bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and risk factors associated with its development: a retrospective study
Authors: Elmi Omar Sald , Hasan Habsah , Abdullah Sarimah , Mat Jeab Mat Zuki , Bin Alwi Zilfalil , Naing Nyi Nyi
Published: October 2015

Introduction: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) has emerged as a major clinical public health threat and challenges the national TB control program in Malaysia. Data that elaborates on the risk factors associated with the development of MDR-TB is highly limited in this country. This study was aimed to determine the risk factors associated with the development of MDR-TB patients in peninsular Malaysia. Methodology: This was a case control study; the data were collected from medical records of all the registered MDR-TB patients at five referral TB hospitals in peninsular Malaysia from January 2010 to April 2014. The 105 cases were all confirmed by a positive sputum culture of Mycobacterium tuberculosis for MDR-TB and extensively drug-resistant (XDR)-TB. As a comparison, a total of 209 non-MDR-TB cases were randomly selected as controls. Results: A total of 105 MDR-TB and 209 non MDR-TB patients were studied. The risk factors associated with MDR-TB within the multivariate analysis were previous tuberculosis treatment, HIV infection, being an immigrant, and high load of positive for acid-fast bacillus (AFB) smear. Conclusions: The findings of this study revealed that patients who had received previous treatment for tuberculosis, were infected with HIV, were immigrants, and had a high burden of positive testing for AFB smear were more likely to have MDR-TB. An enhanced understanding of the risk factors associated with MDR-TB strains is imperative in the development of a national policy for public health interventions.
Donner forme à l’incertitude Savoirs médicaux et passage de l’enfance à l’adolescence
Authors: Cozzi Donatella
Published: October 2015

La diminution relative de l’âge de la puberté et le discours médical autour des pubertés dites précoces engendrent un questionnement sur les frontières biologiques de l’enfance. Ces questionnements relayés par les médias et Internet, souvent de façon exacerbée, génèrent des inquiétudes sur le raccourcissement de l’enfance. Le souci de donner une forme à l’incertitude, d’en simplifier la complexité, investit donc la tranche d’âge de la puberté, que l’on présente comme une temporalité perturbée, sous le signe du risque.
Des odeurs et des âges
Authors: Diasio Nicoletta
Published: October 2015

Parmi les transformations corporelles qui interviennent à l’enfance, une place d’élection va au changement d’odeur, aux manières de réguler la transpiration et de se parfumer. Cette transition implique un apprentissage sensoriel, qui mobilise de nouvelles techniques du corps. Ces pratiques incorporées inscrivent l’enfant dans un âge social, dans un genre, dans une lignée familiale et dans un groupe de pairs. Elles contribuent aussi à le singulariser par des expérimentations et des transgressions.
Rêver ses filles. « Bien grandir » dans les milieux favorisés
Authors: Baboulène-Miellou Natacha , Teboul Jeanne
Published: October 2015

À partir de deux tableaux de familles, cet article appréhende la « bonne mesure » de la socialisation corporelle féminine dans les milieux favorisés en centrant l’analyse sur les activités enfantines pratiquées lors des temps de loisir. En prenant en compte la singularité des stratégies éducatives, les modes de transmissionet le rapport au genre spécifique à chaque famille, ce travail interroge le processus d’incorporation de l’ hexis et le rôle des configurations familiales dans la fabrique d’une féminité enfantine.
À propos d’ Eau argentée, Syrie autoportrait
Authors: Vermeersch Laure
Published: October 2015

Résumé Face à l’horreur trop vue, mal vue, réinventer l’éthique documentaire.
Remonter les murs de l’ancienne maison avec des dictionnaires
Authors: Vaugelade Anaïs
Published: October 2015

Résumé De la vie, de l’oeuvre et de la folie du réinventeur de l’hébreu.
La fin du film
Authors: Person Xavier
Published: October 2015

Résumé Les 400 coups au tamis de Benjamin, Adorno et quelques autres
On achève bien les discours
Authors: Johnson Arthémis
Published: October 2015

Résumé Monologue intérieur et préfet de police - quand ça dérape, ça dérape...
Integrating Mental Health Concepts in the Care of Adults With Chronic Illnesses: A Curricular Enhancement
Authors: Hendrix Cristina C. , Pereira Katherine , Bowers Margaret , Brown Jennifer , Eisbach Shelly , Briggs Melvania E. , Fitzgerald Kathleen , Matters Loretta , Luddy Cindy , Braxton Loretta
Published: October 2015

Background:

In the United States, inadequate attention has been given to the mental health needs of chronically ill adults, and the attempts to integrate mental health in primary care have fallen short.

Method:

This article describes the beginning efforts of the faculty at Duke University School of Nursing to integrate mental health concepts into its adult–gerontological nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner curricula.

Results:

Competency and course content mapping activities revealed opportunities for mental health enhancement. Five mental health concepts were identified for module development: spectrum of emotions, validation skills, self-management, resilience, and diversity. Mental health modules will be integrated in the nurse practitioner Physical Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning course, as well as in various clinical courses.

