bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Embolism After Application of a Sterile Elastic Exsanguination Tourniquet
Authors: Feldman Viktor , Biadsi Ahmad , Slavin Omer , Kish Benjamin , Tauber Israel , Nyska Meir , Brin Yaron S.
Published: December 2015

Sterile elastic exsanguination tourniquets (HemaClear; OHK Medical Devices, Haifa, Israel) are relatively new on the market but are widely used because of the ease and speed of their application. The sterile elastic exsanguination tourniquet consists of a silicon ring wrapped in a stockinet sleeve with pull straps. The physician places the ring on the patient's fingers or toes and then pulls the straps proximally. The silicon ring rolls up the limb, and the stockinet sleeve unrolls onto the limb. During proximal rolling, the device displaces blood out of the limb (exsanguination). When the elastic ring reaches the preferred occlusion location, the pulling motion is stopped. The ring exerts suprasystolic pressure on the limb, thereby blocking arterial blood flow into the limb and thus acts as a tourniquet. HemaClear tourniquets are thin and sterile and therefore provide a large operative field. The authors report 2 cases of pulmonary embolism after HemaClear tourniquet application in patients with traumatic injuries (fractures of the patella and tibial plateau). Exsanguination applies mechanical stress that might dislodge a preexisting deep venous thrombosis, leading to the serious complication of pulmonary embolism. The authors want to increase awareness of this possible fatal complication during procedures performed on the lower limbs, when the HemaClear tourniquet is used for exsanguination of the affected limb. Careful consideration should be given to the use of HemaClear tourniquets in high-risk patients and those with traumatic injuries, especially when there has been a delay in surgery. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(12):e1160–e1163.]
Critical Review of Publications in IGI Global 2011-2015 about Avatars-“HHH”-Technology-Education as a Gateway for Improvement of Feedback Control in DE
Authors: Agadjanyan Susanna , Minasyan Robert
Published: December 2015

This chapter reviews and analyzes the main issues, controversies, problems presented in Handbook of research on transformative online education and liberation: Models for social equality, 2011; Meta-communication for reflective online conversations: Models for distance education, 2012; Project Management Approaches for Online Learning Design, 2013, Enterprise Resource Planning: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications, 2013; Emerging Priorities and Trends in Distance Education: Communication, Pedagogy, and Technology, 2014; Identification, Evaluation, and Perceptions of Distance Education Experts, 2015; Encyclopedia of Information Science and Technology, Third Edition, 2015; International Journal of Information Communication Technologies and Human Development, 6(3), July –September 2014 by Vardan Mkrttchian (HHH University). This analysis allowed building up gateway for improvement of feedback control in distance education.
The Problems of Competence Approach
Authors: Zelichenko Vladimir , Bushueva Irina
Published: December 2015

In this chapter the authors consider the problems of competence approach, the estimation and the control in world E-Learning Systems. The main attention is on the problem of the formation of evaluation competencies. We consider detailed examples showing how, at a certain stage, learning can be assessed in varying levels of competence. Based on a detailed analysis of the educational standard and assessment of proposed methodology, the authors formalize this assessment and express it by a mathematical formula. The problems of estimation and control are proposed to be solved using feedback based on sliding mode by Prof. Vardan Mkrttchian.
About Masters in Distance Education Experts for E-Learning Systems
Authors: Brandt Dietrich , Andreev Alexander , Kukharenko Vladimir , Kochetkov Aleksey , Uljanchenko Ludmila
Published: December 2015

Education is one of the most important issues in today's world. We are living in knowledge driven societies. Students learn everything from primary school all through university. They always want to improve themselves at each stage of this education process. When they finish their Bachelor education in university, they start to search for new improvements. Master programs help them, and they offer specializing in one certain area. These Master programs offer new possibilities, thus students want to be participants of them and make their own future better. Society needs such brilliant minds in order to develop further. Today, however, we can see many students from all over the world quitting their studies after their Bachelor. Many of them may be called brilliant, and they would want to continue to develop themselves further. But they start working instead of continuing their Master program. In chapter provides ideas and suggestions on the organization of training of Distance Education Experts (DEE) using the experience of HHH University in Cloud University.
Modeling, Developing, and Promoting a Culture Safety for E-Training at NPP
Authors: Petrosyan Vahram
Published: December 2015

This chapter presents the author and Prof. Mkrttchian Vardan join idea about a new technology - E-training that provides access to a vast range of digital resources and the environment making some activities possible and constraining others. Still it does not change the fundamental processes of human learning. In the technological age, while the training needs are growing like a snowball due to new skills needs, teaching is increasingly served by free on-line educational materials. Two reasons dominate this change the first and the most important one is new learning trends, the second is wide technology use in daily life. Regarding the costs of sustainable educational on-line tools, instruments and training materials, technology developers and related stakeholders look after new ways and propose promptly new solutions to public and private institutions and to the business world. New solutions encourage learning tools and technologies to move to cloud, to share as much as possible educational content, products tools and services. This chapter presents results of modeling, developing and promoting a culture safety for training at a nuclear power production using the private cloud of HHH University.
The Control of Didactics of Online Training of Teachers in HHH University and Cooperation with the Ministry of Diaspora of Armenia
Authors: Mkrttchian Vardan
Published: December 2015

