bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of High Efficiency Flexible CIGS Solar Cell with ZnO Diffusion Barrier on Stainless Steel Substrate
Authors: Dowon Bae , Sehan Kwon , Joonjae Oh , Joowon Lee , Wookyoung Kim
Published: September 2011

i-ZnO layers were deposited as diffusion barriers fabricated by RF sputtering on stainless-steel substrates (SUS430, matches with AISI SUS24). It was found that the addition of ZnO layer between stainless-steel substrate and Mo back contact film deplete diffusion of metal ions from substrate and reduce recombination at CIGS layer, as identified by an SIMS depth profile, QE and C-V measurements. With such diffusion barriers, the efficiency, open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current and fill factor of CIGS solar cells all increased, compared to reference cells without diffusion barrier. For the better device performance, Na was supplied during Mo back-contact layer deposition by co-sputtering of the target, including Na-source. Efficiencies of cells were increased with increasing the quantity of Na source. Unlike barrier thickness effect, short circuit current was reduced and open circuit voltage, fill factor were increased with increasing Na-source, and achieved 12.6% efficiency without AR(anti-reflection) coating. The relationship and causality between these results and the Na-doping were analyzed using C-V measurements.
New MEH-PPV Based Composite Materials for Rewritable Nonvolatile Polymer Memory Devices
Authors: Dronov Mikhail , Belogorohov Ivan , Khokhlov Dmitry
Published: September 2011

We present the memory performance of devices with bistable electrical behavior based on MEH-PPV (Poly (1-methoxy-4-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-p-phenylenevinylene)) containing metal (Zn or Fe-Ni) particles. Another memory device based on aluminum phthalocyanine chloride (PcAlCl) added to the composite material reveals the photoinduced switching, in addition to the electrical one. Possible mechanisms for resistive switching are discussed.
Fabrication and Characterization of Copper Oxide Resistive Memory Devices
Authors: Bishop S.M. , Briggs B.D. , Rice Z.P. , Addepalli S. , McDonald N.R. , Cady N.C.
Published: September 2011

Three synthesis techniques have been explored as routes to produce copper oxide for use in resistive memory devices (RMDs). The major results and their impact on device current-voltage characteristics are summarized. The majority of the devices fabricated from thermally oxidized copper exhibited a diode-like behavior independent of the top electrode. When these devices were etched to form mesa structures, bipolar switching was observed with set voltages <2.5 V, reset voltages <(-1) V and ROFF/RON ∼103-104. Bipolar switching behavior was also observed for devices fabricated from copper oxide synthesized by RT plasma oxidation (ROFF/RON up to 108). Voiding at the copper-copper oxide interface occurred in films produced by thermal and plasma oxidation performed at ≥200°C. The copper oxide synthesized by reactive sputtering had large areas of open volume in the microstructure; this resulted in short circuited devices because of electrical contact between the bottom and top electrodes. The results for fabricating copper oxide into ≤100 nm features are also discussed.
Retentivity of RRAM Devices Based on Metal / YBCO Interfaces
Authors: Schulman A. , Acha C.
Published: September 2011

The retention time of the resistive state is a key parameter that characterizes the possible utilization of the RRAM devices as a non – volatile memory device. The understanding of the mechanism of the time relaxation process of the information state may be essential to improve their performances. In this study we examine RRAM devices based on metal / YBCO interfaces in order to comprehend the physics beneath the resistive switching phenomenon.

Our experimental results show that after producing the switching of the resistance from a low to a high state, or vice versa, the resistance evolves to its previous state in a small but noticeable percentage. We have measured long relaxation effects on the resistance state of devices composed by metal (Au, Pt) / ceramic YBCO interfaces in the temperature range 77 K – 300 K. This time relaxation can be described by a stretched exponential law that is characterized by a power exponent n = 0.5, which is temperature independent, and by a relaxation time τ that increases with increasing the temperature. These characteristics point out to a non-thermally assisted diffusion process that could be associated with oxygen (or vacancy) migration and that produces the growth of a conducting (or insulating) fractal structure.
Epitaxy of Single Crystal Phase Change Materials on Si(111)
Authors: Rodenbach P. , Perumal K. , Katmis F. , Braun W. , Calarco R. , Riechert H.
Published: September 2011

Phase change materials along the GeTe-Sb2Te3 pseudobinary line (GST) are grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on Si(111). The growth on (111) oriented substrates leads to greatly increased crystal quality compared to (001) oriented substrates, even for a high lattice mismatch. This holds true even for Si substrates which have a lattice mismatch of around 10% with respect to GST. The growth is controlled in situ via line of sight quadrupole mass spectrometer (QMS). Structural characterization is performed in situ by X-ray diffraction (XRD), which reveals a clear cubic symmetry of the film and a lattice slightly rhombohedrally distorted along the [111] direction.
Damage formation in GaN under medium energy range implantation of rare earth ions: a combined TEM, XRD and RBS/C investigation
Authors: Lacroix B. , Leclerc S. , Ruterana P. , Declémy A. , Miranda S.M.C. , Lorenz K. , Alves E.
Published: September 2011