Conclusion:

Challenges and lessons learned, including efforts to foster active interprofessional learning among medical, physician assistant, and nurse practitioner students, are described. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(11):645–649.]
Connecting Theory to Practice: Using Guided Questions to Standardize Clinical Postconference
Authors: Harvey Giuliana
Published: October 2015

Background:

Assisting nursing students with the integration of theoretical knowledge in the practice setting can be a challenge for clinical instructors. Clinical instructors using planned questions to guide discussion among students during postconference is one method that can be used to achieve this goal. Open-ended guided questions that deliberately address and synthesize classroom knowledge during postconference discussions are advantageous to both students and clinical instructors.

Method:

The purpose of this article is to describe the process of standardizing the weekly postconference by deliberately integrating questions within a second-year nursing clinical course at a Canadian university.

Results:

In this course, the guided questions provided clinical instructors who facilitated the postconferences with an opportunity to enhance their own level of comprehension and currency in various subject areas, as well as evaluate students’ critical thinking and knowledge gaps.

Conclusion:

Understanding the nursing curriculum and providing clinical instructors with the appropriate skills to facilitate postconference discussions were paramount to the success of these standardized postconferences.
[J Nurs Educ
. 2015;54(11):655–658.]
A Novel Directional Ad Hoc MAC
Authors: Wang Weiquan , Song Zhuxun , Mao Xiaofei
Published: October 2015

Recently, Ad Hoc network is adapted widely in military, agriculture, and disaster rescue owing to the character flexible and fast deployment without infrastructure itself. However, the omnidirectional Ad Hoc cannot fulfill the requirements from people of increasing the capacity and the bandwidth of network caused by drastic explosion of information. By contrast, the directional antenna is more advantage than the omnidirectional one, which have the capability to improve the performance of Ad Hoc including more transmission range, less interference, spatial reuse, more capacity and tactical silence. Based on the existing lecture, a novel directional MAC found on STDMAï¼ˆSpatial Time Division Multiple Accessï¼‰is raised and provide high throughput, high transmission rate and low delay to network system which contribute to share massive information and improve the performance of the network.
The Roles of Organizational Change Management and Resistance to Change in the Modern Business World
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: October 2015

This chapter introduces the roles of organizational change management (OCM) and resistance to change (RTC) in the modern business world, thus explaining the theoretical and practical concepts of OCM and RTC; strategies for driving organizational change; the application of sources of organizational resistance and inertia; the obstacles of organizational change; and the management of RTC in modern organizations. OCM and RTC are the essential factors to be considered in any change process, since a proper management of resistance is the key for change success or failure. The importance of OCM and RTC lies in its ability to influence an organization's readiness for change and to identify the level of resistance it expects to meet, and the approach to change it needs to adopt. Understanding the roles of OCM and RTC will enhance organizational performance and achieve strategic goals in the modern business world.
Optimizing the Quantity of Diesel Fuel Injection by Using 25HHOCNG Gas Fuel Mixture
Authors: Arat Hüseyi̇n Turan , Baltacioğlu Mustafa Kaan , Özcanli Mustafa , Aydın Kadir
Published: October 2015

Injection behaviors of internal combustion engines are very substantial fact that provides developments to future strategies about optimizing the engine and fuel parameters. During the combustion process, pilot diesel injection technique is more preferable option while using alternative gas fuels in a diesel engine. In this experimental study, a 3.6 L commercial, four stroke, four cylinders and mechanical fuel pump non-modified diesel test engine operated with hydroxy (HHO) and compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel mixtures under 25% and 75% (vol/vol), respectively. Diesel fuel injection quantities were reduced with the help of steeping motor devices which mounted on mechanical fuel pump plunger pin. Sensitive removes of steeping motor, plunger pin twisted clockwise 360°, 720° and 1080°, respectively. Comparisons of engine performance and exhaust emissions were explained briefly and illustrated via graphs. As a result, 720° clockwise twisted pin is the optimum point for experimental fuel pump plunger while using 25HHOCNG fuel mixtures.
Characterization of the Ultrafine and Nano Particle Emissions on Modified Indian Driving Cycle for Passenger Cars Operating on CNG Phase Wise Analysis
Authors: Nakhawa Husein Adam , Thipse S.S.
Published: October 2015

