bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis de las condiciones laborales en las entidades de la economía social en España desde una perspectiva de género
Authors: Santero Sanchez Rosa , Castro Núñez Belén
Published: January 2016

Las empresas de economía social comparten unos valores que motivan un comportamiento diferente de éstas en relación con la composición de sus plantillas, las condiciones de trabajo, su especialización productiva y su ubicación geográfica frente a las empresas ordinarias (sociedades anónimas y laborales) que no son de economía social. Este comportamiento diferencial constituye, a su vez, una importante aportación a la cohesión social y, de forma específica, desde el punto de vista de género, proporciona una mejora de la presencia y posición de las mujeres en el ámbito laboral. El objetivo principal de esta investigación es evaluar la existencia de elementos diferenciales entre las empresas de economía social y las ordinarias en cuanto a la igualdad de oportunidades, condiciones y trayectorias laborales desde una perspectiva de género, centrando el estudio en el caso de España. A partir de la Muestra Continua de Vidas Laborales (2010) se identifican dos grupos de empresas, de economía social (grupo objetivo) y de economía "no social" u ordinaria (grupo de control) equivalentes en cuanto a tamaño y sector de actividad. Para cada grupo y sus respectivos/as trabajadores/as, se realizan contrastes paramétricos y no paramétricos de diferencias de medias entre mujeres y hombres en relación a diferentes características laborales como el tipo de jornada, la duración del contrato o la estabilidad en la trayectoria laboral en la empresa. Además, se lleva a cabo una estimación de la discriminación salarial en ambos grupos siguiendo el modelo Oaxaca-Blinder. Los resultados muestran que las empresas de economía social ofrecen mejores condiciones en el acceso y la permanencia en el puesto laboral a las mujeres, una mayor estabilidad laboral y menor discriminación salarial frente a los hombres.
Utilizing Self Perception Theory to Explain Social Media Behavior Relative to Print Advertisement 2-D Codes
Authors: Roehm Michelle Lynn , Roehm Harper Andrew
Published: January 2016

Marketers are using more traditional marketing channels to drive traffic to the social media platforms. Embedding two-dimensional (“2-D”) barcodes, also known as QR codes, in print advertising is one example. In an effort to provide marketers some guidance on how best to implement such a strategy, reported in this article is the study of the effects of this tactic on consumer response. We draw upon self-perception theory to derive three key insights: 1) the use of 2-D barcodes can elicit pro-brand behavior (snapping), and self-perception of this behavior can enhance attitudes; 2) conversely, a failure to engage in snapping behavior may actually undermine attitudes; 3) any boost in attitudes may be confined to light users of a brand, who do not have strongly established attitudes, and to situations where snapping behavior is perceived to be voluntary, such as when prizes or rewards are absent. Data from two experiments, utilizing two different product category contexts, support this theorizing.
Investigating Critical Factors Affecting the Operational Excellence of Service Firms in Jordan
Authors: Shehadeh Rana Mohammad , Al-Zu'bi Zu'bi M. F. , Abdallah Ayman Bahjat , Maqableh Mahmoud
Published: January 2016

This research has been conducted to investigate critical factors affecting the operational excellence (OPX) of service firms in Jordan. The main factors of interest are leadership, human resource management practices, operations strategy, and involvement culture. This research considered different service sub-sectors including banks, ICT, insurance, aviation, hotels and medical care.

A research questionnaire was developed to test the hypotheses, with 700 questionnaires distributed by hand and email. A total number of 368 were returned, representing a response rate of 53%. Multiple and linear regression tests were then executed to examine the research hypotheses. The multiple regression test showed a high positive impact of the research variables on operational excellence with (R = 83.2%) and (R2=69.2%) where the highest contribution was from operations strategy’, and the lowest contribution was by ‘leadership’. At the same time, when the research factors were tested individually, they all showed high positive impact on operational excellence. It has also been noticed that there are variations in perceptions across services subsectors: hotels recorded the highest mean value across all factors.

In the light of the findings of this research, which are consistent with previous literature, the researchers propose some recommendations to be considered by both academics and practitioners in the field. 
Outdoors in Preschool Teaching: A Model Implementation in Turkey
Authors: Bay Dondu Neslihan
Published: January 2016

In the research, an explanatory case study was carried out which is a kind of qualitative research. By presenting a model implementation, how to create outdoor centers and teachers’ views on the designed model are introduced with the purpose of making a contribution to teachers and preschool education institutions. Within this framework, by receiving opinions of teachers, an outdoor space design was made, and by the end of  a 2 month work, 12 centers (art, music, playing house, writing, balance, eye-hand coordination, vegetable, fruit, book, performance, sensory) were created in the garden of research and application kindergarten of a university. After 6 teachers used the design in the 2 month education period, their opinions are received. Teachers expressed the efficiency of center designs in the garden in terms of supporting children’s development and implementing educational programs. Model implementation was described in detail and was discussed with the related body of literature. A design was made regarding how center implementation which will support children development in the best way can be formed using low-cost waste and natural material. The model is thought to raise awareness about putting outdoor space in good use.
Adolescents’ Life Satisfaction in Selangor, Malaysia: The Effect of Demographic Differences
Authors: Hoe Nee Chiong , Yaacob Siti Nor , Baharudin Rozumah , Jo-Pei Tan
Published: January 2016

