bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptualizing the Effectiveness of Sustainability Assessment in Development Cooperation
Authors: Hugé Jean , Mukherjee Nibedita , Fertel Camille , Waaub Jean-Philippe , Block Thomas , Waas Tom , Koedam Nico , Dahdouh-Guebas Farid
Published: May 2015

Sustainability assessment has emerged as a key decision-support process in development cooperation in response to the growing acknowledgement of the impacts of global change. This paper aims at conceptualizing the effectiveness of sustainability assessment as applied in development cooperation, by focusing on the sustainability assessment practice by actors of the official Belgian Development Cooperation. The conceptualization of the effectiveness of sustainability assessment is synthesized in a set of issues and concerns, based on semi-structured interviews. The paper highlights the specificity of sustainability assessment in the development cooperation sector (e.g., through the cultural and discursive compatibility dimensions of assessment in a North-South context). Effectiveness is inherently linked to the expected functions of sustainability assessment in the decision-making process, which include fostering organizational change, shaping contextually adapted framings of sustainability and operationalizing the sustainability transition. These findings highlight the relevance of a discourse-sensitive approach to sustainability assessment if one is to strengthen its credibility and legitimacy.
Induction of Suicidal Erythrocyte Death by Nelfinavir
Authors: Bissinger Rosi , Waibel Sabrina , Lang Florian
Published: May 2015

The HIV protease inhibitor, nelfinavir, primarily used for the treatment of HIV infections, has later been shown to be effective in various infectious diseases including malaria. Nelfinavir may trigger mitochondria-independent cell death. Erythrocytes may undergo eryptosis, a mitochondria-independent suicidal cell death characterized by cell shrinkage and phosphatidylserine translocation to the erythrocyte surface. Triggers of eryptosis include oxidative stress and increase of cytosolic Ca2+-activity ([Ca2+]i). During malaria, accelerated death of infected erythrocytes may decrease parasitemia and thus favorably influence the clinical course of the disease. In the present study, phosphatidylserine abundance at the cell surface was estimated from annexin V binding, cell volume from forward scatter, reactive oxidant species (ROS) from 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) fluorescence, and [Ca2+]i from Fluo3-fluorescence. A 48 h treatment of human erythrocytes with nelfinavir significantly increased the percentage of annexin-V-binding cells (≥5µg/mL), significantly decreased forward scatter (≥2.5µg/mL), significantly increased ROS abundance (10 µg/mL), and significantly increased [Ca2+]i (≥5 µg/mL). The up-regulation of annexin-V-binding following nelfinavir treatment was significantly blunted, but not abolished by either addition of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (1 mM) or removal of extracellular Ca2+. In conclusion, exposure of erythrocytes to nelfinavir induces oxidative stress and Ca2+ entry, thus leading to suicidal erythrocyte death characterized by erythrocyte shrinkage and erythrocyte membrane scrambling.
Temporary Transarticular K-wire Fixation of Critical Ankle Injuries at Risk: A Neglected “Damage Control” Strategy?
Authors: Friedman Jamie , Ly Anhchi , Mauffrey Cyril , Stahel Philip F.
Published: May 2015

High-energy ankle fracture-dislocations are at significant risk for postoperative complications. Closed reduction and temporary percutaneous transarticular K-wire fixation was first described more than 50 years ago. This simple and effective “damage control” strategy is widely practiced in Europe, yet appears largely forgotten and abandoned in the United States. Anecdotal opposing arguments include the notion that drilling K-wires through articular cartilage may damage the joint and contribute to postinjury arthritis. This article describes the experience in a US academic level I trauma center with transarticular pinning of selected critical ankle fracture-dislocations followed by delayed definitive fracture fixation once the soft tissues are healed. Median patient follow-up of 2 years showed that the transarticular pinning technique was performed safely, not associated with increased postoperative complication rates, and characterized by good subjective outcomes using the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Foot and Ankle Outcome Score questionnaire. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(2):122–127.]
De beatas a monjas dominicas: el proceso de constitución del monasterio de Santa Catalina de Sena de Zamora a finales del siglo XV
Authors: Álvarez Rodríguez Alicia
Published: May 2015

El siglo XV fue testigo de un ambiente reformista a nivel religioso que fomentó, entre otros muchos aspectos, un proceso de institucionalización de las formas de vida religiosa femenina no regladas. Esta actividad fue frecuentemente liderada por las órdenes mendicantes, especialmente por los franciscanos. Sin embargo, también los dominicos participaron de este proceso, aunque nuestro conocimiento de su responsabilidad en este sentido sea bastante menor. A través de este trabajo, pretendemos precisamente ilustrar esta actividad, analizando el caso concreto de una comunidad femenina que se estableció junto a la iglesia de Santiago del Burgo de Zamora y que posteriormente se convirtió en un convento de monjas dominicas a finales del siglo XV, el cual además debió de experimentar un proceso de transformación espacial acorde con su nueva situación. Fundamentalmente a través del libro de visitas de la parroquia adyacente, conocemos la conflictiva relación que se estableció entre el monasterio y dicha iglesia parroquial, la cual fue utilizada por las monjas para el desarrollo de sus funciones litúrgicas, sin que ellas llegaran a disponer nunca de la misma en titularidad.
Anverso y reverso de la nación: el discurso de la antiespañolada durante los primeros años 40
Authors: Box Varela Zira
Published: May 2015