The ultrafine and nano particles compared to larger particles are gaining high importance because of their vulnerable effects to environment and human health causing respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and various types of cancers leading to premature death [1]. WHO report points out that approximately, two thirds of the global burden of disease due to urban outdoor air pollution is mostly from the developing countries in Asia (Cohen et al. 2004)[2]. By number, nearly all of the particles emitted by a diesel engine are nanoparticles which are also true for gasoline engines [3]. This is addressed by new UN Regulations by introducing the emission norms for diesel and GDI vehicles for particle number and PM2.5 as 6 x 10 11 and 4.5 mg/km respectively [4]. However, other S.I. engines like CNG, even though they look clean as there is no visible smoke but emitting large number of particles is necessary to investigate. This research paper focuses on characterization of ultrafine and nano particle emissions from CNG vehicle on Indian driving cycle and it covers experimental Investigation to identify the significance of different operating phases viz. idling, acceleration, deceleration and cruising for their contributions to particle number and size distribution pattern over urban as well as on extra urban part of the cycle. CNG passenger car shows large peak of PN emissions during cold starting phase at the beginning of the test cycle which is almost twice that of diesel vehicle. However, this concentration peak will decrease near to 25% on light operating loads during urban part of the cycle, but during acceleration and cruising operation on extra urban cycle under heavy load the PN emissions from CNG car are higher in magnitude. The particles emitted from CNG buses are too small to contribute to PM10 as they are of ultrafine and nano size range.
Technological Process Applied for the Coating the Pipe Profiles in the Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Stopka Ondrej
Published: October 2015

This paper deals with the specific technological process applied for the powder coating the pipe profiles as a part of interior, exterior and design manufacturing materials. In the introduction and first chapter of the paper, the main characteristics, possibilities, benefits and deficiencies of this progressive coating technology utilization applied in the manufacturing industry are described. The main part of the paper specifies the whole technological process related to the pipe profiles coating, contains the design of the specialized equipment (hanging hook) for hanging the pipe profiles on the beam and presents the sample calculation of the coating consumption for the specific metal element. This equipment was constructed and practically verified by the authors in real manufacturing environment. In conclusion, the possible applications of this coating technology for structurally similar materials are emphasized. The aim of the powder coating technology utilization simultaneously with using the proposed hanging equipment is to apply the coating specifically to those parts where it is desirable. This leads to reduction of the overall capital and operating costs and increasing the efficiency of the manufacturing process. In addition, the coating technology is considered to be environmentally friendly due to recyclability of the redundant coating.
The Possibility of Using Knowledge from Unconventional Financing of Suburban Bus Transport as an Innovative Tool for Cost Reduction in Logistics
Authors: Poliak Milos , Varjan Peter
Published: October 2015

The paper deals with the possibility of using knowledge from unconventional financing of bus transport as an innovative tool for cost reduction in logistics. The first part provides an overview of financing road transport including public passenger transport in Slovak republic (with dividing on railway transport, bus transport and urban public transport). Other part of paper describes option of using CNG fuel in suburban bus transport in particular company (SAD Zilina). Also this part contains economic comparison between diesel and CNG buses.
Synthesis of Diamond-Like-Carbon Films as the Coating Prototype for Biomedical Materials
Authors: Barnthip Naris , Muakngam Anchan
Published: October 2015

Synthesis of Diamond-Like-Carbon (DLC) films as the coating prototype for biomedical materials was fabricated by direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering at working pressure of 1.0x10-3 Torr, DC power between 50-150 W, and coating time between 60-180 sec. Polystyrene and Graphite were used as a substrate and target, respectively. The results showed that the surface roughness increased with increasing of the power and the coating time. These changes influenced the contact angle of DLC films, and the time of blood clotting. Blood clotting time of the blood samples with the fabricated surface was faster than that of the blood samples without the surfaces.
Structure and Mechanical Properties of Water Buffalo Horns
Authors: Surakamhang Panta , Sangsubun Chontira
Published: October 2015

Many studies have been reported in the field of biological materials. For the most part, this interest has focused on teeth, bones, hooves and horns, elucidating the relationship between structure and mechanical properties. Due to their novel outstanding structures and mechanical properties, this knowledge is helpful for the use and design of the superior bio-inspired synthetic materials. Similarly, this research aims to investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties of the water buffalo horn in 1-5 years old in Phatthalung province in southern Thailand. The tensile properties and the Young’s modulus were systematically measured by a universal testing machine. The hardness was determined by micro vickers hardness testing machines. The results showed that the average of Young’s modulus, the tensile strength at break and the vickers hardness of a 2-year-old water buffalo horn were about 6.1 GPa, 92.6 MPa and 180 MPa, respectively, which were higher than that at 1, 3, 4 and 5 years old. The elongation at break of a 1 year old water buffalo horn has a maximum value of 61%. The microstructure and chemical composition were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX), respectively. The results of SEM showed that the fracture surface of the water buffalo horn has a rippled shape in each layer. The EDX analysis showed that the water buffalo horn consists of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen.
The Construction and Evaluation of Instructional Package on Vector Quantity
Authors: Sirathanakul Sirin
Published: October 2015

In this study, an instructional package to enhance teaching and learning on Vector Quantity was constructed. It consisted of three types of media; teaching documents, a PowerPoint presentation and an experimental set for measurement of vector components. The validity and reliability of this package was assessed prior to utilization in the evaluation of impact on students’ learning achievement. The sample consisted of 60 Bachelor of Science students. They were selected by multi-stage sampling and divided into an experimental group and a control group. The instructional package was utilized in teaching the experimental group while the control group was taught conventionally. The results of this study revealed that: 1) the magnitude of vector components measured by using the experimental set was equal to that determined by conventional calculation, significantly at the .05 level, 2) the quality of the instructional package was rated as excellent, and 3) the learning achievement of the experimental group was higher than the control group with statistical significance level of 0.05. Thus, the instructional package could encourage students’ motivation and promote successful learning.
Actuation Properties Investigation: A Muscle like Linear Actuator Based on Biopolymer Material: Ionic Polymer Metal Composites
Authors: Zhao Gang , Sun Zhuang Zhi , Ge Yang , Li Ling Li
Published: October 2015

