones, lignans and ellagitannins by gut microbiota, and to study the possible correlation in the metabolism of these three groups of phytoestrogens. In vitro fermentation experiments were performed with feces samples from 14 healthy adult volunteers, and metabolite formation was measured by HPLC-PAD and HPLC-ESI/MS. Only the microbiota of one subject produced equol, while most of them showed production of O-desmethylangolensin (O-DMA). Significant inter-subject differences were observed in the metabolism of dihydrodaidzein and dihydrogenistein, while the glucoside isoflavones and their aglycones showed less variability, except for glycitin. Most subjects produced urolithins M-5 and E. Urolithin D was not detected, while uroltithin B was found in half of the individuals analyzed, and urolithins A and C were detected in two and four subjects, respectively. Enterolactone was found in all subjects, while enterodiol only appeared in five. Isoflavone metabolism could be correlated with the metabolism of lignans and ellagitannins. However, the metabolism of ellagitannins and lignans could not be correlated. This the first study where the metabolism of the three groups together of phytoestrogen, isoflavones, lignans, and ellagitannins by gut microbiota is analyzed.
Special Issue: “Functional Dendrimers”
Authors: Tomalia Donald
Published: August 2016

This special issue entitled “Functional Dendrimers” focuses on the manipulation of at least six “critical nanoscale design parameters” (CNDPs) of dendrimers including: size, shape, surface chemistry, flexibility/rigidity, architecture and elemental composition. These CNDPs collectively define properties of all “functional dendrimers”. This special issue contains many interesting examples describing the manipulation of certain dendrimer CNDPs to create new emerging properties and, in some cases, predictive nanoperiodic property patterns (i.e., dendritic effects). The systematic engineering of CNDPs provides a valuable strategy for optimizing functional dendrimer properties for use in specific applications.
Synthesis and Structure-Activity Relationship of Some New Thiophene-Based Heterocycles as Potential Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Mabkhot Yahia , Alatibi Fatima , El-Sayed Nahed , Kheder Nabila , Al-Showiman Salim
Published: August 2016

Several new pyrazole, pyridine, [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-α]pyrimidine, benzimidazo[1,2-a]pyrimidine and 1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-c][1,2,4]triazine derivatives incorporating a thiophene moiety were synthesized from (E)-ethyl 5-(3-(dimethylamino)acryloyl)-4-phenyl-2-(phenylamino)thiophene-3-carboxylate (1). The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H-, 13C-NMR, mass spectral data and elemental analysis. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of all the synthesized compounds were evaluated. The results indicated that compounds 9, 12, and 19 were found to be more potent than the standard drug Amphotericin B against Aspergillus fumigates. Additionally, compound 12 exhibited higher activity than the standard drug Amphotericin B against Syncephalastrum racemosum.
Synthesis and Characterization of Process-Related Impurities of Antidiabetic Drug Linagliptin
Authors: Huang Yiwen , He Xiaoqing , Wu Taizhi , Zhang Fuli
Published: August 2016

Linagliptin, a xanthine derivative, is a highly potent, selective, long-acting and orally bioavailable DPP-4 inhibitor for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. During the process development of linagliptin, five new process-related impurities were detected by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). All these impurities were identified, synthesized, and subsequently characterized by their respective spectral data (MS, HRMS, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and IR) as described in this article. The identification of these impurities should be useful for quality control and the validation of the analytical method in the manufacture of linagliptin.
Nanostructured Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Guanying , Ning Zhijun , Ågren Hans
Published: August 2016

We are glad to announce the Special Issue “Nanostructured Solar Cells”, published in Nanomaterials. This issue consists of eight articles, two communications, and one review paper, covering major important aspects of nanostructured solar cells of varying types. From fundamental physicochemical investigations to technological advances, and from single junction solar cells (silicon solar cell, dye sensitized solar cell, quantum dots sensitized solar cell, and small molecule organic solar cell) to tandem multi-junction solar cells, all aspects are included and discussed in this issue to advance the use of nanotechnology to improve the performance of solar cells with reduced fabrication costs.
Evaluation of an Extended Autocorrelation Phase Estimator for Ultrasonic Velocity Profiles Using Nondestructive Testing Systems
Authors: Ofuchi César , Coutinho Fabio , Neves Flávio , De Arruda Lucia , Morales Rigoberto
Published: August 2016