In this chapter, the author (Scientist and Politic) analyze the estimation and control problem of didactics development at online training and retraining on HHH University of Armenian teachers in non-governmental and Sunday school in all counties around the world, and cooperation role in this process and perspective's from the Ministry of Diaspora of Republic of Armenia. Relevance and novelty of the authors approaches to identifying promising areas of didactics in conditions of modern education, based on fundamental research in the theory of learning, growing in modern conditions of globalization of really society. Of considerable interest are the comparative characteristics of the main components of the traditional teaching of science and modern pedagogy, operating under conditions of really education that can detect requests for training members of modern society, learning content, reflecting changes in science, engineering and technology, and teaching methods corresponding to modern ways of knowing the scientific, social laws.
Hierarchical Semantic Database Structure of the E-Learning Systems
Authors: Vanyasin Nikita
Published: December 2015

During designing a software system iSpring Cloud (iSpring Solutions Inc.) there was a problem of persisting structures of folders and files uploaded by users of the system. Structure of folders and files uploaded by user is actually the semantic network with hierarchical relationships “folder (ancestor) - file (descendant)”. Thus, here arises a problem of semantic hierarchical networks storage method for a large number of users in a relational database (and in such data structures that would be suitable for quick hierarchy extraction using relational algebra operations).
Design of the E-Systems for Training and Researching with Tools of Cloud Services-Based Stereo and 3D Content
Authors: Avetisyan Javad , Bozhday Alexander , Novikova Natalia , Kochetkova Jana
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the development of the tools for cloud services, which allow to organize mass production of multimedia interactive online services of the Real Estate for consumers from around the world, based on stereo and 3D-content and on the organizational model where content (text, pictures, video, animation, tests, etc.) are prepared by professionals from Penza State University, Russian State University for Tourism and Services and HHH University, and the automated assembly output, including its localization (translation) to other languages with the aim of exporting them via the Internet, provides the instrumental software package of Multimedia Technologies Ltd. The E-Systems is using in the academic master's program, developed by the Russian State University for Tourism and Service. This Master's Program is international and is based on E-Learning Systems, uses the techniques, software and technology of Estimation and Control in Sliding Mode by Prof. Vardan Mkrttchian.
The Blended Learning Environment in Higher Education
Authors: Boeren Ellen
Published: December 2015

This chapter explores the author's experiences with blended learning, both as a tutor and as a student at a British Russell Group University. The chapter starts from the importance of encouraging an autonomy supporting learning environment, featured within self-determination theory (Ryan & Deci, 2000). In the first part of the chapter, definitions of blended learning will be briefly reviewed. Secondly, the role of the learning environment will be explained, drawing upon previous research on learning environments undertaken by Darkenwald and Valentine (1986), mentioning the importance of the learning environment within motivational theories. Thirdly, results of a critical analysis on the own teaching and learning practice will be conducted, comparing the perspective of being a tutor and being a student. Finally, recommendations for future teaching practice will be discussed, before concluding this chapter.
Reflective Learning in the Digital Age
Authors: Wang Victor X. , Torrisi-Steele Rosaria
Published: December 2015

Despite being separated by time span, Confucian learning and Meizirow's ideas are not so divergent as one may initially think. In this paper it is argued that the two perspectives intersect and can thus be used, in a complimentary manner, to formulate a model of learning through critical reflection. It is proposed that the model developed in the present paper offers a valuable framework for helping learners in digital environments become reflective, critical thinkers – an attribute that the authors believe is of paramount importance for a more positive future.
Disruptive Technologies and Education
Authors: Siu Kin Wai Michael , García Giovanni Jesue Contreras
Published: December 2015

With the rapid development of information and communication technologies at the beginning of the 21st century terms like ‘Cloud Learning,' ‘Mobile Learning,' ‘e-Learning,' and ‘MOOCS' have been added to the long list of ‘disruptive' technologies expected to revolutionize education forever. But while it is easy to see how ICT's have put unimaginable amounts of information at the fingertips of students, can we say that this is truly revolutionizing education? Are higher education institutions adjusting their pedagogic practices to make full use of these technologies? In fact, are they using them at all? In this chapter we take a closer look at the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in higher education and report findings from a study asking how these technologies are being used in academic activities. We set up the framework for the discussion by reviewing some of the most important historical developments in educational technology to then move on to present the study's results. The chapter closes by contrasting these results with past predictions about the disruptive potential of ICTs and finally reflecting on the steps that will have to be taken in order to make the most out of these technologies.
Mixed-Reality Immersive Environment as an Instructional Tool for Building Educational Leadership Capacity
Authors: Storey Valerie Anne , Dambo Neffisatu J. C.
Published: December 2015