In this manuscript, a muscle-like linear actuator based on the combination of Bi-IPMC linear actuator unit was developed focusing on the applied requirements in the biomimetic artificial muscles using as the actuators. Subsequently, the muscle-like linear actuator was mainly fabricated by two segmented IPMC film, which is obtained through a special process and the actuation performance of the muscle-like linear actuator was further experimented by the testing platform. The results found our actuator behaved a high displacement performance, and this kind of muscle-like linear actuator has a potential value in the engineering practice.
Torque Analysis of IPMC Actuated Fin of a Micro Fish like Device Using Two-Way Fluid Structure Interaction Approach
Authors: Haq Mazhar Ul , Gang Zhao , Sun Zhuang Zhi , Aftab S.M.
Published: October 2015

In this paper, a numerical simulation of three dimensional model of IPMC actuated fin of a fish like micro device is presented using two-way fluid structure interaction approach. The device is towed by the surface vessel through a tow cable. Fin is acting as dorsal fin of the fish to control depth of the device and also acts as a stabiliser against its roll motion. Fin's displacement disturbs water flow streamlines around it, as a result velocity and pressure profile of fluid's domain changes around the actuated fin. As fin's position continuously changes throughout its actuation cycle, this makes it transient structural problem coupled with a fluid domain. Fin's displacement is received by the fluid and resulting fluid forces are received by the fin making it a two-way fluid structure interaction (FSI) problem. Such problems are solved by multi field numerical simulation approach. This multifield numerical simulation is performed in ANSYS WORKBENCH by coupling transient structural and Fluid Flow (CFX) analysis systems. It is desirous to determine the torque acting on the fin due to fluid forces through its actuation cycle by IPMC actuators. The objective of this study is to develop the methodology (two-way fluid structural interaction (FSI)) used to simulate the transient FSI response of the IPMC actuated fin, subjected to large displacement against different flow speeds. Efficacy of fin as depressor and riser is also required to be judged by monitoring the forces acting on wing in response to its displacement under IPMC actuation. Same approach is also applicable to the self-propelled systems.
Phytosome Containing Silymarin for Oral Administration: Formulation and Physical Evaluation
Authors: Maryana Wina , Rahma Annisa , Mudhakir Diky , Rachmawati Heni
Published: October 2015

Silymarin is a unique flavonoid complex isolated from milk thistle (Silybum marianum). It has been widely used as a hepatoprotective agent. Orally administered silymarin can be absorbed rapidly but only 20-50% of silymarin will be absorbed through gastrointestinal tract, resulting in low bioavailability. Those limitations are due to its low solubility, either in water and oil, and its low intestinal permeability. This study was aimed to develop silymarin-containing phytosome in order to improve the bioavailability of silymarin with sufficient safety and stability. This system consisted of silymarin-phospholipid complex prepared by solvent evaporation method, which was incorporated to form phytosome vesicles using thin layer method with various concentrations and molar ratios of silymarin and phospholipid. The vesicle size of phytosome was reduced with sonication. The results demonstrated that formula with 2% silymarin-phospholipid complex and molar ratio of silymarin to phospholipid of 1:5 showed the best phytosomal characteristics, with mean vesicle diameter of 133.534 ± 8.76 nm, polidispersity index of 0.339 ± 0.078, entrapment efficiency of 97.169 ± 2.412 %, and loading capacity of 12.18 ± 0.30 %. The preparation remained stable after freeze-thaw stability test. Analysis of Infrared spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry confirmed the presence of physical and chemical interactions between silymarin and phospholipid within complex formation. Well formed and discrete vesicles were revealed by Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis, drug content measurement, and freeze-thaw stability test.
Bacterial Adhesion and Hemocompatibility Behavior of TiN, TiO2 Single and TiN/TiO2 Multilayer Coated 316L SS for Bioimplants
Authors: Vishwakarma Vinita , Kaliaraj Gobi Saravanan , Ramachandran D. , Ramadoss Ananthakumar
Published: October 2015

Magnetron sputtering techniques was used to deposit TiN, TiO2single layer and TiN/TiO2multilayer coatings on 316L stainless steel (316L SS) substrates. The crystallinity, surface topography and roughness parameters of uncoated (316L SS) and coated specimens were examined. The anti adhesion and antibacterial behavior ofS.aureus(gram (+) ve) andE.coli(gram (-) ve) strains on uncoated and coated substrates were determined by live/dead staining using epifluorescence microscopy. Results demonstrate that the coated samples undergo drastic reduction of bacterial adhesion and negligible effect of antimicrobial activity. Further, coated substrates exhibit less platelets activation than that of uncoated substrates.
The Change of Swelling of Pulp Fibres under Recycling
Authors: Geffert Anton , Geffertova Jarmila , Števulová Nadežda , Seman Blazej
Published: October 2015

