bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acculturation and Perceived Social Distance among Arabs and Saudi Arabians in an ESL Situation
Authors: Al-Qahtani Abdulkhaleq A.
Published: December 2015

The main purpose of this study was to explore the perceived social distance among a small Arab community residing in a college town in the Midwest of the USA. The study examines its possible impact on the process of learning/acquiring English as a second language (ESL). It draws on the findings and contentions of the acculturation model as outlined by Schumann (1978). Three data collection procedures were employed: personal interviews, field observations, and a questionnaire. Five members of the aforementioned community were interviewed: three Saudi Arabians, and two other Arabs. The interviews were mapped against the social factors of the model as summarized by Brown (2000). Then a sum of 17 Saudi Arabian informants (graduate students) responded to a questionnaire. The findings suggest that different Arabs acculturate differently in accordance to their future plans. The persons who intend to reside in the target language (TL) culture acculturate (perceive smaller distance from the TL group) much more than those transient residents who intend to live there for a specific purpose and leave after finishing their business. The permanent residents' self-perception of their English proficiency is higher than the temporary ones.
Determinant Factor of Indonesia Banking Industry to Issued Bond in 2006-2014
Authors: Baskoro Faldy , Nuryartono Ir. Nunung , Maulana Ir. Tb Nur Ahmad
Published: December 2015

Due to global economic crisis which occured in 2008, has caused the volatility of the market and increasing the market risk. Moreover, the banking industry issued Basel III Act as a respond in order to strengthen the stability of the financial sector and prevent the negative effect on the economy from the crisis that may occur in the future. Based on Basel III Act, the banking industry is expected to meet the requirement through internal and external business activity. Furthermore, the aim of this study is to analyze which factor that determined the volume of bond issued based on internal and external factors of the company. The result shows that CAR, NIM, and BI Rate have significant effect on the volume of bond issued. span class="hps">has always been one of the most important, including, among others, calendar effects. The sell-in-May-and-go-away (also called Halloween) effect is worth considering from the point of view of assessing the portfolio management effectiveness and behavioral finance. This paper tests the sell-in-May-and-go-away strategy and its modifications on the market of 122 equity indices and 39 commodities in the eight approaches, depending on the investment time horizon (October-15th May, November-15th May, October-1st May, November-1stMay) and types of computed rates of return (accrued rates of return and average daily geometric rates of return). Calculations presented in this paper indicate the presence of the sell-in-May-and-go-away effect on the analyzed markets in the classic time frame, as well as in the different time frames. ation in the country. Markets determine nominal exchange rate should prevail in the economy. The country should regulate its foreign reserve policy by setting a threshold, above which excess deposit should be plough back to the domestic economy inform of investments rather than support excessive importation.

 
Institutional Ownership Heterogeneity and Firm Performance: Evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Katan Hamidon , Mat Nor Fauzias
Published: December 2015

The roles of institutional owners in alleviating agency problem and its effect on firms have been studied extensively in corporate finance. However, these researches have mixed results because most have treated institutional owners as a homogenous group. Drawing on previous research, this study differentiates institutional owners as transient or dedicated owners. These two groups of institutional owners differ significantly in terms of size of holdings, purposes, goals as well as monitoring efforts. The objective of this study is to determine how the institutional ownership structure i.e. transient or dedicated ownership affect firm performance within the context of agency theory. To determine whether treating the sample homogenously or heterogeneously has different effects on firm performance, this study also examine the effect of total ownership (whereby the sample is treated homogeneously) on firm performance. Using panel data that span from 2002 to 2006, several hypotheses are tested based on data of firms listed on Bursa Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur Composite Index (KLCI) using hierarchical regression analysis methodology. The empirical results indicate that total institutional ownership and dedicated ownership have no significant effect towards firm performance. Transient ownership, however, has statistically significant effect on firm performance. These results show that institutional ownership is heterogeneous with transient ownership structure monitor the management themselves. The establishment of the differing effect of institutional ownership due to the heterogeneous nature of ownership suggests that future research in this area must take into account the heterogeneity.

 
Applying Benford’s Law to Examine the Quality of Reported Income Numbers of Unlisted Firms
Authors: Kuntluru Sudershan , Shette Rachappa , K.V. Achalapathi
Published: December 2015

The present study makes an attempt to examine the quality of reported income numbers of unlisted firms in India. The Benford’s Law is applied to examine the digital occurrence of reported income numbers of unlisted firms. The analysis is based on 43,996 reported annual income numbers of 22,147 sample firms during the financial years from 2000-01 to 2011-12. Further, the results are analyzed under four different scenarios viz., ownership, size, age and nature of industry. The empirical results show that the observed proportionate occurrence of zero is significantly less than the expected proportionate occurrence. These results are contrary to the findings of the related studies of listed companies. The results indicate lower quality of reported income numbers of unlisted firms. Based on the scenario analysis, the empirical results indicate that the proportionate occurrence of second single digits of state-owned unlisted firms confirm the Benford’s Law. The present study contributes to the literature by examining the quality of reported income numbers of unlisted firms using the Benford’s Law.
Impact of Corporate Board Meetings on Financial Performance: Evidence from Selected Listed Companies in Nigeria
Authors: U. B. Azubike Joseph, , Joseph Ugochukwu Madugba, , Ikechichukwu Innocent Okpe,
Published: December 2015