Technological innovations are changing the way education is delivered. With instructional media evolving at an exponential pace, instructional designers and educators have a variety of options when deciding what tools are best for delivering their instruction. Simulation and virtual environments are a growth area in aviation, defense, crisis management, medicine, and customer service, but the utilization of this technology in the field of educational leadership or in principal preparation programs is very much in an embryonic stage. In this chapter, the authors first provide a summary of the evolution of scenario simulation in the field of educational leadership, and develop ‘learning principles' for evaluating the effectiveness of the simulation in delivering discrete learning outcomes. They then provide a specific example of an innovative educational leadership program that is utilizing a specific virtual environment; introduce TLE TeachLivE™ (TeachLivE) as a method to help prepare future leaders for practice. Finally, they discuss professional avenues to consider while cultivating the advancement of TeachLivE™ as a supplemental method for learning.
Inspiring Hate
Authors: Rogan Randall
Published: December 2015

Although Usama bin Laden is dead, the radical ideology that underscored his actions and those of his followers continues to live in his written and spoken communiqués, as well as those of other leaders of the jihadist movement. Of interest to this investigation is the internet publication Inspire, produced by al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). At the core of these documents are the identity constructions of Self and Other. Previous research of terrorist writings highlights the centrality of Self and Other framing in advocacy for violence. Employing computational linguistic analyses, this investigation explored the identity frames published in Inspire. Results indicate that characterizations of the Self are as the victim of oppression by the Other, countered by frames of morality, purity, spirituality, and honor. Comparatively, the Other is framed as the actor towards the Self, engaging in aggressive, militaristic, and oppressive behaviors.
#BostonStrong
Authors: Brojakowski Benjamin
Published: December 2015

In this chapter, the author seeks to understand the types of impression-management strategies used by individuals on Twitter when confronted with an accusation of racism or ethnic intolerance. The author discovered that these Twitter users manage their digital impressions through Avoidance, Intimidation, Justification, Support, Victimization, Acceptance, and General Statements. Furthermore, the author discovered that Twitter users are unlikely to use multiple strategies or change their impression-management tactics over time. A suggestion is made for future research to address this issue on a larger scale and to look at other forms of hate speech such as gender and sexual orientation.
Traditional African Culture and Communication
Authors: Lando Agnes Lucy , Kochomay Samuel
Published: December 2015

Cattle rustling among Kenyan and non-Kenyan pastoralists remains the oldest, persistent, and most complex conflict. It is a violent, intermittent and often unpredictable warfare where communities raid each other for livestock. These raids cause human and material loss, displacement of families, fleeing teachers, school closures and student dropouts. Attempts to solve this problem either exacerbate the conflict or just produce short-term peace. The perpetual failure of successive governments and other actors to bring about conflict resolution for cattle rustling point to a missing link. This chapter explores the embeddedness of cattle rustling in the deep roots of pastoralists' traditional culture and communication. The chapter examines selected cattle rustling interventions in northern Kenya in the last three decades. This analysis has been synthesized with ethnographic research findings and Social Penetration Theory to explain the persistence of cattle rustling. Finally, the chapter proposes a culturally appropriate model to address cattle rustling.
Transforming Conflict in the Hands and Hearts of Communities in Kenya
Authors: Mutua Eddah , Kilonzo Susan
Published: December 2015

Media representation of ethnic conflicts in Africa constructs an image of a continent ridden with wars and violence. At the same time, prominence given to the Western intervention in conflicts in Africa leads to asymmetry of understanding about the role victims of violence play to improve their conditions. This chapter challenges macro-level frameworks about conceptions of ethnic conflict and peacebuilding by highlighting the work of Amani Mashinani (peace at grassroots) as a potential alternative model to transform conflict in North Rift Valley in Kenya. It appropriates peacebuilding as a practice of everyday life and explicates factors that explicitly account for understanding grassroots peacebuilding.
Communicating Peace through Sports
Authors: Kochomay Samuel
Published: December 2015

As a growing field, sports for peace have attracted optimists, pessimists and skeptics in the process fanning an efficacy debate. As a contribution to this debate, this chapter rather than directly get into the ongoing discourse, will instead, attempt to provide a sneak preview of the effectiveness of the Peace Race, a sports for peace intervention organized among Pastoralists in Kenya and Uganda. The chapter begins with setting up the context by tracing the practice of sports for peace, its development and making a mention of the schools of thought on the efficacy of sports for peace. It then proceeds to examining the efficacy of the Peace Race by focusing on its successes and challenges, exploring utility of Peace Race in the conflict cycle and the place of celebrities in peacebuilding. The chapter ends with suggestions on improvement on the efficacy of peace races and focus areas of research.
Indigenous Management and Bottom of Pyramid Countries
Authors: Berger Ron
Published: December 2015