During the process of monitoring of pulp fibres swelling, which is directly related to absorptivity, it was found that with the growing number of recycling cycles this characteristics significantly decreases. This phenomenon, which is considered as negative from the point of view of pulp fibres utilizing for paper manufacturing, could potentially find its positive application in other areas, eg. in the civil engineering for production of lightweight composites, where the reduction of water absorption of natural fibre materials is desirable.
Influence of High Dosage of Specific C&DW Micro-Fillers on the Fluidity of Concrete
Authors: Sicakova Alena , Urban Karol , Draganovska Martina
Published: October 2015

Waste valorisation in production of building materials can be improved by their modification using some treatment technologies. Subsequently, products prepared using these optimized raw materials can show better or even new properties. Utilisation of construction and demolition waste (C&DW) for production of building materials is discussed for a longer time world-wide, whether in the form of coarse aggregates or in the fine-grain form as a micro-filler or as a binder. Both of these forms show specific problems have to be solved for increasing the quantities consumed. Fine-grain form can be obtained by techniques like crushing, grinding and sorting as well as by their combinations.This article is aimed on the utilization of specific portion of fine-grain C&DW (ceramics, glass and concrete) for production of concrete mixes of higher fluidity. C&DW were modified by specific process (defined method of crushing followed by sorting of particles under 250 μm). This material was expected as a micro-filler - substitution of natural aggregate (NA) in 0/4 fraction to the extent possible, that the rules allow. Using relevant calculations, 40% dosage was found as complying with standard limit for the maximum content (600 kg.m-3) of particles of less than 250 μm in whole mixture including the relative share of cement and NA. In accordance with these limiting factors, standard recipes were designed. Amount of water, as well as dosage of plasticizer was adjusted during mixing in order to keep the water/cement ratio (max. 0.6) and flow class F5 – F6.Resulting water consumption and dosage of plasticizer are discussed in the terms of influence of tested C&DW on the consistency and bleeding of concrete. Generally positive effect of fine-grain form of brick, glass and concrete was found compared to the reference concrete not containing those additive fine particles.
Formation of Composite Coatings Using Fluoropolymer Materials
Authors: Nadaraia Konstantine , Mashtalyar Dmitry , Gnedenkov Sergey , Sinebryukhov Sergey
Published: October 2015

Surface modification of magnesium alloys by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) and subsequent treatment with suspension of superdispersed polytetrafluoroethylene and tetrafluoroethylene telomeric solution are presented. Electrochemical, mechanical properties and wettability of obtained composite coatings were investigated. The polymer-containing coatings decrease the corrosion current and wear by orders of magnitude as compared to unprotected magnesium alloy and base PEO-coatings.
Duty Cycle of the Polarizing Signal Influence on Morphology and Properties of the PEO-Coating on Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Egorkin Vladimir , Vyaliy Igor , Sinebryukhov Sergey , Gnedenkov Sergey
Published: October 2015

Influence of the polarizing signal parameter used during plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) on the composition, morphology and properties of protective coatings formed on aluminum alloy in tartrate-containing electrolyte has been presented. It was established, that using of the short-pulse bipolar polarizing signal (τ=5 μs) facilitates the reduction of porosity and roughness of the formed PEO-layers. This, in turn, increases wearproof and protective corrosion characteristics of the treated alloy surface. Increasing the duty cycle (D) affects on the chemical composition and the thickness of the obtained coatings.
Formation and Properties of the PVDF/PEO-Coatings on Commercially Pure Titanium
Authors: Egorkin Vladimir , Vyaliy Igor , Opra Denis , Sokolov Alexander , Sinebryukhov Sergey , Gnedenkov Sergey
Published: October 2015

Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of commercially pure titanium VT1-0 was performed in phosphate electrolyte. High-frequency 200 kHz bipolar signal at a duty cycle D=0.1 was used to form the oxide coatings. Polymer-containing anticorrosion coatings were formed by applying polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) on the base PEO-coating. The results of electrochemical tests have showed a decrease of corrosion current density by 2 orders of magnitude (down to 1.5∙10-10 А∙сm-2) and the corresponding increase of the polarization resistance (up to 1.9∙108 Оhm∙сm2) in comparison with the metallic substrate.
α-MoO3 Nanostructure Synthesized in Plasma by an Original Method of Pulsed High-Voltage Discharge as Highly Reversible Anode for Secondary Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Opra Denis P. , Gnedenkov Sergey V. , Sokolov Alexander A. , Kuryavyi Valery G. , Sinebryukhov Sergey L.
Published: October 2015