In this paper the extended autocorrelation velocity estimator is evaluated and compared using a nondestructive ultrasonic device. For this purpose, three velocity estimators are evaluated and compared. The autocorrelation method (ACM) is the most used and well established in current ultrasonic velocity profiler technology, however, the technique suffers with phase aliasing (also known as the Nyquist limit) at higher velocities. The cross-correlation method (CCM) is also well known and does not suffer with phase aliasing as it relies on time shift measurements between emissions. The problem of this method is the large computational burden due to several required mathematical operations. Recently, an extended autocorrelation method (EAM) which combines both ACM and CCM was developed. The technique is not well known within the fluid engineering community, but it can measure velocities beyond the Nyquist limit without the ACM phase aliasing issues and with a lower computational cost than CCM. In this work, all three velocity estimation methods are used to measure a uniform flow of the liquid inside a controlled rotating cylinder. The root-mean-square deviation variation coefficient (CVRMSD) of the velocity estimate and the reference cylinder velocity was used to evaluate the three different methods. Results show that EAM correctly measures velocities below the Nyquist limit with less than 2% CVRMSD. Velocities beyond the Nyquist limit are only measured well by EAM and CCM, with the advantage of the former of being computationally 15 times faster. Furthermore, the maximum value of measurable velocity is also investigated considering the number of times the velocity surpasses the Nyquist limit. The combination of number of pulses and number of samples, which highly affects the results, are also studied in this work. Velocities up to six times the Nyquist limit could be measurable with CCM and EAM using a set of parameters as suggested in this work. The results validate the use of the NDT tool to measure velocities even beyond Nyquist limit by using EAM.
Multi-Scale Governance of Sustainable Natural Resource Use—Challenges and Opportunities for Monitoring and Institutional Development at the National and Global Level
Authors: Bringezu Stefan , Potočnik Janez , Schandl Heinz , Lu Yonglong , Ramaswami Anu , Swilling Mark , Suh Sangwon
Published: August 2016

In a globalized economy, the use of natural resources is determined by the demand of modern production and consumption systems, and by infrastructure development. Sustainable natural resource use will require good governance and management based on sound scientific information, data and indicators. There is a rich literature on natural resource management, yet the national and global scale and macro-economic policy making has been underrepresented. We provide an overview of the scholarly literature on multi-scale governance of natural resources, focusing on the information required by relevant actors from local to global scale. Global natural resource use is largely determined by national, regional, and local policies. We observe that in recent decades, the development of public policies of natural resource use has been fostered by an “inspiration cycle” between the research, policy and statistics community, fostering social learning. Effective natural resource policies require adequate monitoring tools, in particular indicators for the use of materials, energy, land, and water as well as waste and GHG emissions of national economies. We summarize the state-of-the-art of the application of accounting methods and data sources for national material flow accounts and indicators, including territorial and product-life-cycle based approaches. We show how accounts on natural resource use can inform the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and argue that information on natural resource use, and in particular footprint indicators, will be indispensable for a consistent implementation of the SDGs. We recognize that improving the knowledge base for global natural resource use will require further institutional development including at national and international levels, for which we outline options.
Form and Function: Passives, Middles, and Impersonals in Modern Hebrew
Authors: Berman Ruth A.
Published: August 2016

Berman, Ruth A. 1979. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Berkeley Linguistics Society 5. 1-39.
Case Marking and Islandhood In EST: Evidence from Quechua
Authors: Cole Peter , Hermon Gabriella
Published: August 2016

No abstract available.
Temporal Relations in Bakweri Oral Narratives
Authors: Kingston John
Published: August 2016

Perhaps one of the most perplexing problems encountered in the construction of symbolic systems which purport to represent the real world in any way is how to represent time or, more accurately, the relations in time between events. But one can turn to any language one might have handy and find there readymade a coherent representation of the temporal relations between events. However, there is not any necessary agreement in how different languages describe the perception of time nor are the descriptions even simple. As Whorf (1939) has lucidly argued, turning from one's own language to another will, at first, reveal a bewildering difference in how time is perceived or talked about by the speakers of that language.
The Role of the Genitive Suffix in Relative Clauses in Turkish: A Reply to Dede
Authors: Knecht Laura
Published: August 2016