Recent research on indigenous management has created the potential for more diverse, and innovative international business research (Holtbrugge, Narayanan and Wang, 2011). In this conceptual chapter, I extend the existing literature on indigenous management, with an integration into, bottom of pyramid country research such as India (Prahalad and Hart, 2004; London and Hart, 2004; Berger, 2014). In the 21st century, eighty percent of the world's population is still considered developing, i.e. having a per capita income of less than U.S. $1,000 dollars per year. Most of these are emerging. This chapter focuses on the importance of national institutions and their potential lessons for, bottom of pyramid countries. I argue that national institutions play a key role in indigenous management research, through their positive impact on the, development of bottom of pyramid countries.
Internationalization of Chinese Pharmaceutical Firms-Strategies and Drivers
Authors: Gao Zichao , Li Jian , Hu Hao , Wang Yitao
Published: December 2015

Investigating how pharmaceutical firms from emerging economies internationalize themselves to meet the knowledge- and investment-intensive challenges of pharmaceutical industry has become an inviting topic for both academia and industry. This paper explores the internationalization strategies and driving factors of Chinese pharmaceutical firms. Through applying text analytics, four internationalization patterns of Chinese pharmaceutical firms are identified, namely, (1) market seeking by the state-owned; (2) opportunity exploring by the emerging-private; (3) culture penetration by TCM firms; and (4) global integration by CROs. It shows that the internationalization of Chinese pharmaceutical firms is driven by three key factors: firm ownership, business scope and value chain positioning. This study attempts not only to provide empirical evidence of internationalization of Chinese pharmaceutical firms, but also to contribute to the field of study on corporate internationalization in the complex-system sector.
Manufacturing and Logistics Networks of Korean Firms in China
Authors: Liu Zheng , Kim Hyung Min , Zhang Kaifeng
Published: December 2015

The aim of this chapter is to develop a better understanding of interactions of Korean firms in Suzhou in terms of supply chain, manufacturing networks and logistics. By reviewing the key literature in industry clusters, international strategy, manufacturing systems and logistics management, a conceptual framework is designed to capture the key roles of Korean MNE, SMEs, and local SIP service organizations. Case studies and interviews with practitioners provide in-depth knowledge about firms' operation in Suzhou. An industry review of SIP is also conducted from the perspectives of history, policy, infrastructure and local culture. Discussions are made to address the critical issues followed by a summary of the chapter.
Promoting Leadership Development and Talent Management in Modern Organizations
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: December 2015

This chapter aims to promote leadership development and talent management in modern organizations, thus describing the theoretical and practical overviews of leadership, leadership development, and talent management; the importance of leadership development in modern organizations; and the importance of talent management in modern organizations. Promoting leadership development and talent management is required for modern organizations that seek to serve suppliers and customers, improve business performance, reinforce competitiveness, and gain continuous effectiveness in the digital age. Therefore, it is necessary to promote their leadership development and talent management, establish a strategic plan to regularly check their practical advancements, and immediately respond to leadership development and talent management needs of executives and employees in modern organizations. Promoting leadership development and talent management in modern organizations has the potential to enhance organizational performance and reach strategic goals in the era of globalization.
The Role of Gold Market as Stabilizer of Service Industry
Authors: Zhu Heliang , Zhang Xi , Ordenaz de Pablos Patricia
Published: December 2015

China's gold futures market has been in market for more than four years, is the risk transfer function fully realized? How the performance of hedging? Based on the data of futures prices and spot prices from January 9th of 2008 to December 31st of 2010, we use the following four statistical models such as traditional regression model (OLS), two-variable vector auto regression model (B-VAR), error correction hedging model (ECM), and error correction GARCH model (EC-GARCH) to perform stationarity and cointegration test On the basis of minimum risk hedge ratio estimated, the following conclusions are made based on the study: (1) As China's gold futures market has run for more than three years, hedge is effective through the gold futures market, which can significantly reduce the participants ‘ risk of price fluctuation; (2)In practice, hedging ratio should be rationally determined by different models according to different hedging length and different expectations. Based on these conclusions, this paper also made corresponding policy recommendations.
Theoretical Study on Structural and Electronic Properties of EDOT:SS Oligomers Complex
Authors: Marutaphan Ampaiwan , Lorwongtragool Panida , Wongchoosuk Chatchawal
Published: December 2015