A new concept for synthesis of the nanostructured transition metal oxides had been proposed. In particular, the method of pulsed high-voltage discharge was adopted for synthesis of α-MoO3 nanostructure with orthorhombic crystal lattice. The as-prepared α-MoO3 was investigated as anode for Li-ion battery. The 30-fold charge–discharge cycling has shown that material specific capacity (approximately 90 mAh g–1) is not high, however excellent reversibility was achieved (the Coulombic efficiency equals to 99.9%). Thus the method opens new ways for the synthesis of nanomaterials with stable reversible capacities for Li-ion batteries.
Structural Features of Nanocomposites Based on Cadmium Sulfide Nanoparticles in Glass Matrix
Authors: Galkina Anna N. , Nepomnyaschiy A.V. , Evgenov N.S. , Postnova I.V.
Published: October 2015

We study stable stable transparent monolithic nanocomposites based on the silica matrix doped with CdS nanoparticles (NPs) of different nature. The first kind of nanocomposite was obtained by nucleation and growth of nanoparticles in glass matrix during heat treatment. The second nanocomposite was obtained by immobilization of pre-made nanoparticles into silica gel matrix. This work is focused on characterization of the nanocomposites in the submicron scale by using electron microscopy and small angle x-ray scattering techniques. Experimental results show that both types of nanocomposites have homogeneous distribution of quantum dots. Form-factor and average size of CdS NPs depend on the synthesis technique
Nanocrystallites in the Pores and Magnetic Properties of PEO Coatings
Authors: Rudnev V.S. , Lukiyanchuk I.V. , Adigamova M.V. , Morozova V.P. , Tkachenko I.A.
Published: October 2015

The coatings manifesting ferromagnetic characteristics have been formed on titanium and aluminum by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) in alkaline electrolytes additionally containing iron oxalate and cobalt or nickel acetate. The metals of iron subgroup are found to be concentrated in pores of PEO coatings, as a rule, in form of crystallites. In a number of cases the relation between crystallite compositions and magnetic properties of the coatings has been established.
Effect of the Pulse Laser Radiation on the Stabilization of the ZrO2 and HFO2 High-Temperature Phases
Authors: Pugachevskii Maxim Alexandrovich , Panfilov Viktor Igorevich
Published: October 2015

The conditions of formation of the ZrO2 and HfO2 high-temperature (tetragonal and cubic) phases in the ablated nanoparticles were investigated. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy data demonstrate that laser intensities above 109 W/m2 ensure the formation of the ZrO2 high-temperature phases, while intensities above 5·109 W/m2 do the formation of the HfO2 high-temperature phases. Quantitative content of the high-temperature phases in layers of the ablated nanoparticles increases with raising the intensity. The obtained nanoparticles exhibit good thermal stability.
Critical X-Ray Scattering in Mixed Piezoelectric Material PbZr0.6Ti0.4O3
Authors: Andronikova Daria , Bronwald Yurii , Burkovsky Roman , Chernyshev Dmitry , Filimonov Alexey , Nacke Bernard , Ye Zuo Guang , Vakhrushev Sergey
Published: October 2015

The results of the experimental study of the critical X-ray scattering (CS) in PbZr0.6Ti0.4O3 (PZT40) single-crystal are presented. Temperature evolution of the CS lineshape and intensity was analyzed. It is demonstrated that CS can be described in terms of the mean-field model. Temperature dependences of the peak intensity of the CS, proportional to the static susceptibility, and the correlation length of the «ferroelectric fluctuations» follow the Curie-Weiss law with the Curie temperature Tc=638 K. Obtained results confirm the second-order character of the phase transition in the PZT40.
Application of the Streamlined Body for Properties Amplification of Thermoresistive MEMS Gas Flow Sensor
Authors: Djuzhev Nikolay A. , Novikov Dmitry , Ryabov Vladimir
Published: October 2015

The main problems of the gas flow meters are the improvement of the sensitivity and velocity range. In this paper thermoresistive membrane gas flow sensor is considered. The sensor is based on the calorimetric principle of operation and developed for the thermal gas flow meters. Special streamlined body was used to improve sensor’s characteristics. It is shown that streamlined body raises sensitivity by 2 times and improves velocity range of the sensor.
Comparison of Ground State Search Methods in the Random System of Ising-Like Point Magnetic Dipoles
Authors: Shevchenko Yuriy , Nefedev Konstantin V.
Published: October 2015

There has been carried out comparative analysis of energy minimizing methods in systems of magnetic Ising dipoles, randomly distributed on the nonmagnetic plane. The considered methods of ground state search are based on alignment of a magnetic moment of dipole in direction of an internal magnetic field. It is found out that the rate of convergence is low in the used methods, based on collective flipping of group of particles
Formation, Structure and Optical Properties of Nanocrystalline BaSi2 Films on Si(111) Substrate
Authors: Fomin Dmitrii Vladimirovich , Dubov Victor Leonidovich , Galkin Konstantin Nickolaevich , Goroshko Dmitrii L'vovich , Maslov Andrei Mikhailovich , Galkin Nikolay Gennadievich , Batalov Rafael Il'yasovich , Shustov Vladimir Alekseevich
Published: October 2015

