bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTION ON TAX ACCOUNTING IN BRAZILIAN JOURNALS AND EVENTS IN THE PERIOD OF 1989-2011
Authors: Eloy Junior Antonio Carlos Campodonio , Soares Sandro Vieira , Casagrande Maria Denize Henrique
Published: September 2014

A Contabilidade Tributária é uma das áreas mais antigas, desenvolvidas dentro da Contabilidade, de tal modo que há autores que ligam a função de coletor de impostos à origem da figura do contador. A partir desse conhecimento, esta pesquisa pretende identificar o “estado da arte” da Contabilidade Tributária, segundo as pesquisas apresentadas nos periódicos e eventos de Contabilidade no Brasil. Para tanto, fez-se um estudo descritivo e bibliométrico, com abordagem de dados quali-quantitativa. Foram delimitados, então os artigos oriundos de periódicos mantidos por programas de pós-graduação em Contabilidade e eventos científicos classificados como E1, com áreas temáticas de Contabilidade, segundo o Qualis/Capes (2007-2009). Assim, de um total de 14.473 artigos, publicados em eventos; e 2.395, publicados em periódicos, levantou-se, ao todo, uma amostra de 200 artigos de Contabilidade Tributária, sendo 156 oriundos de eventos científicos e 44 de periódicos. Desse total, a área de Contabilidade Tributária representou cerca de 1% das publicações desses eventos e periódicos analisados. O padrão Lotka, observado nos artigos, revelou que em torno de 78,5% dos autores publicaram um artigo apenas. Os três autores mais prolíficos foram: Luiz Antônio Abrantes, com 17 publicações; Mauro Fernando Gallo, com 10 publicações; e Carlos Alberto Pereira, com 9 publicações.
CONTROLES INTERNOS DETERMINANTES PARA A EFICIÊNCIA NA GESTÃO DO CEFET/MG
Authors: Castro Silva Wendel Alex , Gomes Maria Cristina de Oliveira , Araújo Elisson Alberto Tavares
Published: September 2014

Este artigo objetivou identificar quais são os fatores do sistema de controles internos (SCI) que influenciam na eficiência da gestão pública do CEFET/MG, na percepção dos seus gestores e servidores públicos, a partir do modelo de COSO (1997). A pesquisa é descritiva, quantitativa, um estudo de caso com a aplicação de questionários e análise regressão múltipla. Percebeu-se que o tempo de trabalho na Instituição e na função influencia a avaliação dos agentes acerca dessa eficiência e aqueles mais novos avaliaram-na melhor. Entretanto, os agentes com mais de 20 anos na função avaliaram melhor o construto de Risco. Os agentes com menos de um ano de trabalho analisaram mais negativamente a Atividade de Controle do Centro. Assim, a ótica dos agentes sofre impacto do tempo em que já trabalham na Instituição. Concluiu-se que o SCI é considerado eficiente e que modelo de COSO pode ser ajustado à essas organizações.
ANÁLISE HISTÓRICA DOS RESULTADOS DO EXAME DE SUFICIÊNCIA DO CONSELHO FEDERAL DE CONTABILIDADE
Authors: Bugarim Maria Clara Cavalcante , Rodrigues Lúcia Lima , Pinho Joaquim Carlos da Costa , Machado Diego De Queiroz
Published: September 2014

Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar o desempenho dos participantes nas diversas edições do exame de suficiência do Conselho Federal de Contabilidade (CFC), realizadas entre os anos de 2000 a 2004 e 2011 a 2012. Com este intuito, foram utilizados dados dos percentuais de aprovação, reprovação e desistência de todas as edições do exame. Estes dados foram analisados com aplicação de métodos de estatística descritiva, principalmente as medidas de tendência central, como média, moda, mediana, e de dispersão ou variabilidade, como amplitude, variância e desvio-padrão. Os resultados apresentaram um decréscimo significativo nos níveis de aprovação no exame do CFC, passando de 83,52% na sua primeira edição em 2000 para apenas 23,78% de aprovação em 2012. Desta forma, pode-se considerar que os ensejos de que a exigência do exame de suficiência impulsionasse as instituições de ensino em vistas da melhoria na qualidade de seus cursos não se realizaram.
Diga-Me no que Andas e te Direi Quem És: Aspectos de Influência nos Jovens da Classe C Brasileira para Adquirir Automóveis
Authors: Lübeck Rafael Mendes , Fallavena Lucia Helena Andrade , Santini Fernando De Oliveira , Sampaio Cláudio Hoffmann
Published: September 2014

o presente trabalho foi elaborado com o intuito de verificar quais aspectos motivam um grupo de integrantes da classe C, pertencentes gerao Y, a realizar a compra ou a manter um automvel. A pesquisa relevante em vista da Classe C brasileira estar em expanso econmica e representar um dos maiores potenciais de consumo para bens durveis, tais como um automvel. A coleta dos dados foi baseada em um grupo de foco e complementada por entrevistas em profundidade, com indivduos cuja renda mensal posicionava-se entre R$ 1.064 at R$ 4.561,00 (Neri, 2011). A pesquisa tem como essenciais as consideraes de que o consumo de carros na amostra estudada est associado ao sentimento de elevao social, segurana e comodidade.DOI: 10.5585/remark.v13i3.2506
Efeitos das Estratégias de Marketing de Compras Coletivas Sobre o Comportamento Impulsivo
Authors: Dias Suzi Elen Ferreira , Maria dos Santos Rosilene , Martins Vinicius , Isabella Giuliana
Published: September 2014

