bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase transitions during compression of thaumasite, Ca3Si(OH)6(CO3)(SO4)·12H2O: A high-pressure synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction study
Authors: Ardit M. , Cruciani G. , Dondi M. , Garbarino G. L. , Nestola F.
Published: January 2015

The high-pressure behaviour of the thaumasite structure was investigated using synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction, up to 19.5 GPa. Based on Rietveld refinements, thaumasite retained the roompressure P63 space group throughout the whole investigated pressure range while the pressure dependence of the refined unit-cell parameters can be cast into three different compression regimes, each corresponding to a different thaumasite phase (th-I, th-II and th-III) related by isosymmetric phase transitions. In particular, the phase transition in the 7.40–15.02 GPa P-range (i.e. from th-II to th-III) is associated with an inversion of the axial bulk moduli which, by analogy with ettringite, can be rationalized as due to a change in the relative strengths of the iono-covalent bonds along the [Ca3Si(OH)6(H2O)12]4+ columns parallel to the c axis vs. the O–H bonds linking the columns within the ab plane. The linear inverse relationship between the low- and high-temperature data from the literature with those collected under high-pressure conditions reveals that the same bonding regime governs the anisotropic expansion and contraction of thaumasite up to ~1.4 GPa and 400 K (HP-HT stability limits of th-I phase).
Thermooxidative degradation of injection-moulded sepiolite/polyamide 66 nanocomposites
Authors: Yebra-Rodríguez A. , Fernández-Barranco C. , La Rubia M. D. , Yebra A. , Rodríguez-Navarro A. B. , Jiménez-Millán J.
Published: January 2015

Clay/polymer nanocomposites (CPN) exhibit improved technical properties compared to their microand macro-counterparts. Nevertheless, thermal degradation of CPN may limit the applicability of these hybrid materials. In this paper accelerated ageing (110°C and 150°C) was performed in injection moulded pure polyamide 66 (PA66-S-0 samples) and polyamide 66 reinforced with 5 wt.% sepiolite (PA66-S-5 samples) CPN. Polymer degradation was monitored by the amount of newly formed carbonyl bonds. The carbonyl indices obtained indicate that degradation occurs to a greater extent as the temperature of the ageing process increases. Moreover, the degradation increases with time at the highest treatment temperature (150°C). On the other hand, the occurrence of carbonaceous silicates in the nanocomposite samples at high temperatures yields greater thermal stability of sepiolite/PA66 nanocomposites compared to pure PA66. Furthermore, the sepiolite nanofibres maintain their position in the reticulated semicrystalline structure. In agreement with those results, differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction analyses show that the motion of the amide groups in the polymer chains are constrained by the well dispersed sepiolite.
Minerals formed by the weathering of sulfides in mines of the Czech part of the Upper Silesian Basin
Authors: Matýsek D. , Jirásek J. , Osovský M. , Skupien P.
Published: January 2015

This study describes the occurrences of sulfate minerals in mines of the Czech part of the Upper Silesian Basin. This mineralization originates from the oxidation of Fe disulfides contained in the coal matrix and enclosing sediments. The oxidation occurs in the presence of formational brines and chemotrophic bacteria. The brines have a pH between 6.3 and 8.5 and total solute content of up to 300 g/l. They are rich in Na, Ca, K, Mg, Ba and Sr and Cl– is the major anion. The minerals of the pickeringite–halotrichite series with coexisting magnesiocopiapite are formed primarily in drier places and areas where the water is only slightly mineralized. In more humid places where the brines are more concentrated, a diverse assemblage of up to 20 different sulfates are found (e.g. natrojarosite, sideronatrite, metasideronatrite, tamarugite, magnesiocopiapite, bílinite, starkeyite, blödite, rozenite and siderotil). These sulfates are accompanied by halite, sulfur, goethite and a number of phases of uncertain identity, such as sulfates containing Sr and REE. This is an example of mineral paragenesis formed by weathering in a saline evaporite environment, which is extremely rare in Europe but is found in arid regions elsewhere (e.g. in the Atacama Desert in Chile).
Modelling of dissolution–reprecipitation ion-exchange reactions for the development of flame perthite in a suite of sheared alkaline rocks: an example from Chimakurthy, Eastern Ghats, India
Authors: Bhattacharyya Sudip , Sengupta P.
Published: January 2015

A suite of sheared syenites occurring along the western margin of the Eastern Ghats Belt, India have developed extensive flame perthite in K-feldspar. Albite flames show large variation in size, shape and abundance. Field, petrographic and chemical evidence suggests complex interplay between differential stress, recycling of K-Na-Ca and supply of Na by infiltration for the development of flame perthite. Partial replacement of pyroxenes, plagioclase and alkali feldspar by amphibole, biotite, nepheline and calcite causes internal recycling of Na-Ca-K in a closed system. Representative compositions of the minerals are used to constrain the model dissolution–reprecipitation ion-exchange reactions involving Na and K either as reactants and/or as products. A substantial proportion of Na+ required for the development of the albite flames, originates from Na metasomatism accompanied by ductile shearing in the feldspathic rocks, providing an ideal open system wherein both the differential stress and Na+ are made available for the development of the flame perthites. This process probably augmented the replacement of K-feldspar grains by flame albite and the K+ released was carried away by the fluid or, possibly, augmented the biotite-forming reactions in the associated quartz-poor syenites and, hence, trigger the Na-K cycle in these rocks.
microRNAs function in CD8+T cell biology
Authors: Liang Yan , Pan Hai-Feng , Ye Dong-Qing
Published: January 2015