BaSi2 thin films were formed on Si (111) substrate by solid-phase epitaxy (SPE) (UHV deposition) using the template technology followed by vacuum annealing at temperatures of 600 °C and 750 °C. After the deposition and annealing barium silicide films were characterized by Auger electron spectroscopy, grazing incidence x-ray diffraction (GIXRD) and atomic-force microscopy (AFM). It was established that the films annealed at T = 600 °C are polycrystalline with the structure of the orthorhombic BaSi2, with grain sizes of 100-200 nm. Higher anneal temperature (T=750 °C) leads to increase of diffraction peak intensity of BaSi2 phase with grain coagulation into 300-400 nm islands. It was confirmed that nanocrystalline BaSi2 films are characterized by a direct fundamental interband transition at 1.3 eV, the second interband transition with an energy of 2.0 eV, own phonon structure with wave number peaks at 112, 119, 146 and 208 cm-1 and a high density of defect states within the band gap, which provide a noticeable subband absorption at energies of 0.8 – 1.1 eV.
Synthesis of Mesoporous CaMoO4 in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Atuchin V.V. , Andreeva O.P. , Gavrilova T.A. , Kalyzhnyi N.A. , Korolkov I.V. , Maximovskiy E.A.
Published: October 2015

The mesoporous CaMoO4microcrystals have been prepared by precipitation in an aqueous solution. The scheelite-type structure in space groupI41/ahas been verified by the XRD analysis of the final powder product. The CaMoO4powder is composed of the almost size-uniform erythrocyte-like microspheroids with a diameter of ~5 μm. Every particle is formed by plate-like crystals with the characteristic thickness at a few-nanometer level and a diameter of ~1-2 μm.
Utilisation of payment instruments at a retail chain in Gauteng
Authors: Bester Adriaan M. , Bronkhorst Seugnet
Published: October 2015

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to determine the influence of race and income on the preferred payment instrument at pay points in a retail store in Pretoria Gauteng.Problem investigated: The method of payment, as well as the way these payment methods have been utilised, has evolved throughout history. Cash has stayed at the top of the payment instrument deck as a payment choice for the past 10 decades. With the expansion of technology payment instruments evolved to facilitate exchange between merchant and consumer. The preferred method of payment at a retail store in Gauteng, indicating whether consumers prefer cash payments or the use of cards was investigated. Further to this the difference in payment method between the different races and income groups was identified.Methodology: A quantitative survey research method was used. The statistical analysis entailed correlations using the Cramer’s V to test the dependency between two variables and the degree of dependency of variables, after which the Chi-Square test was also applied.Value of the research: The indication of consumer preference of payment method will have implications on which possibilities are available at the point of sale. Cash is no longer the only possible payment instrument; cards, debit and credit, are as easily used by consumers. Both banks and merchants will find this information important, since they need to make provision for different payment options. The results further distinguished consumer behaviour amongst different race groups and income groups.Conclusion: The research confirmed the previous findings in other countries that consumers have preconceived ideas on which payment instrument they would utilise at point of sale(POS.)
L’architettura della Compagnia di Gesù in Italia XVI-XVIII sec. Luciano Patteta [et al.]
Authors: Navarro Catalán David Miguel
Published: October 2015