Brazil has the second largest e-commerce market in the world. One model used in this sector is "collective buying", a feature of which is impulse sales. Consumer behavior can be influenced by several factors, two of which are addressed in this article: the individual impulsivity of consumers and strategies of mix marketing. Impulsive buying is characterized by an unplanned purchase, i.e. the need to acquire the product arises just before the purchase. Consumers respond differently to mixed strategies depending on their degree of impulsivity. Thus, this article aims to analyze the efficacy of different marketing mix strategies for impulsive and non-impulsive consumer purchasing behavior. 137 participants were given a questionnaire containing the Buying Impulsiveness scale from Rook and Fisher (1995), and statements about the marketing strategies used by collective buying sites. Through a regression analysis, three strategies were found to relate more to impulsivity: search for products from well-known brands, search for deals with big discounts and confidence in receiving the product. For e-commerce and researchers, this study elucidates which strategies, from the consumer's perspective, effectively persuade purchasing behavior.DOI: 10.5585/remark.v13i3.2646
Attitudes Towards Ads and Age. A Study in Seniors
Authors: Estrada Marta M. , Monferrer Diego , Moliner Miguel A. , Sánchez Javier
Published: September 2014

Older adults make up one of the markets with the greatest potential in the future. It is essential that businesses take the diversity within this group into account, and perform segmentation in order to obtain a favorable attitude towards the ad. The potential for segmentation by chronological age has been called into question in recent years, with cognitive age emerging as the main alternative. This research aims to analyses the relationship between the variables of attitude towards the ad, attitude towards the brand and purchasing intention among older adults, noting the moderating effect of the joint use of chronological age and cognitive age on these items.DOI: 10.5585/remark.v13i3.2725
Studies on yeasts and yeast-like microorganisms in the denitrification unit biocenosis
Authors: Sláviková Elena , Grabińska-Łoniewska Anna
Published: September 2014

It was found that Candida famata, Hansenula californica and Rhodotorula rubra occurred in reactor UASB-type biocenosis in the course of denitrification carried out in the presence of lactic acid as a carbon source. The role of those species in nitrogen removal process was discussed with respect to their physiology.
Variability of selerotia in some species of genus Typhula
Authors: Dynowska Maria
Published: September 2014

On the basis of Typhula inearnata Lasch ex Fr., Typhula phacorrhiza Fr. and Typhula variabilis Riess. sclerotia morphology comparison the dependence of their structure upon the conditions in which they come into existence has boen found. The sclerotia show a larger variability in natural environment than in culture. The principle differences lie in the structure of enveloping layers: epidermoid, cuticle and the cuter part of bark.
Distribution of osmophilic and halophilic fungi in combine harvester sorghum dust particles from Egypt
Authors: Abdel-Hafez S. I. , Abdel-Hafez A. I. , Ismael M. A.
Published: September 2014

Fifty-two osmophilic (or osmotolerant) and halophilic (or halotolerant) species and one variety representing 24 genera were encountered from 20 combine harvester sorghum dust samples collected from four Covernorates in Upper Egypt, on 50% sucrose - and 15% NaCl-Czapck's agar at 28°C. The results obtained on the two media were basically similar, but numerous fungi could not tolerate 15% NaCl. The most frequent genera were Aspergillus Eurotium, Penicillium and Cladosporium.
Cellulose inhabiting fungi in the Nile Mad receiving city refuses in upper Egypt
Authors: El-Sharouny H. M. , Moubasher A. H. , Badran R. A.
Published: September 2014

Fifty-five species. which belonged to thirty-six genera. were collected from the four types of cellulose. There was no spetific fungal flora isolated from any of the four baits, namely wheat straw, cotton fibers, filter paper and cellophane but some fungi grew noticeably better on some cellulose types than on others. The gross total count of fungi was the highest on cellophane followed descendingly by filter paper, cotton fibers and wheat straw.
Variability in virulence and the race concept in Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary
Authors: Sujkowski Ludwik S.
Published: September 2014

Variability in virulence and aggressiveness was studied in 102 single zoospore isolates originating from 4 field isolates of Phytophthora infestans. Field isolates appeared to be mixtures of a wide spectrum of phenotypes differing in both characters as mentioned above. Race concept in P. infestans has been discussed.
Spitz nevus on the sole of the foot presenting with transepidermal elimination
Authors: Kobayashi Hiromi , Oishi Kyosuke , Miyake Miho , Nishijima Chihiro , Kawashima Atsuhiro , Kobayashi Hiroto , Inaoki Makoto
Published: September 2014