This present study aims to describe the level of overall and domains-specific life satisfaction and to determine how differences in demographic variables can influence life satisfaction among adolescents in Selangor, Malaysia. The sample of the study consisted of 416 school-going adolescents, aged between 14 to 17 years old, who were selected through multi-stage cluster sampling from 12 secondary schools. The findings showed that adolescents generally reported positive level of life satisfaction. Differences in life satisfaction by age, gender and family structure were compared by t-test analysis. Younger adolescents display higher life satisfaction compared to older adolescents. Males reported higher level of life satisfaction in school domain and lower score in living environment domain compared to females. Respondents who were living in intact family arrangement also reported to have higher life satisfaction than those who were living with other types of family arrangements. In conclusion, cognitive judgment of adolescents’ life satisfaction differ with respect to their biological age, gender, and family structure.
The Influence of Service Quality on Customer Loyalty Intentions: A Study in the Vietnam Retail Sector
Authors: Nguyen The Ninh , Nguyen Hoang Long , Cao Tuan Khanh , Phan Thi Thu Hoai
Published: January 2016

There is a paucity of knowledge relating to retail service quality and customer loyalty intentions in emerging markets, and especially in Vietnam. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between these two variables in the Vietnam retail sector. Survey data are collected from 502 respondents who are current customers of eight retail stores in the city of Hanoi. The results support five dimensions of retail service quality, namely personal interaction, store policy, physical aspects, reliability and problem solving. Out of these, three dimensions of reliability, personal interaction and problem solving are significantly associated with customer loyalty intentions. This study contributes to the evolving literature and suggests that local and foreign retailers should particularly invest time and effort to increase stores’ reliability, quality of customer interaction and effectiveness in solving customer problems. 
An Examination of Social Networks on the Recruitment Process in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Al Shehi Safeyya , Pettaway Lincoln , Waller Lee , Waller Sharon
Published: January 2016

This study evaluates the effects of social networks on the recruitment of professional staff to Ras Al Khaimah’s government and private sector within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Questionnaires were administered to human resources employees who work at various levels of Ras Al Khaimah’s government and private sector. A quantitative methodology was utilized for this study. The paper conducted a factor analysis for dimension reduction on the findings of a questionnaire submitted to selected businesses with Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. Findings indicated 5 underlying factors driving answers to the 24 questions included on the questionnaire. These 5 factors were labeled as (1) general perception, (2) convenience, (3) reliability, (4) international recruitment and (5) branding and marketing. These 5 underlying factors indicated that relationships exist between the variables.
Measuring the Spiritual and Behavioral Dimensions of Religiosity in a Muslim Sample
Authors: Al-Menayes Jamal
Published: January 2016

This study examines the dimensions of religiosity based on a sample of undergraduate students in a large state university in Kuwait. It aims to develop and test a multi-dimensional scale to measure religiosity in a Muslim sample. More specifically, the current research tests the properties of a newly developed religiosity scale designed for a Muslim sample consisting of two sub-scales, a spiritual and a behavioral one. The self-report data support the two dimensions of religiosity but, while the two dimensions are related, their statistical distributions were different indicating a possible “desirability bias” effect. Future studies should guard against this possibility by using complex survey techniques such as randomized responses and unmatched count. 
The Relationship between Job Motivation, Compensation Satisfaction and Job Satisfaction in Employees of Tax Administration – A Case Study in Tehran
Authors: Gelard Parvaneh , Rezaei Sheida
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this paper is to assess the relationship between job motivation, compensation satisfaction and employees’ job satisfaction in tax organization. In this study, survey research method has been used to collect required data. For the purpose of this case study, a 210 people sample has been selected from research population using simple random sampling method. In order to measure employees’ job satisfaction, Susan J Linz (2002) questionnaire and in order to measure compensation satisfaction Ogenyi Ejye Omar’s model (2006) has been used. This model includes four factors; Payment Justice, Organizational designed procedures, supervisor and performance-based pay. Also Herzberg and Kitchener model has been used to measure employees’ motivation. Data analysis with Pearson correlation coefficient shows a positive relation between job motivation and compensation satisfaction. Qualitative approach implies that organizational justice in payments in important and employees who feel financially discriminated, their job satisfaction is lower compared to other employees.
Evaluation of Relationship between Social Self Concept, Organizational Identity and Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Amini Mohsen , Amini Mehdi , Ghodsi Masoud , Rafiyi Mani
Published: January 2016

