bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Erythrocytes as Carriers for Drugs and Contrast Agents
Authors: Magnani Mauro
Published: January 2014

Erythrocytes, also known as Red Blood Cells (RBC), are typically used in transfusion medicine to replace lost blood in patients who underwent different kinds of medical treatments as well as those involved in accidents resulting in blood loss. In addition to these common uses, RBC are being used for a variety of new applications either as therapeutics or as diagnostics. Most of these novel approaches are made possible due to the peculiar properties of these cells. We have invented a technology that allows cells to be opened and resealed without affecting their main physiological characteristics with a minimal amount of patient blood.  Uses of processed RBCs in biomedical engineering include work with drugs, biomedical compounds and/or nanomaterials. These constructs are a new armamentarium available to the physicians for the release of drugs in circulation, for targeting drugs to selected sites in the body, or for in vivo diagnostic procedures based on magnetic and/or optical methods. Autologous human RBC loaded with dexamethasone (EryDex), a common corticosteroid,  have been used in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis, Crohn’s Disease, and other severe inflammatory conditions. Benefits and safety of this technology have been documented in over 2,500 treatments. EryDel SpA is a company focused on developing and commercializing innovative therapies and diagnostics based on the use of autologous RBCs as agent carriers. More recently, EryDel SpA completed a Phase II Proof of Concept study in patients with Ataxia Telangiectasia (AT), a rare progressive neurological autosomal recessive disorder that leads to mortality in most patients at an early age, with significant benefit seen on primary and secondary end-points. EryDex treatment has received Orphan Drug Designation by EMA for the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis and both by EMA and FDA for the treatment of AT.The encapsulation of superparamagnetic nanoparticles within RBC has lead to the generation of new biomimetic constructs that now permits the use of these nanomaterials in vivo avoiding their rapid sequestration and their accumulation in unwanted districts (PCT WO 2008/003524 A3). Similarly, the encapsulation of infrared fluorescent agents into RBC gives opportunity to the measurement of vasomotion in the human retinal vasculature suggesting a possible correlation with retinal edema.In summary, the newly developed RBC-based drug delivery system is an innovative technology platform that could be used in a wide range of applications opening to unlimited new therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, the same system has been adapted to deliver contrasting agents within the body enabling the improvement of current fluorangiographic procedures and the imaging by Magnetic Resonance (MRI) and Magnetic Particle (MPI). EryDel S.p.A. has recently completed trials to bring EryDex treatment to the market and to implement the clinical applications of the RBC technology.
Intra-articular injection of synovium-derived mesenchymal stem cells and hyaluronic acid promote regeneration of massive cartilage defects in rabbits
Authors: Ogay Vyacheslav , Karzhauov Miras , Mukhambetova Ainur , Raimagambetov Eric , Batpenov Nurlan
Published: January 2014

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether intra-articular injection of synovium-derived mesenchymal stem cells (SD MSCs) with low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) could promote regeneration of massive cartilage in rabbits.Material and methods: The SD MSCs were harvested from the knees of 10 Flemish giant rabbits, expanded in culture, and characterized. A reproducible 4-mm cylindrical defect was created in the intercondylar groove area using a kit for the mosaic chondroplasty of femoral condyle COR (De Puy, Mitek). The defect was made within the cartilage layer without destruction of subchondral bone. Two weeks after the cartilage defect, SD MSCs (2 × 106 cell/0.15 ml) were suspended in 0.5% low molecular weight HA (0.15 ml) and injected into the left knee, and HA solution (0.30 ml) alone was placed into the right knee. Cartilage regeneration in the experimental and control groups were evaluated by macroscopically and histologically at 10, 30, and 60 days.Results: On day 10, after intra-articular injection of SD MSCs, we observed an early process of cartilage regeneration in the defect area. Histological studies revealed that cartilage defect was covered by a thin layer of spindle-shaped undifferentiated cells and proliferated chodroblasts. In contrast, an injection of HA did not induce reparation of cartilage in the defect area. At 30 days, macroscopic observation showed that the size of cartilage defect after SD MSC injection was significantly smaller than after HA injection. Histological score was also better in the MSC- treated intercondylar defect. At 60 days after MSC treatment, cartilage defect was nearly nonexistent and looked similar to an intact cartilage.Conclusion: Thus, intra-articular injection of SD MSCs can adhere to the defect in the intercondylar area, and promote cartilage regeneration in rabbits.
The Rise and Expressions of Consistency in EU Law: Legal and Strategic Implications for European Integration
Authors: Herlin-Karnell Ester , Konstadinides Theodore
Published: January 2014