A 10-year-old Japanese girl presented with a rhomboid-shaped brown macule, 4 x 3 mm in size, on the sole of the right foot. Dermoscopic examination revealed a number of black dots and globules on the ridges of the skin, marking an area of symmetrical brown pigmentation. On the periphery, a streak-like arrangement of black dots/globules on the brown pigmentation was observed along the ridges, simulating a “starburst” pattern. The lesion was excised and histological examination showed a symmetrical wedge-shaped compound melanocytic lesion that consisted of junctional and intradermal nests of a mixture of large spindle and epithelioid cells. None of the cells were atypical, and maturation of the cells with increasing depth was observed. From these findings, a diagnosis of Spitz nevus was made. Transepidermal elimination of nevus cell nests was observed and there were small groups of degenerated melanin-laden cells in the cornified layer. Masson Fontana stain revealed fine melanin deposits in the nevus cells of the junctional and intradermal nests, as well as heavy melanin deposits in the small groups of degenerated cells in the cornified layer. The distribution of melanin may contribute to a unique dermoscopic finding in this case.
Non-choroidal yellow melanoma showing positive staining with Sudan Black consistent with the presence of lipofuscin: a case report
Authors: Jegou Penouil Marie Hélène , Gourhant Jean-Yves , Segretin Catherine , Weedon David , Rosendahl Cliff
Published: September 2014

A case of a predominantly yellow primary superficial spreading melanoma arising on the back of a 44-year-old woman is presented. Possible causes of the clinical and dermatoscopic yellow color are discussed. Staining with the histochemical stain, Sudan Black, revealed a differential uptake compared to a closely matched control melanoma. We speculate that the clinical and dermatoscopic yellow color could be due to the presence of increased amounts of the pigment lipofuscin, which is known to produce subtle orange color in some choroidal melanomas.
Atypical fibroxanthoma of the cheek—case report with dermatoscopy and dermatopathology
Authors: Inskip Mike , Maghee Jill , Weedon David , Rosendahll Cliff
Published: September 2014

We present a case report of an atypical fibroxanthoma on the cheek of a 73-year-old man. Clinical, dermatoscopic and dermatopathologic images are presented.
The dermatoscopic universe of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Lallas Aimilios , Apalla Zoe , Argenziano Giuseppe , Longo Caterina , Moscarella Elvira , Specchio Francesca , Raucci Margaritha , Zalaudek Iris
Published: September 2014

Following the first descriptions of the dermatoscopic pattern of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) that go back to the very early years of dermatoscopy, the list of dermatoscopic criteria associated with BCC has been several times updated and renewed. Up to date, dermatoscopy has been shown to enhance BCC detection, by facilitating its discrimination from other skin tumors and inflammatory skin diseases. Furthermore, upcoming evidence suggests that the method is also useful for the management of the tumor, since it provides valuable information about the histopathologic subtype, the presence of clinically undetectable pigmentation, the expansion of the tumor beyond clinically visible margins and the response to non-ablative treatments. In the current article, we provide a summary of the traditional and latest knowledge on the value of dermatoscopy for the diagnosis and management of BCC.
Melanoma and satellite blue papule
Authors: Oliveira André , Massone Cesare , Zalaudek Iris , Fink-Puches Regina , Hofmann-Wellenhof Rainer
Published: September 2014

The colors that are seen in dermoscopy depend on the anatomic level of the skin at which the chromophores are seen. Blue color can be found in a variety of melanocytic and nonmelanocytic lesions.

An 89-year-old man presented with a 3-year history of a slow-growing, hyperpigmented patch located on the distal third of the right arm. Dermoscopy showed an atypical network, irregularly distributed globules, pigmented internal streaks and a milky-red area. Based on these findings a diagnosis of slow-growing malignant melanoma was made. Simultaneously, a well-defined blue papule was seen on the proximal third of the same arm. Dermoscopy disclosed a homogeneous blue pattern. After clinical and dermoscopic correlation our differential diagnosis for this blue lesion included cutaneous melanoma metastasis, blue nevus and foreign body reaction. The patient recalled its onset 75 years ago after a grenade explosion. We also discuss the blue lesion appearance under reflectance confocal microscopy and high-definition optical coherence tomography. Histopathological examination after excision of the hyperpigmented patch and blue papule revealed a melanoma in situ and a foreign body reaction, respectively.

The diagnostic evaluation of a blue lesion should always rely on the integration of all data, especially clinical and dermoscopic features. Other non-invasive techniques, like reflectance confocal microscopy and high-definition optical coherence tomography can also be important aids for its differential diagnosis.
Uncommon presentations of tinea versicolor
Authors: Varada Sowmya , Dabade Tushar , Loo Daniel S.
Published: September 2014

Tinea versicolor (TV) is a common cutaneous fungal infection characterized by superficial scaling and a mild disturbance of skin pigmentation. It typically affects the chest, upper back, and shoulders. However, involvement of more unusual regions of the body such as the face and scalp, arms and legs, intertriginous sites, genitalia, areolae, and palms and soles has been reported. This report details two such cases observed at our institution: a 32-year-old woman with involvement of the popliteal fossa and a 16-year-old boy with involvement of the groin. The clinician must be aware of these variations in location and perform the appropriate diagnostic workup when lesions have the characteristic morphology of TV despite an unusual location. The etiology, pathophysiology, and epidemiology of TV are reviewed and current literature describing other instances of TV in uncommon locations is discussed.
Les essais de François Paré
Authors: Doyon-Gosselin Benoit , Veilleux Rachel
Published: September 2014