The study, impact of Corporate Board Meetings on Financial Performance of selected listed companies in Nigeria tested the impact of Earning per share, Return on capital employed on corporate board meeting of selected listed companies in Nigeria. Simple regression was used to analyze the data gotten from the published financial statement of the companies. The result showed that a unit change in CMB will lead to unit change in EPS. The (R)2 showed the probability value of the t-statistic proved to be < .05. The study found out that corporate board  meeting significantly impacts on Earning per share and this led to the rejection of null hypothesis of hypothesis one. Hypothesis two has a negative result which led to acceptance of the null hypothesis, but it is expected that at the long run, it will improve.
Impact of the Digital Divide on Computer Use and Internet Access on the Poor in Nigeria
Authors: Tayo Omolara , Thompson Randall , Thompson Elizabeth
Published: December 2015

We recruited 20 community members in Ido Local Government Area, Oyo state and Yewa Local Government Area, Ogun state in Nigeria to explore experiences and perceptions of Internet access and computer use. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using open-ended questions to collect qualitative data regarding accessibility of information and communication technology. Twenty low-income community members volunteered to participate in the study. The results centered around affordability of computers and Internet access, exposure to information on the Internet, increasing access to the Internet, training on computer use, benefits for job searching, and networking. The results indicated the lack of Internet access, affordability of computers and Internet usage, poverty, lack of computer skills, and poor infrastructures were contributors to the digital divide.
Quality Partnership as a Contextual Prerequisite of Successful Learning of Young and Preschool-Aged Children
Authors: Ljubetic Maja , Ercegovac Ina Reic , Koludrovic Morana
Published: December 2015

The paper discusses quality partnership as a prerequisite for the functioning of the institutions of early and pre-school education and for the child’s overall development and learning. Considering that child’s development and learning take place in different contexts (family, educational institutions, clubs, local and wider communities), the efforts of individuals and institutions should be coordinated in order to be more effective. The influences of various factors can be aligned only when all the stakeholders are familiar with and follow the same principles in education and operate synchronously, which can be achieved by building a quality partnership. Its prerequisite is professionalism and high level of competence of all of its stakeholders needed to ensure optimal conditions for child’s overall development, learning and education. The imperatives of thus understood partnership (at all levels) are improving the quality and interest of the child.
Early Macro Divergence from Micro: Keynes vs Hayek, Fisher and Friedman
Authors: Gillman Max
Published: December 2015

The paper presents facts and theory of the Great Depression that led to the clash of the Neoclassical ideas of Fisher and Hayek with the new interventionalist concept of Keynes. The Keynesian Cross arose to explain how government could create new investment and allow the economy to rise from Depression. Fisher and Hayek instead emphasized banking and monetary policy with "reflation" of price stabilization, upon which Friedman built. The Great Recession policy today echoes more firmly the ideas of Fisher and Hayek in avoiding another depression.
Garment industry in Lithuania: a study of self-reported dermatological problems
Authors: Naruševičiūtė-Skripkienė Edita , Moskalionė Beatričė , Audickaitė Aistė , Grigaitienė Jūratė , Bylaitė-Bučinskienė Matilda
Published: December 2015

Background. According to our knowledge, there are no official medical statistics about skin problems of Lithuanian textile workers. The aim of the study is to evaluate work related skin problems in this occupational field, their character, and what alterations if any can be carried out.
Materials and methods. A  self-reported anonymous survey was carried out in 12 randomly selected textile factories from 6 cities of Lithuania in 2013–2014. Data were analyzed by SPSS v21.0.
Results. 91% of all the  employees (551) were females with the  mean experience in textile industry of 14.2 years (SD  7.2). The majority (63%) of the respondents were sewing machine operators. The  most commonly mentioned risk factors were textile (89.7%) and dust (36.8%) containing different chemical substances that we did not analyze in our study. 83.1% of the respondents had no air conditioning systems at their working place. Atopic skin diseases were declared by 165(30%) workers. 208(37.7%) participants complained about skin problems. Dermatological treatment was received by 190(91.4%) respondents (topical corticosteroids, antibiotics and emollients) and was effective in 74.7% of all cases. Almost all of the respondents (97%) declared having no training about occupational skin problems and skin protection measures during apprenticeship, though 59% of them pointed out it would be desirable. Still, the usage of emollients at work is rather high – 76.6%.
Conclusions. Our study highlighted that improvement is needed in pre-occupational councelling and working conditions.
Ausies trimito lazerio tuboplastikos efektyvumas gydant lėtinį sekrecinį vidurinės ausies uždegimą
Authors: Beleškienė Vilma , Lesinskas Eugenijus
Published: December 2015