In this paper, we have reported a theoretical study of the geometric and electronic structures of EDOT:SS oligomers based on semi-empirical Austin model1 (AM1) method and density functional theory at B3LYP/3-21G* level. The effects of polymer chain length of both EDOT and SS on structural and electronic properties including bond length, bond angle, binding distance, charge, the highest occupied orbital (HOMO), the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), and energy gap have been studied from the optimized oligomers which were built by varying repeating unit of monomer as n = 1, 2, 3 and 4. The results show that AM1 is not appropriate for geometry optimization of EDOT:SS system comparing to B3LYP/3-21G* level. The binding distance between H atom on EDOT and O atom on SS tends to close together with the average distance of 2.21 Å. The most positive charges locate at sulfur atoms on EDOT and EDOT:SS. The electrical conductivity of EDOT, SS and EDOT:SS increases when polymer chain is extended.
Effect of Calcination Temperatures of Cu/CeO2-Containing Co on Physiochemical Properties and Catalytic Activity to Selective CO Oxidation
Authors: Aunbamrung Pornthip , Wongkaew Akkarat
Published: December 2015

The CuO/CeO2-Co3O4 catalysts were prepared via co-precipitation at different calcination temperatures and evaluated catalytic activities in the reaction of selective CO oxidation. The catalysts were characterized by BET, XRD and FESEM-EDX techniques. As determined by BET studies, the catalysts have type IV adsorption isotherm which indicated mesoporous structure. An increase in calcination temperatures decreased the specific surface areas of the catalysts. XRD was used for determination of crystallite sizes of each oxide. It was found that CuO and Co3O4 existed in highly dispersed at every calcination temperatures. For CeO2, an increase in calcination temperatures increased the crystallite sizes. Surface morphology of the catalysts was also investigated by FESEM. The catalyst calcined at 500°C showed the highest performance to completely convert CO to CO2 at 150°C. Furthermore, the effect of CO2 and H2O to activity of catalyst was studied. The result showed that both CO2 and H2O has negative effect to activity of catalyst. CO conversion and selectivity decreased to 93.8% and 48.5% at 210°C, respectively. This may be due to the adsorption of CO2 and H2O molecules on active site and due to the reverse water gas shift reaction occurred at temperature above 190°C.
Characterization of n-Type Nanocrystalline Iron Disilicide/Intrinsic Ultrananocrystalline Diamond/Amorphous Carbon Composite/p-Type Silicon Heterojunction Photodiodes
Authors: Promros Nathaporn , Hanada Kenji , Takahara Motoki , Hanada Takanori , Baba Ryuji , Sittimart Phongsaphak , Chen Li , Yoshitake Tsuyoshi
Published: December 2015

We prepared n-type nanocrystalline iron disilicide (NC-FeSi2)/intrinsic (i) ultrananocrystalline diamond/amorphous carbon composite (UNCD/a-C)/p-type Si heterojunctions and evaluated as photodiodes. UNCD/a-C and NC-FeSi2 films were deposited by coaxial arc plasma deposition and pulsed laser deposition, respectively. The capacitance-voltage and current-voltage characteristics of heterojunctions were measured at room temperature. The inserted i-UNCD/a-C layer to form pin heterojunctions reduced the capacitance and dark current as compared with those in the case of pn heterojunctions. The build-in potential of heterojunctions was estimated to be 1.2 eV. The prepared heterojunctions showed typical rectifying action and a response for an illumination with a 6 mW, 1.31 μm laser. The recombination process is the predominant mechanism of current transport in the heterojunctions. The dynamic resistance area product and detectivity were 1.54 × 103 Ω cm2 and 5.0 × 108 cmHz1/2/W at-1 V. The evident improvement in the device performance was demonstrated, which should be due to the reduction of dark current by i-UNCD/a-C layer.
Effect of pH on the Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles through Reduction with Pistiastratiotes L. Extract
Authors: Traiwatcharanon Pranlekha , Timsorn Kriengkri , Wongchoosuk Chatchawal
Published: December 2015

In this work, we have presented the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using extracts of Pistiastratiotes L. as reducing agent. The silver nitrate (AgNO3) solutions were used as precursor. The experiments were performed under irradiation with a light that can help to increase the activation for reduction of silver ions (Ag+) to metallic silver (Ag0). The effects of pH on the nature of Ag-NPs have been systematically studied by using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that the synthesis of Ag-NPs in acidic medium gives smaller size than that in basic medium. A number of synthesized Ag-NPs increase with increasing the concentrations of acidic/basic medium. All synthesized Ag-NPs have spherical shape.
Effect of ZnO on a Superhydrophilic Self-Cleaning Properties of TiO2/SiO2 Thin Film on Glass Slide Substrate
Authors: Wongkaew Akkarat , Soontornkallapaki Chanida , Amhae Naritsara , Lamai Wichet
Published: December 2015

