bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Wind Turbine Component Loads Under Yaw-Offset Conditions
Authors: Damiani Rick , Dana Scott , Annoni Jennifer , Fleming Paul , Roadman Jason , van Dam Jeroen , Dykes Katherine
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Renewed interest in yaw control for wind turbine and power plants for wake redirection and load mitigation demands a clear understanding of the effects of running with skewed inflow. In this paper, we investigate the physics of yawed operations, building up the complexity from a simplified analytical treatment to more complex aeroelastic simulations. Results in terms of damage equivalent loads (DELs) and extreme loads under operating, misaligned conditions are compared to data collected from an instrumented, utility-scale wind turbine. The analysis shows that multiple factors are responsible for the DELs of the various components, and that airfoil aerodynamics, elastic characteristics of the rotor, and turbulence intensities are the primary drivers. Both fatigue and extreme loads are observed to have relatively complex trends with yaw offsets, which can change depending on the wind-speed regime. Good agreement is found between predicted and measured trends for both fatigue and ultimate loads.
In My Nicaraguan High School: Giving Excluded Women and Men a Second Chance
Authors: Gullette Margaret Morganroth
Published: September 2017

When I went to Nicaragua for the first time during the Contra war, I had no idea that I would soon wind up helping a Nica friend start two literacy programs and then a Free High School for Adults. It opened in 2002, and now, only 15 years later, we have 1001 graduates, 54% women, 45% rural (mainly from subsistence farm families)--all of them excluded from the regular high schools for one reason or another: being pregnant, being a woman, turning eighteen,  working five days a week, or living too far from town without the ability to pay  bus fare. My real education came with theirs and is still going on, with no end in sight. What I wanted to know was how the teachers--all college graduates who were teaching in the high prestige regular high schools--figured out how to teach these people, many of whom had been out of school for decades and were unused to learning or scholastic discipline; many accustomed to being heads of households; some pregnant or carrying a baby to School for lack of child care or need to nurse; some drunk or exhausted early on Saturday mornings when classes began. The teachers told me their own stories, of overcoming prejudice and learning how to create a welcoming atmosphere. And the graduates told me THEIR stories, of what it took to succeed in those conditions, and how education--especially learning how to speak better-- transformed them, and they, in turn, transformed the entire culture and economy of the region.
A COMUNHÃO PERFORMÁTICA EM THÉRÈSE
Authors: Costa Martins Silva Karla Lidiane
Published: September 2017

Este artigo apresenta um breve relato de experiência sobre a comunhão performática em Thérèse, que integra a pesquisa encampada pela artista-pesquisadora Karla Martins acerca do seu mito-guia Santa Teresinha do Menino Jesus e da Sagrada Face, desenvolvida durante o mestrado em Artes Cênicas pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte - UFRN. Para tal construção, lançou-se mão da Mitodologia em Arte e da Artetnografia, práticas/conceitos capitaneados pela Prof. Ph.D. Luciana Lyra (UERJ / UFRN), que, por sua vez, estão ligados aos campos da Antropologia da Experiência (Antropologia da Performance), do antropólogo Victor Turner, e da Antropologia do Imaginário, do sociólogo Gilbert Durand. A presente tessitura trafega sobre os solos do mito, rito, sagrado, arte e performance.
DO WE NEED VERY STIFF FILLERS?
Authors: Jiang Bing
Published: September 2017

The influence of reinforcing fillers on the stretching of a rubber matrix is analyzed. It is shown that a filler stiffness higher than a critical stiffness does not further enhance the stiffness of the reinforced elastomer. The stiffer filler induces a higher stress–strain concentration and causes filler–rubber dissociation or chain scission at a lower macroscopic strain. Reducing filler stiffness can reduce the stress–strain concentration and therefore delay rubber chain scission or dissociation from the filler surface. Accordingly, the toughness of the reinforced elastomer could be improved. A simple material model is developed to predict the maximum macroscopic strain without bond scission in a reinforced elastomer. It is shown that reduced filler stiffness is beneficial for cases with (i) reduced bond strength, (ii) increased rubber matrix stiffness, and (iii) increased application strain of the reinforced elastomer. The model can be used to design the appropriate filler stiffness to balance trade-offs of stiffness and toughness of reinforced elastomers.
Research on the Presence Greyic Phaeozems in Romania
Authors: Stănilă Anca-Luiza , Cristian Simota Cătălin , Dumitru Mihail
Published: September 2017