No abstract available.
THE DETECTION OF A HOT MOLECULAR CORE IN THE LARGE MAGELLANIC CLOUD WITH ALMA
Authors: Shimonishi Takashi , Onaka Takashi , Kawamura Akiko , Aikawa Yuri
Published: August 2016

We report the first detection of a hot molecular core outside our Galaxy based on radio observations with ALMA toward a high-mass young stellar object (YSO) in a nearby low metallicity galaxy, the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). Molecular emission lines of CO, C17O, HCO+, H13CO+, H2CO, NO, SiO, H2CS, 33SO, 32SO2, 34SO2, and 33SO2 are detected from a compact region (∼0.1 pc) associated with a high-mass YSO, ST11. The temperature of molecular gas is estimated to be higher than 100 K based on rotation diagram analysis of SO2 and 34SO2 lines. The compact source size, warm gas temperature, high density, and rich molecular lines around a high-mass protostar suggest that ST11 is associated with a hot molecular core. We find that the molecular abundances of the LMC hot core are significantly different from those of Galactic hot cores. The abundances of CH3OH, H2CO, and HNCO are remarkably lower compared to Galactic hot cores by at least 1–3 orders of magnitude. We suggest that these abundances are characterized by the deficiency of molecules whose formation requires the hydrogenation of CO on grain surfaces. In contrast, NO shows a high abundance in ST11 despite the notably low abundance of nitrogen in the LMC. A multitude of SO2 and its isotopologue line detections in ST11 imply that SO2 can be a key molecular tracer of hot core chemistry in metal-poor environments. Furthermore, we find molecular outflows around the hot core, which is the second detection of an extragalactic protostellar outflow. In this paper, we discuss the physical and chemical characteristics of a hot molecular core in the low metallicity environment.
Prophylactic Cerclage With Braided Polyblend Suture During Femoral Broaching
Authors: Nwankwo Chima D. , Parrish Robin , Leasure Jeremi , McGann William A.
Published: August 2016

Femur fractures occur during broaching and impaction of the implant during hip arthroplasty. Prophylactic cerclage of the proximal femur with braided cable and steel wire has been shown to decrease hoop stresses and has been posited as a way to decrease the incidence of intraoperative fracture. In this biomechanical study, the authors investigated the strain across the proximal femur during broaching after the application of stainless steel wire, comparing it with that for braided polyblend suture. Nine femur models were prepared, and strain gauges were applied to each of 3 groups. The control group received no cerclage, the second group received a double loop of suture, and the third group received a single loop of steel wire. A broach was firmly seated in each femur and sequentially increasing axial loads were applied at 1000 N, 2000 N, 3000 N, 4000 N, 5000 N, and 6000 N and to failure. Strain at all loads was lower in both cerclage groups than in the control group. Strain was 28.6%±12.4% lower in the suture group than in the control group (
P
=.0003). Strain was 30.8%±10.7% lower in the steel wire group than in the control group (
P
=.0011). There was no statistically significant difference between suture cerclage and steel wire cerclage (
P
=.7367). When used for prophylactic cerclage of the proximal femur, braided polyblend suture increases hoop stress resistance, decreases strain, and may play a clinically useful role in decreasing intraoperative proximal femur fractures during hip arthroplasty. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(6):e1183–e1187.]
Pediatric Keratoconus in a Tertiary Referral Center: Incidence, Presentation, Risk Factors, and Treatment
Authors: el-Khoury Sylvain , Abdelmassih Youssef , Hamade Adib , Slim Elise , Cherfan Carole G. , Chelala Elias , Bleik Jamal , Jarade Elias F.
Published: August 2016

PURPOSE:

To report the incidence, clinical presentation, risk factors, and treatment outcome of pediatric keratoconus in a tertiary referral eye hospital in Beirut, Lebanon.

METHODS:

In this retrospective study, the authors evaluated all patients with keratoconus 14 years or younger newly diagnosed at the Beirut Eye Specialist Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon, between January 2010 and December 2014. The incidence of pediatric keratoconus among all pediatric patients and among patients with keratoconus of all ages was assessed. Patients with pediatric keratoconus were evaluated for keratoconus stage, initial presentation, uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), corneal topography, and pachymetry. Patients were classified according to different treatment regimen groups and different follow-up visits were evaluated.