The principle of consistency has a prominent place in EU law. In the Treaty of Lisbon, it constitutes an umbrella under which a number of legal principles of EU law follow as corollaries. Consistency manifests itself within both horizontal and vertical levels of governance. This chapter will unpack this principle and will focus on the broader implications of consistency for the division of powers in EU law. In doing so, the authors aim to discuss the rise of consistency in EU law and decrypt its various constitutional expressions in order to determine its scope of application. Two notions of consistency are presented: a formal one that appears in the Treaty of Lisbon and a strategic one, prominent in the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). It is argued that consistency is relevant to both traditional (integrationist) and alternative (differentiated) routes to European integration. The chapter concludes by discussing whether the undefined nature of ‘consistency’ puts it at risk of becoming an empty vessel.
‘Beggars Can’t Be Choosers’: Spain and the Financial Crisis
Authors: González Carlos J Moreiro
Published: January 2014

This contribution analyses the viability of the new Spanish financial landscape which has been drawn by the European authorities and the national administration in order to overcome the progressive deterioration of social wealth in Spain since the beginning of the economic crisis in 2008.

The adoption and the implementation of a new legal framework during the last two years, establishing tougher requirements on capital adequacy, leverage ratios and counter-cyclical and other buffers, as well as the shaping of the Banking Union, are not enough to transform the Spanish banking system into the key tool for the creation of wealth.

There is a paradox of both legal and institutional outcomes. While, on the one hand, some positive changes in the functioning and the structure of the banking industry have been prompted by the regulatory reform, there are, on the other hand, some uncertainties linked to the recapitalisation costs of a relevant group of credit institutions and the persistence of serious structural problems of the Spanish economy.

Moving faster to full banking union will reduce financial market stress in Spain.
Kadiand the Role of the Court of Justice of the European Union in the International Legal Order
Authors: Fikfak Veronika
Published: January 2014

This chapter investigates the role of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in the international legal order in light of its decision inKadiand the forthcomingKadi II. It focuses on establishing how the Court perceives its relationship with the UN Security Council and its position in the international legal order. The CJEU’s approach is analysed by identifying the characteristics of review adopted by it as a ‘constitutional court of a municipal legal order’. In this context, the chapter reveals how the CJEU’s review resembles that employed by domestic courts seeking to give force to the same or similar actions of international institutions and shows which motives may have led the CJEU to follow the practice of national courts in constructing its relationship with the international organs. This practice is contrasted with Advocate General Bot’s desire to depart from the image of an all-powerful but isolated CJEU, a court ignorant of other legal orders. Bot insists that what the CJEU ought to do inKadi IIis adopt both a more modest, deferential role in reviewing international sanctions and a rather more active role as a participant in the international legal order.
Chinese Curses, Lawyers’ Dreams, Political Nightmares and New Dawns: Interesting Times for the UK’s Relationship with the EU
Authors: Forwood Nicholas
Published: January 2014

This chapter aims to explore some challenges that are likely to arise in the context of the UK’s present and future relationships with the EU. Three aspects come under scrutiny, namely the global opt-out available for the UK in the field of police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters (Protocol 36 to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU)), the 2014 referendum on Scottish independence and the contemplated 2017 referendum on whether the UK should remain an EU Member State. The chapter stresses not only the importance of restoring objectivity in the debates surrounding these issues, but also the necessity of taking due account of the uncertainties that these processes unavoidably entail as to their end results for both the UK and Scotland.
Factors Influencing Dividend Payout in Thailand: A Tobit Regression Analysis
Authors: Komrattanapanya Pornumpai , Suntraruk Phassawan
Published: January 2014

The aim of this paper is to determine the factors that influence the dividend payout of all firms listed in the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) during year 2006 to 2010. Using the TOBIT regression analysis, results reveal that financial leverage, investment opportunities, and sales growth negatively affected the dividend payout; on the other hand, size of firm is positively affected dividend payout. Moreover, evidence shows that firms in property and construction sector are more likely to pay dividend than others. Additionally, profitable small and large firms tend to pay dividend; meanwhile, profitable medium firms are less likely to pay dividend. However, it is found that profitability, liquidity, and business risk are insignificantly related to dividend payout. The results from this study are beneficial to investors when making a decision regarding stock investment. Furthermore, financial managers can use the results from this study to develop dividend policy in order to archive the maximize shareholders’ wealth. Those financial managers can decide whether company should keep the profits for investing or to distribute them out as dividends. In terms of academic contribution, this study adds more updated empirical evidences to existing financial literature in Thailand and provides additional international evidence regarding dividend payout.
Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in Ghana and the Quality of Financial Statement Disclosures
Authors: Agyei-Mensah Ben Kwame
Published: January 2014