Areas under greyic phaeozems of Romania corresponding geographical areas as compared lithostratigraphic are made of clay and marly clay with frequent intercalations of sands and sandstones in a thick package, belonging Sarmatian, respectively, Volhinian and Basarabian, which directly influences the characteristics of the parent material of the soil.In this way, due to differences in altitude, these soils were formed and evolved deposits vary in granulometric composition, it is represented by loess, loess-like deposit, loam and loess, marly clay.Thus, we believe that the presence greyic phaeozems of our country in eastern, the genesis and evolution of the important role they have parental materials rich in fine sand fraction (31-41%). Specific these soils is the formation of humic acids and precipitate in place, under the influence of calcium ions, contributing to the development and the individualization of the horizon Am.Fulvic acids from the breakdown of litter cvercinee does not precipitate in the upper horizon, but migrate to the base, they favoring the migration is known as the iron and aluminum hydroxides and enriching the waste in the lower part of the quartz diagnostic horizon for greyic phaeozems, and a clay horizon B argic migrated upper horizon.
Effect of a Specialized Classroom Counseling Intervention on Increasing Self-Efficacy among First-Grade Rural Students
Authors: Bardhoshi Gerta , Duncan Kelly , Erford Bradley T.
Published: September 2017

This preliminary research examined the effectiveness of a classroom counseling intervention on student self-efficacy development. Five first-grade classrooms in a rural school with high rates of economic disparity were randomly assigned to either a set of 12 specialized lesson emphasizing self-efficacy or lessons from the existing core curriculum. Teachers completed the Self-Efficacy Teacher Rating Scale (SETRS) for each student as a pretest and 3 months following the classroom intervention. A significant mean score difference posttreatment [F(1, 77) = 19.57, p < .05, η2 = .209; d = .58(CI95 = .36 - .80)] supports the effectiveness of this intervention in improving the self-efficacy of first-grade students.
PROSOPOGRAFIA FAMILIAR DA OPERAÇÃO "LAVA-JATO" E DO MINISTÉRIO TEMER
Authors: Oliveira Ricardo Costa de , Monteiro José Marciano , Goulart Mônica Helena Harrich Silva , Vanali Ana Crhistina
Published: September 2017

Os autores apresentam a prosopografia dos principais operadores da "Lava-Jato" e a composição social, política e familiar do primeiro Ministério do Governo de Michel Temer. Analisou-se as relações familiares, as conexões entre estruturas de poder político, partidos políticos e estruturas de parentesco, formas de nepotismo, a reprodução familiar dos principais atores. Pesquisou-se a lógica familiar, as genealogias, as práticas sociais, políticas e o ethos familiar dentro das instituições políticas para entender de que maneira as origens sociais e familiares dos atores burocráticos, jurídicos e políticos formam um certo "habitus de classe", certa mentalidade política, uma cultura administrativa, uma visão social de mundo, padrões de carreiras e de atuações políticas relativamente homogêneos. As origens sociais, a formação escolar, acadêmica, as práticas profissionais, os cargos estatais, os privilégios e os estilos de vida, as ideologias e os valores políticos apresentam muitos elementos em comum nas biografias, e nas trajetórias sociais e políticas desses atores.
Impactos de programas nacionais de turismo sobre as instituições e organizações turísticas nos municípios do Pará (Brasil).
Authors: Silva Cleber Gomes da
Published: September 2017

Neste estudo se analisou a questão de como o poder público em suas diversas esferas brasileiras estabeleceu historicamente estímulos à atividade turística a partir de uma abordagem econômica e seus reflexos na institucionalização do turismo municipal. O Turismo se consolidou na agenda governamental como um vetor de desenvolvimento econômico. Apesar dos seus efeitos na escala local, somente essas ações se direcionaram ao envolvimento dos municípios brasileiros. Desse modo, a metodologia consistiu na seleção de 23 municípios turísticos, considerados prioritários para o governo do estado do Pará (Brasil) e atendidos por programas nacionais. Os resultados desta pesquisa exploratória e descritiva revelaram o perfil institucional e organizacional do turismo, na escala local, a partir de entrevistas e consultas documentais realizadas no período entre 2013 e 2016. Em síntese, permitiu uma reflexão sobre a gestão descentralizada para o desenvolvimento do turismo, no caso dos municípios paraenses. Dessa forma, foram apresentados resultados importantes para o delineamento de ações de melhoria da gestão turística municipal.
The Roles of Information Systems in Linking Management Accounting and Financial Accounting: Empirical Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Phuong Nguyen Thanh
Published: September 2017

This paper analyzes the role of information system in linking management accounting (MA) and financial accounting (FA). We employ a survey by focusing on Vietnam firms applying information systems to their accounting activities. The findings indicate eight roles of information system such (1) as facilitator, (2) as catalyst, (3) as motivator, (4) as enabler of linking MA and FA, (5) by decreasing the linkage costs, (6) improving the linkage quality, (7) enhancing accountant’s the role, and (8) controlling the linkage between MA and FA. For managerial implications, we propose some recommendations for improving the role of information system in linking MA and FA. In the coming time, Vietnam firms should drastically improve information systems by using accounting software and enhancing their accountants’ qualification.
Nursing and medical staff’s experiences of simulation education
Authors: Salminen-Tuomaala Mari Helena , Jaskari Pasi , Perälä Sami , Rouvala Christina
Published: September 2017