In this work, the damage formation subsequent to Eu implantation at 300 keV has been investigated by coupling the TEM, XRD and RBS/C techniques. It has been found that GaN exhibits a specific damage buildup in three main steps: (i) clustering of point defects and formation of a network of stacking faults defects in the bulk, (ii) propagation of the planar defect network towards the surface and (iii) breakdown of the surface layer. This occurs through different strain saturation regimes. Around 5x1014 Eu/cm2, the strain along the implantation direction saturates to 0.6%. At higher fluence, whereas the peak at 0.6% is maintained, there is an increase of the strain throughout the implanted layer which probably continues to extend. A second saturation occurs when the stacking fault network reaches the layer surface.
Sentido do trabalho no discurso dos trabalhadores de uma ONG em Belo Horizonte
Authors: Viana Eliete Augusta de Souza , Machado Marília Novais da Mata
Published: September 2011

Este artigo busca explicitar o discurso enunciado por trabalhadores do Comupra - Conselho Comunitário Unidos pelo Ribeiro de Abreu, uma ONG de Belo Horizonte, sobre a relação sentido positivo/prazer e negativo/sofrimento do trabalho. Além de fator de adoecimento ou saúde, o trabalho é central na vida dos indivíduos e da sociedade e é um dos campos de estudo atualmente em expansão. Porém, no Terceiro Setor, ainda é pouco estudado. Entrevistas semiestruturadas foram o principal instrumento de coleta de informações. O tratamento delas foi feito utilizando-se a análise do discurso. Seis trabalhadores do Comupra foram entrevistados. As análises revelaram que o sentido positivo do trabalho tem predominância sobre o negativo. As vivências que promovem o prazer são mais significativas do que aquelas que causam o sofrimento, mostrando que a escolha por trabalhar no Terceiro Setor está associada a uma expectativa de transformação pessoal e da comunidade.
Exigências nos percursos profissionais de gerentes de banco
Authors: Máximo Thaís Augusta Cunha de Oliveira , Araújo Anísio José da Silva , Zambroni-de-Souza Paulo César , Alberto Maria de Fátima Pereira
Published: September 2011

Este artigo aborda os percursos de trabalho e formação de gerentes de bancos públicos e privados da cidade de João Pessoa, desde sua inserção até a promoção à função gerencial. Busca-se compreendê-los à luz de autores que analisam o trabalho e suas transformações, segundo uma perspectiva clínica, a exemplo de Zarifian, Dejours e Schwartz, ao lado daqueles que tratam especificamente do trabalho bancário, como Jinkings, Merlo e Barbarini. Realizaram-se dezesseis entrevistas, com pessoas que exercem gerências gerais ou intermediárias. Evidenciou-se a intensa pressão a que estão submetidos os gerentes quanto à capacitação, alcance de resultados e disponibilidade para a empresa. Constatou-se, entretanto, que, mesmo atendendo aos requisitos exigidos, não há garantia de estabilidade na função. Empresas requisitam sempre mais, solicitando um patamar inalcançável, desgastante para a saúde. Esta pesquisa levanta questionamentos sobre as conquistas relativamente à autonomia e formação profissional, que os gerentes experimentam como efeito da reestruturação bancária.
Crítica às apropriações psicológicas do trabalho
Authors: Bendassolli Pedro F.
Published: September 2011

A psicologia do trabalho fez deste um de seus principais alicerces teóricos. O trabalho é assumido como uma categoria capaz de sustentar processos psíquicos tais como a identidade, a saúde mental e a ação do indivíduo. Contudo, neste artigo mostramos que a psicologia apropria-se do trabalho mediante instrumentais de reconstrução metateóricos, teórico-conceituais e tecnológicos. O artigo analisa as formas de apropriação presentes em três grandes psicologias do trabalho, aqui denominadas de vias organizacional, social e clínica. Em cada uma delas, questionamos o significado de trabalho presente e suas consequências sobre a teoria e pesquisa sobre o trabalho na psicologia.
A produção de meninos de projeto e acontecimentos no percurso
Authors: Tavares Gilead Marchezi , Oliveira Fabiana Teixeira de , Bossatto Tatiane , Deus Flávia Borges de , Coelho Denise Carla Goldner , Vilas-Boas Mônica Nogueira Santos
Published: September 2011