According to the IASB's IFRS framework, qualitative characteristics are the attributes that make the information provided in financial statements useful to others. This study was conducted to investigate the quality of financial reports before and after adopting IFRSs in Ghana, and also the influence of firm-specific characteristics which include firm size, profitability, debt equity ratio, liquidity and audit firm size on the quality of financial information disclosed by firms listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange.The research was conducted through detailed analysis of the pre-official adoption period, (2006) and post adoption period, (2008) financial statements of the listed firms.  Descriptive analysis was performed to provide the background statistics of the variables examined.  This was followed by regression analysis which forms the main data analysis.  The results of the quality of financial information disclosure mean of 76.80% (pre adoption) and 87.09% (post adoption) for the two years indicate that the quality of financial reports has improved significantly after adopting IFRSs. The study thus confirms that the implementation of IFRSs generally reinforce accounting disclosure quality.  It also indicates listed firms' overwhelming compliance with the IASB's IFRS Framework.The results of the multiple regression analysis show that company size, represented by net assets and Auditor type were found to be associated at a statistically significant level with the quality of financial information disclosed.  With the improvement in the quality of the financial reports after adopting IFRS users are assured of useful information for financial decision-making.Keywords: Quality of financial reports' disclosure, Firm-specific characteristics, International Financial Reporting Standards, Mandatory disclosure, Ghana. JEL Classifications: M40, M41, M48
The Possible Effects of Organization’s Corporate Accountability Sense on Continuous Auditing: The Case of ISE 100
Authors: Kurt Ganite , Marsap Beyhan , Uysal Tugba Ucma
Published: January 2014

The applicability of continuous auditing, which is deemed as the future of auditing, in terms of enterprises can be presented depending upon corporate management mentality of enterprises. As for the corporate management mentality within enterprises, it can be presented based on accountability which is a concept involving internal and external considerations. Consequently, the aim of this study is to identify the potential impacts of the corporate accountability mentality of enterprises on continuous auditing. In accordance with this purpose, a corporate accountability index has been prepared and the variables have been determined in the first place. Then, the data of the enterprises included in Istanbul Stock Exchange (ISE) 100 Index regarding these variables have been construed; thus, the potential impacts thereof on continuous auditing have been tried to be determined.
Custo da ociosidade na indústria calçadista: Cálculo e análise em uma empresa do nordeste brasileiro
Authors: Eckert Alex , Biasio Roberto , Mecca Marlei Salete , Roloff Sheila
Published: January 2014

Fazer o cálculo do custo de ociosidade e conhecer seu impacto no custo final do produto é extremamente importante para as empresas. Para isso, é indispensável que elas conheçam os procedimentos necessários para o seu cálculo, sua origem, bem como seu impacto no custo e/ou rentabilidade. Diante desse cenário, esta pesquisa tem por objetivo verificar qual é o custo de ociosidade apresentado por uma indústria calçadista. Para fins do estudo foi utilizada a metodologia baseada em estudo de caso, estudo esse realizado junto a uma indústria do segmento calçadista. Com base nos resultados da pesquisa de campo foi possível concluir que a empresa pesquisada apresentou, nos três anos analisados, índices de ociosidade que, embora aparentemente baixos, representaram valores significativos. No decorrer do tempo, estes valores foram sendo agregados ao custo de seus produtos, aumentando o seu preço e/ou reduzindo a rentabilidade. Além disso, também foi possível concluir que é importante para as empresas não só determinarem o seu custo de ociosidade, mas sim, também identificarem quais são as causas deste custo. De posse dos dados, elas poderão interferir no processo produtivo, visando reduzir o custo de ociosidade, já que ele não agrega nenhum valor ao produto, mas apenas custo.
Modelo de programação inteira para a otimização da produção de carne de novilhos em rebanhos de corte: um estudo de caso
Authors: Longaray André Andrade , Damas Thiago Pinto
Published: January 2014

Este artigo descreve as etapas da aplicação de um algoritmo de programação inteira para a otimização da área destinada à criação de animais do tipo novilho jovem para a pecuária de corte de uma propriedade rural familiar localizada na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul. O problema balizador da pesquisa se relaciona à determinação da produção ótima de carne oriunda da pecuária de corte extensiva, levando em consideração as restrições de área de campo disponível, lotação de gado por hectare e a raça dos animais a serem criados. Para tanto, foi procedida a formulação de um modelo que contemplasse todas as restrições identificadas, para um ciclo produtivo de quatro anos, com a discriminação da quantidade de terneiros comprados, bem como o seu peso de venda. Foi possível determinar a melhor utilização possível para a área total disponível e o ganho médio mensal por faixa etária de novilhos.
Métodos estatísticos aplicados ao fluxo de caixa de uma distribuidora de energia elétrica
Authors: Carvalho Norma Alice da Silva , Souza Reinaldo Castro , Frota Mauricio Nogueira
Published: January 2014