Objective: The purpose of the research was to describe nursing and medical staff’s knowledge of simulated learning and their experiences of the usefulness of simulation education in one hospital district in Finland. The research aimed at producing user-oriented knowledge to be used in the development of multiprofessional simulation pedagogical continuing education. The study is part of a larger research project, whose purpose is to build up a multiprofessional simulated learning environment for a network of partners. They involve a university of applied sciences, a vocational education center, a health technology development center and a hospital district.Methods: Data were collected using aWeb-based survey tool between December 1, 2016 and January 13, 2017. The questionnaire contained both quantitative (n = 24) and qualitative (n = 3) items. This article deals with quantitative data only. Data was analyzed using SPSS Statistics for Windows 23. The response rate was 28% (n = 125).Results: Both nursing and medical staff found that simulation education had been useful for the development of their theoretical and practical competence. Some statistically significant differences were discovered between various age and professional groups.Conclusions: As a conclusion, nursing and medical staff in this hospital district need more information about simulation education and simulated learning environments. The knowledge produced in this study can be used in planning multiprofessional simulation pedagogical continuing education. Simulation pedagogy can be especially useful when practicing teamwork and interaction in acute, recurring and infrequent care situations.
Mitochondria: Target organelles for estrogen action
Authors: Chmielewska Małgorzata , Skibińska Izabela , Kotwicka Małgorzata
Published: September 2017

Estrogens belong to a group of sex hormones, which have been shown to act in multidirectional way. Estrogenic effects are mediated by two types of intracellular receptors: estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and estrogen receptor 2 (ESR2). There are two basic mechanisms of estrogen action: 1) classical-genomic, in which the ligand-receptor complex acts as a transcriptional factor and 2) a nongenomic one, which is still not fully understood, but has been seen to lead to distinct biological effects, depending on tissue and ligand type. It is postulated that nongenomic effects may be associated with membrane signaling and the presence of classical nuclear receptors within the cell membrane. Estrogens act in a multidirectional way also within cell organelles. It is assumed that there is a mechanism which manages the migration of ESR into the mitochondrial membrane, wherein the exogenous estrogen affect the morphology of mitochondria. Estrogen, through its receptor, can directly modulate mitochondrial gene expression. Moreover, by regulating the level of reactive oxygen species, estrogens affect the biology of mitochondria. The considerations presented in this paper indicate the pleiotropic effects of estrogens, which represent a multidirectional pathway of signal transduction.
Adipose tissue – morphological and biochemical characteristic of different depots
Authors: Murawska-Ciałowicz Eugenia
Published: September 2017

Adipose tissue is an organ that performs a lot of significant physiological functions, which is why its excess in the body results in pathological states in many of its organs and systems. Adipose tissue is not only a tissue which stores fat and plays a protective role. It is an important endocrine organ where signals sent from different tissues are generated and integrated. Adipose tissue is both morphologically and physiologically differentiated. However, due to their plasticity, adipocytes can undergo a transformation and change their structure and metabolism depending on the physiological state of the organism and the conditions to which it is exposed.
Heterogeneity of human WT1 gene
Authors: Bielińska Ewelina , Matiakowska Karolina , Haus Olga
Published: September 2017

The WT1 gene, characterized by an extremely complex structure, is located on chromosome 11. It is involved in cell growth and differentiation, and has a strong impact on consecutive stages of the functioning of the body. The WT1 gene may undergo many different mutations, as well as may be overexpressed without a mutation. The molecular basis of diseases such as Wilms tumor, WAGR, Denys-Drash or Frasier syndromes are congenital WT1 mutations, while somatic mutations of this gene occur in acute and chronic myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome and also in some other blood neoplasms, as acute lymphoblood leukemia. Increased expression of this gene without its mutation is observed in leukemias and solid tumors. The WT1 may function both as a tumor suppressor gene and as an oncogene. The diversity of WT1 changes causes many controversies, therefore investigations are still carried out to determine the function of this gene, its interaction with other molecules and its prognostic significance in various diseases.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and its endogenous agonist – indoxyl sulfate in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Kamiński Tomasz , Michałowska Małgorzata , Pawlak Dariusz
Published: September 2017

The indoxyl sulfate (IS, indoxyl sulphate) is the end product of dietary tryptophan degradation by indole pathway and significantly higher serum and tissue concentrations of this compound is observed in patients with impaired renal function. Despite the high albumin binding affinity, the remaining free fraction of IS has a number of biological effects related to the generation of oxidative stress andactivation of signaling pathways related to NF-кB, p53 protein, STAT3, TGF-β and Smad2/3. IS induces the inflammatory process, exerts nephrotoxic activity and is also a factor impairing the cardiovascular system.Its high concentrations are associated with the occurrence of cardiovascular incidents, whose frequency is significantly higher in patients with chronic kidney disease. Evaluation of the mechanisms that underlie the high reactivity of indoxyl sulfate and its biological effects showed that this compound is an agonist of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). This receptor plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis Moreover, AhR exerts high transcriptional activity, so ligands of obciążethis receptor may exert different biological effects. The following paper describes the role of indoxyl sulfate as AhR ligand in the context of the excessive accumulation, which appears as one of the symptoms associated with chronic kidney disease.
The role of bile acids in the pathogenesis of bowel diseases
Authors: Panek-Jeziorna Magdalena , Mulak Agata
Published: September 2017