Durante los años de la inmediata posguerra, diferentes voces del nuevo régimen franquista elaboraron un discurso relativamente espontáneo pero, a la par, suficientemente reconocible, dirigido a denunciar lo que consideraban como intolerables deformaciones de lo español. Básicamente, y a pesar de las diferencias ideológicas de sus productores, la crítica nacía de un común y doliente nacionalismo que señalaba con el dedo acusatorio a la mirada extranjera —especialmente, a la de los románticos franceses del siglo XIX— como creadores y sostenedores de lo que suscribían como una España de pandereta. Dicha imagen suponía una distorsión y mixtificación de la patria en su pintoresquismo que, desembocando en lo que calificaban de españolada, se hacía urgente corregir. La intención de este artículo es explorar el mencionado discurso, denominado en el texto como de antiespañolada, a partir de la hipótesis de que la actitud de estos críticos no implicó una eliminación de los tópicos con los que se había formado el equívoco reflejo, sino su restitución y resignificación. Así, elementos aparentemente tan tipistas como los toros, el flamenco o Andalucía se reivindicaron como típicamente españoles, pero de una España que, lejos de responder a las estridencias de la españolada, se presentaba como una nación seria, recta y jerárquica.
Do Medical Students Assess the Credibility of Online or Downloadable Medical Reference Resources?
Authors: Lumsden Colin J. , Kumar Meera S. Nanda , Mooney Jane S. , Hart Jo , MacNicoll Fraser , Byrne-Davis Lucie M.
Published: May 2015

This study was designed to elucidate how medical students assess the credibility of online resources and downloadable applications as well as describing trends in resource usage. Methods: 72 students participated in the study and completed an equestionnaire. This was based on a framework by Kapoun which summarises steps that users of online resources should take to ensure credibility using key domains; accuracy, authority, objectivity (where the reader questions the provenance of the material), currency and coverage (questioning appearance, reliability and accessibility of a document). Results: There were variations in the reported use of parameters of credibility with objectivity and currency being the most used widely used credibility measures. The study group were significantly influenced by the cost of resources using free resources if possible. Responses revealed that most of the study group were using open-access sites over commercially-based peer review resources. Conclusion: The widespread availability of mtechnology has increased the accessibility of online medical resources. Medical schools should review what information is provided to students and consider equipping students with the skills to successfully evaluate resource credibility as part of their core curricula.
A Study of Role Stress among the IT Professionals in India
Authors: Rathore Shubhangini , Ahuja Vandana
Published: May 2015

Contemporary industries face new competition requiring employees to work for longer hours under competitive time bound deadlines. Prolonged exposure to such stressful situations leads to a depletion and exhaustion of resources in the mind and body; with dysfunctional effects on job performance and overall organizational effectiveness. The Indian IT industry is a fast paced service industry that is characterized by such stressful work situations and related outcomes. The present study analyses the various factors that contribute to organizational stress and the role of Demographic Factors on Role Stress; among the professionals of the Indian IT industry. A sample of 250 employees has been collected from the Delhi NCR region. Role stress has been measured by using the ORS scale which comprises of ten dimensions of role stress that are measured by 50 items. The results show that there is significant impact of demographic factors on the Role Stress amongst the IT professionals.
An Investigation of ISO 26000 and Social Responsibility Practices Applied in IT Companies
Authors: Zompras Angelos , Siakas Kerstin
Published: May 2015

Social Responsibility (SR) concerns the way in which organizations achieve their goals. This paper focuses on the overview of the SR as well as the endpoint of the continuous development of SR, the ISO 26000 standard and its core subjects. The aims are to give Information Technology (IT) professionals a better understanding of how to identify the core subjects of ISO 26000 relevant for their organizations and thus behave more responsible by taking actions towards sustainability. As stakeholders demand information and transparency from companies, it is imperative for companies them to report their environmental, economic, and social impact on the community. This paper examines the social responsibility reports, published from corporate websites of some the top IT companies in order to identify the issues that IT companies deal with, as well as in which issues related to the core subject of ISO 26000, they primary focus. The rest of the paper provides an overview on how IT companies can shift towards social responsibility and how they can integrate practices and technologies that benefit community, environment and stakeholders.
Co-Opetition Between the Ports in Hong Kong and Shenzhen from the Users' Perspective
Authors: Lau Kwok Hung , Li Tu
Published: May 2015