Review of a basic and reference monograph to study the architecture of the Society of Jesus.
The regional distribution characteristics of aerosol optical depth over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Xu C. , Ma Y. M. , You C. , Zhu Z. K.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. The Tibetan Plateau (TP) is representative of typical clean atmospheric conditions. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) retrieved by the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) is higher over Qaidam Basin than the rest of the TP throughout the year. Different monthly variation patterns of AOD are observed over the southern and northern TP, whereby the aerosol load is usually higher in the northern TP than in the southern part. The aerosol load over the northern part increases from April to June, peaking in May. The maximum concentration of aerosols over the southern TP occurs in July. Aerosols appear to be more easily transported to the main body of the TP across the northern edge rather than the southern edge. This is maybe partly because the altitude is lower at the northern edge than that of the Himalayas located along the southern edge of the TP. Three-dimensional distributions of dust, polluted dust, polluted continental aerosol and smoke are also investigated, based on Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) data. Dust is found to be the most prominent aerosol type on the TP, and other types of aerosols affect the atmospheric environment slightly. A dividing line of higher dust occurrence in the northern TP and lower dust occurrence in the southern TP can be observed clearly at an altitude of 6–8 km above sea level, especially in spring and summer. This demarcation appears around 33–35° N in the middle of the plateau, and it is possibly associated with the high-altitude terrain in the same geographic location. Comparisons of CALIPSO and MISR data show that the vertical dust occurrences are consistent with the spatial patterns of AOD. The different seasonal variation patterns between the northern and southern TP are primarily driven by atmospheric circulation, and are also related to the emission characteristics over the surrounding regions.
Local- and regional-scale measurements of CH4, δ13CH4, and C2H6 in the Uintah Basin using a mobile stable isotope analyzer
Authors: Rella C. W. , Hoffnagle J. , He Y. , Tajima S.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. In this paper, we present an innovative CH4, δ13CH4, and C2H6 instrument based on cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS). The design and performance of the analyzer is presented in detail. The instrument is capable of precision of less than 1 ‰ on δ13CH4 with 1 in. of averaging and about 0.1 ‰ in an hour. Using this instrument, we present a comprehensive approach to atmospheric methane emissions attribution. Field measurements were performed in the Uintah Basin (Utah, USA) in the winter of 2013, using a mobile lab equipped with the CRDS analyzer, a high-accuracy GPS, a sonic anemometer, and an onboard gas storage and playback system. With a small population and almost no other sources of methane and ethane other than oil and gas extraction activities, the Uintah Basin represents an ideal location to investigate and validate new measurement methods of atmospheric methane and ethane. We present the results of measurements of the individual fugitive emissions from 23 natural gas wells and six oil wells in the region. The δ13CH4 and C2H6 signatures that we observe are consistent with the signatures of the gases found in the wells. Furthermore, regional measurements of the atmospheric CH4, δ13CH4, and C2H6 signatures throughout the basin have been made, using continuous sampling into a 450 m long tube and laboratory reanalysis with the CRDS instrument. These measurements suggest that 85 ± 7 % of the total emissions in the basin are from natural gas production.
Quality assessment and improvement of the EUMETSAT Meteosat Surface Albedo Climate Data Record
Authors: Lattanzio A. , Fell F. , Bennartz R. , Trigo I. F. , Schulz J.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Surface albedo has been identified as an important parameter for understanding and quantifying the Earth's radiation budget. EUMETSAT generated the Meteosat Surface Albedo (MSA) Climate Data Record (CDR) currently comprising up to 24 years (1982–2006) of continuous surface albedo coverage for large areas of the Earth. This CDR has been created within the Sustained, Coordinated Processing of Environmental Satellite Data for Climate Monitoring (SCOPE-CM) framework. The long-term consistency of the MSA CDR is high and meets the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) stability requirements for desert reference sites. The limitation in quality due to non-removed clouds by the embedded cloud screening procedure is the most relevant weakness in the retrieval process. A twofold strategy is applied to efficiently improve the cloud detection and removal. The first step consists of the application of a robust and reliable cloud mask, taking advantage of the information contained in the measurements of the infrared and visible bands. Due to the limited information available from old radiometers, some clouds can still remain undetected. A second step relies on a post-processing analysis of the albedo seasonal variation together with the usage of a background albedo map in order to detect and screen out such outliers. The usage of a reliable cloud mask has a double effect. It enhances the number of high-quality retrievals for tropical forest areas sensed under low view angles and removes the most frequently unrealistic retrievals on similar surfaces sensed under high view angles. As expected, the usage of a cloud mask has a negligible impact on desert areas where clear conditions dominate. The exploitation of the albedo seasonal variation for cloud removal has good potentialities but it needs to be carefully addressed. Nevertheless it is shown that the inclusion of cloud masking and removal strategy is a key point for the generation of the next MSA CDR release.
No observed effect of ocean acidification on nitrogen biogeochemistry in a summer Baltic Sea plankton community
Authors: Paul A. J. , Achterberg E. P. , Bach L. T. , Boxhammer T. , Czerny J. , Haunost M. , Schulz K.-G. , Stuhr A. , Riebesell U.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Nitrogen fixation by filamentous cyanobacteria supplies significant amounts of new nitrogen (N) to the Baltic Sea. This balances N loss processes such as denitrification and anammox and forms an important N source supporting primary and secondary production in N-limited post-spring bloom plankton communities. Laboratory studies suggest that filamentous diazotrophic cyanobacteria growth and N2-fixation rates are sensitive to ocean acidification with potential implications for new N supply to the Baltic Sea. In this study, our aim was to assess the effect of ocean acidification on diazotroph growth and activity as well as the contribution of diazotrophically-fixed N to N supply in a natural plankton assemblage. We enclosed a natural plankton community in a summer season in the Baltic Sea near the entrance to the Gulf of Finland in six large-scale mesocosms (volume ~ 55 m3) and manipulated fCO2 over a range relevant for projected ocean acidification by the end of this century (average treatment fCO2: 365–1231 μatm). The direct response of diazotroph growth and activity was followed in the mesocosms over a 47 day study period during N-limited growth in the summer plankton community. Diazotrophic filamentous cyanobacteria abundance throughout the study period and N2-fixation rates (determined only until day 21 due to subsequent use of contaminated commercial 15N-N2 gas stocks) remained low. Thus estimated new N inputs from diazotrophy were too low to relieve N limitation and stimulate a summer phytoplankton bloom. Instead regeneration of organic N sources likely sustained growth in the plankton community. We could not detect significant CO2-related differences in inorganic or organic N pools sizes, or particulate matter N : P stoichiometry. Additionally, no significant effect of elevated CO2 on diazotroph activity was observed. Therefore, ocean acidification had no observable impact on N cycling or biogeochemistry in this N-limited, post-spring bloom plankton assemblage in the Baltic Sea.