Governo, indústria e consumidores são os principais agentes motrizes do setor elétrico. A manutenção deste setor é garantida pela tarifa de fornecimento de energia recolhida mensalmente pelo agente da indústria responsável pela distribuição de energia aos mercados consumidores. Para as empresas distribuidoras de energia elétrica, realizar a previsão e o monitoramento do arrecadado mensal (i.e.: retorno dos custos e a geração de excedentes para investimentos) é essencial no alinhamento estratégico empresarial do setor junto aos investidores. Este artigo propõe a utilização de métodos estatísticos como ferramenta para análise do fluxo de caixa destas empresas. Os resultados mostram que os métodos estatísticos empregados auxiliam as organizações em modelar e quantificar as incertezas presentes no processo de tomada de decisão.
Estudo da influência da programação do primeiro estágio em flow shop híbridos com tempos de setup explícitos
Authors: Fuchigami Helio Yochihiro , Moccellin João Vitor
Published: January 2014

Neste artigo são apresentados quatro métodos heurísticos construtivos (denominados LPT, TOTAL, SCT e LPST) para programação da produção em sistemas flow shop híbridos com tempos de setup independentes da sequência de execução das tarefas. O foco deste trabalho é o estudo da influência da programação do primeiro estágio neste ambiente de produção. O critério de desempenho utilizado é a minimização da duração total da programação (makespan). O método LPT baseia-se na conhecida regra Longest Processing Time e sequencia as tarefas pela ordem crescente da soma dos tempos de processamento de todos os estágios. O TOTAL utiliza a ideia do Método de Aproximação de Vogel, considerando a matriz composta pela soma dos tempos de processamento e setup de todos os estágios. A denominação SCT foi atribuída a este método por escolher o par tarefa-máquina que conduz à menor data de término (Shortest Completion Time). E o método LPST atribui à máquina de menor carga a tarefa com a maior soma dos tempos de processamento e setup do primeiro estágio. Os resultados da experimentação computacional mostraram que o método SCT foi claramente superior aos demais, com 55,3% de sucesso, enquanto o LPT obteve 26,9%, o TOTAL atingiu 16,4% e por último o LPST apresentou 2,2% de sucesso. Palavras-chave: programação da produção; flow shop híbrido; setup independente. ABSTRACT This paper addresses the hybrid flow shop scheduling problem with sequence-independent setup times. Four constructive heuristic methods (called LPT, TOTAL, SCT and LPST) were proposed with objective to evaluate the influence of the schedule of the first production stage in this environment. The minimization of the total time to complete the schedule (makespan) was used as performance criterion. The LPT method is based on the well-known Longest Processing Time rule and it sequence the jobs by the ascending order of the total processing times of all stages. The TOTAL method uses the idea of Vogel Approximation Method, considering the matrix composed by the sum of processing and setup times of all stages. The SCT method chooses the pair machine-job that leads the Shortest Completion Time. And the LPST method designates to the lower load machine the job with the largest sum of processing and setup times of the first stage. Results of computational experiments reveled that the SCT method was clearly the superior, with 55.3% of success, while LPT obtained 26.9%, TOTAL reached 16.4% and lastly LPST presented 2.2% of success. Keywords: production scheduling; hybrid flow shop; sequence-independent setup time.
Stitching Images with Arbitrary Lens Distortions
Authors: Ju Myung-Ho , Kang Hang-Bong
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we propose a new method to compensate for lens distortions in image stitching. Lens distortions that arise from the nonlinearity of a lens are the main cause for mismatches in stitching images. We estimate the distortion factors for each image using the Division Model and linearize the projected relationships between matching distorted feature points. Because our method works at the RANSAC stage, the estimated distortion factors are further refined during the bundle adjustment phase and thus accurate distortion factors are obtained. Applications based on estimated lens distortion factors show that our method is more efficient and that the stitched results are more accurate than other previous methods.
Réinterprétation de l’histoire militaire et redéfinition de l’identité nationale
Authors: Dorion-Soulié Manuel , Roussel Stéphane
Published: January 2014

Les commémorations du bicentenaire de la guerre de 1812-1814 organisées par le gouvernement conservateur étonnent par leur ampleur. Ce texte conçoit cette entreprise comme un élément s’inscrivant dans un projet de reconstruction de l’identité nationale et internationale du Canada autour d’une vision du monde néoconservatrice et néocontinentaliste. Toutefois, un examen des commémorations du centenaire de cette même guerre, prévues pour 1915, tend à démontrer que le projet du gouvernement Harper n’est pas unique en son genre et que ce conflit a déjà été réinterprété pour promouvoir une vision alternative de la place du Canada dans le monde, cette fois axée autour de valeurs libérales. En effet, les projets de la Canadian Peace Centenary Association visaient à célébrer la communauté identitaire unissant les « peuples de langue anglaise » et la paix qui règne en Amérique du Nord grâce aux méthodes rationnelles de résolution des conflits, notamment en proposant un programme d’éducation des peuples. Ce faisant, la cpca véhiculait une conception alternative aux idées impérialistes dominantes à l’époque et préfigurait l’émergence d’une conception plus nationaliste de la place du Canada dans le monde.
Abundance of Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Estuarine and Near-Shore Waters of North Carolina, USA
Authors: Urian Kim W. , Waples Danielle M. , Tyson Reny B. , Hodge Lynne E. W. , Read Andrew J.
Published: January 2014