This article reviews the relationship between social self concept, organizational identity and organizational citizenship behavior among employees in Tax Affairs Organization in Lorestan province. Thus, the most important aspects of organizational citizenship behavior was extracted from extensive study of library resources and articles and scientific magazines in internet sites and articles presented in the First Citizenship Behavior Management National Conference in Tehran university and then these resources were all reviewed. The population of the study consists of employees in Tax Affairs Organization in Lorestan province that was evaluated using questionnaire (social self concept, organizational identity and organizational citizenship behavior). Sample size was estimated 250 individuals using Cochran formula and simple random sampling. Research hypothesizes were tested using modeling statistical Structural equation modeling (SEM) and smartpls software. Results show that there is a significant relationship between organizational identity and organizational citizenship behavior among employees. Also there is a significant relationship between organizational citizenship behavior and organizational identity. 
Teachers’ Emotional Labour and Burnout: Does Perceived Organizational Support Matter?
Authors: Anomneze Edith A. , Ugwu Dorothy I. , Enwereuzor Ibeawuchi K. , Ugwu Leonard I.
Published: January 2016

The study investigated the moderating role of perceived organizational support on emotional labour–burnout relation among 323 secondary school teachers in Enugu State, Nigeria. Participants completed the Teacher Emotional Labor Scale (TELS), Survey of Perceived Organizational Support (SPOS), and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Results showed that surface acting, deep acting, and POS significantly predicted emotional exhaustion. Only deep acting and POS significantly predicted depersonalization whereas surface acting did not. Both the two-way interaction terms between surface acting and POS, and that between deep acting and POS were not significant in predicting either emotional exhaustion or depersonalization.
Analysis of Engineering Students’ Responses to Flipped Classroom Methodology in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Khodr Majed , Waller Lee
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to analyse student responses to the introduction of flipped learning methodology at an institution of higher education in the northern region of the United Arab Emirates to identify potential relationships between and among the responses and to determine underlying factors guiding the responses. A survey questionnaire was developed by a team of faculty and sent to students via online survey software. The analysis employed dimension reduction techniques to ascertain underlying factors guiding responses. Two major factors were identified: (1) the focus on educational benefits of the methodology and (2) the instructional relevance of the flipped classroom approach. The study concluded that flipped learning methodology can be useful for improving learning and holds the potential to more adequately engage today’s learners. 
Scientific Values Are Crucial for Lake Kinneret Management Design: Test Cases
Authors: Gophen Moshe
Published: January 2016

The concept of combined scientific information and objectivism, and carefulness prevention, are crucially required for the design of Lake Kinneret ecological services management. The integration of ecological structure and management is an assets of permanent value. Three test cases of that concept as incorporated within the usage policy of Lake Kinneret are presented and criticized. It is discussed through an insight into three cases of decision making process: 1) Nutrient dynamics (N, P and N/P mass ration) and the first record of N2-fixer- Cyanobacterium bloom; 2) The impact of natural and anthropogenic activities on the decline and recovery of Tilapias fish population; and 3) The consequences of water level decline on their quality. The objective of the paper is to improve both, safety and sevices of the ecosystem.
Challenge Study: A Project-Based Learning on a Wireless Communication System at Technical High School
Authors: Terasawa Ikuo
Published: January 2016

The challenge study is a project based learning curriculum at Technical High School aimed at the construction ofawireless communication system. The first period was engineering issues in the construction of an artificial satellite and the second period was apositional locating system based on the general purpose wire-less device—ZigBee device. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated on the basis of participants’ satisfaction and a metamorphosis in the learning and understanding of wire-less telecommunication technology.
“Pneumonologia i Alergologia Polska” w latach 2010–2014
Authors: Szturmowicz Monika , Demkow Urszula , Franczuk Monika , Puścińska Elżbieta , Radzikowska Elżbieta , Górski Paweł
Published: January 2016

W związku ze zbliżającym się XXXIII Zjazdem Polskiego Towarzystwa Chorób Płuc [...]
Zalecenia Polskiego Towarzystwa Chorób Płuc Dotyczące Rozpoznawania i Leczenia Przewlekłej Obturacyjnej Choroby Płuc
Authors: Śliwiński Paweł , Górecka Dorota , Jassem Ewa , Pierzchała Władysław
Published: January 2016

Pierwsze krajowe “Zalecenia postępowania w przewlekłej obturacyjnej chorobie płuc (POChP)” powstały w 1998 roku z inicjatywy profesorów Jana Zielińskiego i Józefa Małolepszego oraz dr. hab [...]
Thrombocytopenia as a Marker of Outcome in Patients with Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Rahimi-Rad Mohammad , Soltani Sheida , Rabieepour Masome , Rahimirad Shagayegh
Published: January 2016