This study investigates empirically the current level of competitiveness and the major areas for possible collaboration between two adjacent ports in China – Hong Kong port and Shenzhen port, both are among the top ten busiest container ports in the world – from the perspective of their users – freight forwarders and shipping lines. A self-administered questionnaire survey with measurement in Likert scale was used to collect the required data from the users for comparison. Wilcoxon signed rank tests for single and paired samples were used to analyze the data. Results of the analysis show that Hong Kong port excels in facilities, services, and management while Shenzhen port surpasses in location and costs. The respective advantages are related to the historical development of the two ports and their geographical locations with respect to the common hinterland – the Pearl River Delta region. Ways to enhance collaboration between the two ports include, among others, information sharing to improve visibility, road network and other infrastructure investment to strengthen linkage, and joint venture to develop port-centric logistics. The findings shed light on the relative significance of the factors affecting the choice of ports of freight forwarding and shipping companies and provide an objective empirical basis for comparing the competitiveness between ports. The results can help the two ports in question reposition themselves to leverage further their respective competencies as advocated in the resource-based view theory. Major areas identified for possible collaboration between the two ports to achieve mutual benefits as promoted in the network theory also help strengthen the overall competitiveness of the port network in the long run.
Towards an Empirical-Relational Model of Supply Chain Flexibility
Authors: Mandal Santanu
Published: May 2015

Supply chains are prone to disruptions and associated risks. To develop capabilities for risk mitigation, supply chains need to be flexible. A flexible supply chain can respond better to environmental contingencies. Based on the theoretical tenets of resource-based view, relational view and dynamic capabilities theory, the current study develops a relational model of supply chain flexibility comprising trust, commitment, communication, co-operation, adaptation and interdependence. Subsequently the model is empirically validated based on a web based survey of 132 supply chain professionals in the Indian context.
Face-to-Face Matters
Authors: Jackson Corey , Huang Yun , Kasowitz-Scheer Abby S.
Published: May 2015

This study describes new features for a mobile application designed to initiate face-to-face communication. While many mobile applications are designed to facilitate digitally mediated relationships (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) between previously known parties, systems focused on initiating face-to-face communication are less popular. The authors' mobile application takes inspiration from a Human Library event where participants come together to share stories with previously unknown persons. Through survey and interviews the authors describe new features of a mobile application to mediate face-to-face meetups. In the next phase of research the authors plan to implement those features and conduct additional user studies on our mobile application with the goal of increasing adoption.
Abdominal pain: a synthesis of recommendations for its correct management
Authors: Tirotta Daniela , Marchetti Annalisa , Di Lillo Mariangela , Pomero Fulvio , Re Roberta , Meschi Michele , Montemurro Domenico , Gnerre Paola , Bozzano Chiara , La Regina Micaela
Published: May 2015

Abdominal pain represents one of the most important diagnostic challenges for any physician and its correct interpretation and management require a proper systematic approach and sometimes an urgent action. Moreover the guidelines that can be referred to for indications about the most adequate management procedures are few and often focused only on radiologic management. Consequently, the approach to abdominal pain is often empirical. Therefore, we propose a review of the literature on the diagnosis of abdominal pain, which may contribute to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this complex condition through a systematic review of the evidences available in this field. As to our methodology, we conducted an extensive search in the main guideline databases (SIGN, ICSI, NICE, National Guideline Cleringhouse, CMA Infobase, NZ Guidelines Group, National System Guidelines, Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal, eGuidelines), using as key words abdominal pain and abdominalgia. The guidelines were assessed according to the 2010 Italian version of the AGREE (Appraisal of Guidelines, Research and Evaluation II) methodology. Afterwards we formulated our main recommendations associated with the corresponding levels of evidence and focused our attention on some grey areas, which we investigated with further research using Medline and the main systematic review databases (Cochrane database). The four main grey areas investigated were: hospital admission criteria, prognostic stratification, need for analgesic treatment and possibility of attributing abdominalgia to an abdominal pain syndrome. We then formulated our consesus-based recommendations on the grey areas. Abdominal pain management remains a complex issue for internists. As with other diagnostic challenges, it would be advisable to develop additional guidelines based on a multidisciplinary approach and not only focused on radiological management.
Квазиклассические функции Грина магнитных точечных контактов
Authors: Useinov Niazbeсk Khamzovich
Published: May 2015

Предложен метод построения квазиклассических симметричных и антисимметричных функций Грина магнитных точечных контактов с однородной намагниченностью различных ферромагнитных электродов. Полученная антисимметричная функция Грина позволяет исследовать баллистический и диффузный транспорт электронов через магнитный контакт с учетом неоднородности электрохимического потенциала.
Дифференциальные инварианты и операторы инвариантного дифференцирования проецируемого действия групп Ли
Authors: Goncharovskiy Mikhail Mikhailovich , Shirokov Igor' Victorovich
Published: May 2015

Описана связь между операторами инвариантного дифференцирования и инвариантными операторами на орбитах действия групп Ли. Предложен новый эффективный метод нахождения дифференциальных инвариантов и операторов инвариантного дифференцирования. Приведены примеры.
Новый подход к квантованию поля Янга-Миллса
Authors: Slavnov Andrei Alekseevich
Published: May 2015

Дан обзор работ по новому методу квантования поля Янга-Миллса, применимому как в рамках теории возмущений так и вне нее. Показано, что в модифицированной формулировке теории Янга-Миллса, которая приводит к формальной теории возмущений, совпадающей со стандартной, существуют солитонные решения классических уравнений движения.
Topographical Irregularity and Keratoconic Findings in Five Siblings and their Parents
Authors: González-Méijome Jose M , Queiros Antonio , Diaz-Rey Alberto , Salgado-Borges José , Peixoto-de-Matos Sofia C , Soares Anabela
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To report the clinical features of five siblings, four of them with positive diagnostic of keratoconus in different degrees of severity as well as their parents findings.