RESULTS:

During 5 years, 16,808 patients were examined, of whom 2,972 were 14 years or younger. A total of 541 patients were diagnosed as having keratoconus; of those, 16 were 14 years or younger at the time of diagnosis. Hence, the incidence of keratoconus was 0.53% among pediatric patients and 3.78% among adult patients (> 14 years). Initial presentation was during routine checkup (1 of 16) for allergic conjunctivitis (3 of 16), reduced vision (10 of 16), and corneal hydrops (mimicking keratitis) (2 of 16). Except for 2 patients lost to follow-up, all eyes received corneal cross-linking treatment and 16 eyes received additional intracorneal ring segment implantation.

CONCLUSIONS:

The incidence of pediatric keratoconus indicates that increased awareness for keratoconus among children is needed, mainly in cases of family history of keratoconus, ocular allergy/pruritus, poor CDVA, corneal hydrops, and/or high astigmatism.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2016;32(8):534–541.]
Possibilistic Linear Programming Problems involving Normal Random Variables
Authors: Barik Suresh Kumar , Biswal M. P.
Published: August 2016

A new solution procedure of possibilistic linear programming problem is developed involving the right hand side parameters of the constraints as normal random variables with known means and variances and the objective function coefficients are considered as triangular possibility distribution. In order to solve the proposed problem, convert the problem into a crisp equivalent deterministic multi-objective mathematical programming problem and then solved by using fuzzy programming method. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the solution procedure and developed methodology.
Formal Semantics of Dynamic Constraints and Derivation Rules in ORM
Authors: Balsters Herman , Halpin Terry
Published: August 2016

This paper provides formal semantics for an extension of the Object-Role Modeling approach to support declaration of dynamic rules. Dynamic rules differ from static rules by involving state transitions, rather than simply individual states. This paper restricts application of dynamic rules to single-step transactions, with a previous state (input to the transaction) and a new state (the result of that transaction). These dynamic rules specify an elementary transaction type by indicating which kinds of objects or facts (being added, deleted or updated) are involved. Dynamic rules may declare pre-conditions relevant to the transaction, and a post-condition stating the properties of the new state. In this paper the authors provide such dynamic rules with a formal semantics based on sorted, first-order predicate logic. The key idea underlying their solution is the formalization of dynamic constraints in terms of static constraints on the database transaction history.
Closing Service Quality Gaps Using Dynamic Service Level Agreements
Authors: Mendes Carlos , Mira da Silva Miguel
Published: August 2016

Each service interaction between a provider and a customer is an opportunity for the provider to delight, satisfy or disappoint the customer. However, the customers' expectations may change on every interaction. Therefore, defining Service Level Agreements (SLAs) at design time and then restricting the customers' options limits the possibilities for the customers to express their expectations. This is one of the reasons why the services quality is suffering from gaps identified more than two decades ago. In this paper, the authors propose a service quality approach such that SLAs can be specified at execution time (dynamic service levels) in contrast to the usual static SLAs specified at design time. They evaluated the proposal's impact in the service quality gaps using SERVQUAL. The proposal showed improvements in three of the five dimensions measured by SERVQUAL.
Blended Media
Authors: Hoban Garry , Nielsen Wendy , Hyland Christopher
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to gather university student perspectives on a new type of assessment task requesting them to create “blended media”. Blended media is a new form of student-generated multimedia whereby students devise a narration or voiceover to explain a science concept complemented by any combination of visuals such as video, animation or still images that are original or created by others to enhance the explanation. In the assessment task all the students successfully made a blended media product in their own time using their own technology and only requiring one session of media instruction. Surprisingly, the three case students who volunteered to be interviewed stated that they had never made a media product for a science assignment before and enjoyed creating this new form of assignment because they found it engaging and interesting. It also required them to represent content in new ways. Blended media is an innovative way for students to make digital media that engages them with content and as an assessment task could be used in any subject.
Supporting Graduate Attribute Development in Introductory Accounting with Student-Generated Screencasts
Authors: Frawley Jessica K. , Dyson Laurel Evelyn , Wakefield James , Tyler Jonathan
Published: August 2016