This work aims to study the effect of ZnO containing in TiO2/SiO2 film on the superhydrophilic property after exposed to different types of light. The metal solutions were prepared by sol-gel technique and the film was deposited on glass slides by dip coating method. The parameter studied was the amount of ZnO in the TiO2/SiO2 film. The contents of ZnO were 5-20% weight (increased by 5%). The amount of TiO2 was constant at 30% weight. The obtained films were analyzed for their roughness. The results indicated that film roughness changed according to the ZnO contents. With 5%ZnO in the thin film, the roughness was 0.726 nm while 20%ZnO obtained the roughness of 2.128 nm. UV-Vis spectrophotometer was used for measuring of transmittance of films. At wavelength of 550 nm, the transmittances of each film were greater than 90%. Band gap energy of each film was calculated from the transmittance data. It was found that the average band gap energy of the films was 2.47 eV. Then, the films contained various amount of ZnO were grouped into 2 sets. The first set was exposed to visible light while the other set was exposed to UV. The duration of exposure was 5 hr. Both sets of films after exposed to any light were kept in a black box controlled relative humidity of 85%. Each film was measured contact angle every day. It was found that the 30%TiO2/5%Zn/SiO2 film exposed to visible light showed the best superhydrophilic property. The contact angle was about 0-5° within 3 days. This may due to the reduction of band gap energy in the presence of ZnO in TiO2/SiO2 films to 2.41 eV and the roughness of the film.
Formation of Oxidation-Stable Copper Nanoparticles in Water
Authors: Balela Mary Donnabelle , Amores Kathy Lois
Published: December 2015

Oxidation-stable copper (Cu) nanoparticles have been successfully prepared by electroless deposition in water at 353 K. Cupric oxide (CuO) and hydrazine (N2H4) are employed as the Cu precursor and reducing agent, respectively. The Cu nanoparticles have uniform particle sizes with average values ranging from 37 to 43 nm. The addition of gelatin has played a vital in role in controlling the particle size, agglomeration, and oxidation of Cu nanoparticles. In the absence of gelatin, both metallic Cu and cuprous oxide (Cu2O) are present in the sample, indicating incomplete reduction of the CuO. Pure metallic Cu nanoparticles with excellent oxidation and dispersability in water can only be formed when gelatin is employed as protective agent. At higher amounts of gelatin, the particle size of the Cu nanoparticles is reduced.
Synthesis and Characterisation of ZnO Nanoparticles for Production of Antimicrobial Textiles
Authors: Keawkhong Nassara , Sripanom Lertnarong , Kaewchuay Netnapit , Teepoo Siriwan
Published: December 2015

In this paper, the synthesis and characterisation of ZnO nanoparticles have been carried out for textiles applications. The ZnO nanoparticles have been synthesized by precipitation method. This technique is based on precipitation procedure by using zinc nitrate and sodium hydroxide as precursors. The scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, UV-Visible spectrophotometry and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the particle size and morphology. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles were spherical with the size in the range of 200-400 nm. Next step, the ZnO nanoparticles were directly applied on to the fabric using pad-dry-cure method. Finally, the antibacterial efficiency of modified fabrics was quantitatively evaluated and compared against gram-negative Escherichia coli and aerobic gram-positive Staphylococcus aureusaccording to AATCC 147. The results showed that the modified fabric demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. These results suggest that synthesized ZnO nanoparticles could be used effectively for textiles applications.
Improving the Performance of Light Trapping in Crystalline Silicon Solar Cell through Effective Surface Texturing
Authors: Fashina A.A. , Adama K.K. , Zebaze Kana M.G. , Soboyejo Winston O.
Published: December 2015

We investigate the effect of surface texturing on the light trapping properties of Silicon wafers as a function of reflection reduction and surface morphology. This was achieved by structuring a random square-based pyramids pattern on the surface of Silicon substrate using anisotropy etching. The light trapping effect was optimized for silicon solar cells by investigating the dependence of the silicon surface texturing on the process parameters such as etchant concentration, etching time and temperature. We study the surface morphology by analyzing the surface behaviour of the textured substrate using the atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscope. The results of roughness and optical reflection were obtained using the surface profiler and the UV/VIS the spectrometer respectively. In addition, an analytical modelling method was developed to determine the angles of incidence of light rays with each of the facets of the pyramids and the coordinate of the reflected light rays. The method used here is based on 3-D vector geometry of the pyramidal facets. The optimum parameters are found to be 40min, a temperature of 80oC and with KOH/IPA/DI in the ratio [2:4:46] by volume, yielding a surface roughness over 600 nm and a relative optical reflectance in the visible spectrum less than 10%, using polished Si as reference. The results and analysis of both the modelled and measured reflectance, suggest that the performance of the light trapping technique has a big potential in silicon solar cells application.
Bacterial Remediation of Polyethylene by Serratia marcescens sub sp. marcescens and its Supernatant
Authors: Azeko S.T. , Odusanya O.S. , Malatesta K. , Anuku Nicolas , Soboyejo W.O.
Published: December 2015