Darbo tikslas. Ausies trimito tuboplastika lazeriu yra perspektyvus priežastinis lėtinių vidurinės ausies ligų gydymas. Šio darbo tikslas – įvertinti ausies trimito ryklinės angos lazerinės tuboplastikos efektyvumą lėtiniu sekreciniu vidurinės ausies uždegimu sergančių pacientų, kurie prieš tai buvo nesėkmingai gydyti operaciniu būdu.
Metodika. Atliktos 47 endoskopinės lazerinės ausies trimito tuboplastikos bei timpanostomijos tiriamojoje ir 46 timpanostomijos operacijos kontrolinėje grupėse. Pacientų vidutinis pooperacinio stebėjimo laikas – 36 ± 15,67 mėnesiai. Prieš tyrimą buvo vertinami tiriamųjų ir kontrolinės grupės asmenų anamnezės duomenys, atliekama otoskopija, rinoskopija, laringoskopija, timpanometrija, toninė slenkstinė audiometrija, Valsalvos testas, nosiaryklės ir ausies trimito ryklinės angos videoendoskopija. Timpanostominiai vamzdeliai šalinami praėjus 6 mėnesiams po operacijos. Gydymo efektyvumas buvo vertinamas atliekant otoskopiją, timpanogramą, toninę slenkstinę audiogramą, Valsalvos testą, nosiaryklės videoendoskopiją.
Rezultatai. Vertinant operacijos rezultatų efektyvumą objektyviai, po mėnesio pasveiko 19,1 %, pagerėjo 46,9 %, nepagerėjo 34 % pacientų. Vertinant rezultatus po 12 mėnesių, pasveikusiųjų buvo 36,2  %, būklė pagerėjo 29,8  %, o nepakito 34  % pacientų. Kontrolinėje grupėje rezultatai po mėnesio buvo panašūs (pasveiko 22,7 %, pagerėjo 52,3 %, nepagerėjo 25 %; p = 0,682), tačiau po 12 mėnesių gydymo rezultatai buvo daug blogesni (pasveiko 2,3 %, pagerėjo 38,6  %, nepagerėjo 59,1  %; p  =  0,001). Koreliacija tarp videoendoskopijos pokyčių (fiksuotas spindžio atsidarymas) ir teigiamų gydymo rezultatų buvo statistiškai patikima (p = 0,000).
Išvados. Ausies trimito ryklinės angos lazerinė tuboplastika yra efektyvi procedūra lėtiniu sekreciniu vidurinės ausies uždegimu sergantiems pacientams, kai endoskopiškai nustatoma ausies trimito ryklinės angos funkcinė obstrukcija.
Vertex Contact Representations
of Paths on a Grid
Authors: Aerts Nieke , Felsner Stefan
Published: December 2015

We study Vertex Contact representations of Paths on a Grid (VCPG). In such a representation, the vertices of G are represented by a family of interiorly disjoint grid-paths on a square grid. Adjacencies are represented by contacts between an endpoint of one grid-path and an interior point of another grid-path. Defining u → v if the path of u ends on the path of v, we obtain an orientation on G from a VCPG. To control the bends of the grid paths the orientation is not enough. We therefore consider pairs (α,ψ): a 2-orientation α and a flow ψ in the angle graph. The 2-orientation describes the contacts of the ends of a grid-path and the flow describes the behavior of a grid-path between its two ends. We give a necessary and sufficient condition for such a pair (α,ψ) to be realizable as a VCPG. Using realizable pairs, we show that every planar (2,2)-tight graph admits a VCPG with at most 2 bends per path and that this bound is tight. In a similar way, we show that simple planar (2,1)-sparse graphs have a 4-bend representation and simple planar (2,0)-sparse graphs have 6-bend representation.
Catalysis-dependent selenium incorporation and migration in the nitrogenase active site iron-molybdenum cofactor
Authors: Spatzal Thomas , Perez Kathryn A , Howard James B , Rees Douglas C
Published: December 2015

Dinitrogen reduction in the biological nitrogen cycle is catalyzed by nitrogenase, a two-component metalloenzyme. Understanding of the transformation of the inert resting state of the active site FeMo-cofactor into an activated state capable of reducing dinitrogen remains elusive. Here we report the catalysis dependent, site-selective incorporation of selenium into the FeMo-cofactor from selenocyanate as a newly identified substrate and inhibitor. The 1.60 Å resolution structure reveals selenium occupying the S2B site of FeMo-cofactor in the Azotobacter vinelandii MoFe-protein, a position that was recently identified as the CO-binding site. The Se2B-labeled enzyme retains substrate reduction activity and marks the starting point for a crystallographic pulse-chase experiment of the active site during turnover. Through a series of crystal structures obtained at resolutions of 1.32–1.66 Å, including the CO-inhibited form of Av1-Se2B, the exchangeability of all three belt-sulfur sites is demonstrated, providing direct insights into unforeseen rearrangements of the metal center during catalysis.
The innate immune sensor IFI16 recognizes foreign DNA in the nucleus by scanning along the duplex
Authors: Stratmann Sarah A , Morrone Seamus R , van Oijen Antoine M , Sohn Jungsan
Published: December 2015

The ability to recognize foreign double-stranded (ds)DNA of pathogenic origin in the intracellular environment is an essential defense mechanism of the human innate immune system. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying distinction between foreign DNA and host genomic material inside the nucleus are not understood. By combining biochemical assays and single-molecule techniques, we show that the nuclear innate immune sensor IFI16 one-dimensionally tracks long stretches of exposed foreign dsDNA to assemble into supramolecular signaling platforms. We also demonstrate that nucleosomes represent barriers that prevent IFI16 from targeting host DNA by directly interfering with these one-dimensional movements. This unique scanning-assisted assembly mechanism allows IFI16 to distinguish friend from foe and assemble into oligomers efficiently and selectively on foreign DNA.
Sykepleielærere sine holdninger og kunnskapsbehov i kunnskapsbasert praksis
Authors: Utne Inger , Leegaard Marit , Røkholt Gro
Published: December 2015