Introduction: Thrombocytopenia (TP) is associated with poor outcome in patients who are critically ill with pneumonia, burns, and H1N1 influenza. To our knowledge, no similar study in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) has been conducted to date. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of platelet count on the outcome of patients with AECOPD. Materials and Methods: Patients admitted to our teaching hospital for AECOPD were divided into two cohorts, those with and without TP. The outcome of all patients was followed. Results: Of the 200 patients with AECOPD, 55 (27.5%) had TP. Of these, 14 (25.5%) died in the hospital, whereas of the 145 non-TP patents, 11 (7.5%) died (p-value = 0.001). There was a significantly higher transfer rate to the ICU and mechanical ventilation in TP patients. The mean platelet count was significantly lower in patients who died than those who were discharged (161,672 vs. 203,005 cell/μL; p-value = 0.017). There was negative correlation between duration of hospitalization and platelet count. Conclusion: TP was associated with poor outcome in AECOPD. TP could be considered as a marker for the assessment of inﬂammation and prognosis in AECOPD patients based on its cost-effective features.
Asthma Prevalence and Risk Factors Analysis in Tricity University Students’ Group
Authors: Romantowski Jan , Gawinowska Marika , Cyrny Paulina , Jassem Ewa , Chełmińska Marta , Niedoszytko Marek
Published: January 2016

Introduction: Asthma is the most prevalent chronic disease in a young and middle age population worldwide. It is also one of the main reasons for the lost working days and lost days at school. Several epidemiological surveys have evidenced an increase in the prevalence of asthma in Poland. This trend is further evident in urban areas such as Tricity (Gdańsk, Sopot, Gdynia). The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of the disease as well as the risk factors affecting the university student population. Materials and Methods: Two surveys were distributed electronically to students of the four major universities in Tricity. The first survey contained nine questions concerning asthma diagnoses and symptoms. The second survey, which evaluated the occurrence of identified risk factors, was sent to students who answered the first survey. Asthmatics also received an Asthma Control Test (ACT). The results were analyzed using the Statistica 10 software. Study group consisted of 1380 students: 1031 (75%) women and 349 (25%) men; the average age was 22.2. Results: Asthma was diagnosed in 138 students (9.6%), additionally 76 students (5.5%) reported asthmatic symptoms; however, these students had no previous diagnoses. Asthma tended to occur more frequently in students living in poorly maintained houses (19%) (p = 0.06), in contrast to those living in a normal environment (10%). According to their ACTs, 81% of diagnosed patients reported that their asthma was well-controlled. Conclusions: Asthma is becoming an important issue for Tricity students. Educational activities aimed at raising university students’ awareness regarding asthma treatment and control should be implemented.
Usage and Usability of One Dry Powder Inhaler Compared to Other Inhalers at Therapy Start: An Open, Non-interventional Observational Study in Poland and Germany
Authors: Hantulik Piotr , Wittig Karola , Henschel Yvonne , Ochse Joachim , Vahteristo Mikko , Rytila Paula
Published: January 2016

Introduction: Inhalation is the preferred route of drug administration for patients with asthma or COPD. It is generally predicted that there is a high error rate in inhaler usage, especially at the therapy start. The primary objective of this study was the validation of a questionnaire that can be used for assessing a successful inhalation technique, patient satisfaction as well as the compliance in daily practice.The secondary objective was to examine the “real-life” usage of one inhalation device in comparison with other devices at the start of the therapy. Materials and Methods: This open, multi centre and non-interventional study was designed to examine usage and usability of dry powder inhaler Easyhaler® (EH) (Orion Pharma, Finland) and other inhalers assessed by the physicians as well as by the patients. Inclusion criteria for patients were a physician-diagnosis of COPD or asthma or children with asthmatic disease, therapy start with an inhalation device and no or only few experiences with inhaler usage (inhaler usage for not more than 3 months). Each physician enrolled an equal number of patients in each group. Results: 263 adult/adolescent patients with asthma and 115 with COPD as well as 164 children with asthmatic disease were enrolled. 49.4% of the adult/adolescent patients with asthma used an EH and 50.6% other inhalers. In the case of COPD, 47.8% were treated with an EH and 52.2% used other inhalation devices. Finally, 50.6% of the children with asthmatic disease used an EH and 49.4% were treated with other inhalers. Inhaler usage, patient satisfaction, compliance and patients assessments of usability were better when the patients used an EH. Inconvenient features were mainly documented for other inhalers. The analysis of Cronbachs alpha clearly showed the consistency of the received data from all patients. In addition, there was a large association between the assessment of the inhaler usage and the general assessment of the used inhaler in all patient groups. Conclusion: The results of this study show that investigators found EH easy to teach, the patients found it easy to use and their satisfaction with the device was high in comparison to other inhalation devices. Thus EH can be matched to many patients already at the therapy start. In addition, the high consistency of the received data and large association of the assessment of the inhaler usage and the general assessment of the inhaler indicate that the used questionnaires were appropriate tools to examine usage and usability of inhaler devices in adult patients and children.
Problems of Patients with Cystic Fibrosis during Transition to Adulthood
Authors: Opoka-Winiarska Violetta , Cofta Szczepan , Mazurek Henryk , Kozielski Jerzy
Published: January 2016