Improper disposal of commodity plastics such as polyethylene (PE) in the environment causes land pollution and soil infertility. It is unsightly and strongly threatens plant and animal life. The current effort describes the bacteria-mediated biodegradation of polyethylene bySerratia marcescens marcescens(SM) without prior exposure to thermo-oxidative aging. This study further describes the mechanism involved in the biodegradation of PE, in which a carbonless medium containing essential minerals and vitamins and powdered PE, were placed in the presence of overnight cultures ofSM.The samples were incubated at 30°C, centrifuged at a speed of 141 revolutions per minute (rpm) in a rotary shaker for ten weeks in order to observe the degradation process. The effects of cell-free supernatants (from theSMcultures) upon the degradation of sterile PE are elucidated. The results show that the supernatants fromSMdegrade PE faster than the bacteria, with a 37.5 percent of degradation rate within a month. The SEM micrographs suggest that the biodegradation of polyethylene involves the formation and coalescence of microvoids. The DSC results revealed that the feeding activity of SM is mostly favored at the crystalline region due to its high energy.
Letter from President 2008-2010
Authors: Riccio Carmine
Published: December 2015

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Acute myocardial infarction in non-cardiac critically ill patients: a clinical-pathological study
Authors: Berlot Giorgio , Vergolini Antonella , Calderan Cristina , Bussani Rossana , Torelli Lucio , Lucangelo Umberto
Published: December 2015

Background: in patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for non cardiac disease, the diagnosis of acute coronary syndromes can be challenging. The aim of the study was to define the rate of discrepancies concerning the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction and to evaluate the presence of risk factors that could be helpful in identifying patients at higher risk of missed diagnosis. Methods: we compared clinical and autopsy records of 600 critically ill patients who died in our ICU in a 10-years period. We identified patients in whom acute myocardial infarction was reported as the cause of death on the clinical records or was discovered only at post-mortem examination. These subjects were subsequently divided into two Groups: patients in Group 1 underwent diagnostic evaluation for acute myocardial infarction whereas those in Group 2 were not investigated for. Results: In Group 1, a definite clinical diagnosis was reached in 11 patients (14,7%) but remained undetermined in 37 patients (48%). The diagnosis was totally missed in 8 patients in Group 1 (10,6%) and in 20 patients of Group 2 (26,6%). The diagnostic discrepancy was higher in septic patients, in whom the correct diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction was established at a rate lower than 50% in respect to non-septic patients. Conclusions: Our experience strengthens the role of post-mortem examination as a source of feed-back of the overall diagnostic and therapeutic approach especially in septic patients, where the diagnostic error is more frequent.
Neonatal Hemophilia: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Ferreira Nuno , Proença Elisa , Godinho Cristina , Oliveira Dulce , Guedes Ana , Morais Sara , Carvalho Carmen
Published: December 2015

Hemophilia A is a X-linked hereditary condition that lead to decreased factor VIII activity, occurs mainly in males. Decreased factor VIII activity leads to increased risk of bleeding events. During neonatal period, diagnosis is made after post-partum bleeding complication or unexpected bleeding after medical procedures. Subgaleal hemorrhage during neonatal period is a rare, severe extracranial bleeding with high mortality and usually related to traumatic labor or coagulation disorders. Subgaleal hemorrhage complications result from massive bleeding. We present a neonate with unremarkable family history and uneventful pregnancy with a vaginal delivery with no instrumentation, presenting with severe subgaleal bleeding at 52 hours of life. Aggressive support measures were implemented and bleeding managed. The unexpected bleeding lead to a coagulation study and the diagnosis of severe hemophilia A. There were no known sequelae. This case shows a rare hemophilia presentation reflecting the importance of coagulation studies when faced with unexplained severe bleeding.
Quantifying Socioeconomic and Lifestyle Related Health Risks: Burden of Cardiovascular Disease Among Indian Males
Authors: Purohit Neetu , Bhati Divya K. , Gupta Shiv D. , Kundu Azad S.
Published: December 2015

Background: Non-communicable diseases account for a significant disease burden in the South East Asia region. India is facing an increased incidence of lifestyle-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease. Socioeconomic and lifestyle risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) have been under investigated in India. This study was designed to explore risk factors contributing to the development of cardiovascular disease among Indian males.Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,235 males in the age group of 18-60 years across three states of India. A household survey was used to collect demographic and socioeconomic status information in addition to lifestyle-related attributes such as smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and physical activity. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were performed to identify the role of various factors that may be associated with the development of cardiovascular disease in this population.Results: The prevalence of cardiovascular disease among the male respondents contacted through a household survey was reported to be 9.8%. Logistic regression revealed that males with higher education and higher income were more likely to report CVD. With age as a strong predictor of CVD, the risk of CVD was found to be five times higher in the older age group. Current smokers were 1.3 times more likely to have CVD compared to those who never smoked. Those who were engaged in physical activity were less likely to have CVD; however, the adverse effects of smoking and excessive consumption of red meat showed a stronger association with CVD than the protective effects of physical activity.Conclusion: In developing countries, where the increase in earning capacity and change in lifestyle has been found to be accompanied by substantial risk of heart disease for males, public health measures like health promotion programs need to be implemented to decrease CVD burden.
A Review of Outcomes and Modes of Presentation following Liner Dissociation from Harris-Galante Uncemented Acetabular Components
Authors: Grazette Andrew J. , Foote Julian , Whitehouse Michael R. , Blom Ashley W.
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Dissociation of the polyethylene liner is a known failure mechanism of the Harris Galante I and II uncemented acetabular components. The outcomes of revision surgery for this indication and the influence of time to diagnosis are not well described.