Cet article vise à rendre compte des figures exemplaires de la Franco-Amérique
présentes dans l’oeuvre de François Paré afin de témoigner de l’évolution de la pensée de
l’essayiste. Il s’agira de traiter, dans un premier temps, des plus importantes que l’on
retrouve dans son premier essai, Les littérature de l’exiguïté, et, dans un
deuxième temps, de celles présentes dans son dernier essai sur le sujet, Le fantasme
d’Escanaba, qui prolonge et cherche à dépasser les visées du premier. Conscient des
limites de sa notion fondamentale, Paré restreint son corpus dans Le fantasme
d’Escanaba pour mettre en lumière les auteurs phares de la Franco-Amérique en laissant
de côté les littératures de l’exiguïté de par le monde. Par ailleurs, un des enjeux
poétiques du parcours essayistique de Paré devient dans le dernier essai le glissement vers
un « je » nostalgique dont le parcours individuel reste intimement lié à son objet d’études.
En analysant le panthéon des auteurs marquants pour François Paré, on tentera de mieux
circonscrire les convergences, les contradictions et les « dérives obsessionnelles » qui
habitent l’essayiste.
« Qui pourra dire “nous” ? »
Authors: Papillon Joëlle
Published: September 2014

Cet article se penche sur Nous autres, les autres de Régine Robin (2011) et sur la dynamique d’inclusion et d’exclusion que suppose le pronom « nous ». Tandis que Robin dénonce le « nous » trop restrictif employé par la majorité québécoise, elle-même adopte une énonciation ambiguë dans l’essai. Souhaitant donner la parole à un « nous » plus diversifié — qui tienne compte de l’expérience immigrante —, l’essayiste s’appuie sur son expérience personnelle de l’exclusion, ce qui a pour conséquence de l’isoler à nouveau dans un « je » singulier.
La pensée qui fourche
Authors: Caumartin Anne
Published: September 2014

Le discours culturel porté par l’essai se construit selon une dynamique propre au genre : d’abord en phase avec le réel, le discours de l’essayiste se reprend ensuite, se déphase, et développe une certaine critique du monde grâce à cette mise à distance. L’article proposé aura pour amorce une recension sommaire des essais parus au cours des cinq dernières années qui vérifiera cette première impression de lecture et engagera une réflexion sur la tension entre la distance attendue par l’essai et son rapport avec l’actualité. Deux autres parties de l’article seront consacrées aux négociations entre les formes de réflexion sur le monde tel qu’il va, entre diverses expositions esthétiques de la responsabilité. Bernard Émond, essayiste-cinéaste, sera retenu comme cas de figure. S’il s’avère en effet que la « non-fiction » oblige de plus en plus à la proposition de solutions, à l’impératif, à l’immédiateté, il s’agira d’évaluer l’usage essayistique de la fiction, de poursuivre la réflexion sur la poétique du genre.
Tools for Controlling Protein Interactions Using Light
Authors: Tucker Chandra L. , Vrana Justin D. , Kennedy Matthew J.
Published: September 2014

Genetically encoded actuators that allow control of protein‐protein interactions using light, termed ‘optical dimerizers’, are emerging as new tools for experimental biology. In recent years, numerous new and versatile dimerizer systems have been developed. Here we discuss the design of optical dimerizer experiments, including choice of a dimerizer system, photoexcitation sources, and the coordinate use of imaging reporters. We provide detailed protocols for experiments using two dimerization systems we previously developed, CRY2/CIB and UVR8/UVR8, for use in controlling transcription, protein localization, and protein secretion using light. Additionally, we provide instructions and software for constructing a pulse‐controlled LED device for use in experiments requiring extended light treatments. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 64:17.16.1‐17.16.20. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Meteotsunami‐tide interactions and high‐frequency sea level oscillations in the eastern Yellow Sea
Authors: Choi Byoung‐Ju , Hwang Chorong , Lee Sang‐Ho
Published: September 2014

While an air pressure jump was moving southeastward over the shallow water region of the eastern Yellow Sea in March 2007, a long ocean wave (meteotsunami) was generated and amplified due to the Proudman resonance. The long wave arrived at the coast during high tide with wave amplitude of 1.4 m and seawater overflew seawalls and inundated the land. High‐frequency sea level oscillations continued for 8–9 h after the long wave hit a local coast. The Moon's age was 12 days, and the tidal range was about 4 m between neap and spring tides. Two‐dimensional numerical simulations were performed, to reproduce amplification of the long ocean wave in offshore and oscillations of sea level at the coast. Both tidal elevation and tidal currents were found to affect the growth of the long wave amplitude by the interactions between tides and the long wave. Long wave‐tides interactions are important processes for the accurate prediction of long wave arrival time and maximum height and for the reduction of coastal hazards in the macrotidal region. After the long wave hit the coast of remote regions, reflected waves propagated radially from remote regions to a local coast. The high‐frequency sea level oscillations at a local observation station continued, until all of the reflected waves from remote regions had passed by. It was concluded that high‐frequency oscillations of sea level are generated not only by local reflection of the long wave, but also by propagation of the reflected waves from remote regions.
Neutral density variation from specular meteor echo observations spanning one solar cycle
Authors: Stober G. , Matthias V. , Brown P. , Chau J. L.
Published: September 2014