Materials and methods

Seven elements of the same family, five young siblings (2 males, 3 females), and their parents were screened for potential keratoconic signs. Topographic data from 60 normal eyes are also reported for comparison purposes. Complete ophthalmologic examination including biomicroscopic, topographic and refractive examination. Main outcome measures included biomicroscopic findings, refractive error and visual acuity, simulated keratometry, corneal eccentricity, indices of asymmetry and regularity.

Results

The more advanced case was present in the left eye of a male member, needing a rigid gas permeable lens to correct irregular astigmatism. Another brother also presented bilateral mild to moderate keratoconus with no apparent vision complaints. The third case diagnosed was one sister with history of monthly disposable soft toric lens to compensate a presumed initially regular astigmatism two years before. The remaining two cases being the older sister and one of the younger sisters presented the less noticeable signs, with confirmation of the pathology only in one of them and warranting a close follow- up of both due to the asymmetric corneal topography between both eyes as well as between the flatter superior and steeper inferior corneal areas.

Conclusion

This is the first reported case series involving diagnosis of keratoconus or atypical corneal topographies in several young siblings and their parents. Further evaluation of this and other cases with similar presentations might help to gain a deeper understanding on the potential genetic paths of keratoconus.

How to cite this article

González-Méijome JM, Peixoto-de- Matos SC, Soares A, Queirós A, Díaz-Rey A, Salgado-Borges J. Topographical Irregularity and Keratoconic Findings in Five Siblings and their Parents. Int J Kerat Ect Cor Dis 2014;3(3):130-135.
Modelled and observed changes in aerosols and surface solar radiation over Europe between 1960 and 2009
Authors: Turnock S. T. , Spracklen D. V. , Carslaw K. S. , Mann G. W. , Woodhouse M. T. , Forster P. M. , Haywood J. , Johnson C. E. , Dalvi M. , Bellouin N. , Sanchez-Lorenzo A.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Substantial changes in anthropogenic aerosols and precursor gas emissions have occurred over recent decades due to the implementation of air pollution control legislation and economic growth. The response of atmospheric aerosols to these changes and the impact on climate are poorly constrained, particularly in studies using detailed aerosol chemistry climate models. Here we compare the HadGEM3-UKCA coupled chemistry-climate model for the period 1960 to 2009 against extensive ground based observations of sulfate aerosol mass (1978–2009), total suspended particle matter (SPM, 1978–1998), PM10 (1997–2009), aerosol optical depth (AOD, 2000–2009) and surface solar radiation (SSR, 1960–2009) over Europe. The model underestimates observed sulfate aerosol mass (normalised mean bias factor (NMBF) = −0.4), SPM (NMBF = −0.9), PM10 (NMBF = −0.2) and aerosol optical depth (AOD, NMBF = −0.01) but slightly overpredicts SSR (NMBF = 0.02). Trends in aerosol over the observational period are well simulated by the model, with observed (simulated) changes in sulfate of −68% (−78%), SPM of −42% (−20%), PM10 of −9% (−8%) and AOD of −11% (−14%). Discrepancies in the magnitude of simulated aerosol mass do not affect the ability of the model to reproduce the observed SSR trends. The positive change in observed European SSR (5%) during 1990–2009 ("brightening") is better reproduced by the model when aerosol radiative effects (ARE) are included (3%), compared to simulations where ARE are excluded (0.2%). The simulated top-of-the-atmosphere aerosol radiative forcing over Europe under all-sky conditions increased by 3 W m−2 during the period 1970–2009 in response to changes in anthropogenic emissions and aerosol concentrations.
A high dynamic radiation measurement instrument: the Bolometric Oscillation Sensor (BOS)
Authors: Zhu P. , van Ruymbeke M. , Karatekin Ö. , Noël J.-P. , Thuillier G. , Dewitte S. , Chevalier A. , Conscience C. , Janssen E. , Meftah M. , Irbah A.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The Bolometric Oscillation Sensor (BOS) is a broadband radiation measurement instrument onboard the PICARD satellite that was active between 2010 and 2014. The main detector is a thermistor attached black coated surface, which was permanently exposed to space without any optical and aperture accessories. The temperature measurements are used within a transfer function to determine variations in incoming solar irradiance as well as the terrestrial radiation. In the present article, the measurement principle of the BOS and its transfer function are presented. The performance of the instrument is discussed based on laboratory experiments and space observations from the PICARD satellite. The comparison of the short-term variation of total solar irradiance (TSI) with absolute radiometers such as VIRGO/SOHO and TIM/SORCE over the same period of time suggests that the BOS is a relatively much simpler but very effective sensor for monitoring electromagnetic radiation variations from visible to infrared wavelengths.
A new ensemble-based consistency test for the Community Earth System Model
Authors: Baker A. H. , Hammerling D. M. , Levy M. N. , Xu H. , Dennis J. M. , Eaton B. E. , Edwards J. , Hannay C. , Mickelson S. A. , Neale R. B. , Nychka D. , Shollenberger J. , Tribbia J. , Vertenstein M. , Williamson D.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Climate simulations codes, such as the Community Earth System Model (CESM), are especially complex and continually evolving. Their on-going state of development requires frequent software verification in the form of quality assurance to both preserve the quality of the code and instill model confidence. To formalize and simplify this previously subjective and computationally-expensive aspect of the verification process, we have developed a new tool for evaluating climate consistency. Because an ensemble of simulations allows us to gauge the natural variability of the model's climate, our new tool uses an ensemble approach for consistency testing. In particular, an ensemble of CESM climate runs is created, from which we obtain a statistical distribution that can be used to determine whether a new climate run is statistically distinguishable from the original ensemble. The CESM Ensemble Consistency Test, referred to as CESM-ECT, is objective in nature and accessible to CESM developers and users. The tool has proven its utility in detecting errors in software and hardware environments and providing rapid feedback to model developers.
Spatial and temporal variability of rainfall in the Nile Basin
Authors: Onyutha C. , Willems P.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Spatiotemporal variability in annual and seasonal rainfall totals were assessed at 37 locations of the Nile Basin in Africa using quantile perturbation method (QPM). To get insight into the spatial difference in rainfall statistics, the stations were grouped based on the pattern of the long-term mean (LTM) of monthly rainfall and that of temporal variability. To find the origin of the driving forces for the temporal variability in rainfall, correlation analyses were carried out using global monthly sea level pressure (SLP) and sea surface temperature (SST). Further investigations to support the obtained correlations were made using a total of 10 climate indices. It was possible to obtain three groups of stations; those within the equatorial region (A), Sudan and Ethiopia (B), and Egypt (C). For group A, annual rainfall was found to be below (above) the reference during the late 1940s to 1950s (1960s to mid-1980s). Conversely for groups B and C, the period from 1930s to late 1950s (1960s to 1980s) was characterized by anomalies being above (below) the reference. For group A, significant linkages were found to Niño 3, Niño 3.4, and the North Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean drivers. Correlations of annual rainfall of group A with Pacific Ocean-related climate indices were inconclusive. With respect to the main wet seasons, the June–September rainfall of group B has strong connection to the influence from the Indian Ocean. For the March–May (October–February) rainfall of group A (C), possible links to the Atlantic and Indian oceans were found.
Response of Tomato Variety (Roma F) Yield to Different Mulch Materials and Staking in Kabba, Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors: S. K. Ogundare , I. J. Babatunde , O. O. Etukudo
Published: May 2015