Bile acids not only play a cardinal role in the digestion and absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins, but also significantly affect gastrointestinal motor, sensory and secretory functions, intestinal barrier permeability and the regulation of the inflammatory response. The results of recent studies have revealed complex interactions between bile acids and the gut microbiota. In addition, bile acids also play a role of signaling molecules regulating the activity of lipid and glucose metabolic pathways, as well as a role of ligands for transcription factors. Genetic factors associated with the regulation of bile acid synthesis, transport and action may significantly influence gastrointestinal function and predispose to diarrhea resulting from bile acid malabsorption. Methods used in the diagnosis of bile acid malabsorption include 75selenium-homotaurocholic acid test, serum C4 and fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19), as well as fecal bile acid levels. The paper presents the latest data on the role of bile acid in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases and colorectal cancer. Advances in the treatment of disturbances in bile acids absorption and synthesis are also presented. A better understanding of molecular mechanisms regulating bile acid action may have implication for colorectal cancer prevention.
Compounds of psoriasis with obesity and overweight
Authors: Owczarczyk-Saczonek Agnieszka , Placek Waldemar
Published: September 2017

Many epidemiological studies have confirmed the relationship of obesity and psoriasis, and it is believed that obesity is an independent risk factor for its development and is associated with a worse prognosis. Furthermore, the reduction of body weight, using low-calorie diet combined with exercise, reduces the severity of psoriasis.Visceral adipose tissue is the largest endocrine organ, producing proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17) and adipokines (adiponectin, omentin, chemerin). They participate in the development of dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, diabetes, and consequently of the cardiovascular diseases. Macrophages of visceral adipose tissue have a special role and they increase significantly in obesity. They are responsible for the development of inflammation in adipose tissue and produce inflammatory cytokines (TNF alpha, IL-6, Il-8, Il-17, Il-18, MCP-1) and other adipokines: resistin, visfatin, retinol-binding protein 4. This explains the concept of «psoriatic march «and observations of the frequent coexistence of psoriasis with obesity. Inflammation associated with systemic disease, fanned by pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines produced by the visceral adipose tissue lead to the development of insulin resistance, endothelial cell damage. Endothelial dysfunction predisposes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and faster development of cardiovascular events. Complication of obesity is the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which states twice as likely in patients with plaque psoriasis and is associated with the severity of the disease. Another consequence is the development of depression. Probably the proinflammatory cytokines can interact with metabolism of neurotransmitters. Obesity also has a significant impact on the treatment of psoriasis, increasing the risk of adverse effects of systemic drugs, reducing the efficacy of biological agents which dose should be adjusted to the weight of the patient. It is a factor responsible for the increased volume of distribution and it causes low titter of drug concentration.
“Train Sociology”– An Introduction to Researching the Interactions between Passengers
Authors: Tołłoczko Barbara
Published: September 2017

Purpose. The purpose of the article is to sketch an introduction to train sociology by presenting historical changes which – along with the development of railway infrastructure – occurred regarding trains in the matter of interpersonal interactions and the perception of time and space. The secondary goal is to introduce possible research directions within train sociology.

Method. The analysis of available sociological and anthropological literature on train journey, the history of the railway and its implications for the social world.

Findings. The analysis of available literature allowed to reconstruct the influence of railway development on the perception of time and space from the perspective of a moving means of transport. The area that occurred to be particularly affected with the changes was human imagination, which was expressed in the belles-lettres. Contemporary social researchers may find the interpersonal relations that occur within train compartments interesting. In the article, I recommend investigating passengers’ behaviour and the ways of implementing interactions by inducing the dramaturgical perspective of Erving Goffman.

Research and conclusions limitations. The scope of proposed research is limited to Polish trains that have wagons with compartments, which are less and less popular nowadays.

Practical implications. The results of the proposed research may be used in the process of designing the train space so that it would fully meet the travellers’ requirements and provide them comfort.

Originality. Multidimensional description of influence of the railway development on the human “condition”. Suggestion for new research directions in sociology and anthropology.

Type of paper: An overview article.
A Travel Blog as a Space for Creation and Communication of Travel Models
Authors: Morozova Irina
Published: September 2017

Purpose. The purpose of this article is to present the variety of travel models which are conveyed and promoted by amateur travel blogs.

Methods. The research sample was constituted on the bases of selected Polish travel blogs which promote travel models. The basic criteria for the selection of these particular blogs was the representativeness and popularity among readers. The testing method was content analysis of selected blogs.

Findings. The present study suggests a classification of travel blogs. The research hypothesis claiming that the authors of travel blogs publicize travel models was confirmed.

Research and conclusions limitations. The study is focused only on amateur travel blogs which are written in Polish. During the process of research, the author focused on a range of topics of the posts as well as on the publication genres. The present study includes blogs about world travels, travelling with children as well asdogs and low-cost travels.

Practical implications. The results of this study indicate a wide range of possible future research studies regarding travel blogs from different perspectives.