During an immune response, CD8+T cells can differentiate into multiple types of effector and memory cells that are important components of immune surveillance. However, their dysregulation has been implicated in infection with viruses or intracellular bacteria and tumorigenesis. miRNAs have been identified as crucial regulators of gene expression, and they perform this function by repressing specific target genes at the post-transcriptional level. Most miRNAs expressed in a given cell type serve the function to impede broadly cell-type-inappropriate gene expression and potently deepen a pre-existing differentiation program. It is increasingly recognized that miRNAs directly modulate the concentration of many regulatory proteins that are required for the development of immune cells in the thymus and their responses in the periphery. This review outlines our current understanding of the function of miRNAs in CD8+T cell biology as it impacts expression of protein-coding genes in the context of proper development, infection, as well as oncogenesis. In addition, we conclude with a perspective on future challenges and the clinical relevance of miRNA biology.
Effectiveness of Androgen-Deprivation Therapy and Radiotherapy for Older Men With Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Bekelman Justin E. , Mitra Nandita , Handorf Elizabeth A. , Uzzo Robert G. , Hahn Stephen A. , Polsky Daniel , Armstrong Katrina
Published: January 2015

Purpose

We examined whether the survival advantage of androgen-deprivation therapy with radiotherapy (ADT plus RT) relative to ADT alone for men with locally advanced prostate cancer reported in two randomized trials holds in real-world clinical practice and extended the evidence to patients poorly represented in the trials.

Methods

We conducted nonrandomized effectiveness studies of ADT plus RT versus ADT in three groups of patients diagnosed between 1995 and 2007 and observed through 2009 in the SEER-Medicare data set: (1) the randomized clinical trial (RCT) cohort, which included men age 65 to 75 years and was most consistent with participants in the randomized trials; (2) the elderly cohort, which included men age > 75 years with locally advanced prostate cancer; and (3) the screen-detected cohort, which included men age ≥ 65 years with screen-detected high-risk prostate cancer. We evaluated cause-specific and all-cause mortality using propensity score, instrumental variable (IV), and sensitivity analyses.

Results

In the RCT cohort, ADT plus RT was associated with reduced cause-specific and all-cause mortality relative to ADT alone (cause-specific propensity score–adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.43; 95% CI, 0.37 to 0.49; all-cause propensity score–adjusted HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.67). Effectiveness estimates for the RCT cohort were not significantly different from those from randomized trials (P > .1). In the elderly and screen-detected cohorts, ADT plus RT was also associated with reduced cause-specific and all-cause mortality. IV analyses produced estimates similar to those from propensity score–adjusted methods.

Conclusion

Older men with locally advanced or screen-detected high-risk prostate cancer who receive ADT alone risk decrements in cause-specific and overall survival.
Prevention and Reversal of Lipotoxicity-Induced Hepatic Insulin Resistance and Steatohepatitis in Mice by an Antioxidant Carotenoid, β-Cryptoxanthin
Authors: Ni Yinhua , Nagashimada Mayumi , Zhan Lili , Nagata Naoto , Kobori Masuko , Sugiura Minoru , Ogawa Kazunori , Kaneko Shuichi , Ota Tsuguhito
Published: January 2015

Excessive hepatic lipid accumulation promotes macrophages/Kupffer cells activation, resulting in exacerbation of insulin resistance and progression of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, few promising treatment modalities target lipotoxicity-mediated hepatic activation/polarization of macrophages for NASH. Recent epidemiological surveys showed that serum β-cryptoxanthin, an antioxidant carotenoid, was inversely associated with the risks of insulin resistance and liver dysfunction. In the present study, we first showed that β-cryptoxanthin administration ameliorated hepatic steatosis in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Next, we investigated the preventative and therapeutic effects of β-cryptoxanthin using a lipotoxic model of NASH: mice fed a high-cholesterol and high-fat (CL) diet. After 12 weeks of CL diet feeding, β-cryptoxanthin administration attenuated insulin resistance and excessive hepatic lipid accumulation and peroxidation, with increases in M1-type macrophages/Kupffer cells and activated stellate cells, and fibrosis in CL diet-induced NASH. Comprehensive gene expression analysis showed that β-cryptoxanthin down-regulated macrophage activation signal-related genes significantly without affecting most lipid metabolism-related genes in the liver. Importantly, flow cytometry analysis revealed that, on a CL diet, β-cryptoxanthin caused a predominance of M2 over M1 macrophage populations, in addition to reducing total hepatic macrophage and T-cell contents. In parallel, β-cryptoxanthin decreased lipopolysaccharide-induced M1 marker mRNA expression in peritoneal macrophages, whereas it augmented IL-4-induced M2 marker mRNA expression, in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, β-cryptoxanthin reversed steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis progression in preexisting NASH in mice. In conclusion, β-cryptoxanthin prevents and reverses insulin resistance and steatohepatitis, at least in part, through an M2-dominant shift in macrophages/Kupffer cells in a lipotoxic model of NASH.
Is the Phillips Curve Alive and Well after All? Inflation Expectations and the Missing Disinflation
Authors: Coibion Olivier , Gorodnichenko Yuriy
Published: January 2015