This experiment was carried out at student’s experimental field, Kabba College of Agriculture, Horticultural Section to investigate the response of tomato variety (Roma F) yield to different mulch materials and staking. A split plot experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications to randomize the staking levels and mulch materials in the main and sub-plots, respectively. The experiment comprised of two staking levels, i.e. stick staking (SST) and no- stick staking (NST) and six mulch materials, i.e. black polyethylene, white polyethylene, maize straw, palm fronts, grasses and no mulch. The parameters taken on soil physical and chemical properties are soil moisture content (%), soil temperature (O C), soil pH, total nitrogen, available phosphorus and soil organic matter. Growth and yield parameters taken are as follows: average plant height, number of leaves, and number of fruits, stem girth, number of fruit per plant, fruit length, fruit diameter and yield per land area. Weeds were identified and their dry weights were measured. Data were collected from ten randomly selected plants in each plot. The data were statistically analyzed using GENSTAT. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to find out the significance of variation among the treatments while the significant difference between mean treatments were separated using Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) at 5% level of probability.  The result obtained from this study indicated that mulch materials and stick staking affect significantly growth parameters of tomato, yield per plant and yield per land area.  The result also, indicated that plot mulch with black polythene performance best in terms of growth and yield and also improved soil physical properties better than either white polythene or organic mulch in the study area. It is therefore recommended that black polyethylene should be used as mulch materials for tomato production. However, better and stable fruit yield of tomato could be obtained with the practice of mulching in combination with staking. It is recommended that mulching should be carried out together with staking for higher fruit yield and black polyethylene should be use as mulch material in the study area.
Generalizing From Observations of Mathematics Teachers' Instructional Practice Using the Instructional Quality Assessment
Authors: Wilhelm Anne Garrison , Kim Sungyeun
Published: May 2015

One crucial question for researchers who study teachers' classroom practice is how to maximize information about what is happening in classrooms while minimizing costs. This report extends prior studies of the reliability of the Instructional Quality Assessment (IQA), a widely used classroom observation toolkit, and offers insight into the often asked question: “What is the number of observations required to reliably measure a teacher's instructional practice using the IQA?” We found that in some situations, as few as three observations are needed to reliably measure a teacher's instructional practice using the IQA. However, that result depends on a variety of other factors.
The Effects of Changes in Mathematical Knowledge on Teaching: A Longitudinal Study of Teachers' Knowledge and Instruction
Authors: Copur-Gencturk Yasemin
Published: May 2015