Originality. This article attempts to establish the definition of a travel model and the main characteristics of a travel blogger which aspire to become a travelebrity. A classification of travel blogs using the 'travel model' key is also provided.

Type of paper. The article presents the results of empirical research conducted by the author.
Potencjalna rola klinik prawa w przeciwdziałaniu zjawisku korupcji na Ukrainie – edukacja jako element strategicznych działań antykorupcyjnych
Authors: Kowalska Katarzyna Julia
Published: September 2017

The article presents the status of clinical education in Ukraine. The author examines the potential role of law clinics and students in the anti-corruption activities in this country.
The author postulates, also, the need to undertake educational activities together with the reform aimed to eliminate corruption.
Kształt odpowiedzialności dyscyplinarnej prokuratorów w świetle Prawa o prokuraturze – wybrane problemy
Authors: Garwol Milena
Published: September 2017

The material aspect of disciplinary responsibility regulated in the new act that came into force on 4th March 2016 is described in this short essay. The most interesting thing to deliberate on is the article 137 § 2 which says that the prosecutor is not disciplinary liable if they acted only in general interest. This clause is really controversial not only because of its wide content but also ambiguous character (analysed from the perspecitve of the five – element structure of a delict). It is not an easy task to prejudge if the prosecutor does not commit the delict or is not subjected to the penalty if acting in the general interest. More arguments against the first statement are found. The terminologial disorder included in the Penal Code and the consequences for an individual (eg. the possibility to self – defence, civil responsibility of the state) lead to propose this thesis.
Konstytucyjne granice stosowania przymusu bezpośredniego względem oskarżonego. Uwagi na tle orzecznictwa TK i ETPCz
Authors: Sikora Anna
Published: September 2017

The aim of the article is to present issues concerning the use of direct coercion against the accused. Indication of the basis and methods of the use of direct coercion in the criminal proceedings is extremely important, because of the values in which coercion measures interfere. Regulations which are going to be discussed during the dilatation consists legal rules defined by the Polish Constitutional Tribunal and the European Court of Human Rights.
Evaluation of Safety in Exceeding Maximum Adult Doses of Commonly Used Second-Generation Antiepileptic Drugs in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Messinger Mindl M. , Misra Sunita N. , Clark Gary D. , DiCarlo Shannon M.
Published: September 2017

OBJECTIVE

Pediatric patients often require larger doses of antiepileptic drug (AED) than adults in order to attain therapeutic serum concentrations and/or achieve seizure control. Safety and efficacy data are often extrapolated from adult literature; hence, optimal dosage may only be determined anecdotally or based on expert opinion. With limited pediatric dosing guidelines, milligrams per day that are based on weight may exceed the maximum adult dose. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the safety of exceeding maximum doses as specified by the US Food and Drug Administration or manufacturers of commonly used AEDs in pediatric patients.

METHODS

This study is a single-center, retrospective analysis of all pediatric patients seen in the outpatient clinic between October 2010 and October 2014 who were prescribed a dose that exceeds the maximum approved dose of oxcarbazepine, zonisamide, topiramate, levetiracetam, lamotrigine, or clobazam. Baseline demographics (ie, sex, age, race/ethnicity, weight, height, diagnosis), serum drug concentrations, and appropriate laboratory tests were collected. Side effects were reviewed.

RESULTS

During the 4-year study period, 41,137 prescriptions were included. A total of 2% of prescriptions exceeded the maximum dose of 1 of the included AEDs. The most common AED prescribed above the maximum dose was levetiracetam (53%), whereas lamotrigine was the least common (6%). The largest doses prescribed exceeded the maximum by 3-fold (i.e., levetiracetam dose of 9000 mg/day).

CONCLUSION

It appears safe to use doses exceeding the maximum approved dose of the evaluated AEDs in pediatric patients, with appropriate counseling and monitoring for adverse effects.
Continuous Antithrombin III Administration in Pediatric Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Nelson Kristina M. , Hansen Lizbeth A. , Steiner Marie E. , Fischer Gwenyth A. , Dehnel John , Gupta Sameer
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this retrospective case-control study is to determine the effect of continuous antithrombin III (ATIII) infusion on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) coagulation. All ECMO patients within the pediatric intensive care unit from January 2012 to July 2014 were included. Comparison was made between those who received continuous infusion ATIII through a standardized replacement protocol with historic controls receiving intermittent ATIII doses. Patients receiving the continuous infusion ATIII protocol spent more time in goal ACT range (71.9% vs 52.2%, p < 0.0001). Mean daily ATIII activity was also increased in study group (77.3% versus 68.6%, p = 0.04). No statistical differences in number of heparin dose changes per day (3 versus 3.22, p = 0.90) were present between the 2 groups. Only 28% of the historic controls receiving intermittent ATIII doses achieved normal ATIII activity as compared with 80% of study patients (p = 0.24). Maximum heparin dose was also lower in continuous infusion protocol group (p < 0.01). Compared with nonprotocolized intermittent dosing, the use of a continuous infusion ATIII protocol demonstrated increased time within goal ACT range at a lower heparin dose, no increase in hemostatic complications, and trends toward fewer heparin changes and lower blood product usage.
A synaptotagmin suppressor screen indicates SNARE binding controls the timing and Ca2+ cooperativity of vesicle fusion
Authors: Guan Zhuo , Bykhovskaia Maria , Jorquera Ramon A , Sutton Roger Bryan , Akbergenova Yulia , Littleton J Troy
Published: September 2017