A capture-recapture survey of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) was conducted in the sounds, estuaries and near-shore waters of North Carolina during July 2006, using photographic identification techniques; 291 dolphins were identified from distinctive nicks and notches on their dorsal fins. The results of our photographic analyses were applied to several capture-recapture models. The best estimate of the number of bottlenose dolphins present in estuarine waters of North Carolina during July 2006 was 813 with a 95% Confidence Interval of 483–1,142. Previously in July 2000, 1,033 (95% CI: 860-1,266) dolphins were estimated to be present in the estuaries of North Carolina. When the analysis from the 2006 surveys was expanded to include adjacent coastal waters, then the estimate of abundance increased to 1,138. Therefore, the abundance of dolphins in this area remained relatively stable between the two studies. Most dolphins were found in the northern part of the study area and there was very little exchange between the northern and southern areas of the state. The recapture data was also used to identify a spatial boundary between two putative management units that may be useful for future stock delineations. Additionally, an unexpected potential bias was introduced with the transition from slide film to digital media in the evaluation of the distinctiveness scoring.
Composition and Distribution of Phosphorus Forms in Sediments of Greenfield Lake, Wilmington, North Carolina
Authors: Roman Marissa D. , Cahoon Lawrence B.
Published: January 2014

Greenfield Lake in Wilmington, NC, has experienced recent problems with algal blooms, low dissolved oxygen levels, and fish kills, although various remedial actions have been taken that led to some visible improvements over the last decade. Many of these issues have likely been caused by high nutrient loading from the lake's urbanized watershed. The role of lake sediment as a source and a sink for phosphorus (P), which is often considered the nutrient most responsible for freshwater eutrophication, has not been examined. We identified and quantified the forms of P in the lake's sediments. Fourteen sites were sampled around the lake in 2012–2013. A sequential extraction procedure allowed analysis of five P forms of varying bioavailability. Total P concentrations in the sediment averaged 51.1 µg g−1 sediment, which is low relative to other lakes. The most concentrated P forms were the reductant-extractable, acid-extractable and residual P fractions. These results, and very low concentrations of more readily bioavailable P fractions, strongly indicate that the lake's abundant plant biota (phytoplankton, filamentous algae, and macrophytes) control and sequester most of the P load in the lake's water column. Further remediation efforts should consider the role of these plant populations in regulating the lake's water quality.
Defected Ground Structures for Microwave Applications
Authors: Bhuiyan MD Shakil , Karmakar Nemai Chandra
Published: January 2014

Improved performances, compact size, and lower cost are the key driving factors for advancement of modern communication systems. To meet these stringent requirements, defected ground structures (DGS) can be an effective tool. In this article, a comprehensive review of various DGS configurations emphasizing the background and evolution, classification, equivalent circuit modeling techniques, and their applications in different areas of microwave engineering has been presented. A review of different DGS‐engineered band stop filters (BSFs), low‐pass filters (LPFs), and high‐performance band‐pass filters (BPFs) is included. An overview of the applications of DGS in performance improvements of microwave antennas in terms of impedance matching, size reduction, spurious response suppression, mutual coupling reduction, cross‐polarized radiation suppression, and application of DGS in accomplishing a beam‐steering operation for a phased array antenna has also been included. Radio frequency identification (RFID) and microwave sensors, which are finding increased application, are introduced, and applications of DGS in conventional and chipless RFID tag design as well as in low‐cost passive microwave sensor implementation are also discussed. Additionally, applications of DGS in high‐impedance microstrip line realization and in output power and operational efficiency enhancement of microwave active circuits like oscillators and power amplifiers are covered. Finally, some limitations and challenges of DGS implementation in microwave circuits and antennas are discussed. Overall, adaptation of DGS in conventional passive and active microwave applications and in new emerging fields, like RFID and sensors, are covered in this article.
The source, statistical properties, and geoeffectiveness of long‐duration southward interplanetary magnetic field intervals
Authors: Zhang X.‐Y. , Moldwin M. B.
Published: January 2014

Geomagnetic activity is strongly controlled by solar wind and interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) conditions, especially the southward component of IMF (IMF Bs). We analyze the statistical properties of IMF Bs at 1 AU using in situ observations for more than a solar cycle (1995–2010). IMF Bs events are defined as continuous IMF Bs intervals with varying thresholds of Bs magnitude and duration and categorized by different solar wind structures, such as magnetic cloud (MC), interplanetary small‐scale magnetic flux rope, interplanetary coronal mass ejection without MC signature (ejecta), stream interacting region, and Shock, as well as events unrelated with well‐defined solar wind structures. The statistical properties of IMF Bs events and their geoeffectiveness are investigated in detail based on satellite and ground measurements. We find that the integrated duration and number of Bs events follow the sunspot number when Bz < −5 nT. We also find that in extreme Bs events (t> 6 h, Bz < −10 nT), a majority (53%) are related to MC and 10% are related with ejecta, but nearly a quarter are not associated with any well‐defined solar wind structure. We find different geomagnetic responses for Bs events with comparable duration and magnitude depending on what type of solar wind structures they are associated with. We also find that great Bs events (t> 3 h, Bz < −10 nT) do not always trigger magnetic storms.
Cross‐sectional associations between violent video and computer game playing and weapon carrying in a national cohort of children
Authors: Ybarra Michele L. , Huesmann L. Rowell , Korchmaros Josephine D. , Reisner Sari L.
Published: January 2014