We evaluate explanations for the absence of disinflation during the Great Recession and find popular explanations to be insufficient. We propose a new explanation for this puzzle within the context of a standard Phillips curve. If firms' inflation expectations track those of households, then the missing disinflation can be explained by the rise in their inflation expectations between 2009 and 2011. We present new econometric and survey evidence consistent with firms having similar expectations as households. The rise in household inflation expectations from 2009 to 2011 can be explained by the increase in oil prices over this time period. (JEL D84, E24, E32, E52, E58, Q35)
Monetary Policy Surprises, Credit Costs, and Economic Activity
Authors: Gertler Mark , Karadi Peter
Published: January 2015

We provide evidence on the transmission of monetary policy shocks in a setting with both economic and financial variables. We first show that shocks identified using high frequency surprises around policy announcements as external instruments produce responses in output and inflation that are typical in monetary VAR analysis. We also find, however, that the resulting “modest” movements in short rates lead to “large” movements in credit costs, which are due mainly to the reaction of both term premia and credit spreads. Finally, we show that forward guidance is important to the overall strength of policy transmission. (JEL E31, E32, E43, E44, E52, G01)
International Credit Flows and Pecuniary Externalities
Authors: Brunnermeier Markus K. , Sannikov Yuliy
Published: January 2015

This paper develops a dynamic two-country neoclassical stochastic growth model with incomplete markets. Short-term credit flows can be excessive and reverse suddenly. The equilibrium outcome is constrained inefficient due to pecuniary externalities. First, an undercapitalized country borrows too much since each firm does not internalize that an increase in production capacity undermines their output price, worsening their terms of trade. From an ex ante perspective each firm undermines the natural “terms of trade hedge.” Second, sudden stops and fire sales lead to sharp price drops of illiquid capital. Capital controls or domestic macro-prudential measures that limit short-term borrowing can improve welfare. (JEL F32, F43, G15, O41)
Dynamic Speed Optimization in Supply Chains with Stochastic Demand
Authors: Berling Peter , Martínez-de-Albéniz Victor
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we analyze how to continuously adjust the speed in a supply chain with stochastic demand. For each unit (e.g., truckload, shipping container) in the chain, one must decide at which speed it should be moved downstream, given the state of the system, to minimize total supply chain costs. We decompose the problem into a set of one-dimensional subproblems that can be easily solved and characterize the optimal variable speed policy: under some assumptions, we show that it is optimal to set a speed that is first increasing in the distance to the market, and then decreasing. As a result, at optimality a given unit will experience an accelerating speed and then it will be slowed down, unless a demand occurs, in which case, the speed will be adjusted upward. We finally provide a transportation case study where we estimate the benefits of a variable-speed compared to a fixed-speed policy and show them to be significant both financially and from a CO2-emissions perspective.
INFLUENCE OF SUBSTRATE THICKNESS ON DIFFUSE COPLANAR SURFACE BARRIER DISCHARGE PROPERTIES
Authors: Čech Jan , Zemánek Miroslav , Sťahel Pavel , Dvořáková Hana , Černák Mirko
Published: January 2015

In presented work the influence of dielectric barrier thickness on the parameters of Diffuse Coplanar Surface Barrier Discharge was investigated. The discharge was operated at atmospheric pressure laboratory air. The electrical parameters of the system were studied both experimentally and using numerical simulations. The discharge pattern was studied as well using intensified CCD camera.
INFRARED PHOTOLUMINESCENCE SPECTRA OF PBS NANOPARTICLES PREPARED BY LANGMUIR–BLODGETT AND LASER ABLATION METHODS
Authors: Remes Zdeněk , Novak Tomas , Stuchlik Jiri , Stuchlikova The-ha , Dřínek Vladislav , Fajgar Radek , Zhuravlev Konstantin
Published: January 2015

We optimized the optical setup originally designed for the photoluminescence measurements in the spectral range 400‒1100 nm. New design extends the spectral range into the near infrared region 900‒1700 nm and allows the colloidal solutions measurements in cuvettes as well as the measurements of nanoparticles deposited in the form of thin films on glass substrates. The infrared photoluminescence spectra of the PbS nanoparticles prepared by the Langmuir–Blodgett technique show the higher photoluminescence intensity and the shift to the shorter wavelengths compared to the infrared photoluminescence spectra of the PbS nanoparticles prepared by the laser ablation from PbS target. We aslo proved the high stability of PbS nanoparticles prepared in the form of thin layers.
The structural overview of root and branch concept in transportation management planning
Authors: Ndikom Obed
Published: January 2015