In recent years educational, industry and government bodies have placed increasing emphasis on the need to better support the development of “soft” skills or graduate attributes within higher education. This paper details the adoption of a student-generated multimedia screencast assignment that was found to address this need. Implemented within a large introductory accounting subject, this optional assignment allowed undergraduate students to design, develop and record a screencast so as to explain a key accounting concept to their peers. This paper reports on the trial, evaluation and redesign of this assignment. Drawing on data from student surveys, practitioner reflections and descriptive analysis of the screencasts themselves, this paper demonstrates the ways that the assignment contributed to the development and expression of a number of graduate attributes. These included the students' skills in multimedia, creativity, teamwork and self-directed learning. Adopting free-to-use software and providing a fun and different way of learning accounting, this novel approach constitutes a sustainable and readily replicable way of supporting graduate attribute development. This paper contributes understandings that will be relevant to both researchers and practitioners.
Proactive Review - Learn from Experience to Improve Bottom Line
Authors: Kolbaek Ditte
Published: August 2016

This article aims to provide a theoretically based and proven educational design for lessons learned. Called a Proactive Review, this educational design is exemplified in a case study of a global information technology company classified as big business, where Proactive Reviews were developed and implemented in over 40 countries. This article explores how employees who solve a task together can learn from the experience and share this learning with relevant colleagues to improve work practices, services, and/or products. This article describes the format of Proactive Reviews, suggestions for starting points called PR Triggers, and the four roles involved—the participant, sponsor, top management, and facilitator. The tangible and intangible results of Proactive Reviews are presented, with their impacts on the participants; their teams; and the organization's products, services, and/or work practices. Finally, the article provides recommendations for implementing and maintaining Proactive Reviews in organizations.
Social Media Intelligence for Business
Authors: Maravilhas Sérgio
Published: August 2016

Social Media intelligence allow the knowledge of competitor's moves and the analysis of trends from the communications exchanged in the networks of individual consumers, making it easy for companies to develop solutions according to their clients and prospects desires. There are several characteristics that describe the quality of information that will allow the analysis of the value of the information used. Information is an important aid in the decision making process and must be of quality to improve its value. Marketing trends and competitive information is needed to clear decision-making about what products develop, for what customers, at what cost, through which distribution channels, reducing the uncertainty that a new product/service development always brings. Learning how to extract quality information, unbiased, valuable for business, from these social tools is the aim of this work, sharing with the interested parties some ways of using it for their profit and competitive sustainability.
Multi-Objective Optimization using Grey Relational Taguchi Analysis in Machining
Authors: Kalsi Nirmal S. , Sehgal Rakesh , Sharma Vishal S.
Published: August 2016

Multi-objective optimization is becoming important day by day due to increase in complexity of the processes and expectations of more reliable solutions. In view of the complexity of the process, controlling the machining parameters without compromising on the response parameters is a tedious process. In the recent approach, researchers have used many combinations of available techniques to solve multi performance characteristic problems depending upon the situation and accuracy desired in the results, to make the results more reliable. In this paper, the authors have pronounced and used a combination of grey relational and Taguchi based analysis to optimize a multi-objective metal cutting process to yield maximum performance of cutting tools in turning. Main cutting force, power consumption, tool wear and material removal rate were evaluated used L18 orthogonal array considering cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut, using cryogenically treated and untreated tungsten carbide cutting tool inserts.
Qualitative Findings on the Dynamics of Online Facilitation in Distance Education
Authors: Hsien Ooi Li , Eak Arathai Din , Vighnarajah S. , Huah Goh Lay , Teik Ong Cheng
Published: August 2016

Online facilitation has taken on a new facade especially with the evolving virtual learning environments in distance education. The dynamics of online facilitation is an intricate quality assurance process that involves the participation of learners and instructors working together to achieve the stipulated learning outcomes of the course. In view of this, this study attempted to examine the dynamics of online facilitation from the perspectives of experienced tutors engaged in the university's virtual learning environment, WawasanLearn. Based on the interview findings of eight tutors, several emergent findings highlighted the roles and challenges of effective online facilitation. As this research is based on the guidelines of the prominent Salmon's model, the findings also highlighted antecedents that substantiate best practices of online facilitation. Findings indicated that proper understanding on the dynamics of online facilitation among relevant stakeholders is critical to avoid issues of student isolation which is evidently a growing concern in distance learning institutions.
A Post-Positivist Framework for Using and Building Theory in Online Instructional Design
Authors: Dodd Bucky J. , Baukal Jr. Charles E. , Ausburn Lynna J.
Published: August 2016