The synaptic vesicle Ca2+ sensor Synaptotagmin binds Ca2+ through its two C2 domains to trigger membrane interactions. Beyond membrane insertion by the C2 domains, other requirements for Synaptotagmin activity are still being elucidated. To identify key residues within Synaptotagmin required for vesicle cycling, we took advantage of observations that mutations in the C2B domain Ca2+-binding pocket dominantly disrupt release from invertebrates to humans. We performed an intragenic screen for suppressors of lethality induced by expression of Synaptotagmin C2B Ca2+-binding mutants in Drosophila. This screen uncovered essential residues within Synaptotagmin that suggest a structural basis for several activities required for fusion, including a C2B surface implicated in SNARE complex interaction that is required for rapid synchronization and Ca2+ cooperativity of vesicle release. Using electrophysiological, morphological and computational characterization of these mutants, we propose a sequence of molecular interactions mediated by Synaptotagmin that promote Ca2+ activation of the synaptic vesicle fusion machinery.
A synthetic biology approach to probing nucleosome symmetry
Authors: Ichikawa Yuichi , Connelly Caitlin F , Appleboim Alon , Miller Thomas CR , Jacobi Hadas , Abshiru Nebiyu A , Chou Hsin-Jung , Chen Yuanyuan , Sharma Upasna , Zheng Yupeng , Thomas Paul M , Chen Hsuiyi V , Bajaj Vineeta , Müller Christoph W , Kelleher Neil L , Friedman Nir , Bolon Daniel NA , Rando Oliver J , Kaufman Paul D
Published: September 2017

The repeating subunit of chromatin, the nucleosome, includes two copies of each of the four core histones, and several recent studies have reported that asymmetrically-modified nucleosomes occur at regulatory elements in vivo. To probe the mechanisms by which histone modifications are read out, we designed an obligate pair of H3 heterodimers, termed H3X and H3Y, which we extensively validated genetically and biochemically. Comparing the effects of asymmetric histone tail point mutants with those of symmetric double mutants revealed that a single methylated H3K36 per nucleosome was sufficient to silence cryptic transcription in vivo. We also demonstrate the utility of this system for analysis of histone modification crosstalk, using mass spectrometry to separately identify modifications on each H3 molecule within asymmetric nucleosomes. The ability to generate asymmetric nucleosomes in vivo and in vitro provides a powerful and generalizable tool to probe the mechanisms by which H3 tails are read out by effector proteins in the cell.
The Effect of Authentic Problem-Based Vocabulary Tasks on Vocabulary Learning of EFL Learners
Authors: Mohammadi Fateme Shir
Published: September 2017

Language learners’ cognitive engagement with the content in language classes has been advocated in the last few decades (Laufer & Hulstjin, 2001). To this end, the researcher designed authentic problem-based tasks which make use of learners’ cognitive and metacognitive skills to solve real-life vocabulary tasks. Nelson vocabulary test was administered to 64 Iranian EFL learners studying at a language institute in Tehran. By considering 1 standard deviation above and below the mean score, two cohorts of participants were selected for this study, i.e., the experimental group (n=24) and the control group (n=23). Conventional vocabulary learning tasks were implemented in the control group classes for 10 sessions while authentic problem-based vocabulary learning tasks were implemented in experimental group classes.  The results of data analysis revealed that the experimental group participants outperformed the control group learners in both tests of vocabulary recall and vocabulary retention (administered after a two-week interval). Pedagogical Implications are discussed.
An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Common Core Standards Program in the State of South Dakota
Authors: Alase Abayomi
Published: September 2017

This interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) study investigated and interpreted the Common Core State Standards program (the phenomenon) that has been the dominating topic of discussions amongst educators all across the country since the inauguration of the program in 2014/2015 school session. Common Core State Standards (CCSS) was a program that 48 states, two U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia (DC) established in 2009 to improve the educational standards of schools in their respective states and territories. The objective of this research project was to assess and gauge the impact of the program vis-à-vis how it has impacted the ‘lived experiences’ of the educators in the country, specifically, in the state of South Dakota. South Dakota, though a very small state relative to other larger and economically stronger states, has truly engaged and provided resources to her educators for training and other needed infrastructures to help with the implementation of the program. Stories have been flying around the country about how the program has disrupted the flow of ‘teaching and learning’ in the American classrooms; however, the educators interviewed in this study did not believe that was the case, at least, not in their respective schools. These educators, who also happened to be principals and assistant principals of the schools under investigation, spoke highly of the potential of the program, especially the resources and engagement that the state of South Dakota has provided for its successful application and implementation.
The Effect of Impulsivity vs. Reflectivity on Reading Comprehension of Iranian EFL Learners
Authors: Shaban Somayeh , Ramazani Mohammad , Alipoor Iman
Published: September 2017