This paper looks at the nature, structure, characteristics, scope and dimensional trends and operational functioning of root and branch concept of transportation management planning in any organization. The root and branch concept of transportation management planning is a process that connotes a managerial initiative of adopting a holistic bottom-up and top-down approach in managerial planning process. This concept is one that decides a systematic adoption of either bottom-up strategy or top-down approach in the management planning of a transport organization. This concept has a global view and honestly sees it as one that cant be possible without the management of the internal operational mechanisms and dynamics at the end. Therefore, effort should be made to have a holistic structural overview of this emerging concept in dealing and managing internal issues in the organization. Keywords: Structural Overview, Root and Branch Concept, Transportation Management Planning, Bottom-Up and Top-Down Approach.
Effect of variation in colour gradient information for optic flow computations
Authors: B N Shobha , Kadambi Govind R. , Shankapal S.R. , Vershinim Yuri
Published: January 2015

Optic flow algorithms provide mapping of 3D velocities on 2D image space. Optic flow is computed on the pair of images which are in sequence and is normally gray scale images. Optic flow computation using Horn and Schunck assumes that brightness consistency is maintained. Colour optic flow has the advantage that optic flow vectors are obtained even when there is a variation of brightness in the input images. The use of colour bands for optic flow is investigated by considering gradients of colour bands and component gradients. Results of applying these two types of gradients to three colour models are presented and analyzed. Decision logic is proposed to select the best colour model for colour optic flow computation based on gradient analysis. Keywords: Activity Measure. Colour Bands, Component Gradients, Decision Logic, Optic Flow Computation.
Fuel flow control through a fuzzy servomechanism: a comparative analysis
Authors: Castano Victor , Rangel-Miranda Domingo , Alaniz-Lumbreras Daniel , Olvera-Gonzálezb Ernesto
Published: January 2015

The evaluation of a fuzzy expert positioning servomechanism that was applied for controlling fuel flow in an experimental process is presented. Since the conventional control techniques are not sufficient to implement nonlinear control systems, a successful control technique based on human experience was used. A comparative study was made by both Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) and Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) control algorithms. Fuzzy Logic and PID controllers were designed in Lab view program. The real-time position control which consists of a DC motor into a servomechanism was implemented by using a digital acquisition device (DAQ). The experimental results show that step response and semicircular trajectory on the position servomechanism for controlling fuel using FLC, had a better performance than those derived from PID control scheme.
Facial tracking in video transfer using watershed segmentation
Authors: P Mayilvahanan , S Purushothaman , P Rajeswari
Published: January 2015

This paper presents the implementation of watershed segmentation for facial tracking. It focuses on tracking face of human in a continuous video transfer. The database is obtained from internet resource. Tracking efficiency is 97.2%. Keywords: Facial Tracking, Watershed Segmentation, Motion Estimation.
Operational and environmental evaluation of traffic movement on urban streets using GPS floating-car data
Authors: Elkafoury Ahmed , Negm Abdelazim , Hafez Mohamed , Bady Mahmoud , Ichimurac Teijiro
Published: January 2015

Evaluating traffic networks is vital for the management of traffic systems. Nowadays, Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, by independent GPS devices or GPS enabled cellular phones, is properly used in most vehicles, especially on urban streets, due to its cost effectiveness, ease of use, and real-time services. With its ability to detect the time position of the floating car, GPS devices introduces a new prospective to gather vehicle information. Collected information can be utilized for traffic management and for Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to deduce evaluation indicators, and to achieve suitable measures. This paper brings up a framework for using real-time data collected by GPS-floating car technique for evaluating traffic conditions on urban streets. It utilizes GPS data of time, longitude, latitude to estimate evaluation indicators of street segments. This incorporates operational evaluation of street segment by characterizing Level of Service and level of congestion, and incorporates environmental evaluation by estimating the road-side concentration of pollutants emitted by traffic. Framework formation has been described. Different models used within every step of the framework have been investigated. Including models used in GPS data sample analysis, through models used to identify of street segments, and finally models used for street segments evaluation.
Faults diagnosis and assessment of transformer insulation oil quality: intelligent methods based on dissolved gas analysis a-review
Authors: Raisan Ahmed , Yaacob M.M , Alsaedi Malik Abdulrazzaq
Published: January 2015

The search for determining accurate faults and assessing the oil quality of high voltage electrical power transformers for life-long maintenance is ever-demanding. The durability of transformers function is significantly decided by the excellence of its insulation which deteriorates over time due to temperature fluctuations and moisture contents. The accurate diagnoses of faults in early stages and the efficient assessment of oil quality using an intelligent program is the key challenges in protecting transformers from potential failures occur during operation to avoid economic losses. The dissolved gases analysis in oil is a reliable method in the diagnosis of faults and assessing the quality of insulating oil in transformers. Recently, application of artificial intelligence (AI) has included fuzzy logic, expert system (EPS), and artificial neural network (ANN), Expert system and fuzzy logic can take DGA standards. This paper represents the review most of the methods used to diagnose faults and assessment of insulating oil for transformers through the dissolved gases analysis DGA.
Characterization and Deactivation Study of Mixed Vanadium and Potassium Oxide Supported on Microemulsion-Mediated Titania Nanoparticles as Catalyst in Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Propane
Authors: Shahbazi Kootenaei A. H. , Towfighi J. , Khodadadi A. , Mortazavi Y.
Published: January 2015