Data were collected from 9 to 18 year olds surveyed nationally in a three‐wave longitudinal survey. The population‐average (generalized estimating equation, GEE) odds of carrying a weapon to school in the last month were estimated as a function of past‐year exposure to violent content in video, computer, and Internet games, as well as peer aggression and biological sex. The sample included youth who were at risk for both the exposure (i.e., game play) and the outcome (i.e., who attended public or private school). 3,397 observations from 1,489 youth were included in analyses. 1.4% of youth reported carrying a weapon to school in the last month and 69% reported that at least some of the games they played depicted violence. After adjusting for other potentially influential characteristics (e.g., aggressive behavior), playing at least some violent games in the past year was associated with a fourfold increase in odds of also reporting carrying a weapon to school in the last month. Although youth who reported frequent and intense peer victimization in the past year were more likely to report carrying a weapon to school in the last month, this relation was explained by other influential characteristics. Consistent with the predictions of social‐cognitive, observational learning theory, this study supports the hypothesis that carrying weapons to school is associated with violent game play. As one of the first studies of its kind, findings should be interpreted cautiously and need to be replicated. Aggr. Behav. 40:345–358, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Are age‐related differences in the consequence of work injury greater when occupational physical demands are high?
Authors: Smith Peter , Bielecky Amber , Koehoorn Mieke , Beaton Dorcas , Ibrahim Selahadin , Mustard Cameron , Saunders Ron , Scott‐Marshall Heather
Published: January 2014

Background

To examine if age differences in the consequences of work injury are exacerbated when occupational physical demands are higher.

Methods

A secondary analysis of workers' compensation claims in British Columbia (N = 373,672). Regression models examined the relationship between age and health care expenditures, days of wage replacement and the occurrence of long‐term‐disability following a work‐related injury in occupations with lower and higher physical demands. Models were adjusted for individual and injury related covariates.

Results

Older age and higher occupational physical demands were associated with worse work‐injury outcomes. The relationship between age and each outcome was not exacerbated when occupational physical demands were higher compared to when they were lower. Counter to our hypotheses age differences in health care expenditures were smaller among women in more demanding occupations.

Conclusions

In this study, we found no evidence that the relationship between age and the consequences of work injury is exacerbated when physical occupational demands are high. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:438–444, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A variant within FGF1 is associated with Alzheimer's disease in the Han Chinese population
Authors: Tao Qing‐Qing , Sun Yi‐Min , Liu Zhi‐Jun , Ni Wang , Yang Ping , Li Hong‐Lei , Lu Shen‐Ji , Wu Zhi‐Ying
Published: January 2014

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and Tau‐containing neurofibrillary tangles in vulnerable brain areas. The progression of AD is well correlated with hippocampal neuron loss which highly suggests genes associated with neuron survival would be important for AD pathogenesis. According to the recent results of genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) and other reported studies, we selected two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs3765728 within tumor protein p73 (P73), and rs34011 within fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1), both genes were related to neuron survival. We analyzed the distribution of rs3765728 and rs34011 in 1,083 Chinese subjects including 429 unrelated sporadic AD patients and 654 unrelated age and gender‐matched control subjects. We found that the genotype distribution of rs34011 was significantly different between AD and control group (χ2 = 9.048, df = 2, P = 0.011). Logistic regression manifested the risk of AD increased in TT genotype carriers in total subjects (Wald = 8.892, df = 1, P = 0.003, odds ratio [OR]:2.009, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.270–3.178). This effect was also found in APOE ϵ4 carrier group (Wald = 7.844, df = 1, P = 0.005, OR: 4.201, 95%CI: 1.539–11.472), suggesting the rs34011 has a synergetic effect of APOE on AD risk. However, no association was observed between rs3765728 and AD in the Han Chinese population (χ2 = 0.431, df = 2, P = 0.806). © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preparation and pH‐responsive performance of silane‐modified poly(methylacrylic acid)
Authors: Bai Shiyang , Zhang Huang , Sun Jihong , Han Jing , Guo Yueyue
Published: January 2014