In recent years attention has been accorded to language learners’ affective factors and learning styles. Two of the significant learning styles are impulsivity and reflectivity which have not been studied as much as other styles such as introversion and extroversion. This study endeavored to find out whether or not impulsivity and reflectivity have any effect on reading comprehension of Iranian English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Seventy two language learners were selected from 4 intact classes out of 112 learners. Nelson proficiency test was given to the participants as homogeneity test. Next, Barrat’s (1995) impulsiveness questionnaire was given to the participants. Based on the results of the questionnaire, the participants formed 3 different groups, i.e., a reflective group (n=25), impulsive group (n=25) and a control group (n=22). The control group consisted of less impulsive and less reflective learners based on Barrat’s scale. An IELTS reading test (general module) was administered to the participants. Based on the results of independent samples t-test, it was found that impulsivity and reflectivity do not have any effect on reading comprehension of Iranian EFL learners. Pedagogical implications are discussed.
Assessment of Learning Difficulties (LD) in Writings of Arab Learners: A Perspective
Authors: Saleh Alanazi Mona
Published: September 2017

The last four decades have observed a renewed research interest in the area of error analysis. It has been the focus of attention, and subject of debate, among scholars particularly those of second-language acquisition. Scholars in this area of study hold the unanimous view that errors are an integral and unavoidable feature of second-language acquisition. The purpose of the present paper is to analyze and classify the persistent errors committed by Saudi Arabian students at Northern Border University, Rafha while composing a variety of written texts in English. In the investigation, an effort has been made to uncover the causes and sources of various errors of usage at different linguistic levels, viz.-a-viz., grammar, morphology, syntax, lexico-semantics, spelling etc. The study aims at investigating the frequency of production of these errors of usage, expressing the findings as percentage, mean and standard deviation, across the different levels of learning (levels 1 to 4). The entire population of the study consisted of 106 English students from the first two levels under investigation, registered in the first and second semesters of the 2016-2017. All of the students under investigation were male and had a homogenous pre-university and university background. Upon a cursory look at the data in terms of percentage, the subjects have been found to produce the highest number of errors in the subcategory “articles”, and a smaller number of errors in the subcategory ‘present progressive instead of past’. In the major linguistic category ‘morphological errors’, the learners have been found to produce the highest percentage of errors. In another major linguistic category of errors, ‘syntactic errors’, the subcategory ‘noun + adjective instead of adjective + noun’ received the highest number of errors, whereas the subcategory ‘overuse of conjunction ‘and’’ has been found to receive the least number of errors.
Greater reproductive investment, but shorter lifespan, in agrosystem than in natural-habitat toads
Authors: Zamora-Camacho Francisco Javier , Comas Mar
Published: September 2017

Global amphibian decline is due to several factors: habitat loss, anthropization, pollution, emerging diseases, and global warming. Amphibians, with complex life cycles, are particularly susceptible to habitat alterations, and their survival may be impaired in anthropized habitats. Increased mortality is a well-known consequence of anthropization. Life-history theory predicts higher reproductive investment when mortality is increased. In this work, we compared age, body size, and different indicators of reproductive investment, as well as prey availability, in natterjack toads (Epidalea calamita) from agrosystems and adjacent natural pine groves in Southwestern Spain. Mean age was lower in agrosystems than in pine groves, possibly as a consequence of increased mortality due to agrosystem environmental stressors. Remarkably, agrosystem toads were larger despite being younger, suggesting accelerated growth rate. Although we detected no differences in prey availability between habitats, artificial irrigation could shorten aestivation in agrosystems, thus increasing energy trade. Moreover, agrosystem toads exhibited increased indicators of reproductive investment. In the light of life-history theory, agrosystem toads might compensate for lesser reproductive events—due to shorter lives—with a higher reproductive investment in each attempt. Our results show that agrosystems may alter demography, which may have complex consequences on both individual fitness and population stability.
FXR controls CHOP expression in steatohepatitis
Authors: Fuchs Claudia D. , Claudel Thierry , Scharnagl Hubert , Stojakovic Tatjana , Trauner Michael
Published: September 2017

The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) have critical functions in hepatic lipid metabolism. Here, we aimed to explore a potential relationship between FXR and CHOP. We fed wild‐type (WT) and FXR KO mice a MCD diet (model of steatohepatitis) and found that Chop mRNA expression is upregulated in WT but not FXR KO mice. The absence of FXR aggravates hepatic inflammation after MCD feeding. In HepG2 cells, we found that Chop expression is regulated in a FXR/Retinoid X receptor (RXR)‐dependent manner. We identified a FXR/RXR‐binding site in the human CHOP promoter, demonstrating a highly conserved regulatory pathway. Our study shows that FXR/RXR regulates Chop expression in a mouse model of steatohepatitis, providing novel insights into pathogenesis of this disorder.
Coupling progenitor and neuronal diversity in the developing neocortex
Authors: Govindan Subashika , Jabaudon Denis
Published: September 2017