In this study, I examined the relationship between teachers' mathematical knowledge and instruction. Twenty-one K—8 teachers who were enrolled in a master's program were followed for 3 years to study how their mathematical knowledge and teaching changed over time. The results of multilevel growth models indicated that gains in teachers' mathematical knowledge predicted changes in the quality of their lesson design, their mathematical agenda, and the classroom climate. Analyses of interviews and classroom observation data conducted with a subgroup of teachers revealed that in addition to the gains teachers made in their mathematical knowledge, their exit level of knowledge played a significant role in the quality of the changes in their practices.
Consulta de Enfermagem às pessoas surdas: uma análise contextual
Authors: Araújo Camila Crisse Justino de , Coura Alexsandro Silva , França Inacia Sátiro Xavier de , Araújo Andressa Kaline Ferreira , Medeiros Kaio Keomma Aires Silva
Published: May 2015

Objetivou-se analisar criticamente os aspectos contextuais que influenciam a realização da consulta de Enfermagem às pessoas surdas. Estudo de revisão crítica-narrativa da literatura, desenvolvido de julho a agosto de 2013, nas bases de dados SciELO, LILACS e IBECS, assim como no Google Acadêmico e em portais eletrônicos do Ministério da Saúde, da Organização Mundial de Saúde e do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, procedendo-se à análise do material coletado a partir do método de Análise Contextual. Diante do corpus de publicações selecionadas, depreenderam-se temas agrupados em camadas interativas de contexto, contemplando: particularidades da consulta de Enfermagem às pessoas surdas; obstáculos enfrentados em tal situação; compreensão sociocultural e psicológica da relação enfermeiro/paciente surdo/intermediador e legislação aplicada – bases para a prática da ética na consulta de Enfermagem às pessoas surdas. Concluiu-se que a consulta de Enfermagem ao paciente surdo não ocorre de forma satisfatória em virtude, principalmente, da inadequação de tais profissionais que, sem o devido preparo no âmbito acadêmico, negligenciam o cuidado a esta importante parcela da população.
SMC condensin entraps chromosomal DNA by an ATP hydrolysis dependent loading mechanism in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Wilhelm Larissa , Bürmann Frank , Minnen Anita , Shin Ho-Chul , Toseland Christopher P , Oh Byung-Ha , Gruber Stephan
Published: May 2015

Smc–ScpAB forms elongated, annular structures that promote chromosome segregation, presumably by compacting and resolving sister DNA molecules. The mechanistic basis for its action, however, is only poorly understood. Here, we have established a physical assay to determine whether the binding of condensin to native chromosomes in Bacillus subtilis involves entrapment of DNA by the Smc–ScpAB ring. To do so, we have chemically cross-linked the three ring interfaces in Smc–ScpAB and thereafter isolated intact chromosomes under protein denaturing conditions. Exclusively species of Smc–ScpA, which were previously cross-linked into covalent rings, remained associated with chromosomal DNA. DNA entrapment is abolished by mutations that interfere with the Smc ATPase cycle and strongly reduced when the recruitment factor ParB is deleted, implying that most Smc–ScpAB is loaded onto the chromosome at parS sites near the replication origin. We furthermore report a physical interaction between native Smc–ScpAB and chromosomal DNA fragments.
Low cost, high performance processing of single particle cryo-electron microscopy data in the cloud
Authors: Cianfrocco Michael A , Leschziner Andres E
Published: May 2015

The advent of a new generation of electron microscopes and direct electron detectors has realized the potential of single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) as a technique to generate high-resolution structures. Calculating these structures requires high performance computing clusters, a resource that may be limiting to many likely cryo-EM users. To address this limitation and facilitate the spread of cryo-EM, we developed a publicly available ‘off-the-shelf’ computing environment on Amazon's elastic cloud computing infrastructure. This environment provides users with single particle cryo-EM software packages and the ability to create computing clusters with 16–480+ CPUs. We tested our computing environment using a publicly available 80S yeast ribosome dataset and estimate that laboratories could determine high-resolution cryo-EM structures for $50 to $1500 per structure within a timeframe comparable to local clusters. Our analysis shows that Amazon's cloud computing environment may offer a viable computing environment for cryo-EM.
Maturation of a central brain flight circuit in Drosophila requires Fz2/Ca2+ signaling
Authors: Agrawal Tarjani , Hasan Gaiti
Published: May 2015

The final identity of a differentiated neuron is determined by multiple signaling events, including activity dependent calcium transients. Non-canonical Frizzled2 (Fz2) signaling generates calcium transients that determine neuronal polarity, neuronal migration, and synapse assembly in the developing vertebrate brain. Here, we demonstrate a requirement for Fz2/Ca2+ signaling in determining the final differentiated state of a set of central brain dopaminergic neurons in Drosophila, referred to as the protocerebral anterior medial (PAM) cluster. Knockdown or inhibition of Fz2/Ca2+ signaling during maturation of the flight circuit in pupae reduces Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH) expression in the PAM neurons and affects maintenance of flight. Thus, we demonstrate that Fz2/Ca2+ transients during development serve as a pre-requisite for normal adult behavior. Our results support a neural mechanism where PAM neuron send projections to the α' and β' lobes of a higher brain centre, the mushroom body, and function in dopaminergic re-inforcement of flight.
Synthesis and Thermo‐Mechanical Properties of Poly(urethaneurea) Elastomers Based on Heterocyclic Cross‐linkers and Purine Diamine as a Chain Extender
Authors: Oprea S. , Potolinca V. O.
Published: May 2015