Theories are critical components of research and are widely used tools among online course development researchers and practitioners. However, enhanced knowledge about how theories are developed and change over time is a strategic need in the field of online education design and delivery. This article examines a set of theory analysis and development tools, focusing particularly on post-positivist frameworks and perspectives. Building from prior work in theory development, this paper makes several novel contributions to enhancing understanding of theory development processes and their use in online teaching and course design. Two unique theory analysis and development tools are proposed. The theory development diagnostic matrix is proposed as a tool for evaluating essential characteristics of theories and how theories may be appropriately used. The Theory-Innovation Cycle is introduced as a model for explaining how theories are created, developed, and changed over time and the influence these processes have on theory use in online education research and practice. Implications and recommendations for using these tools are also presented and discussed.
Exploring Portuguese Academics' Understanding of Ownership and Intellectual Property of Online Educational Materials
Authors: Martins Jorge Tiago , Nunes Miguel Baptista
Published: August 2016

This article presents the results of an exploratory study that investigates how academics perceive the impact of e-learning systems in the ownership and intellectual property of educational materials. It has been inductively discovered that academics are uncomfortable with the idea of uncontrolled pick up and use of educational resources by third parties, including the institutions they are affiliated with. The main reasons for this mistrust are associated with perceptions of ownership and intellectual property, resources integrity and perceived insufficient institutional support. Two suggestions are advanced to counter academics' mistrust about making educational materials available through e-learning systems: (i) the institutional recognition and accreditation of the development of high-quality online teaching resources; (ii) and the clarification of legal ambiguities concerning this type of ownership and intellectual property, through the creation of clear institutional rules and negotiation of institutional policies.
The urban environmental transition: some reflections on the use of vegetation to monitor urban environmental quality
Authors: Emmanuel Rohinton
Published: August 2016

Urban planning and design action in the face of rapid global urbanization and attendant changes in the urban environment urgently needs holistic indices of environmental quality. The use of vegetation changes to monitor urban environmental quality appears promising, thanks to recent advances in the remote sensing of greenery. The utility of remotely sensed vegetation data to monitor the urban physical environment is well known. Recently, Emmanuel (1997) demonstrated that such data could also mirror the social and demographic trends in cities. This paper explores the urban design/planning implications of using vegetation change as indicator of urban environmental trends. The case study is based on research work carried out in Detroit, USA, where urban decay in recent years has lead to significant greening in the heart of the city. A hypothesis of urban environmental transition is proposed.
Towards a conceptual framework for the conservation of urban heritage
Authors: Munasinghe Harsha
Published: August 2016

No abstract available
Harnessing natural light for energy efficiency in buildings
Authors: Ranasinghe Sashikala , Perera Ranjith
Published: August 2016

This paper is written within the premise that lighting accounts for a sizeable portion of the total energy requirements of Sri Lanka. It is also noted that efficiently planned usage of daylight for building interiors could result in considerable savings in energy and thereby lead to energy efficiency. The intention of this article is to highlight few key design criteria which must be considered by architects in harnessing natural light to make the buildings they create energy efficient. Although these criteria are commonly known, lack of understanding and application are amply demonstrated in contemporary Sri Lankan buildings.
Culture and built-form in the making; an examination of the Asian and Sri Lankan urban space
Authors: Dayaratne Ranjith
Published: August 2016

The dawn of the new millenium is characterized by the fast and abrupt change in cultures across the world, propelled largely by western thoughts, ideas and practices. Asia is no exception and has been in the forefront of this change in terms of economy, social patterns and indeed the built-form. 1980s saw a vibrant economic growth in Asia, followed by social, cultural and environmental transformations hitherto unknown in the Asian history, that some of those economies were even dubbed "tiger economies". Despite the collapses of those economies and turmoil that prevailed at the end of the last millenium, the social and environmental transformations have not seen any conceptual set-back but a steady progression towards a universal uniformity coloured only thinly by a subtle diversity of cultural grain.This paper examines the nature of the emerging Asian urban space and the way in which its spatiality is generated, nurtured and transformed in a people-driven highly politicized cultural process.
Creating a quality culture - a need in the new millennium
Authors: De Silva Vasantha
Published: August 2016