It is required that faculty in nursing education prepares students to work evidence-based (EBP). The purposes of this study are to identify teachers’ beliefs towards EBP and to describe what the faculty identify as their specific learning needs to teach EBP. Data were collected from teachers at a University College in Norway by use of questionnaires and focus group interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the questionnaires and thematic content analysis for the focus group interviews. The teachers have positive beliefs towards EBP and their central learning needs were searching the literature, critical appraisal and application. They have knowledge in basic methodology, but need more knowledge of epidemiological and summarized research. Teaching and training in all six stages of EBP is important for teachers to develop their knowledge of EBP. Qualitative and quantitative methods in combination, works well to identify teachers’ specific needs for new knowledge.
«Du fungerer mer som et menneske.» Norske revmatikeres erfaringer med helse og dagligliv i Spania.
Authors: Gregersen Anne-Grethe , Helgesen Ann Karin
Published: December 2015

The objective of this study is to illuminate the experience of Norwegian rheumatics illness during long-term residency in Spain. The method chosen is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. Twelve rheumatics comprise the sample group, eight women and four men, ages from 45 to 70. Data collection was performed by qualitative research interview. The data is analyzed using condensation, followed by a thematic approach, inspired by Giorgis phenomenological method. The essence of the Norwegian rheumatics experience is that they recovered control over everyday life. They experienced pain relief, reduced medication and increased personal activity. The study indicates that long-term stay in Spain can promote health for people suffering weather-sensitive rheumatism.
Studenters erfaringer med Flipped Classroom i en helsefagutdanning
Authors: Tørris Christine
Published: December 2015

Background: The flipped classroom approach has gained increased attention in educational research literature. The purpose of this study was to investigate how students experience a flipped classroom approach in health education, compared to ordinary lectures.

Method: Bachelor students (n=25) who watched the video-based material in the flipped classrooms pre-session, answered a questionnaire to evaluate their flipped classroom experience. The questionnaire consisted of both closed and open questions.

Results: Ninety six per cent (24/25) of respondents found the video-based material in the pre-session useful. Seventy six per cent (19/25) of respondents found that the flipped classroom approach resulted in the highest learning outcome, over the traditional approach (16%, 4/25). Barriers to the flipped classroom approach was technical problems with the video-based material, such as screen view.

Conclusion: The flipped classroom approach is promising as an acceptable approach for teaching in health science curricular in higher education.
Future circulation changes off West Antarctica: Sensitivity of the Amundsen Sea Low to projected anthropogenic forcing
Authors: Hosking J. Scott , Orr Andrew , Bracegirdle Thomas J. , Turner John
Published: December 2015

The Amundsen Sea Low (ASL) is a major driver of West Antarctic climate variability, with the potential to accelerate the loss of glacial ice. Using the 11 global climate models which most reliably simulate the seasonality in ASL location, we assess the ASL sensitivity to projected future changes using the CMIP5 historical (1951–2000) and representative concentration pathway experiment RCP8.5 (2051–2100). For the first time, we show that the future ASL will likely migrate poleward in summer (December, January, and February) and autumn (March, April, and May), and eastward in autumn and winter (June, July, and August). The autumn‐winter changes drive colder southerly winds over the Ross Sea and warmer northerly winds toward the Antarctic Peninsula. This is consistent with recent trends in ERA‐Interim reanalysis meridional winds (1979–2014) and reconstructed temperature (1957–2006), suggesting that the impact of anthropogenic forcing on the ASL is likely to play an important role on both past and future patterns of West Antarctic climate variability.
Influence of land‐atmosphere feedbacks on temperature and precipitation extremes in the GLACE‐CMIP5 ensemble
Authors: Lorenz Ruth , Argüeso Daniel , Donat Markus G. , Pitman Andrew J. , van den Hurk Bart , Berg Alexis , Lawrence David M. , Chéruy Frédérique , Ducharne Agnès , Hagemann Stefan , Meier Arndt , Milly P. C. D. , Seneviratne Sonia I.
Published: December 2015

We examine how soil moisture variability and trends affect the simulation of temperature and precipitation extremes in six global climate models using the experimental protocol of the Global Land‐Atmosphere Coupling Experiment of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, Phase 5 (GLACE‐CMIP5). This protocol enables separate examinations of the influences of soil moisture variability and trends on the intensity, frequency, and duration of climate extremes by the end of the 21st century under a business‐as‐usual (Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5) emission scenario. Removing soil moisture variability significantly reduces temperature extremes over most continental surfaces, while wet precipitation extremes are enhanced in the tropics. Projected drying trends in soil moisture lead to increases in intensity, frequency, and duration of temperature extremes by the end of the 21st century. Wet precipitation extremes are decreased in the tropics with soil moisture trends in the simulations, while dry extremes are enhanced in some regions, in particular the Mediterranean and Australia. However, the ensemble results mask considerable differences in the soil moisture trends simulated by the six climate models. We find that the large differences between the models in soil moisture trends, which are related to an unknown combination of differences in atmospheric forcing (precipitation, net radiation), flux partitioning at the land surface, and how soil moisture is parameterized, imply considerable uncertainty in future changes in climate extremes.
Improved error estimates of a discharge algorithm for remotely sensed river measurements: Test cases onSacramento andGaronneRivers
Authors: Yoon Yeosang , Garambois Pierre‐André , Paiva Rodrigo C.D. , Durand Michael , Roux Hélène , Beighley Edward
Published: December 2015