The proper care of cystic fibrosis patients extends over their lifetime. More than half of the children with the disease die before adulthood. An important element in the patient’s care is a time of transition from a paediatric to the care of an internist and the patient’s acceptance of this necessity. Transition from paediatric care to an internist should be adequately prepared. It is not only a question of transfer of medical records, but also careful preparation of patients for such transition. The patients expect not only continuity of care but also the Introduction to the management with the disease. The creation of a base for specialist hospital treatment for exacerbation of the disease at the adulthood is an important element in the care of these patients. The problem has been solved in the children group, but is still waiting for solution in adults with cystic fibrosis. It has been proven that care in the centres carried out by a specialized team ensures longer life and better quality of life of these patients. The paper is an overview of these two important elements of care of adults with cystic fibrosis.
The Etiology of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in People with Diabetes
Authors: Klekotka Renata , Mizgała Elżbieta , Król Wojciech
Published: January 2016

Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are likely to develop many types of infections, which affect the transport of glucose into tissues. Diabetes increases the susceptibility to different kinds of respiratory infections, is often identified as an independent risk factor for developing lower respiratory tract infections. Pulmonary infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, gram-negative bacteria and fungi may occur with an increased frequency, whereas infections due to Streptococcus pneumonia or influenza virus may be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. During lung infection, there are changes in the local and ciliary epithelial lining. Increased susceptibility to pneumococcal infection by people with diabetes is the result of reduced defense capability of antibodies to protein antigens. The relationship between diabetes and pulmonary tuberculosis is well known, and the incidence of tuberculosis in diabetic individuals is 4−5 times greater than among the non-diabetic population. It is thought that malfunction of monocytes in patients with diabetes may contribute to the increased susceptibility to tuberculosis and/or a worse prognosis. Hospitalization of patients with diabetes due to influenza virus or flu-like infections is up to 6 times more likely to occur compared to healthy individuals, also diabetic patients are more likely to be hospitalized due to infection complications. Immunization with influenza and anti-pneumococcal vaccines is recommended to reduce hospitalizations, deaths, and medical expenses. Diabetes, especially the uncontrolled one, predisposes to fungal infection, the most common candidiasis and mucormycosis.
Fortellinger om skam, skyld og ansvar
Authors: Larsen Kim
Published: January 2016

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Verdensdagen for selvmordsforebygging
Authors: Holmesland Hanne
Published: January 2016

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Programmed Death Ligand-1 Immunohistochemistry: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Kerr Keith M. , Hirsch Fred R.
Published: January 2016

The approval of anti-programmed death receptor (PD)-1 therapies for non–small cell lung cancer has directed the spotlight on programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) immunohistochemistry as the latest predictive biomarker potentially required in this disease. Several other drugs in this class will likely be approved in the future and each has been developed with a unique anti–PD-L1 immunohistochemistry test. The prospect of 5 drugs competing in the same treatment area, each possibly requiring PD-L1 immunohistochemistry testing, presents a challenge for pathologists unlike any previously faced. The key issue is whether laboratories will attempt to deliver the trial-validated assays for one or more of these treatments, or introduce instead one or more laboratory developed tests, or attempt to provide a single PD-L1 immunohistochemistry assay for all possible anti–PD-1 and anti–PD-L1 treatments that may be used. This paper discusses some of the issues, challenges, hazards, and possible solutions that have recently emerged in this most complex interface between cancer therapeutics and laboratory biomarker testing.
TB as a cause of hospitalization and in‐hospital mortality among people living with HIV worldwide: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ford Nathan , Matteelli Alberto , Shubber Zara , Hermans Sabine , Meintjes Graeme , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Waldrop Greer , Kranzer Katharina , Doherty Meg , Getahun Haileyesus
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Despite significant progress in improving access to antiretroviral therapy over the past decade, substantial numbers of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in all regions continue to experience severe illness and require hospitalization. We undertook a global review assessing the proportion of hospitalizations and in‐hospital deaths because of tuberculosis (TB) in PLHIV.

Methods

Seven databases were searched to identify studies reporting causes of hospitalizations among PLHIV from 1 January 2007 to 31 January 2015 irrespective of age, geographical region or language. The proportion of hospitalizations and in‐hospital mortality attributable to TB was estimated using random effects meta‐analysis.

Results

From an initial screen of 9049 records, 66 studies were identified, providing data on 35,845 adults and 2792 children across 42 countries. Overall, 17.7% (95% CI 16.0 to 20.2%) of all adult hospitalizations were because of TB, making it the leading cause of hospitalization overall; the proportion of adult hospitalizations because of TB exceeded 10% in all regions except the European region. Of all paediatric hospitalizations, 10.8% (95% CI 7.6 to 13.9%) were because of TB. There was insufficient data among children for analysis by region. In‐hospital mortality attributable to TB was 24.9% (95% CI 19.0 to 30.8%) among adults and 30.1% (95% CI 11.2 to 48.9%) among children.