The influence of potassium addition to the vanadia supported on the microemulsion-mediated TiO2 nanoparticles in propane oxidative dehydrogenation was studied. Raman spectroscopy demonstrated that the addition of potassium caused enhanced dispersion of vanadia species on the support surface. Also, potassium existence affects the H2 temperature programmed reduction maximum reduction temperature and shifted it to 520°C, which was in accordance with its lesser catalytic activity. Nevertheless, a propylene selectivity enhancement was observed by potassium addition. In spite of the fact that the catalytic performance loss was not severe in vanadia-supported TiO2 anatase, potassium addition led to improve the catalyst lifetime. After deactivation test, potassium-containing vanadia catalyst possessed lower surface area loss (i.e. from 52 to 49 m2 g−1). Average crystallite size of potassium-containing vanadia catalyst exhibited lower decrease than that of potassium-free vanadia catalyst after deactivation test. According to Raman spectra, deactivation phenomena had influenced the population of vanadia species so that monovanadates decreased and polyvanadates increased.
Kinetics of Reactive Extraction of Pyruvic Acid Using Tributylamine Dissolved in n-Butyl Acetate
Authors: Pal Dharm , Keshav Amit
Published: January 2015

Studies have been made on the kinetics accompanied with mass transfer for the pyruvic acid/tributylamine (TBA)/n-butyl acetate system to investigate the effectiveness of reactive extraction for the separation of pyruvic acid from the aqueous solution. In the present work, kinetic studies, needed for the design of a recovery unit, were carried out using aqueous solution of pyruvic acid. TBA (conc. range 0.420–2.099 kmol/m3) dissolved in n-butyl acetate (conc. range 50–90%) was used as an extractant. The effect of reactant concentration, the effect of stirring speed and the effect of phase volume ratio on the extraction process were investigated. The kinetic parameters such as reaction order and rate constant were calculated. Kinetic measurements showed that the reaction is of second order occurring in the diffusion film and was found to be independent of hydrodynamic conditions. Rate constant was evaluated to be
$0.419\,{{\rm{m}}^3}{\rm{mo}}{{\rm{l}}^{- 1}}{{\rm{S}}^{- 1}}$
.
Directionals, episodic structure, and geographic information systems: Area/punctual distinctions in Ahtna travel narration
Authors: Berez Andrea L.
Published: January 2015

Interest in the past decades in the way spatial cognition manifests in language has led to a growing body of literature on the topic. The concurrent development of user-friendly geographic information systems (GIS) software can give linguists new perspectives on spatial language, especially narratives describing geographic landscapes, by allowing the researcher access to those landscapes in a way that was previously only available by visiting the region in person. In this paper, I discuss how the use of GIS reveals that Ahtna speakers use subtle distinctions in the directional system to structure discourse about overland travel into narrative episodes. Ahtna is an Athabascan language spoken in the Copper River area of southcentral Alaska by about 35 native speakers.
The complexity of inflectional systems
Authors: Stump Gregory , Finkel Raphael A.
Published: January 2015

We regard the complexity of any inflection-class system as the extent to which the similarities among its inflection classes tend to inhibit motivated inferences about the word forms realizing a paradigm’s cells. We propose ten objective measures of this sort of complexity. We apply these measures in comparing the declensional systems of Latin and Sanskrit, which we represent in a standard format that we call a “plat”; we execute these measurements with an online tool that is freely available for readers to use. We show that the ten measures are not equivalent; together, they show that the declensional systems of Latin and Sanskrit are roughly comparable in complexity. We discuss a number of methodological issues raised by this new approach to typological comparison.
Language structure and social agency: Confirming polar questions in conversation
Authors: Enfield N. J. , Sidnell Jack
Published: January 2015

While it has been shown that languages can select quite different formal resources for performing similar pragmatic functions in social interaction, our focus in this paper is the possibility that some types of form-function mapping are essentially universal. Our case study looks at how polar questions are confirmed. For confirming a polar question like ‘Have they gone?’, all languages provide two basic alternatives: an interjection type strategy (something like ‘Yes’) and a repetition type strategy (something like ‘They have gone’). Combinations of these are also possible. Does selection of one of these options have a definable pragmatic function? An analysis of cases from English telephone calls shows that interjection type confirmations are used when the confirmation is relatively straightforward in interactional terms, and where the epistemic terms of the question are accepted by the person who is confirming. By contrast, repetition type confirmations are associated with pragmatic functions where the answerer is in some way resisting the epistemic terms of the question, or dealing with a perturbation of the interactional sequence. We argue that the inherent semiotics of the two strategies explain why they have this distribution; i.e., we do not expect that interjection forms would be standardly used for non-straightforward confirmations, etc. In other words, the form-function mapping observed in English is a non-arbitrary one. Given that this semiotic motivation for choosing one over the other alternative for confirming polar questions should be present in other languages as well, we predict that the mapping observed in English will be observed in other languages as well.
A minimalist approach to the emergence of ergativity in Austronesian languages
Authors: Aldridge Edith
Published: January 2015