We present an improvement to a previously presented algorithm that used a Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo method for estimating river discharge from remotely sensed observations of river height, width, and slope. We also present an error budget for discharge calculations from the algorithm. The algorithm may be utilized by the upcoming Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission. We present a detailed evaluation of the method using synthetic SWOT‐like observations (i.e., SWOT and AirSWOT, an airborne version of SWOT). The algorithm is evaluated using simulated AirSWOT observations over the Sacramento and Garonne Rivers that have differing hydraulic characteristics. The algorithm is also explored using SWOT observations over the Sacramento River. SWOT and AirSWOT height, width, and slope observations are simulated by corrupting the “true” hydraulic modeling results with instrument error. Algorithm discharge root mean square error (RMSE) was 9% for the Sacramento River and 15% for the Garonne River for the AirSWOT case using expected observation error. The discharge uncertainty calculated from Manning's equation was 16.2% and 17.1%, respectively. For the SWOT scenario, the RMSE and uncertainty of the discharge estimate for the Sacramento River were 15% and 16.2%, respectively. A method based on the Kalman filter to correct errors of discharge estimates was shown to improve algorithm performance. From the error budget, the primary source of uncertainty was the a priori uncertainty of bathymetry and roughness parameters. Sensitivity to measurement errors was found to be a function of river characteristics. For example, Steeper Garonne River is less sensitive to slope errors than the flatter Sacramento River.
Role of spatial anisotropy in design storm generation: Experiment and interpretation
Authors: Niemi Tero J. , Guillaume Joseph H. A. , Kokkonen Teemu , Hoang Tam M. T. , Seed Alan W.
Published: December 2015

Rainfall accumulation depths over a given area are strongly dependent on the shape of the storm together with its direction of advection. A method to produce design storms exhibiting anisotropic spatial scaling is presented by combining a state‐of‐the‐art stochastic rainfall generator STEPS with the linear generalized scale invariance (GSI) notation. The enhanced model is used to create ensembles of design storms based on an extreme storm with a distinct rainband shape observed in Melbourne, Australia. Design storms are generated both with and without accounting for anisotropy. Effect of anisotropy on precipitation characteristics is studied using the entire region covered by the radar (radar scale) and at a significantly smaller catchment scale. A rainfall‐runoff model is applied to route the rainfall through the catchment into streamflow. Accounting for anisotropy allows for a more realistic description of precipitation features at the radar scale. At the catchment scale, anisotropy increases the probability of high rainfall accumulations, which translates into greater flood volumes. No discernible difference was observed in streamflow characteristics after controlling for the accumulation over the catchment. This could be explained by a lower importance of anisotropy relative to other factors affecting streamflow generation, and by the difficulties in creating representative rainfall temporal properties at the catchment scale when the radar scale is used for model calibration. The proposed method provides a tool to create ensembles of design storms when the anisotropic shape of the fields is of importance.
Electrical‐Polarization‐Induced Ultrahigh Responsivity Photodetectors Based on Graphene and Graphene Quantum Dots
Authors: Haider Golam , Roy Prathik , Chiang Chia‐Wei , Tan Wei‐Chun , Liou Yi‐Rou , Chang Huan‐Tsung , Liang Chi‐Te , Shih Wei‐Heng , Chen Yang‐Fang
Published: December 2015

Hybrid quantum dot–graphene photodetectors have recently attracted substantial interest because of their remarkable performance and low power consumption. However, the performance of the device greatly depends on the interfacial states and photogenerated screening field. As a consequence, the sensitivity is limited and the response time is relatively slow. In order to circumvent these challenges, herein, a composite graphene and graphene quantum dot (GQD) photodetector on lead zirconate titanate (Pb(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3) (PZT) substrates has been designed to form an ultrasensitive photodetector over a wide range of illumination power. Under 325 nm UV light illumination, the device shows sensitivity as high as 4.06 × 109 A W−1, which is 120 times higher than reported sensitivity of the same class of devices. Plant derived GQD has a broad range of absorptivity and is an excellent candidate for harvesting photons generating electron–hole pairs. Intrinsic electric field from PZT substrate separates photogenerated electron–hole pairs as well as provides the built‐in electric field that causes the holes to transfer to the underlying graphene channel. The composite structure of graphene and GQD on PZT substrate therefore produces a simple, stable, and highly sensitive photodetector over a wide range of power with short response time, which shows a way to obtain high‐performance optoelectronic devices.
Art on the Nanoscale and Beyond
Authors: Yetisen Ali K. , Coskun Ahmet F. , England Grant , Cho Sangyeon , Butt Haider , Hurwitz Jonty , Kolle Mathias , Khademhosseini Ali , Hart A. John , Folch Albert , Yun Seok Hyun
Published: December 2015

Methods of forming and patterning materials at the nano‐ and microscales are finding increased use as a medium of artistic expression, and as a vehicle for communicating scientific advances to a broader audience. While sharing many attributes of other art forms, miniaturized art enables the direct engagement of sensory aspects such as sight and touch for materials and structures that are otherwise invisible to the eye. The historical uses of nano‐/microscale materials and imaging techniques in arts and sciences are presented. The motivations to create artwork at small scales are discussed, and representations in scientific literature and exhibitions are explored. Examples are presented using semiconductors, microfluidics, and nanomaterials as the artistic media; these utilized techniques including micromachining, focused ion beam milling, two‐photon polymerization, and bottom‐up nanostructure growth. Finally, the technological factors that limit the implementation of artwork at miniature scales are identified, and potential future directions are discussed. As research marches toward even smaller length scales, innovative and engaging visualizations and artistic endeavors will have growing implications on education, communication, policy making, media activism, and public perception of science and technology.
Bismut‐Undekahydro‐closo‐Dodekaboran: ein abfangbares Zwischenprodukt der B‐H‐Bindungsaktivierung durch Bismut(III)‐Kationen
Authors: Zimmermann Lucas W. , Van Nguyen‐Duc , Gudat Dietrich , Schleid Thomas
Published: December 2015