This paper presents the synthesis and studies the properties of two series of linear and cross‐linked poly(urethaneurea) elastomers, which contain purine derivatives in their backbone chains. The samples in the linear series are chain‐extended with 2,6‐diaminopurine in various ratios, whereas in the second series mixtures of 2,6‐diaminopurine and various cross‐linkers were used. The presence of purine rings within these polyurethanes increases structural stiffness due to the rigidity of the purine unit and also because of the intermolecular hydrogen bonds in the urea groups regions. The characterization of the molecular structure of these poly(urethaneurea)s was achieved by FTIR, whereas thermal behavior was observed through thermogravimetric analysis and dynamic mechanical analysis. Mechanical measurements showed greater elongation and tensile strength for poly(urethaneurea)s with a lower content of purine moieties in the hard segment. The strain at break value is lower in the case of cross‐linked samples compared to that of the linear purine poly(urethaneurea) series.
Biomarkers for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and serum liver enzymes
Authors: Min Young‐Sun , Lim Hyun‐Sul , Kim Heon
Published: May 2015

Background

Limited evidence suggests that human liver toxicity is associated with exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

Methods

The association of urinary PAH metabolites with serum liver enzymes was tested among 288 workers at a petrochemical plant, using a general linear model (GLM) and multiple logistic regression.

Results

Urine 2‐naphthol levels were positively correlated with serum AST after adjustment for covariates in GLM. Comparing third tertile versus first tertile of 2‐naphthol levels, the odds ratios (OR) were elevated for abnormal serum AST levels [OR = 4.1 (95%CI 1.6–10.2)] and abnormal serum ALT levels [OR = 2.4 (95%CI 1.2–4.9)].

Conclusions

Although confounding by alcohol intake was not completely ruled out, our findings demonstrate an association between PAHs exposure and elevation in serum liver enzymes. Urinary 2‐naphthol is a biomarker of exposure to PAHs that is associated with liver toxicity. Am. J. Ind. Med. 58:764–772, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐sensitivity CRP: Possible link between job stress and atherosclerosis
Authors: Xu Weixian , Chen Baoxia , Guo Lijun , Li Zhaoping , Zhao Yiming , Zeng Hui
Published: May 2015

Background

Chronic inflammation may play an important role in linking job stress to atherosclerosis. We sought to investigate the relationship between job stress and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) among Chinese workers.

Methods

A total of 731 subjects (506 men and 225 women) were analyzed. Job stress was evaluated by effort‐reward imbalance (ERI) model.

Results

Among men, after adjustment for confounders, effort, overcommitment, and ERI were significantly positively correlated with hs‐CRP; and reward was significantly inversely related with hs‐CRP; high level of effort, overcommitment, or ERI, respectively, significantly increased the odds of high hs‐CRP with ORs of 2.0, 3.5, and 3.3 (all P < 0.001), compared with the corresponding low level groups. Among women, high overcommitment or ERI also increased risk of high hs‐CRP with ORs of 2.8, and 4.1 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

High effort, overcommmitment, and ERI were positively associated with hs‐CRP. Inflammation indicated by hs‐CRP may be one of important mediators linking job stress and atherosclerosis. Am. J. Ind. Med. 58:773–779, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Safety climate and the distracted driving experiences of truck drivers
Authors: Swedler David I. , Pollack Keshia M. , Agnew Jacqueline
Published: May 2015

Background

For truck drivers, distracted driving is a workplace behavior that increases occupational injury risk. We propose safety climate as an appropriate lens through which researchers can examine occupational distracted driving.

Methods

Using a mixed methods study design, we surveyed truck drivers using the Safety Climate Questionnaire (SCQ) complemented by semi‐structured interviews of experts on distracted driving and truck safety. Safety climate was assessed by using the entire SCQ as an overall climate score, followed by factor analysis that identified the following safety climate factors: Communications and Procedures; Management Commitment; and Work Pressure.

Results

In multivariate regression, the overall safety climate scale was associated with having ever experienced a crash and/or distraction‐involved swerving. Interview participants described how these SCQ constructs could affect occupational distracted driving.

Conclusion

To reduce distraction‐related crashes in their organizations, management can adhere to safe policies and procedures, invest in engineering controls, and develop safer communication procedures. Am. J. Ind. Med. 58:746–755, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TWO INNEXINS OF Spodoptera litura INFLUENCES HEMICHANNEL AND GAP JUNCTION FUNCTIONS IN CELLULAR IMMUNE RESPONSES
Authors: Pang Zunyu , Li Ming , Yu Dongshuai , Yan Zhang , Liu Xinyi , Ji Xinglai , Yang Yang , Hu Jiansheng , Luo Kaijun
Published: May 2015