Specular meteor radars have provided essential information about the mesospheric/lower thermosphere (MLT) dynamics. The Canadian Meteor Orbit Radar has been conducting continuous meteor echo observations in a fixed, stable configuration since 2002. Here we present estimates of the neutral air density variations derived from observations of the meteor peak flux altitude. Using a simple model assuming a linear trend and a sinusoidal solar cycle we derived a trend of a decreasing neutral density of 5.8 ± 1.1% per decade at approximately 91 km altitude and an amplitude across the most recent solar cycle, the solar cycle of 2.4 ± 0.7% for solar cycle 23/24. The long‐term trend of decreasing neutral air density in the MLT is in good agreement with the model results from Akmaev et al. (2006).
Seismicity and subsidence following the 2011 Nabro eruption, Eritrea: Insights into the plumbing system of an off‐rift volcano
Authors: Hamlyn Joanna E. , Keir Derek , Wright Tim J. , Neuberg Jürgen W. , Goitom Berhe , Hammond James O. S. , Pagli Carolina , Oppenheimer Clive , Kendall J‐Michael , Grandin Raphaël
Published: September 2014

Nabro volcano, situated to the east of the Afar Rift Zone, erupted on 12 June 2011. Eruptions at such off‐rift volcanoes are infrequent, and consequently, the plumbing systems are poorly understood. We present posteruption Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images from the TerraSAR‐X satellite and posteruption continuous seismic activity from a local seismic array. Interferometric analysis of SAR data, reveals a circular, 12 km wide, signal subsiding at ∼200 mm/yr. We inverted for the best fit Mogi source finding a 4 ± 1 × 107 m3/yr volume decrease at 7 ± 1 km depth. Between 31 August and 7 October 2011, we located 658 and relocated 456 earthquakes with local magnitudes between −0.4 and 4.5. Seismicity beneath the SE edge of Nabro at 11 km depth is likely associated with high strain rates from deep magma flow into the modeled reservoir. This suggests that magma is supplied through a narrow conduit and then stored at ∼7 km depth. We interpret seismicity at 4–6 km depth as brittle fracturing above the inferred magma reservoir. Focal mechanisms delineate a thrust fault striking NE‐SW and dipping 45° to the SE across the caldera floor. We propose that the crustal response is to slip on this fault which crosscuts the caldera rather than to deform on ring faults. The NE‐SW fault plane is not associated with measurable surface deformation, indicating that it does not contribute much to the caldera deformation. We show that subsidence of the caldera is controlled by magma chamber processes rather than fault slip.
Numerical simulation of the long‐range propagation of gravity wave packets at high latitudes
Authors: Heale C. J. , Snively J. B. , Hickey M. P.
Published: September 2014

We use a 2‐D, nonlinear, time‐dependent numerical model to simulate the propagation of wave packets under average high latitude, winter conditions. We investigate the ability of waves to propagate large horizontal distances, depending on their direction of propagation relative to the average modeled ambient winds. Wave sources were specified to represent the following: (1) the most common wave parameters inferred from observations of Nielsen et al. (2009) (18 km λx, 7.5 min period), (2) waves consistent with the average phase speed observed (40 m/s) but outlying horizontal wavelength and period values (40 km λx, 17 min period), and (3) waves which would be subject to strong ducting as suggested by Snively et al. (2013) (25 km λx, 6.7 min period). We find that wave energy density was sustained over large horizontal distances for waves ducted in the stratosphere. Waves traveling against winds in the upper stratosphere/lower mesosphere are more likely to be effectively ducted in the stratosphere and travel large horizontal distances, while waves which escape in the form of leakage are more likely to be freely propagating above 80 km altitude. Waves propagating principally in the direction of the stratopause winds are subject to weaker stratospheric ducting and thus increased leakage of wave energy density from the stratosphere. However, these waves are more likely to be subject to reflection and ducting at altitudes above 80 km based upon the average winds chosen. The wave periods that persist at late times in both the stratosphere and the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) range from 6.8 to 8 min for cases (1) and (3). Shorter‐period waves tend to become trapped in the stratosphere, while longer‐period waves can dissipate in the thermosphere with little reflection or trapping. It is suggested that the most common scenario is of partial ducting, where waves are observed in the airglow after they leak out of the stratosphere, especially at large horizontal distances from the source. Stratospheric ducting and associated leakage can contribute to a periodic and horizontally distributed forcing of the MLT.
Spectroscopic Evaluation of Mixing and Crystallinity of Fullerenes in Bulk Heterojunctions
Authors: Guilbert Anne A. Y. , Schmidt Malte , Bruno Annalisa , Yao Jizhong , King Simon , Tuladhar Sachetan M. , Kirchartz Thomas , Alonso M. Isabel , Goñi Alejandro R. , Stingelin Natalie , Haque Saif A. , Campoy‐Quiles Mariano , Nelson Jenny
Published: September 2014