The poly(methylacrylic acid) modified by silane [poly(methylacrylic acid‐co‐vinyl triethoxylsilane) (PMAA)] was prepared via free‐radical polymerization with different mass ratios of methylacrylic acid to vinyl triethoxylsilane (VTES). The swelling performance of the prepared PMAA in different solutions with various pH values, salt species (NaCl and CaCl2), and concentrations was investigated in detail. The results indicated that the introduction of silane boosted the stability of the obtained PMAA in aqueous solutions in the presence of an increased quantity of VTES additive. Meanwhile, the different swelling ratios of PMAA in various pH solutions showed a high pH responsivity. In addition, we found that when the PMAA underwent a number of swelling–deswelling cycles, it demonstrated the good reversibility properties when the pH value of the swelling medium was changed from 9.0 to 1.4. Moreover, the swelling mechanism of PMAA in different solutions with different pH values was investigated. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40403.
Performance of novel hyperbranched poly(aryl‐ether‐urea)s doped with N3‐dye in nanocrystalline DSSC
Authors: Sathiyaraj Subramaniyan , Vanjinathan Mahalingam , Shanavas A. , Amudha Subramaniyan , Suthanthiraraj S. Austin , Nasar A. Sultan
Published: January 2014

An amine‐terminated hyperbranched poly(aryl‐ether‐urea) (HBPEU) was prepared from an AB2‐type blocked isocyanate monomer and then its end groups were modified into urea (M‐HBPEU) by reaction with phenyl isocyanate. Both of the polymers were doped with N3‐dye along with KI/I2 to work as efficient polymer electrolytes in nanocrystalline dye sensitized solar cell. The increment in the conductivity of doped HBPEU and doped M‐HBPEU was very significant and reached its value at 8.2 × 10−3 and 4.1 × 10−2 S/cm, respectively. The current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of these two doped polymers measured under simulated sunlight with AM 1.5 at 60 mW/cm2 generate photocurrent of 2.5 and 3.6 mA/cm2, together with a photo voltage of 690 and 750 mV, and fill factor of 0.55 and 0.61 yielding a overall energy conversion efficiency of 2.4% and 4.1%, respectively. These results suggest that M‐HBPEU show better cell performance and conductance properties than the HBPEU. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40408.
Tribological properties of polyimide coatings filled with PTFE and surface‐modified nano‐Si3N4
Authors: Su Fenghua , Zhang Shaohua
Published: January 2014

Polyimide (PI) coatings filled with PTFE and nano‐Si3N4 were prepared by a spraying technique and successive curing. Nano‐Si3N4 particles were modified by grafting 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane to improve their dispersion in the as‐prepared coatings. Friction and wear performances and wear mechanisms of the coatings were evaluated. The results show that the incorporations of PTFE and modified nano‐Si3N4 particles greatly improve the friction reduction and wear resistance of PI coating. The friction and wear performance of the composite coating is significantly affected by the filler mass fraction and sliding conditions. PI coating incorporated with 20 wt % PTFE and 5 wt % modified nano‐Si3N4 displays the best tribological properties. Its wear rate is more than one order of magnitude lower and its friction coefficient is over two times smaller than that of the unfilled PI coating. Differences in the friction and wear behaviors of the hybrid coatings as a function of filler or sliding condition are attributed to the filler dispersion, the characteristic of transfer film formed on the counterpart ball and the wear mechanism of the coating under different sliding conditions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40410.
Effect of external electrostatic field on the stability of β sheet structures
Authors: Yang Pei‐Kun
Published: January 2014

To explore the effect of an external electrostatic field (EEF) on the stability of protein conformations, the molecular dynamic modeling approach was applied to evaluate the effect of an EEF along the x or y direction on a water cluster containing a parallel or antiparallel β sheet structure. The β sheet structure contained two strands with a (Gly)3 sequence separated by a distance d along the x direction. The mean forces between the two strands along the x direction were computed from the trajectories of molecular dynamics simulations. In the absence of the EEF, the forces between the two strands in vacuum were repulsive and attractive in the parallel and antiparallel β sheet structures, respectively. In contrast, the mean forces between the two strands in water were attractive in both the parallel and antiparallel β sheet structures. This is because the electric interactions between the two strands were shielded by water, and the hydrophobic effect dominated the interaction between the two strands. When an EEF >50 MV/cm was applied to the water cluster, the attractive force between the two strands in the parallel and antiparallel β sheet structures decreased and increased, respectively. Further, the binding affinity between the two strands in the parallel and antiparallel β sheet structures also decreased and increased, respectively. This is because the large EEF leads to dielectric saturation, and consequently reduces the effects of the dielectric shielding and hydrophobic interactions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 101: 861–870, 2014.
Board Effectiveness and the Voluntary Disclosure of Climate Change Information
Authors: Ben‐Amar Walid , McIlkenny Philip
Published: January 2014

This paper examines the relationship between board of directors' effectiveness and voluntary climate change disclosures. Since risk management and reporting fall under the board's responsibility, we relate board effectiveness to the firm's decision to voluntarily respond to the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) annual questionnaire as well as the quality of disclosures about climate‐change‐related risks and strategies to mitigate them.