Methods

We report a series of 29 cases revised due to this failure mechanism. The median time from primary to revision surgery was 13 years.

Results

At a median of 4 years follow-up, the mean OHS was 34 (range 6-48) but results were poorer (mean 29; range 6-45) when the diagnosis and revision was delayed compared to when it was not (mean 39; range 20-48). A large proportion of our patients (n = 14) presented with sudden onset of symptoms with or without trauma. Osteolysis was common in this series but the cup was well fixed in 20/29 cases. There was macroscopic damage to the shell in all cases.

Conclusions

In our experience, prompt revision of liner dissociation optimises outcomes in this group of patients and radiology reporting alone is not sufficient to identify these cases.
Cementless Total HIP Replacements in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Jack Christopher M. , Howard Jo , Aziz Emad S. , Kesse-Adu Rachel , Bankes Marcus J.
Published: December 2015

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects around 80,000 people in the USA and 12,000 in the UK. Up to 40% of patients will get osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Cemented acetabular components yield poor results with the rate of osteolysis ranging from 13.5 to 46%. We report on a consecutive cohort of patients with SCD who underwent uncemented THA with ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearings.

Methods

Since 2002 52 primary THAs were carried out in 40 patients. The average age was 36.1 years (17-54). 48 cases had exchange blood transfusion preoperatively and 3 had top-up transfusions. An S-ROM was used in 47 hips a Solutions stem in 4 hips and an AML in 1. It was necessary to drill the femur during 12 hips. There were 5 intra-operative peri-prosthetic fractures. 2 dislocations were observed. 2 superficial infections were detected.

Results

All components have in-grown. There have been no cases of radiographic osteolysis, migration or loosening of the hip with average 5-year (2-10.1) follow-up.

Conclusions

The combination of a multidisciplinary team approach and uncemented implants, with ceramic-on-ceramic bearings used, has made THA in patients with SCD a safe and reliable procedure in our hospital.
Polymorphism of Rs9387478 Correlates with Overall Survival in Female Nonsmoking Patients with Lung Cancer
Authors: Han Jie-Fei , An She-Juan , Su Wen-Mei , Chen Zhi-Hong , Su Jian , Yan Hong-hong , Guo Wei-Bang , Chen Shi-Liang , Huang Ying , Xie Zhi , Lan Qing , Rothman Nathaniel , Wu Yi-Long , Yang Jin-Ji
Published: December 2015

Background

Our previous study identified rs9387478 as a new susceptibility locus associated with lung cancer in never-smoking women in Asia; however, the clinical and prognostic significance of this finding is not known.

Methods

We analyzed the relationship between the rs9387478 single nucleotide polymorphism and i) clinical parameters and ii) overall survival time in 505 female nonsmoking lung cancer patients, using the chi-square test and Kaplan-Meier analysis with the log-rank test, respectively. We further established the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation status and assessed its association with rs9387478 genotypes as well as the efficacy of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Results

The frequency of the AA genotype was significantly higher in the EGFR-mutation-negative group than in the EGFR-mutation-positive group (32% vs. 16%, χ 2 = 13.025, p = 0.011). Patients with the CC genotype had a better overall survival time than patients with the AA/AC genotype (median survival time: 54.2 vs. 32.9 months, χ 2 = 4.593, p = 0.032). The distribution of rs9387478 genotypes differed according to the clinical disease stage.

Conclusions

This study indicates that the rs9387478 genotype was associated with overall survival in nonsmoking female patients with lung cancer, although it was not significant after adjusting for multiple testing. The identification of the location of the rs9387478 single nucleotide polymorphism in the genomic interval containing the DCBLD1 and ROS1 genes, together with the finding that the rs9387478 polymorphism correlates with EGFR mutation status, may have important implications for therapeutic approaches targeting EGFR or ROS1 in patients with lung cancer.
Chironomidae types in the reference collection of the Laboratory of Ecology of Aquatic Insects, São Carlos, Brazil
Authors: Silva Fabio Laurindo da , Trivinho-Strixino Susana , Oliveira Caroline Silva Neubern de
Published: December 2015

The Chironomidae (Insecta: Diptera) type collection at the Laboratory of Ecology of Aquatic Insects (LEIA - UFSCar) is reviewed. It comprises 103 primary types, as well as 95 paratypes, mostly resulting from research by S. Trivinho-Strixino and G. Strixino. Notes updating the taxonomic status are provided for some species.