The microstructure of blend films of conjugated polymer and fullerene, especially the degree of mixing and crystallization, impacts the performance of organic photovoltaic devices considerably. Mixing and crystallization affect device performance in different ways. These phenomena are not easy to screen using traditional methods such as imaging. In this paper, the amorphous regiorandom poly(3‐hexylthiophene) is blended with the potentially crystalline fullerene [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester PCBM and the amorphous bis‐adduct. First, the degree of mixing of polymer: fullerene blends is evaluated using UV–Vis absorption, steady‐state and ultra‐fast photoluminescence spectroscopy. The blue‐shift of the polymer emission and absorption onset are used in combination with the saturation of the polymer emission decay time upon fullerene addition in order to infer the onset of aggregation of the blends. Second, the crystallinity of the fullerene is probed using variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry (VASE), electroluminescence and photoluminescence spectroscopy. It is shown that the red‐shift of charge transfer emission in the case of PCBM based blends cannot be explained solely by a variation of optical dielectric constant as probed by VASE. A combination of optical spectroscopy techniques, therefore, allows to probe the degree of mixing and can also distinguish between aggregation and crystallization of fullerenes.
Flexible Inorganic Piezoelectric Acoustic Nanosensors for Biomimetic Artificial Hair Cells
Authors: Lee Hyun Soo , Chung Juyong , Hwang Geon‐Tae , Jeong Chang Kyu , Jung Youngdo , Kwak Jun‐Hyuk , Kang Hanmi , Byun Myunghwan , Kim Wan Doo , Hur Shin , Oh Seung‐Ha , Lee Keon Jae
Published: September 2014

For patients who suffer from sensorineural hearing loss by damaged or loss of hair cells in the cochlea, biomimetic artificial cochleas to remedy the dis­advantages of existing implant systems have been intensively studied. Here, a new concept of an inorganic‐based piezoelectric acoustic nanosensor (iPANS) for the purpose of a biomimetic artificial hair cell to mimic the functions of the original human hair cells is introduced. A trapezoidal silicone‐based membrane (SM) mimics the function of the natural basilar membrane for frequency selectivity, and a flexible iPANS is fabricated on the SM utilizing a laser lift‐off technology to overcome the brittle characteristics of inorganic piezoelectric materials. The vibration amplitude vs piezoelectric sensing signals are theoretically examined based on the experimental conditions by finite element analysis. The SM is successful at separating the audible frequency range of incoming sound, vibrating distinctively according to varying locations of different sound frequencies, thus allowing iPANS to convert tiny vibration displacement of ≈15 nm into an electrical sensing output of ≈55 μV, which is close to the simulation results presented. This conceptual iPANS of flexible inorganic piezoelectric materials sheds light on the new fields of nature‐inspired biomimetic systems using inherently high piezoelectric charge constants.
AAOA allergy primer: immunodeficiency
Authors: Ryan Matthew W.
Published: September 2014

Background

Primary immunodeficiency is rare but should be considered in patients who present to the otolaryngologist with recurrent, severe, or treatment refractory infections.

Methods

Recent literature and consensus statements on immunodeficiency were reviewed for clinically important information of relevance to otolaryngologists.

Results

The most common and most relevant immunodeficiencies are humoral deficiencies with inadequate antibody production or an impairment in the production of specific antibody after antigen exposure. For otolaryngologists the most important immunodeficiencies include immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency, common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), and specific antibody deficiency. Simple screening tests can be used by the otolaryngologist to exclude the most common immunodeficiencies. The general treatment approach to patients with these immunodeficiencies includes airway hygiene, early and aggressive treatment of infections, immunization, and antibody replacement therapy.

Conclusion

By virtue of their scope of practice, otolaryngologists are in a position to recognize and initiate the diagnostic workup of patients with immunodeficiency. Patients with a diagnosed primary immunodeficiency are best managed in a multidisciplinary manner with close cooperation among the otolaryngologist, immunologist, and other specialists that are involved in treating these multisystem diseases.
Epidemiology of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Mims James W.
Published: September 2014

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the archetypal allergic disease otolaryngologists encounter. Epidemiologic studies inform providers of the association of rhinitis symptoms and allergy test results in the broader population. Understanding the epidemiological characteristics of AR is important for interpreting both rhinitis symptoms and allergy tests.

Methods

Articles were selected based on literature review through PubMed and personal knowledge of the author. The largest and highest‐quality studies were included. The search selection was not standardized.

Results

Epidemiological studies demonstrate marked variability globally in the prevalence of both rhinitis symptoms and allergy tests. Self‐reported seasonal or perennial rhinitis symptoms significantly overestimate the prevalence of AR defined by a positive history and positive allergy tests. Positive allergy tests are also common in those without self‐reported rhinitis symptoms.

Conclusion

Interpreting rhinitis symptoms and allergy testing is enhanced by an understanding of the epidemiology of AR.
Practical clinical approaches to the allergic rhinitis patient
Authors: Lee Stella
Published: September 2014

Background

Numerous treatment strategies are available for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR), including environmental controls, pharmacotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery in appropriately selected patients. A stepwise algorithmic approach based on disease severity and persistence of symptoms is often advocated to effectively manage patients with AR.

Methods

A review is provided of current evidence and guidelines for the management of AR. Practical clinical strategies to improve patient adherence to therapy and outcome are described.

Results

Algorithms to manage AR are based on the severity and persistence of disease. A tailored strategy geared toward addressing symptoms that are most troublesome to the patient is beneficial, as is the assessment of comorbid conditions such as rhinosinusitis, asthma, and laryngopharyngeal reflux. Allergen‐specific immunotherapy
(AIT) is an underused treatment modality and patients with persistent AR should be considered candidates for desensitization, if appropriate. Assessment of patient outcome is important and the use of validated symptom surveys can provide an objective measure of quality of life.