Das [B12H12]2−‐Anion mit seiner dreidimensional aromatischen Elektronenstruktur weist eine variantenreiche Substitutionschemie auf. Dabei wird häufig der Austausch der funktionellen Gruppen durch eine elektrophil‐induzierte Substitution erreicht. Als Elektrophile kommen Brønsted‐ oder Lewis‐Säuren (z. B. Pt2+) infrage. Durch Erwärmen einer Bi3+‐ und [B12H12]2−‐Ionen enthaltenden wässrigen Reaktionslösung konnte das neutrale Bismut‐Undekahydro‐closo‐Dodekaboran BiB12H11 gewonnen und als erstes Derivat eines metallierten [B12H12]2−‐Clusters durch Einkristall‐Röntgenbeugung und NMR‐Spektroskopie charakterisiert werden. Die kurze B‐Bi‐Einfachbindung (230 pm) zeigt eine im Vergleich zu den B‐H‐Bindungen umgekehrte Polarisierung.
Stabilization and Tracking Control of X‐Z Inverted Pendulum Using Flatness Based Active Disturbance Rejection Control
Authors: Pan Jinwen , Wang Yong
Published: December 2015

A flatness based robust active disturbance rejection control technique scheme with tracking differentiator is proposed for the problem of stabilization and tracking control of the X‐Z inverted pendulum known as a special underactuated, non‐feedback linearizable mechanical system. The differential parameterization on the basis of linearizing the system around an arbitrary equilibrium decouples the underactuated system into two lower order systems, resulting in two lower‐order extended state observers. Using a tracking differentiator to arrange the transient process utilizes the problem of stabilization and tracking control and gives a relatively small initial estimation error, which enlarges the range of the controller parameters. The convincing analysis of the proposed modified linear extended state observer is presented to show its high effectiveness on estimating the states and the extended states known as the total disturbances consisting of the unknown external disturbances and the nonlinearities neglected by the linearization. Simulation results on the stabilization and tracking control of the X‐Z inverted pendulum, including a comparative simulation with an all‐state‐feedback sliding mode controller are presented to show the advantages of the combination of flatness and active disturbance rejection control techniques.
Zur Konformation sterisch gehinderter Aryläthylene
Authors: Stegemeyer H. , Rapp W.
Published: December 2015

Für eine Reihe sterisch gehinderter Aryläthylene wurde die energetisch günstigste Konformation mit Hilfe einer HMO‐Rechnung unter Berücksichtigung der Wechselwirkungspotentiale nicht gebundener Atome im Molekül ermittelt. In den Gleichgewichtskonfonnationen von cis‐Stilben, 1.1‐Diphenyläthylen und Tetraphenyläthylen sind die Phenylringe beträchtlich gegen die Ebene der äthylenbindung verdrillt. Beim Tetraphenyläthylen resultieren zwei Konformationen der Symmetrie D2 und Ci, von denen die D2‐Form energetisch bevorzugt ist. Die berechneten Werte ergeben eine gute übereinstimmung mit experimentellen Daten.
The Thermal Conductivity of Mixtures of Nitrogen with Methane
Authors: Kestin J. , Nagasaka Y. , Wakeham W. A.
Published: December 2015

This is a companion to an earlier paper (on H2 ‐ N2 mixtures) which gives experimental results for the thermal conductivity of N2 ‐ CH4 mixtures at 27.5 °C and up to 8 MPa. – The results are extrapolated to zero density and analyzed in terms of the Monchick‐Pereira‐Mason theory. The agreement is excellent with one adjustment. The comparison also shows that the Hirschfelder‐Eucken approximation gives acceptable results. – At higher densities, good agreement is secured with the Mason et al. version of the Thorne‐Enskog theory.
Pressure and Temperature Dependence of the Reaction ClO + NO2 (+ N2) → ClONO2 (+ N2)
Authors: Handwerk V. , Zellner R.
Published: December 2015

Rate constants for the recombination reaction (1) ClO + NO2 (+ N2) → ClONO2 (+ N2) have been measured in the pressure range 23 – 1040 mbar and at temperatures of 264, 298 and 343 K using flash photolysis to generate ClO radicals and time dependent UV absorption in the A‐X system as their monitor. k1, is found to show a strong pressure dependence with an onset to “fall‐off” at pressures above ∼ 50 mbar. The “fall‐off” behaviour is interpreted in terms of complete and symmetrical Kassel integrals and is found to be in agreement with the accepted low pressure limit as well as with a theoretical estimate of the high pressure limiting rate constant, k1∞ = 1.2 · 10−11 cm3/s.
Characteristics, incidence and temporal trends of sepsis in elderly patients undergoing surgery
Authors: Bouza C , López-Cuadrado T , Amate-Blanco J M
Published: December 2015

Background

Despite increasing rates of surgery in the elderly, there is limited population-based information on sepsis in this age group. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiology and national trends of sepsis among elderly patients undergoing surgery in Spain.