Trata-se de relato de pesquisa que objetivou conhecer modos de ser criança produzidos por concepções e práticas que permeiam um projeto social destinado a atender jovens em situação de risco. A investigação foi realizada em forma de vivência institucional, incluindo vivência no cotidiano do projeto social, visitas às casas de participantes, entrevistas informais com os jovens, com familiares e com trabalhadores do projeto. O projeto social, como um dispositivo da sociedade contemporânea, opera integrações sobre substâncias qualificadas (jovens empobrecidos) e funções finalizadas (educação, disciplina, proteção) para produzir forma de conteúdo visível: "menino do projeto", sobre a qual se é possível falar: discurso sobre o risco social. O menino do projeto é uma forma-limite entre o menino de rua e a criança educada, de bons modos. O menino do projeto é uma captura dos processos de subjetivação, pois os aprisiona em uma forma-limite que denuncia uma "natureza perigosa".
Representações sociais da depressão no ensino médio: um estudo sobre duas capitais
Authors: Damião Natália Ferreira , Coutinho Maria da Penha de Lima , Carolino Zulmira Carla Gonçalves , Ribeiro Karla Carolina Silveira
Published: September 2011

Esta pesquisa objetivou identificar os fatores psicossociais que interferem na etiologia da depressão e apreender as representações sociais (RS) da depressão no coletivo de adolescentes inseridos no contexto do ensino médio da rede pública e privada das cidades de Teresina/PI e Natal/RN. Participaram da pesquisa 505 sujeitos, dentre os quais 269 são de Teresina e 236 de Natal. Utilizou-se o Inventário de Depressão Infantil e a Técnica de Associação Livre de Palavras (TALP). A amostra da cidade de Teresina/PI apresentou um maior índice de sintomatologia comparada à cidade de Natal/RN. Relativo ao sexo houve diferenças estatísticas significativas: os sujeitos do sexo masculino apresentam traços depressivos mais relacionados a problemas de conduta e obediência, enquanto as garotas desenvolveriam traços mais subjetivos. A partir da análise dos dados obtidos no TALP, constatou-se que as RS dos sujeitos pesquisados, de modo geral, demonstram inadequação do sujeito depressivo nas inter-relações psicoafetivas e psicossociais.
Diretrizes para seleção de projetistas e avaliação da prestação do serviço de projeto de edificações na visão do contratante
Authors: Paula Nathália de , Novaes Celso Carlos
Published: September 2011

A avaliação da prestação do serviço de projeto de edificações pode fomentar a relação entre os contratados (projetistas) e os contratantes (incorporador-construtor). Os resultados advindos da avaliação possibilitam a observação das dificuldades porventura ocorridas durante a prestação do serviço, a análise do desempenho dos contratados, a retroalimentação de informações aos envolvidos, o planejamento de ações de melhorias e a seleção de projetistas em empreendimentos futuros. O objetivo deste trabalho é propor diretrizes para a seleção de projetistas e para a avaliação da PSP, sob a ótica do cliente contratante. Para esse fim, foram realizados estudos de caso em quatro empresas incorporadoras e construtoras e duas empresas de projeto da cidade de São Paulo. Os resultados mostram que as empresas incorporadoras e construtoras possuem suas práticas de seleção e avaliação de projetistas e que as empresas de projeto detêm práticas para avaliação da satisfação do cliente contratante. Ambos os tipos de avaliação mencionados - avaliação dos profissionais de projeto e da satisfação do cliente contratante - apresentam o mesmo objetivo: avaliar a prestação do serviço de projeto. A observação dessas práticas, somada à revisão bibliográfica realizada, contribuíram para a elaboração das diretrizes para a seleção de projetistas e para a avaliação da prestação do serviço de projeto.
Iron Supplementation in Nephrology and Oncology: What Do We Have in Common?
Authors: Macdougall Iain C.
Published: September 2011

Anemia is frequently seen in patients with chronic kidney disease and also in those with cancer. There are factors in the pathogenesis of anemia that are common to both clinical conditions, with iron insufficiency, inflammation, and upregulation of hepcidin activity playing a part in both chronic disease states. Diagnostic laboratory markers for detecting functional iron deficiency in renal disease and oncology are not ideal, and the most widely available tests, such as serum ferritin and transferrin saturation, have poor sensitivity and specificity. Other tests incorporating a surrogate for iron sufficiency in the RBC and reticulocyte (such as percentage hypochromic RBCs or reticulocyte hemoglobin content) have greater sensitivity/specificity, but unfortunately these tests are not widely available in many hospital laboratories. Iron supplementation may be given via the oral route, i.m., or i.v., but it is now clear that, in both the nephrology and oncology settings, i.v. iron is superior to oral iron in terms of efficacy. Oral iron is associated with a high incidence of gastrointestinal side effects, and although large epidemiological studies of i.v. iron are reassuring, the long-term safety of parenteral iron is not established in well-designed adequately powered randomized controlled trials.
Fungal endophytes directly increase the competitive effects of an invasive forb
Authors: Aschehoug Erik T. , Metlen Kerry L. , Callaway Ragan M. , Newcombe George
Published: September 2011