Discussion

TB remains a leading cause of hospitalization and in‐hospital death among adults and children living with HIV worldwide.
Blue light-induced LOV domain dimerization enhances the affinity of Aureochrome 1a for its target DNA sequence
Authors: Heintz Udo , Schlichting Ilme
Published: January 2016

The design of synthetic optogenetic tools that allow precise spatiotemporal control of biological processes previously inaccessible to optogenetic control has developed rapidly over the last years. Rational design of such tools requires detailed knowledge of allosteric light signaling in natural photoreceptors. To understand allosteric communication between sensor and effector domains, characterization of all relevant signaling states is required. Here, we describe the mechanism of light-dependent DNA binding of the light-oxygen-voltage (LOV) transcription factor Aureochrome 1a from Phaeodactylum tricornutum (PtAu1a) and present crystal structures of a dark state LOV monomer and a fully light-adapted LOV dimer. In combination with hydrogen/deuterium-exchange, solution scattering data and DNA-binding experiments, our studies reveal a light-sensitive interaction between the LOV and basic region leucine zipper DNA-binding domain that together with LOV dimerization results in modulation of the DNA affinity of PtAu1a. We discuss the implications of these results for the design of synthetic LOV-based photosensors with application in optogenetics.
Sensitive thermal microsensor with pn junction for heat measurement of a single cell
Authors: Yamada Taito , Inomata Naoki , Ono Takahito
Published: January 2016

A sensitive thermal microsensor based on a pn junction diode for heat measurements of biological single cells is developed and evaluated. Using a fabricated device, we demonstrated the heat measurement of a single brown fat cell. The principle of the sensor relies on the temperature dependence of the pn junction diode resistance. This method has a capability of the highly thermal sensitivity by downsizing and the advantage of a simple experimental setup using electrical circuits without any special equipment. To achieve highly sensitive heat measurement of single cells, downsizing of the sensor is necessary to reduce the heat capacity of the sensor itself. The sensor with the pn junction diode can be downsized by microfabrication. A bridge beam structure with the pn junction diode as a thermal sensor is placed in vacuum using a microfludic chip to decrease the heat loss to the surroundings. A temperature coefficient of resistance of 1.4%/K was achieved. The temperature and thermal resolutions of the fabricated device are 1.1 mK and 73.6 nW, respectively. The heat measurements of norepinephrine stimulated and nonstimulated single brown fat cells were demonstrated, and different behaviors in heat generation were observed.
Lifetime improvement mechanism in organic light-emitting diodes with mixed materials at a heterojunction interface
Authors: Minagawa Masahiro , Takahashi Noriko
Published: January 2016

To investigate the lifetime improvement mechanism caused by mixing at the heterojunction interface, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with stacked and mixed 4,4′-bis[N-(1-naphthyl)-N-phenyl-amino]-biphenyl (α-NPD)/tris(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq3) interfaces were fabricated, and changes in their displacement current due to continuous operation were measured. A decrease in accumulated holes at the α-NPD/Alq3 interface was observed in the stacked configuration devices over longer operations. These results indicate that the injected hole density was reduced during continuous operation, implying that the carrier balance became uneven in the emission region. However, few accumulated holes and changes in the displacement current due to continuous operation were observed in the devices having the mixed layer. Therefore, it was deduced that the number of holes concentrated between the α-NPD and Alq3 layers was decreased by mixing at the heterojunction interface, and that the change in the number of holes was smaller during continuous operation, resulting in less degradation.
Simultaneous formation of fine and large-area electrode patterns using screen-offset printing and its application to the patterning on adhesive materials
Authors: Nomura Ken-ichi , Ushijima Hirobumi , Nagase Kazuro , Ikedo Hiroaki , Mitsui Ryosuke , Sato Junya , Takahashi Seiya , Nakajima Shin-ichiro , Arai Masahiro , Kurata Yuji , Iwata Shiro
Published: January 2016

Additive-type printing techniques such as gravure-offset printing and screen printing are effective for low-cost and ecofriendly electrode pattern formation. Gravure-offset printing is effective for fine pattern formation with widths on the order of 10–20 µm, whereas screen printing is effective for the formation of large-area patterns. However, it is difficult to simultaneously form fine and large-area patterns using these printing techniques. In this study, we demonstrate that fine (minimum width of 15 µm) and medium- as well as large-area patterns can be formed simultaneously using our developed screen-offset printing technique, which is a combination of screen printing on a silicone blanket and transfer printing from the blanket to a substrate. Furthermore, we demonstrate the application of our method to printing on adhesive materials, which allows electrode formation without applying heat to the film substrate.
Unveiling the status of alien animals in the arid zone of Asia
Authors: Zhang Lyubing , Jiang Zhigang
Published: January 2016

Biological invasion is one of the most threatening factors for biodiversity conservation. Lacking information on alien species in certain regions of the world hampers a balanced understanding of invasion processes and efficient data exchange among stakeholders. Current knowledge gaps are in need of urgent concern. We therefore conducted a review on alien animals in Xinjiang, an unknown region of invasion ecology. Xinjiang lies in the heartland of the Asian continent, covering an area of 1,664,900 km2. In the past 64 years, 128 alien animal species were recorded in this region, 39% of which became invasive and led to loss of native biodiversity. Most of these species were introduced through diversification of local agriculture and aquaculture. This process was aggravated by improving transportation and flourishing trade. Multiple linear regression models and correlation analysis were run for explaining influence of environmental and anthropogenic factors on status of alien animals: economically developed areas with abundant water resource, oases in particular, were prone to be hotspots of alien animal species in this arid and semi-arid region. This study also revealed that taxonomically biased and lagged research were critical problems that impeded studies on biological invasions in Xinjiang, and proposed feasible solutions.
Linkages between mineralogy, fluid chemistry, and microbial communities within hydrothermal chimneys from the Endeavour Segment, Juan de Fuca Ridge
Authors: Lin T. J. , Ver Eecke H. C. , Breves E. A. , Dyar M. D. , Jamieson J. W. , Hannington M. D. , Dahle H. , Bishop J. L. , Lane M. D. , Butterfield D. A. , Kelley D. S. , Lilley M. D. , Baross J. A. , Holden J. F.
Published: January 2016