Methods

This population-based longitudinal study of patients aged 65 years or older, undergoing surgery between 2006 and 2011, used data from the national hospital discharge database. Patients were identified by ICD coding. Primary endpoints were incidence and case-fatality rates of sepsis. Predefined age groups were examined. In-hospital mortality-related factors were assessed by means of exploratory logistic regression. Trends were assessed for annual percentage change in rates using Joinpoint regression analysis.

Results

A total of 44 342 episodes of sepsis were identified, representing 1·5 per cent of all 2 871 199 surgical hospital admissions of patients aged 65 years or older. The rates varied with age and sex. The in-hospital case-fatality rate was 43·9 per cent (19 482 patients), and associated with age, co-morbidity and organ dysfunction. Standardized rates of sepsis increased over time, with an annual change of 4·7 (95 per cent c.i. 1·4 to 8·5) per cent, whereas the case-fatality rate declined, with an overall annual change of −3·6 (−4·3 to −2·8) per cent. The decrease in mortality was more limited in patients with organ dysfunction and in the oldest age group.

Conclusion

Rates of sepsis are increasing among elderly patients undergoing surgery, whereas in-hospital case fatality, although common, is showing a decreasing trend.
Share your unit's story in a positive way
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: December 2015

If you watch the news or read the paper these days, you're likely to encounter a story that questions the way police handled an event. But you know your unit is doing good work to protect the community. How can you share your positive message and make sure your community is aware of the good work you are doing?
Unprecedented Utilization of Pelargonidin and Indole for the Biosynthesis of Plant Indole Alkaloids
Authors: Warskulat Anne‐Christin , Tatsis Evangelos C. , Dudek Bettina , Kai Marco , Lorenz Sybille , Schneider Bernd
Published: December 2015

Nudicaulins are a group of indole alkaloid glycosides responsible for the color of yellow petals of Papaver nudicaule (Iceland poppy). The unique aglycone scaffold of these alkaloids attracted our interest as one of the most unusual flavonoid‐indole hybrid structures that occur in nature. Stable isotope labeling experiments with sliced petals identified free indole, but not tryptamine or l‐tryptophan, as one of the two key biosynthetic precursors of the nudicaulin aglycone. Pelargonidin was identified as the second key precursor, contributing the polyphenolic unit to the nudicaulin molecule. This finding was inferred from the temporary accumulation of pelargonidin glycosides in the petals during flower bud development and a drop at the point in time when nudicaulin levels start to increase. The precursor‐directed incorporation of cyanidin into a new 3′‐hydroxynudicaulin strongly supports the hypothesis that anthocyanins are involved in the biosynthesis of nudicaulins.
Inferior vena cava filter thrombosis
Authors: Byrne Michael , Mannis Gabriel N. , Nair Jayan , Andreadis Charalambos
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

Patients with inferior vena cava (IVC) filters – particularly permanent filters – are at increased risk for recurrent deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Judicious use of IVC filters, as well as the prompt retrieval of temporary IVC filters, substantially reduces the risk of IVC thrombosis.
Olefin Metathesis: Catalyst Inhibition as a Result of Isomerization
Authors: Kadyrov Renat
Published: December 2015

Ring‐closing metathesis of N,N‐diallyl‐tosylamide and allyl‐N‐10‐undecenenoyl‐l‐proline by using low levels of Ru‐catalyst loading were investigated. The undesirable olefin isomerization, promoted by ruthenium species formed during the decomposition of the catalyst, was observed. The volume of isomerization products depends on the catalyst loading. Accumulation of isomers that can form inactive Fischer‐type alkylidene complexes, leads to the full inhibition of the catalytic reaction.
Iron‐Containing Titania Photocatalyst Prepared by the Sonophotodeposition Method for the Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Magdziarz Agnieszka , Colmenares Juan C. , Chernyayeva Olga , Kurzydłowski Krzysztof , Grzonka Justyna
Published: December 2015

The sonophotodeposition method was applied in the synthesis of an iron‐containing titania photocatalyst. This procedure enables the use of sustainable energy sources, such as sonication and light, and eliminates the use of hazardous reducing agents. For the first time an ultrasonic horn and sun‐imitating Xenon lamp were used in this method. The following techniques: diffuse reflectance UV/Vis spectroscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy with X‐ray microanalysis (HRTEM‐EDS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF) were applied for the characterization of the prepared material. The photocatalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol into benzaldehyde under sun‐imitating Xenon lamp irradiation was applied as a test reaction. The photocatalyst prepared by the sonophotodeposition method showed better results, in terms of alcohol conversion and yield of benzaldehyde, in comparison with the photocatalyst prepared by an ordinary wet‐impregnation method.
Fast Oxidative Cyclooligomerization towards Low‐ and High‐Symmetry Thiophene Macrocycles
Authors: Maier Stefan K. , Poluektov Georgiy , Jester Stefan‐S. , Möller Heiko M. , Höger Sigurd
Published: December 2015