This paper proposes a novel reconstruction of Proto-Austronesian as a language with accusative alignment, in contrast to previous analyses, which have reconstructed PAn with some type of ergative system. The methodology employed in this paper also departs from previous work in basing the proposal on syntactic change rather than on phonological or morphological comparison. In the account of argument licensing in the Minimalist Program, nominative subjects are licensed by a higher functional head T than accusative objects, which value their case with the light verbv. This produces accusative alignment, with the corollary that ergative systems arise only when the unmarked licensing relations are disrupted. Specifically, I propose that this disruption involves the loss of transitivev’s ability to value accusative case on the object and the concomitant ability of thisvto provide inherent licensing for the subject, thereby allowing T to exceptionally value nominative case on the object. The current paper argues that the ergative types of alignment observed in modern Formosan and Philippine languages are the result of consecutive innovations in high-order subgroups of the Austronesian family, being triggered first in irrealis clauses in a daughter of PAn, which I term “Proto-Ergative Austronesian”.
Chemical solution deposition of functional ceramic coatings using ink-jet printing
Authors: De Keukeleere Katrien , Pollefeyt Glenn , Feys Jonas , De Roo Jonathan , Rijckaert Hannes , Lommens Petra , Van Driessche Isabel
Published: January 2015

This paper discusses the development of environmentally-friendly precursor inks suited for ink-jet printing of functional ceramic coatings. We synthesized superconducting materials, SrTiO3 thin films for coated conductor applications and transparent TiO2 photocatalytic coatings. Here, we discuss all aspects of ink formulation, including the stabilization of metal ions, nanoparticle inks or combination of both. This demands the investigation and determination of the inks rheological parameters. Ceramic nanoparticles are often incorporated in our inks to decrease thermal processing temperatures (e.g., TiO2 or YSZ coatings...) or enhance the properties of the functional ceramic coating (e.g., pinning centres in superconducting coatings). These ceramic nanoparticles (ZrO2, HfO2, TiO2...) are synthesized through methods based on microwave heating from aqueous and/or organic solutions. With that, we aim at developing smart and environmentally friendly processes that require lower energy input.
Carbaboranes – more than just phenyl mimetics
Authors: Frank René , Ahrens Verena , Boehnke Solveig , Hofmann Sven , Kellert Martin , Saretz Stefan , Pandey Souvik , Sárosi Menyhárt , Bartók Ágota , Beck-Sickinger Annette G. , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: January 2015

Dicarba-closo-dodecaboranes(12) (C2B10H12, carbaboranes) are highly hydrophobic and stable icosahedral carbon-containing boron clusters. The cage framework of these clusters can be modified with a variety of substituents, both at the carbon and at the boron atoms. Substituted carbaboranes are of interest in medicine as boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) agents or as pharmacophores. High and selective accumulation in tumour cells is an important requirement for a BNCT agent and is achieved by incorporating boron-rich, water-soluble carbaborane derivatives into breast tumour-selective modified neuropeptide Y, [F7, P34]-NPY. Preliminary studies showed that the receptor binding affinity and signal transduction of the boron-modified peptides were very well retained. Use of carbaboranes as pharmacophores was shown by replacement of Bpa32 (Bpa=benzoylphenylalanine) in the reduced-size NPY analogue [Pro30, Nle31, Bpa32, Leu34]-NPY 28–36 by ortho-carbaboranyl propanoic acid. The inclusion of the carbaborane derivative resulted in a short NPY agonist with an interesting hY2R/hY4R preference. This might be a promising approach in the field of anti-obesity drug development.
Lifting the Veil
Authors: Pittman Scott
Published: January 2015

The story of anti-communism in California schools is a tale well and often told. But few scholars have appreciated the important role played by private surveillance networks. This article examines how privately funded and run investigations shaped the state government’s pursuit of leftist educators. The previously-secret papers of Major General Ralph H. Van Deman, which were opened to researchers at the National Archives in Washington, D.C., only a few years ago, show that the general operated a private spy network out of San Diego and fed information to military, federal, and state government agencies. Moreover, he taught the state government’s chief anti-communist bureaucrat, Richard E. Combs, how to recruit informants and monitor and control subversives. The case of the suspicious death of one University of California, Los Angeles student – a student that the anti-communists claimed had been “scared to death” by the Reds – shows the extent of the collaboration between Combs and Van Deman. It further illustrates how they conspired to promote fear of communism, influence hiring and firing of University of California faculty, and punish those educators who did not support their project. Although it was rarely successful, Combs’ and Van Deman’s coordinated campaign reveals a story of public-private anticommunist collaboration in California that has been largely forgotten. Because Van Deman’s files are now finally open to researchers, Californians can gain a much more complete understanding of their state bureaucracy’s role in the Red Scare purges of California educators.
Spotlight
Authors: Kale Shelly
Published: January 2015