No abstract available
Aesthetics of urban space through collaborative urban planning: integrating environmental aesthetics with communicative theory of planning
Authors: Munasinghe Harsha
Published: August 2016

The collaborative urban planning has the potentials to make cities more aesthetically pleasing to the dweller. In this paper, we focus on the strengths of the said theory to bring in the views of the user to the designing process of the urban space. Our current research interest in the Collaborative Planning is also based on its ability to formulate a wider basis for evaluation, development and conservation of the city and its life. We intend to argue that aesthetics, within the current consciousness, is not what is meant by beauty but what makes the man familiar within his dwelling space.Aesthetic theories help understanding the perception, appreciation or experiencing of the space in everyday life. By developing useful tools to discuss the values of urban space, the contemporary developments in the environmental aesthetics, especially within phenomenological and pragmatist philosophy, could make the communicative planning theory more context-oriented. The current conception of planning as a decisionmaking process that has little to do with humanistic perspective of the city is to be challenged and provided with alternatives here. This decision-making deals with many practical demands, but its conventional attitude has cost the city life. The communicative theory and collaborative planning as a practice, strengthen inhabitant's relations to the urban space and as such, could create a new as well as manage the existing without losing its links with the users. Once reinforced with phenomenological and pragmatist ideas developed in the environmental aesthetic theories, this new practice could strengthen the urban space to promote dwelling.
Indo-Lanka development corridor conceptual issues
Authors: Mendis Willie
Published: August 2016

No abstract available
How energy efficient is the EEBC? evaluation based on a simulated office building
Authors: Emmanuel R. , Rogithan R.
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we analyze the recently introduced "Energy Efficient Building Code (EEBC) for Commercial Buildings in Sri Lanka" for its applicability to Sri Lankan office buildings. The focus is on the building envelope and air conditioning requirements of the EEBC and their effect on energy saving. In order to this, we develop a "typical" multi-story office building designed as per the EEBC and simulate its energy and thermal comfort performances using a parametric energy simulation software.The results reveal that the application EEBC to Sri Lankan commercial buildings will actually increase energy consumption over the present scenario. Based on our analysis we recommend a set of improvements to the EEBC in terms of building envelope and set-point temperature requirements.
Assuring project quality: the importance of enhancing contract documents
Authors: Gunawardena N. D.
Published: August 2016

This paper evaluates the ability of two selected Contract Documents presently used in the Sri Lankan construction industry, namely Conditions of Contracts and Specifications, to assure project quality. The evaluation is based on five fundamental concepts that are common to both quality and project management. The results show that the ICTAD Conditions of Contract need to be enhanced by adding new clauses to assure quality which is a critical component to the successful management of construction projects; particularly, a requirement to institute a quality assurance system for the project in accordance with ISO seems to be the most appropriate for this purpose. The document could be further enhanced to incorporate other requirements such as health and safety and environmental protection as well. It is also found, based on recent studies, that the Specifications used in the industry should be improved to assure construction quality. The areas that need significant improvement according to contractors include 7 materials and 12 work items in the document; eventually, however, the entire document should be revised in the light of changes in technology and materials used for construction work over the last several years.
Study of construction accidents in Sri Lanka
Authors: Rameezdeen Raufdeen , Pathirage Chaminda , Weerasooriya Saman
Published: August 2016

This paper summarizes the results of a study which examined the accidents that take place at Sri Lankan construction sites as recorded in the Industrial Safety Division (ISD) of the Ministry of Labour. The paper intends to provide a profile of construction accidents in Sri Lanka compared to other industries. In addition, it portrays the occupational and demographic characteristics of the victims. The number of fatal accidents are high in the construction industry compared to other industries. The ISD data show that falls are the single most common cause of fatalities. This is followed by electrocutions and "Struck-by" incidents. Falls are more frequently associated with roofs and scaffolding. "Struck-by" incidents are the major cause of non-fatalities. Electricians and Unskilled Workers have been found to be over-represented among accident victims. Workers over 60 years of age and under 20 years of age have been found to be over-represented among fatalities.