The adult neocortex is composed of several types of glutamatergic neurons, which are sequentially born from progenitors during development. The extent and nature of progenitor diversity, and how it relates to neuronal diversity, is still poorly understood. In this review, we discuss key features of neocortical progenitors across several species, including their morphological properties, cell cycling behaviour and molecular signatures, and how these features relate to the competence of these cells to generate distinct types of progenies.
Albedo, Land Cover, and Daytime Surface Temperature Variation Across an Urbanized Landscape
Authors: Trlica A. , Hutyra L. R. , Schaaf C. L. , Erb A. , Wang J. A.
Published: September 2017

Land surface albedo is a key parameter controlling the local energy budget, and altering the albedo of built surfaces has been proposed as a tool to mitigate high near‐surface temperatures in the urban heat island. However, most research on albedo in urban landscapes has used coarse‐resolution data, and few studies have attempted to relate albedo to other urban land cover characteristics. This study provides an empirical description of urban summertime albedo using 30 m remote sensing measurements in the metropolitan area around Boston, Massachusetts, relating albedo to metrics of impervious cover fraction, tree canopy coverage, population density, and land surface temperature (LST). At 30 m spatial resolution, median albedo over the study area (excluding open water) was 0.152 (0.112–0.187). Trends of lower albedo with increasing urbanization metrics and temperature emerged only after aggregating data to 500 m or the boundaries of individual towns, at which scale a −0.01 change in albedo was associated with a 29 (25–35)% decrease in canopy cover, a 27 (24–30)% increase in impervious cover, and an increase in population from 11 to 386 km−2. The most intensively urbanized towns in the region showed albedo up to 0.035 lower than the least urbanized towns, and mean mid‐morning LST 12.6°C higher. Trends in albedo derived from 500 m Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) measurements were comparable, but indicated a strong contribution of open water at this coarser resolution. These results reveal linkages between albedo and urban land cover character, and offer empirical context for climate resilient planning and future landscape functional changes with urbanization.
Latitude Dependence of Low‐Altitude O+ Ion Upflow: Statistical Results From FAST Observations
Authors: Zhao K. , Chen K. W. , Jiang Y. , Chen W. J. , Huang L. F. , Fu S.
Published: September 2017

We introduce a statistical model to explain the latitudinal dependence of the occurrence rate and energy flux of the ionospheric escaping ions, taking advantage of advances in the spatial coverage and accuracy of FAST observations. We use a weighted piecewise Gaussian function to fit the dependence, because two probability peaks are located in the dayside polar cusp source region and the nightside auroral oval zone source region. The statistical results show that (1) the Gaussian Mixture Model suitably describes the dayside polar cusp upflows, and the dayside and the nightside auroral oval zone upflows. (2) The magnetic latitudes of the ionospheric upflow source regions expand toward the magnetic equator as Kp increases, from 81° magnetic latitude (MLAT) (cusp upflows) and 63° MLAT (auroral oval upflows) during quiet times to 76° MLAT and 61° MLAT, respectively. (3) The dayside polar cusp region provides only 3–5% O+ upflows among all the source regions, which include the dayside auroral oval zone, dayside polar cusp, nightside auroral oval zone, and even the polar cap. However, observations show that more than 70% of upflows occur in the auroral oval zone and that the occurrence probability increases at the altitudes of 3500–4200 km, which is considered to be the lower altitude boundary of ion beams. This observed result suggests that soft electron precipitation and transverse wave heating are the most efficient ion energization/acceleration mechanisms at the altitudes of FAST orbit, and that the parallel acceleration caused by field‐aligned potential drops becomes effective above that altitude.
A Simulation Study of the Equatorial Ionospheric Response to the October 2013 Geomagnetic Storm
Authors: Ren Dexin , Lei Jiuhou
Published: September 2017

The ionospheric observation from ionosonde at Sao Luis (2.5°S, 44.2°W; 6.68°S dip latitude) around the magnetic equator showed that the nighttime ionospheric F2 layer was uplifted by more than 150 km during the October 2013 geomagnetic storm. The changes of the F2 peak height (hmF2) at the magnetic equator were generally attributed to the variations of vertical drift associated with zonal electric fields. In this paper, the Thermosphere Ionosphere Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIEGCM) simulation results are utilized to explore the possible physical mechanisms responsible for the observed increase of hmF2 at Sao Luis. The TIEGCM generally reproduced the changes of F2 peak electron density (NmF2) and its height (hmF2) during the main and recovery phases of the October 2013 storm. A series of controlled simulations revealed that storm time hmF2 changes at the magnetic equator are not purely associated with the changes of electric fields; horizontal plasma transport due to meridional winds and thermospheric expansion also contributed significantly to the profound increase of nighttime hmF2 observed at Sao Luis on 2 October. Moreover, the changes of meridional winds and neutral temperature in the equatorial region are associated with storm time traveling atmospheric disturbances originating from high latitudes.