In 1932–33, the German geologist and urban geographer Anton Wagner conducted a “geographical investigation” of Los Angeles. Wagner had become interested in Los Angeles in 1925–26, when a visit provided a firsthand view of the city’s rapid development following World War I. Now, on this second trip, he would conduct “my own thorough observation of Los Angeles” to explain the area’s phenomenal growth and how “the cultural forces of the far West manifest themselves in this urban landscape.”
HES5 silencing is an early and recurrent change in prostate tumourigenesis
Authors: Massie Charles E , Spiteri Inmaculada , Ross-Adams Helen , Luxton Hayley , Kay Jonathan , Whitaker Hayley C , Dunning Mark J , Lamb Alastair D , Ramos-Montoya Antonio , Brewer Daniel S , Cooper Colin S , Eeles Rosalind , _ _ , Warren Anne Y , Tavaré Simon , Neal David E , Lynch Andy G
Published: January 2015

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, resulting in over 10 000 deaths/year in the UK. Sequencing and copy number analysis of primary tumours has revealed heterogeneity within tumours and an absence of recurrent founder mutations, consistent with non-genetic disease initiating events. Using methylation profiling in a series of multi-focal prostate tumours, we identify promoter methylation of the transcription factorHES5as an early event in prostate tumourigenesis. We confirm that this epigenetic alteration occurs in 86–97% of cases in two independent prostate cancer cohorts (n=49 andn=39 tumour–normal pairs). Treatment of prostate cancer cells with the demethylating agent 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine increasedHES5expression and downregulated its transcriptional targetHES6, consistent with functional silencing of theHES5gene in prostate cancer. Finally, we identify and test a transcriptional module involving the AR, ERG, HES1 and HES6 and propose a model for the impact ofHES5silencing on tumourigenesis as a starting point for future functional studies.
Benefits of Strict Rest After Acute Concussion: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Thomas Danny George , Apps Jennifer N. , Hoffmann Raymond G. , McCrea Michael , Hammeke Thomas
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVES:

To determine if recommending strict rest improved concussion recovery and outcome after discharge from the pediatric emergency department (ED).

METHODS:

Patients aged 11 to 22 years presenting to a pediatric ED within 24 hours of concussion were recruited. Participants underwent neurocognitive, balance, and symptom assessment in the ED and were randomized to strict rest for 5 days versus usual care (1–2 days rest, followed by stepwise return to activity). Patients completed a diary used to record physical and mental activity level, calculate energy exertion, and record daily postconcussive symptoms. Neurocognitive and balance assessments were performed at 3 and 10 days postinjury. Sample size calculations were powered to detect clinically meaningful differences in postconcussive symptom, neurocognitive, and balance scores between treatment groups. Linear mixed modeling was used to detect contributions of group assignment to individual recovery trajectory.

RESULTS:

Ninety-nine patients were enrolled; 88 completed all study procedures (45 intervention, 43 control). Postdischarge, both groups reported a 20% decrease in energy exertion and physical activity levels. As expected, the intervention group reported less school and after-school attendance for days 2 to 5 postconcussion (3.8 vs 6.7 hours total, P < .05). There was no clinically significant difference in neurocognitive or balance outcomes. However, the intervention group reported more daily postconcussive symptoms (total symptom score over 10 days, 187.9 vs 131.9, P < .03) and slower symptom resolution.

CONCLUSIONS:

Recommending strict rest for adolescents immediately after concussion offered no added benefit over the usual care. Adolescents’ symptom reporting was influenced by recommending strict rest.
Safety of Measles-Containing Vaccines in 1-Year-Old Children
Authors: Klein Nicola P. , Lewis Edwin , Fireman Bruce , Hambidge Simon J. , Naleway Allison , Nelson Jennifer C. , Belongia Edward A. , Yih W. Katherine , Nordin James D. , Hechter Rulin C. , Weintraub Eric , Baxter Roger
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

All measles-containing vaccines are associated with several types of adverse events, including seizure, fever, and immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP). Because the measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccine compared with the separate measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and varicella (MMR + V) vaccine increases a toddler’s risk for febrile seizures, we investigated whether MMRV is riskier than MMR + V and whether either vaccine elevates the risk for additional safety outcomes.

METHODS:

Study children were aged 12 to 23 months in the Vaccine Safety Datalink from 2000 to 2012. Nine study outcomes were investigated: 7 main outcomes (anaphylaxis, ITP, ataxia, arthritis, meningitis/encephalitis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, and Kawasaki disease), seizure, and fever. Comparing MMRV with MMR + V, relative risk was estimated by using stratified exact binomial tests. Secondary analyses examined post-MMRV or MMR + V risk versus comparison intervals; risk and comparison intervals were then contrasted for MMRV versus MMR+V.

RESULTS:

We evaluated 123 200 MMRV and 584 987 MMR + V doses. Comparing MMRV with MMR + V, risks for the 7 main outcomes were not significantly different. Several outcomes had few or zero postvaccination events. Comparing risk versus comparison intervals, ITP risk was higher after MMRV (odds ratio [OR]: 11.3 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9 to 68.2]) and MMR + V (OR: 10 [95% CI: 4.5 to 22.5]) and ataxia risk was lower after both vaccines (MMRV OR: 0.8 [95% CI: 0.5 to 1]; MMR + V OR: 0.8 [95% CI: 0.7 to 0.9]). Compared with MMR + V, MMRV increased risk of seizure and fever 7 to 10 days after vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study did not identify any new safety concerns comparing MMRV with MMR + V or after either the MMRV or the MMR + V vaccine. This study provides reassurance that these outcomes are unlikely after either vaccine.
Bullying and Suicidal Ideation and Behaviors: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Holt Melissa K. , Vivolo-Kantor Alana M. , Polanin Joshua R. , Holland Kristin M. , DeGue Sarah , Matjasko Jennifer L. , Wolfe Misty , Reid Gerald
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Over the last decade there has been increased attention to the association between bullying involvement (as a victim, perpetrator, or bully-victim) and suicidal ideation/behaviors. We conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the association between bullying involvement and suicidal ideation and behaviors.