Macrocycles with quaterthiophene subunits were obtained by cyclooligomerization by direct oxidative coupling of unsubstituted dithiophene moieties. The rings were closed with high selectivity by an α,β′‐connection of the thiophenes as proven by NMR spectroscopy. The reaction of the precursor with terthiophene moieties yielded the symmetric α,α′‐linked macrocycle in low yield together with various differently connected isomers. Blocking of the β‐position of the half‐rings yielded selectively the α,α′‐linked macrocycle. Selected cyclothiophenes were investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy, which displayed the formation of highly ordered 2D crystalline monolayers.
Site‐Resolved Two‐Step Relaxation Process in an Asymmetric Dy2 Single‐Molecule Magnet
Authors: Zhang Li , Jung Julie , Zhang Peng , Guo Mei , Zhao Lang , Tang Jinkui , Le Guennic Boris
Published: December 2015

Elaborate chemical design is of utmost importance in order to slow down the relaxation dynamics in single‐molecule magnets (SMMs) and hence improve their potential applications. Much interest was devoted to the study of distinct relaxation processes related to the different crystal fields of crystallographically independent lanthanide ions. However, the assignment of the relaxation processes to specific metal sites remains a challenging task. To address this challenge, a new asymmetric Dy2 SMM displaying a well‐separated two‐step relaxation process with the anisotropic centers in fine‐tuned local environments was elaborately designed. For the first time a one‐to‐one relationship between the metal sites and the relaxation processes was evidenced. This work sheds light on complex multiple relaxation and may direct the rational design of lanthanide SMMs with enhanced magnetic properties.
Diradical Character Tuning for the Third‐Order Nonlinear Optical Properties of Quinoidal Oligothiophenes by Introducing Thiophene‐S,S‐dioxide Rings
Authors: Kishi Ryohei , Ochi Shoki , Izumi Shioh , Makino Akihiro , Nagami Takanori , Fujiyoshi Jun‐ya , Matsushita Naoyuki , Saito Michika , Nakano Masayoshi
Published: December 2015

To create a design guideline for efficient third‐order nonlinear optical (NLO) molecules, the chain‐length (n) dependences of the diradical character y and the longitudinal second hyperpolarizability γ of quinoidal oligothiophenes (QTs), from monomers to octamers, involving thiophene‐S,S‐dioxide rings are investigated by using the density functional theory method. It turns out that the diradical character of the modified QTs is reduced as compared to those of the pristine QTs. By introducing an appropriate number of oxidized rings into the QT framework, intermediate y values can be achieved even in the systems with large values of n, in which the pristine QTs are predicted to have pure diradical character. Such intermediate diradical oligomers are shown to exhibit enhanced γ values as compared to the pristine QTs with the same value for n. From the calculation results, the introduction of the optimal number of thiophene‐S,S‐dioxide rings is predicted to be an efficient chemical modification for optimizing the third‐order NLO properties of open‐shell QTs through tuning the diradical characters.
Dehydrogenative Homocoupling of Alkyl Chains on Cu(110)
Authors: Cai Liangliang , Sun Qiang , Zhang Chi , Ding Yuanqi , Xu Wei
Published: December 2015

Through the interplay of high‐resolution scanning tunneling microscopy imaging and density functional theory calculations, the stepwise dehydrogenative homocoupling of alkyl chains on Cu(110) is demonstrated, proceeding from the intact chain, via the dehydrogenative intermediates, to the formation of the divers final coupling products.
Spectroscopic Evidence for Clusters of Like‐Charged Ions in Ionic Liquids Stabilized by Cooperative Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Knorr Anne , Stange Peter , Fumino Koichi , Weinhold Frank , Ludwig Ralf
Published: December 2015

Direct spectroscopic evidence for hydrogen‐bonded clusters of like‐charged ions is reported for ionic liquids. The measured infrared O−H vibrational bands of the hydroxyethyl groups in the cations can be assigned to the dispersion‐corrected DFT calculated frequencies of linear and cyclic clusters. Compensating the like‐charge Coulomb repulsion, these cationic clusters can range up to cyclic tetramers resembling molecular clusters of water and alcohols. These ionic clusters are mainly present at low temperature and show strong cooperative effects in hydrogen bonding. DFT‐D3 calculations of the pure multiply charged clusters suggest that the attractive hydrogen bonds can compete with repulsive Coulomb forces.
Organic Solvent Effects in Biomass Conversion Reactions
Authors: Shuai Li , Luterbacher Jeremy
Published: December 2015

Transforming lignocellulosic biomass into fuels and chemicals has been intensely studied in recent years. A large amount of work has been dedicated to finding suitable solvent systems, which can improve the transformation of biomass into value‐added chemicals. These efforts have been undertaken based on numerous research results that have shown that organic solvents can improve both conversion and selectivity of biomass to platform molecules. We present an overview of these organic solvent effects, which are harnessed in biomass conversion processes, including conversion of biomass to sugars, conversion of sugars to furanic compounds, and production of lignin monomers. A special emphasis is placed on comparing the solvent effects on conversion and product selectivity in water with those in organic solvents while discussing the origins of the differences that arise. We have categorized results as benefiting from two major types of effects: solvent effects on solubility of biomass components including cellulose and lignin and solvent effects on chemical thermodynamics including those affecting reactants, intermediates, products, and/or catalysts. Finally, the challenges of using organic solvents in industrial processes are discussed from the perspective of solvent cost, solvent stability, and solvent safety. We suggest that a holistic view of solvent effects, the mechanistic elucidation of these effects, and the careful consideration of the challenges associated with solvent use could assist researchers in choosing and designing improved solvent systems for targeted biomass conversion processes.