Rock and fluid samples were collected from three hydrothermal chimneys at the Endeavour Segment, Juan de Fuca Ridge to evaluate linkages among mineralogy, fluid chemistry, and microbial community composition within the chimneys. Mössbauer, midinfrared thermal emission, and visible‐near infrared spectroscopies were utilized for the first time to characterize vent mineralogy, in addition to thin‐section petrography, X‐ray diffraction, and elemental analyses. A 282°C venting chimney from the Bastille edifice was composed primarily of sulfide minerals such as chalcopyrite, marcasite, and sphalerite. In contrast, samples from a 300°C venting chimney from the Dante edifice and a 321°C venting chimney from the Hot Harold edifice contained a high abundance of the sulfate mineral anhydrite. Geochemical modeling of mixed vent fluids suggested the oxic‐anoxic transition zone was above 100°C at all three vents, and that the thermodynamic energy available for autotrophic microbial redox reactions favored aerobic sulfide and methane oxidation. As predicted, microbes within the Dante and Hot Harold chimneys were most closely related to mesophilic and thermophilic aerobes of the Betaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria and sulfide‐oxidizing autotrophic Epsilonproteobacteria. However, most of the microbes within the Bastille chimney were most closely related to mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobes of the Deltaproteobacteria, especially sulfate reducers, and anaerobic hyperthermophilic archaea. The predominance of anaerobes in the Bastille chimney indicated that other environmental factors promote anoxic conditions. Possibilities include the maturity or fluid flow characteristics of the chimney, abiotic Fe2+ and S2− oxidation in the vent fluids, or O2 depletion by aerobic respiration on the chimney outer wall.
Small‐scale spatial variation in near‐surface turbidites around the JFAST site near the Japan Trench
Authors: Yoshikawa Shuro , Kanamatsu Toshiya , Kasaya Takafumi
Published: January 2016

This paper aims to improve our understanding of the depositional processes associated with turbidites related to recent earthquake events. A series of short sediment cores (ca. 20–30 cm long) were recovered from the landward slope of the Japan Trench around JFAST (Japan Trench Fast Drilling Project) site C0019 by a remotely operated vehicle, KAIKO 7000 II, and the sample sites were accurately located using an LBL (long base line) acoustic navigation system. The properties of the cores were analyzed using visual observations, soft X‐ray radiographs, smear slides, measurement of anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility, and analysis of radioactive elements (134Cs, 137Cs, and excess 210Pb). For the first time, small‐scale (ca. 200–1000 m) spatial variations in recent earthquake‐triggered deep‐sea turbidites, the formation of which was probably linked to the 2011 Tohoku‐oki earthquake, are described. We also examine the submarine landslide that probably generated the sediment unit below the turbidites, which is thought to be an important process in the study area. The spatial distribution and characteristics of the near‐surface seismoturbidite obtained immediately after the earthquake, presented here, will enable precise calibration of offshore evidence of recent earthquakes, and thus facilitate the use of the sedimentary archive for paleoseismic interpretations. Furthermore, although sampling for turbidite seismology on steep slopes has not been widely performed previously, our results suggest that the recent event deposits may be continuously tracked from the slope to the basin using a combination of the present sampling method and conventional large‐scale investigation techniques.
Seasonal climate forecasts significantly affected by observational uncertainty of Arctic sea ice concentration
Authors: Bunzel Felix , Notz Dirk , Baehr Johanna , Müller Wolfgang A. , Fröhlich Kristina
Published: January 2016

We investigate how observational uncertainty in satellite‐retrieved sea ice concentrations affects seasonal climate predictions. To do so, we initialize hindcast simulations with the Max Planck Institute Earth System Model every 1 May and 1 November from 1981 to 2011 with two different sea ice concentration data sets, one based on the NASA Team and one on the Bootstrap algorithm. For hindcasts started in November, initial differences in Arctic sea ice area and surface temperature decrease rapidly throughout the freezing period. For hindcasts started in May, initial differences in sea ice area increase over time. By the end of the melting period, this causes significant differences in 2 meter air temperature of regionally more than 3°C. Hindcast skill for surface temperatures over Europe and North America is higher with Bootstrap initialization during summer and with NASA Team initialization during winter. This implies that the observational uncertainty also affects forecasts of teleconnections that depend on northern hemispheric climate indices.
Rupture characteristics of major and great (Mw ≥ 7.0) megathrust earthquakes from 1990 to 2015: 2. Depth dependence
Authors: Ye Lingling , Lay Thorne , Kanamori Hiroo , Rivera Luis
Published: January 2016