Our results show a positive association between board effectiveness and the firm's decision to answer the CDP questionnaire as well as its carbon disclosure quality. The paper contributes to the ongoing debate on the determinants of voluntary climate change disclosures. Our findings highlight the importance of the board of directors' role in enhancing the transparency and relevance of voluntary disclosures of climate change business impacts. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
The Relational Genesis of Community: Self–Other Dialogue
Authors: Bessant Kenneth C.
Published: January 2014

Of late, there is increasing interest in the dialogical foundations of the self and community. Indeed, dialogical theory points to the embeddedness of community in self–other relations. This article proposes a dialogical approach to community that draws upon four key themes of discourse: the sociality of the self, the realm of interindividual relations, the constructive role of social representations, and the emergent properties of collective action. The ‘between’ constitutes a valuable concept for theorizing fundamental processes of relational existence and responsive meaning‐making, including the co‐constitution of community. In the process of coming into dialogic relation with one another, individuals construct meanings, experiences, and actions that profoundly shape both selfhood and community. Thus conceived, community is founded on dialogic interaction and intersubjective representation, thereby becoming the conscious object of reflection and action. The intention here is to theorize the relational genesis and continued transformation of community through self–other dialogue. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Public Responses to Community Compensation: The Importance of Prior Consultations with Local Residents
Authors: Terwel Bart W. , Koudenburg Florentine A. , ter Mors Emma
Published: January 2014

A company that wants to implement an industrial project with adverse local impacts can offer the members of the affected community compensation for bearing the burdens associated with the project. In the current study, participants evaluated such a situation from the perspective of observer. Depending on experimental condition, they learned that a company either had or had not consulted members of the affected community prior to deciding on the compensation offer. The compensation offer was either public goods compensation or individual monetary compensation. We hypothesized and found that the decision‐making process was considered fairer and the company was perceived as more concerned with the local public interest when the company had consulted local residents prior to deciding on the compensation offer. Also, the company was believed to be more concerned with the local public interest when it offered public goods compensation instead of individual monetary compensation. Perceived concern and perceived fairness predicted the perceived trustworthiness of the company, and this, in turn, predicted how participants anticipated the members of the affected community to react to the compensation offered by the company. The study thus demonstrates the importance of consultations with local residents in the process of deciding on compensation measures. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What are you dieting for? The role of lay theories in dieters' goal setting
Authors: Beruchashvili Mariam , Moisio Risto , Heisley Deborah D.
Published: January 2014

Through a qualitative study of a sample of Weight Watchers dieters, this research provides insight about the relationship between goal setting and lay theories—people's basic assumptions about the malleability of their personal attributes. We find that dieters set very different types of superordinate and subordinate goals depending on the lay theory (entity vs. incremental) they hold. Dieters who hold entity theory, which underscores immutability of abilities, set superordinate goals focused on avoiding negative social evaluations. These dieters also seem to set subordinate goals that minimize effort in diet, physical activity, and the use of group meetings necessary for weight loss. Among dieters holding incremental theory, which emphasizes malleability of abilities through learning, weight loss is guided by superordinate goals that promote change in the self. Incremental‐theory dieters also set subordinate goals that encourage rather than limit revamping lifestyle. These findings offer contributions to lay theories and goal setting in consumer research as well as implications for developing more successful weight‐loss practices. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heterogenized Gold(I)–Carbene as a Single‐Site Catalyst in Continuous Flow
Authors: Lothschütz Christian , Szlachetko Jakub , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: January 2014

Catalytically active gold(I)–carbene complexes on a polystyrene backbone were synthesized by treating metal‐coordinated isocyanides with the nitrogen nucleophile of a piperazine group bonded to the polystyrene. The local environment of the metal was readily tuned by variation of the functional group. This versatile synthesis procedure is not restricted to gold and can easily be extended to other metals such as Pd and Pt. The gold carbene complexes were extensively characterized, and resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering identified the +1 oxidation state of the supported gold. This single‐site catalyst catalyzed the synthesis of oxazoles, and the system could be used in continuous flow.
Selective Conversion of Biorefinery Lignin into Dicarboxylic Acids
Authors: Ma Ruoshui , Guo Mond , Zhang Xiao
Published: January 2014

The emerging biomass‐to‐biofuel conversion industry has created an urgent need for identifying new applications for biorefinery lignin. This paper demonstrates a new route to producing dicarboxylic acids from biorefinery lignin through chalcopyrite‐catalyzed oxidation in a highly selective process. Up to 95 % selectivity towards stable dicarboxylic acids was obtained for several types of biorefinery lignin and model compounds under mild, environmentally friendly reaction conditions. The findings from this study paved a new avenue to biorefinery lignin conversions and applications.