Conclusion

A large armamentarium of treatment options is available to the otolaryngologist treating the patient with AR. A step‐wise and tailored approach with equal attention dedicated to patient education and assessment of patient outcome can be helpful to improve efficacy of treatment.
AAOA allergy primer: history and physical examination
Authors: Franzese Christine B.
Published: September 2014

Background

Allergic disease is very common in the general population and makes a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. Immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐mediated allergic disease manifests throughout the body, but many signs and symptoms of inhalant allergy are centered in the head and neck region.

Methods

A thorough yet focused history of allergic symptoms and potential physical examination findings of inhalant allergy are described.

Results

History should include types and timing of symptoms, environmental and occupational exposures, family history, associated diseases, and prior treatment, if any. Physical examination should include the skin and structures of the head and neck region. Nasal endoscopy can be helpful in visualization of nasal polyps.

Conclusion

Many times, history alone can serve to make the diagnosis, but physical examination also demonstrates specific findings that confirm the practitioner's presumptive diagnosis of allergic disease. However, should medical treatment fail or the diagnosis be in doubt, further diagnostic investigation with allergy testing should be pursued.
Anaphylaxis in the allergy practice
Authors: Leatherman Bryan D.
Published: September 2014

Background

Otolaryngologists managing patients with allergic rhinitis are faced with the possibility of anaphylactic reactions in the office, especially when providing allergen immunotherapy.

Methods

Literature review was performed and recent published articles on anaphylaxis were examined. Details on pathophysiology, incidence, signs/symptoms, and treatment of anaphylaxis are included in this review article.

Results

Although anaphylaxis is a rare event with allergy testing and immunotherapy, it can result in fatal consequences. Clinical manifestations of anaphylaxis are rapid, and the upper and lower airways, skin, conjunctiva, and gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems are often affected, individually or in combination. Treatment of anaphylaxis in the office begins with proper preparation in advance. The most important drug in the treatment of anaphylaxis is epinephrine, which should be administered early during an anaphylactic reaction. Recognition of the risks factors for anaphylaxis, such as uncontrolled asthma, may be helpful in order to prevent anaphylaxis.

Conclusion

Fortunately, Anaphylaxis is a rare occurrence in the allergy office if strict attention is paid to proper testing and treatment principles. Maintaining a high level of vigilance and preparedness is important to increase the chances of a favorable outcome should an anaphylactic episode occur.
Nanoindentation study of polydimethylsiloxane elastic modulus using Berkovich and flat punch tips
Authors: Wang Zhixin , Volinsky Alex A. , Gallant Nathan D.
Published: September 2014

This article explores polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mechanical properties, and presents nanoindentation experiments with Berkovich and flat punch indenters. In the Berkovich tip quasi‐static nanoindentation test, there are pull‐in and pull‐off events observed during the initial tip contact, and when withdrawing from the surface, respectively. The pull‐in interaction needs to be accounted for to properly determine the initial contact point, and thus the accurate contact area. Once accounted for the pull‐in event, the Berkovich and flat punch tips quasi‐static nanoindentation tests give comparable results of about 1.5 MPa for the PDMS elastic modulus (5 : 1 elastomer base to the curing agent ratio). However, PDMS unloading stiffness is higher than the loading stiffness, and dynamic PDMS testing yields higher elastic modulus of about 3.6 MPa. While these results are comparable with the large strain macroscopic compression test results, the difference underscores the complexity of elastomer mechanical characterization and illustrates the discrepancies typical of the reported values. This article describes nanoindentation methods and critical aspects of interpreting results to assess PDMS mechanical properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41384.
Study on strength and gelation time of polyacrylamide/polyethyleneimine composite gels reinforced with coal fly ash for water shut‐off treatment
Authors: Adewunmi Ahmad A. , Ismail Suzylawati , Sultan Abdullah S.
Published: September 2014

This study investigates the influence of coal fly ash (CFA) as a reinforcing material on the strength and the gelation of polyacrylamide (PAM)/polyethyleneimine (PEI) composite gels. Pure PAM/PEI gel and PAM/PEI gels containing CFA up to 2 wt % were synthesized via the cross‐linking reaction between PAM and PEI solutions at room temperature (25°C) in distilled water dispersed with CFA. The strength of each composite gel was measured at temperature of 80°C, while the gelation was determined from 80°C to 95°C. Rheological measurements indicated that the strength of PAM/PEI composite gels filled with CFA contents was significantly rigid and stronger than that of pure PAM/PEI gel as a result of the enhanced interfacial interaction of well‐dispersed CFA contents in PAM/PEI gel matrix. The gelation times of PAM/PEI gels containing CFA up to 2 wt % deviated from the gelation time of pure PAM/PEI gel. It was further observed that an increase in temperature resulted in a decrease in gelation time of PAM/PEI gel containing 2 wt % CFA. The scanning electron microscopy revealed the surface micrographs of PAM/PEI gels filled with CFA to be very dense without any noticeable micropores. The micropores were absent as scanning was performed on the dried composite gels. It also establishes the strong interaction between CFA and PAM/PEI gel matrix. Experimental findings showed that PAM/PEI composite gels reinforced with CFA are potential candidates for total water shut‐off treatment in oilfields. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41392.
Lysine methylation in cancer: SMYD3‐MAP3K2 teaches us new lessons in the Ras‐ERK pathway
Authors: Colón‐Bolea Paula , Crespo Piero
Published: September 2014