METHODS:

We searched multiple online databases and reviewed reference sections of articles derived from searches to identify cross-sectional studies published through July 2013. Using search terms associated with bullying, suicide, and youth, 47 studies (38.3% from the United States, 61.7% in non-US samples) met inclusion criteria. Seven observers independently coded studies and met in pairs to reach consensus.

RESULTS:

Six different meta-analyses were conducted by using 3 predictors (bullying victimization, bullying perpetration, and bully/victim status) and 2 outcomes (suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviors). A total of 280 effect sizes were extracted and multilevel, random effects meta-analyses were performed. Results indicated that each of the predictors were associated with risk for suicidal ideation and behavior (range, 2.12 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.67–2.69] to 4.02 [95% CI, 2.39–6.76]). Significant heterogeneity remained across each analysis. The bullying perpetration and suicidal behavior effect sizes were moderated by the study’s country of origin; the bully/victim status and suicidal ideation results were moderated by bullying assessment method.

CONCLUSIONS:

Findings demonstrated that involvement in bullying in any capacity is associated with suicidal ideation and behavior. Future research should address mental health implications of bullying involvement to prevent suicidal ideation/behavior.
Talking With Parents About End-of-Life Decisions for Their Children
Authors: de Vos Mirjam A. , Bos Albert P. , Plötz Frans B. , van Heerde Marc , de Graaff Bert M. , Tates Kiek , Truog Robert D. , Willems Dick L.
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Retrospective studies show that most parents prefer to share in decisions to forgo life-sustaining treatment (LST) from their children. We do not yet know how physicians and parents communicate about these decisions and to what extent parents share in the decision-making process.

METHODS:

We conducted a prospective exploratory study in 2 Dutch University Medical Centers.

RESULTS:

Overall, 27 physicians participated, along with 37 parents of 19 children for whom a decision to withhold or withdraw LST was being considered. Forty-seven conversations were audio recorded, ranging from 1 to 8 meetings per patient. By means of a coding instrument we quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed physicians’ and parents’ communicative behaviors. On average, physicians spoke 67% of the time, parents 30%, and nurses 3%. All physicians focused primarily on providing medical information, explaining their preferred course of action, and informing parents about the decision being reached by the team. Only in 2 cases were parents asked to share in the decision-making. Despite their intense emotions, most parents made great effort to actively participate in the conversation. They did this by asking for clarifications, offering their preferences, and reacting to the decision being proposed (mostly by expressing their assent). In the few cases where parents strongly preferred LST to be continued, the physicians either gave parents more time or revised the decision.

CONCLUSIONS:

We conclude that parents are able to handle a more active role than they are currently being given. Parents’ greatest concern is that their child might suffer.
Sleep Duration, Restfulness, and Screens in the Sleep Environment
Authors: Falbe Jennifer , Davison Kirsten K. , Franckle Rebecca L. , Ganter Claudia , Gortmaker Steven L. , Smith Lauren , Land Thomas , Taveras Elsie M.
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Associations of inadequate sleep with numerous health outcomes among youth necessitate identifying its modifiable determinants. Television (TV) has been associated with sleep curtailment, but little is known about small screens (eg, smartphones), which can be used in bed and emit notifications. Therefore, we examined associations of different screens in sleep environments with sleep duration and perceived insufficient rest or sleep.

METHODS:

Participants included 2048 fourth- and seventh-graders participating in the Massachusetts Childhood Obesity Research Demonstration Study in 2012 to 2013. Using linear and log binomial regression, we examined cross-sectional associations of small screens and TVs in sleep environments and screen time with weekday sleep duration and perceived insufficient rest or sleep in the past week.

RESULTS:

Children who slept near a small screen (compared with never) reported 20.6 fewer minutes of sleep (95% confidence interval [CI], −29.7 to −11.4) and had a higher prevalence of perceived insufficient rest or sleep (prevalence ratio, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.21 to 1.60). Children who slept in a room with a TV (compared with no TV) reported 18.0 fewer minutes of sleep (95% CI, −27.9 to −8.1). TV or DVD viewing and video or computer game playing were associated with both sleep outcomes (P < .01). Some associations were stronger among Hispanic, non-Hispanic black, and older children (P < .05 for heterogeneity).

CONCLUSIONS:

Sleeping near a small screen, sleeping with a TV in the room, and more screen time were associated with shorter sleep durations. Presence of a small screen, but not a TV, in the sleep environment and screen time were associated with perceived insufficient rest or sleep. These findings caution against unrestricted screen access in children’s bedrooms.