Depth‐varying characteristics of high‐frequency seismic radiation for megathrust earthquakes have been inferred from several recent giant earthquakes and large tsunami earthquakes. To quantify any depth dependence more extensively, we analyzed 114 Mw ≥ 7.0 thrust‐faulting earthquakes with centroid depths from 5 to 55 km on circum‐Pacific megathrusts using teleseismic body wave finite‐fault inversions and source spectrum determinations. Large tsunami earthquakes and some other shallow events at depths less than about 18 km have unusually long source durations, and low values of static stress drop (ΔσE), Vr3ΔσE, and apparent stress, with relatively depleted high‐frequency radiation. Deeper events have no clear global trend with source depth for moment‐normalized centroid time or total duration, static stress drop, moment‐scaled radiated energy, apparent stress, or radiation efficiency. Regional behavior among the 17 sampled subduction zones generally conforms to the global composite. The source spectra have high‐frequency logarithmic spectral decay slopes averaging ~ −1.6. There is relative enrichment in high‐frequency spectral levels with increasing source depth manifested in reduced high‐frequency spectral decay slope. The ratio of high‐frequency (0.3–1 Hz) radiated energy to total energy increases correspondingly. These observations suggest that overall dynamic rupture processes are relatively insensitive to source depth, but varying scale lengths of megathrust heterogeneity may contribute to modest enrichment of high‐frequency seismic radiation for events deeper on the megathrust. A weak correlation of higher estimated average megathrust temperature at 30 km depth with higher spectral decay rate indicates that the depth‐varying pattern may in part result from frictional properties being influenced by temperature variations or by systematic reduction of average attenuation with increasing depth along the megathrust.
Shallow crustal discontinuities inferred from waveforms of microearthquakes: Method and application to KTB Drill Site and West Bohemia Swarm Area
Authors: Hrubcová Pavla , Vavryčuk Václav , Boušková Alena , Bohnhoff Marco
Published: January 2016

The waveforms of microearthquakes are of high frequency and complicated. They contain many phases secondarily generated at crustal interfaces and at small‐scale inhomogeneities. They are highly sensitive to focal mechanisms and thus very different for each station of local networks. However, with a large number of microearthquakes, the scattered waves present in the waveforms can serve for identifying the prominent crustal discontinuities and for determining their depth. In this paper, we develop a new approach for extracting information on crustal structure from such waveforms and apply it for determining depth and lateral variations of crustal discontinuities. We show that strong dependence of microseismic waveforms on radiation pattern requires good station coverage and knowledge of focal mechanisms of the microearthquakes. Analysis of real observations is supported by waveform modeling and by analysis of radiation patterns of scattered waves. The robustness of the inversion for depth of crustal interfaces is achieved by stacking of a large number of waveforms and by applying a grid search algorithm. The method is demonstrated on two microseismic data sets of different origin: microseismicity induced during the Continental Super‐Deep Drilling Project (KTB) 2000 fluid injection experiment and natural seismicity in the West Bohemia swarm region. High‐frequency conversions at the KTB site indicate a prominent interface at depths of 2.3–4.1 km consistent with previous interpretations. Geologically, it may represent the contact of granitoids with much faster metabasites underneath. Seismicity in West Bohemia indicates a strong‐contrast interface at depths of 3.5–6.0 km. This interface is in agreement with previous profiling and might be related to trapping of fluid emanations ascending from the mantle.
Characterizing the circulation off the Kenyan‐Tanzanian coast using an ocean model
Authors: Gabriela Mayorga‐Adame C. , Ted Strub P. , Batchelder Harold P. , Spitz Yvette H.
Published: January 2016

The Kenyan‐Tanzanian coastal region in the western Indian Ocean faces several environmental challenges including coral reef conservation, fisheries management, coastal erosion, and nearshore pollution. The region lacks hydrodynamic records and oceanographic studies at adequate spatial and temporal scales to provide information relevant to the local environmental issues. We have developed a 4 km horizontal resolution ocean circulation model of the region: the Kenyan‐Tanzanian Coastal Model (KTCM) that provides coastal circulation and hydrography with higher resolution than previous models and observational studies of this region. Comparisons to temperature profiles, satellite‐derived sea surface temperature and sea surface height anomaly fields, indicate that the model reproduces the main features of the regional circulation, while greatly increasing the details of the nearshore circulation. We describe the seasonal ocean circulation and hydrography of the Kenyan‐Tanzanian coastal region based on a climatology of 8 years (2000–2007) of the KTCM simulations. The regional monsoon seasonality produces two distinct coastal circulation regimes: (1) during December–March, there are relatively sluggish shelf flows and (2) during April–November, there are strong northward transports. Simulations from the model will be useful for examining dispersal of pollutants and spatial connectivity of coral reef species.