Lysine methylation has been traditionally associated with histones and epigenetics. Recently, lysine methyltransferases and demethylases – which are involved in methylation of non‐histone substrates – have been frequently found deregulated in human tumours. In this realm, a new discovery has unveiled the methyltransferase SMYD3 as an enhancer of Ras‐driven cancer. SMYD3 is up‐regulated in different types of tumours. SMYD3‐mediated methylation of MAP3K2 increases mutant K‐Ras‐induced activation of ERK1/2. Methylation of MAP3K2 prevents it from binding to the phosphatase PP2A, thereby impeding the impact of this negative regulator on Ras‐ERK1/2 signals, leading to the formation of lung and pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Furthermore, depletion of SMYD3 synergises with a MEK inhibitor, currently in clinical trials, to block Ras‐driven pancreatic neoplasia. These results underscore the importance of lysine methylation in the regulation of signalling pathways relevant for tumourigenesis and endorse the development of drugs targeting unregulated lysine methylation as therapeutic agents in the struggle against cancer.
Impact of pregabalin treatment on synaptic plasticity and glial reactivity during the course of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Silva Gleidy A. A. , Pradella Fernando , Moraes Adriel , Farias Alessandro , dos Santos Leonilda M. B. , de Oliveira Alexandre L. R.
Published: September 2014

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune and neurodegenerative disease that affects young adults. It is characterized by generating a chronic demyelinating autoimmune inflammation in the central nervous system. An experimental model for studying MS is the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), induced by immunization with antigenic proteins from myelin.

Aims

The present study investigated the evolution of EAE in pregabalin treated animals up to the remission phase.

Methods and results

The results demonstrated a delay in the onset of the disease with statistical differences at the 10th and the 16th day after immunization. Additionally, the walking track test (CatWalk) was used to evaluate different parameters related to motor function. Although no difference between groups was obtained for the foot print pressure, the regularity index was improved post treatment, indicating a better motor coordination. The immunohistochemical analysis of putative synapse preservation and glial reactivity revealed that pregabalin treatment improved the overall morphology of the spinal cord. A preservation of circuits was depicted and the glial reaction was downregulated during the course of the disease. qRT‐PCR data did not show immunomodulatory effects of pregabalin, indicating that the positive effects were restricted to the CNS environment.

Conclusions

Overall, the present data indicate that pregabalin is efficient for reducing the seriousness of EAE, delaying its course as well as reducing synaptic loss and astroglial reaction.
Improvement of a Gas Intake Device and a Gas Mixing Study in a Large‐Scale Vessel
Authors: Bai Chunhua , Fan Baolong , Li Bin
Published: September 2014

Gas mixing is a common process in chemical engineering. For actual industrial manufacturing of chemicals, most reactions commonly run in reactors or reaction vessels with large volumes (over 10 m3). In order to simulate a gas mixing process in a sealed reactor, and finally to improve the mixing effect between the gases, here the mixing process between methane and air in a reaction vessel with a volume of 10 m3 was studied via several approaches. Several specific evaluation indexes, including the mixing degree, the maximum concentration difference, and the mixing time, were obtained and recorded to evaluate the mixing effect on the gases. After a series of experiments targeting the determination of the size and pressure difference values of the gas intake device, the mixing effect between methane and air was finally optimized. The mixing degree was found to reach 0.97 within 1 h of monitoring, and the mixing time was decreased by 1700 % from the original situation.
Effect of Particle Shape on Inline Particle Size Measurement Techniques
Authors: Mostafavi Maryam , Petersen Sandra , Ulrich Joachim
Published: September 2014

The influence of the particle shape on the results of different measuring techniques was investigated. Considered were single‐frequency ultrasound technique, 3D optical reflectance measurement (advanced particle analyzing system with multi capture signal technology), and focused‐beam reflectance measurement probes as techniques which are usable inline and in suspension density ranges usually present in industrial crystallization processes. Advantages and shortcomings of these techniques are compared and discussed.
From Eight‐Membered 10π Electron Sulfur–Nitrogen Cycles to Bicycles and Cages: A Theoretical Approach
Authors: Gleiter Rolf , Haberhauer Gebhard , Woitschetzki Sascha
Published: September 2014

A simple way of rationalizing the structures of cyclic, bicyclic, and tricyclic sulfur–nitrogen species and their congeners is presented. Starting from a planar tetrasulfur tetranitride with 12π electrons, we formally derived on paper a number of heterocyclic eight‐membered 10π electron species by reacting the 3p orbitals of two opposite sulfur centers with one radical each, or by replacing these centers by other atoms with five (P) or four (Si, C) valence electrons. This led to planar aromatic 10π electron systems, nonplanar bicyclic structures with a transannular SS bond, and tricyclic structures by bridging the planar rings with an acceptor or donor unit. The final structures depend on the number of π electrons in the bridges. Intermediate biradicals are stabilized by Jahn–Teller distortion, giving transannular SS bonds between the NSN units. This procedure may be summarized by two rules, which provide a rationale for the structures of a large number of sulfur–nitrogen‐based molecules. The long bonds between the NSN units show a p character of >95 %. The qualitative results have been compared with known molecular structures and the results of B3LYP/cc‐pVTZ calculations as well as CASSCF and CASVB calculations. B3LYP/cc‐pVTZ calculations have also provided the UV/Vis spectra and the NICS values of the planar 10π systems.