Insect cellular immune responses include encapsulation, nodule formation, and phagocytosis. Hemichannels and gap junctions are involved in these cellular actions. Innexins (Inxs: analogous to the vertebrate connexins) form hemichannels and gap junctions, but the molecular mechanisms underlying their biology is still unclear. In this article, we reported a steady‐state level of Inxs (SpliInxs) in hemocytes of Spodoptera litura, which formed nonfunctional hemichannels on the cell surface to maintain normal metabolism. We also reported that two innnexins (SpliInx2 and SpliInx3) were expressed significantly higher in hemocytes compared to other tissues, suggesting that they play important roles in hemocytes. Amino acid analysis found that two cysteine residues in two extracellular loops provided the capability for SpliInx2 and SpliInx3 hemichannels to dock into gap junctions. Western blotting demonstrated that both extracellular and intracellular loops of SpliInx3 and the extracellular loops of SpliInx2 might undergo posttranslational modification during the formation of a steady‐state hemichannel. During hemichannel formation, SpliInx2 presented as one isoform, while SpliInx3 presented as three isoforms. These results provide fundamental knowledge for further study of how steady‐state levels of SpliInxs are dynamically adjusted to perform cellular immune responses under immune challenge.
SAS2: the system for acoustic sensing of snow
Authors: Kinar N. J. , Pomeroy J. W.
Published: May 2015

A novel electronic sensing system (SAS2) was designed to non‐invasively and simultaneously measure snow density, liquid water content, and temperature of snow using acoustics and obtain images of the snowpack. The system is an updated and more sophisticated version of previous acoustic sensing systems, and this paper presents an update on the development of acoustic sensing methods to measure multiple snowpack properties and obtain images of snowpack stratigraphy. Air‐coupled acoustic waves were sent into and reflected from the snowpack by the SAS2 system. An inverse model based on a modified version of the Biot–Stoll theory of sound propagation through porous media was used to obtain acoustic measurements of snow and images of the snowpack. The SAS2 was deployed at ten field sites in the Canadian Rockies. Stationary and portable versions of the system were deployed and tested. This paper reports initial tests of the SAS2 that were conducted at the field sites to compare acoustic model outputs with gravimetric measurements of snow density, dielectric measurements of liquid water content, and thermocouple and thermometer measurements of snow temperature. Snow water equivalent could be estimated more accurately and quickly with the SAS2 than with an ESC30 gravimetric snow tube. Unlike monopulse sonar and radar sensors, the SAS2 utilizes a continuous‐wave Maximum Length Sequence (MLS) that is more robust to environmental noise. The SAS2 serves as a proof‐of‐concept of the acoustic snow measurement technique with potential for further research as identified and discussed in this paper. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Infant Emotion Regulation Strategy Moderates Relations between Self‐Reported Maternal Depressive Symptoms and Infant HPA Activity
Authors: Khoury Jennifer E. , Gonzalez Andrea , Levitan Robert , Masellis Mario , Basile Vincenzo , Atkinson Leslie
Published: May 2015

Children of mothers with depressive symptoms often have high cortisol levels. Research shows that various child characteristics (e.g., attachment pattern, internalizing behaviours, and temperament) moderate this association. We suggest that these characteristics share common variance with emotion regulation strategy. Therefore, we examine infant emotion regulation strategy as a moderator of the association between maternal depressive symptoms and infant hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) function. We hypothesize that infants who utilize more independent emotion regulation strategies and have mothers who report higher depressive symptoms will exhibit elevated cortisol levels. Participants were 193 mothers and infants (15 months old) recruited from the community. Self‐reported maternal depressive symptoms were assessed. Infant independent regulatory behaviours (withdrawal, wandering away, distraction, scanning, orienting to another object) were coded in the context of a Toy Frustration Task. Infant cortisol was collected via saliva samples at baseline, +20, and +40 minutes. Results indicate that infant emotion regulation strategy moderates the relation between mothers' self‐reported depressive symptoms and infant total cortisol output (AUCG) and cortisol reactivity (AUCI). Infants who employed more independent regulatory behaviours and have mothers with higher depressive symptoms experience greater cortisol secretion. We discuss the findings in relation to parent‐infant interactions and the adaptive nature of emotion regulation strategies, as they relate to HPA regulatory capacities. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Response of maize and soil microorganisms to decomposing poplar root residues after shallow or homogenous mixing into soil
Authors: Gad Hikal , Wachendorf Christine , Joergensen Rainer Georg
Published: May 2015

During re‐conversion of short‐rotation poplar tree plantations back to arable land use, large amounts of tree residues must be incorporated into soil. A 90‐d pot experiment with and without N addition was carried out after mixing the same amounts of chaffed poplar root residues into the pots at 0–5 cm or at 0–20 cm depth. The objective was to investigate whether shallow mixing has positive effects on maize growth, reduces poplar root residue decomposition, and changes the microbial community structure towards fungi. Aboveground maize yield was strongly reduced after mixing of poplar root residues at 0–20 cm depth without N fertilization, but was not affected if mixed at 0–5 cm depth. Neither the mixing nor N fertilization had significant effects on root residue decomposition, estimated as recovered particulate organic matter. The total increase in microbial biomass C and biomass N was strongest after homogenous mixing of root residues at 0–20 cm, but remained unaffected by N fertilization. In contrast, the total amount of ergosterol remained unaffected by the mixing treatments, but responded positively to N fertilization. Shallow incorporation of poplar root residues did not affect the microbial biomass C/N ratio but disproportionately increased the fungal ergosterol to microbial biomass C ratio. Shallow incorporation of poplar root residues seems to reduce the demand for N fertilization of following crops, which should be further tested in field experiments.