Competitive outcomes among plants can vary in different abiotic and biotic conditions. Here we tested the effects of two phylotypes of Alternaria endophytes on the growth, competitive effects, and competitive responses of the exotic invasive forb Centaurea stoebe. Centaurea stoebe was a better competitor against North American grass species than grasses from its European home range in the absence of endophytes. However, one endophyte both increased the biomass of C. stoebe and reduced the competitive effect of North American grasses on C. stoebe. The competitive effects of C. stoebe on grass species native to North America were enhanced by both fungal endophytes, but not for native European grasses. We do not know the mechanism by which endophytes increased C. stoebe's competitive ability, and particularly against biogeographically new neighbors, but one endophyte increased the competitive ability of C. stoebe without increasing its size, suggesting mechanisms unrelated to increased growth. We tested only a fraction of the different endophytic fungi that have been found in C. stoebe, only scratching the surface of understanding their indirect effects. However, our results are the first to demonstrate such effects of a fungal endophyte infecting an invasive forb, and one of the few to show that endophyte effects on competition do not have to be mediated through herbivory.
Exploring the negative space: evaluating reasons for the failure of pro-poor targeting in urban sanitation projects
Authors: Norman Guy , Pedley Steve
Published: September 2011

In many types of development project, direct provision of benefit to ‘the poor’ is a central goal. But how effectively is pro-poorness achieved? We report an independent ex-post evaluation of the pro-poorness of the World Bank-financed Programme d'assainissement des quartiers périurbains de Dakar (PAQPUD) sewerage project in Dakar, Senegal; we also review ex-post evaluations of previous donor-funded sewerage projects in African cities. We conclude that Dakar was a questionable location for major donor funding, given that this city's sanitation status is already much better than that of most African cities. If we accept the location, the Dakar PAQPUD project was more genuinely pro-poor in intention than most similar previous projects; however, many difficulties arose at implementation, and within the intervention areas, many of the poorest households did not benefit. In view of these results and our review findings, we argue that planners need to pay greater attention to household-level targeting: i.e. to ensuring that the poorest households will actually connect to the system. There is also a clear need for independent assessment of pro-poorness at ex-post evaluation. It is important to evaluate outcome through consultation not only with beneficiaries, but also with non-beneficiaries within the project's universe of intervention, and to investigate why non-beneficiaries have not benefited.
Some Quality Aspects of Persimmon Jam Manufactured by Osmotic Dehydration without Thermal Treatment
Authors: Igual Marta , Castelló María Luisa , Ortolá María Dolores , Andrés Ana
Published: September 2011

The traditional way of preparing persimmon jam produces astringent flavours due to the conversion of insoluble tannins into soluble tannins as a consequence of the high temperatures used in the process. For this reason, a new method for preparing this kind of product based on osmotic dehydration was tested, in order to obtain persimmon jam without thermal treatment. In this work, 'Rojo Brillante’ persimmon slices were dehydrated to approximately 30 ºBrix in concentrated grape juice of 65.8 ºBrix at 30ºC, according to a previous kinetic study. Then, samples were mixed with concentrated grape juice, potassium sorbate, pectin and citric acid in order to reach a concentration of soluble solids of approximately 48 ºBrix. Samples were stored at room temperature, and at 4ºC. Determinations of ºBrix, humidity, astringency, water activity and analysis of optical and mechanical properties (consistency and extrusion) were performed after 1, 5, 7, 12 and 18 days of storage. Non-refrigerated jam spoiled after five days of storage, but the characteristics of the refrigerated samples barely changed, without the presence of astringency. In conclusion, this method of preparing jam from persimmons could increase the commercial possibilities of this fruit, using refrigerated storage.
Exclusive Contracts under Financial Constraints
Authors: Kitamura Hiroshi
Published: September 2011

This paper constructs a model of anticompetitive exclusive dealing in the presence of financial constraints. Because of the presence of these constraints, the incumbent cannot remain in business if a deviant buyer appears. We argue that the existence of financial constraints eliminates the buyer's profit in deviating from exclusive contracts. As a result, when compared with previous studies, the possibility of exclusion increases. That is, exclusion arises, even when buyers compete less intensively.
The Impact of Antitrust Fines on the Formation of Collusive Cartels
Authors: Bartolini David , Zazzaro Alberto
Published: September 2011

The literature on collusive cartels has mainly focused on the impact of antitrust fines on the sustainability of cartels, in infinitely repeated games. This approach, however, does not allow us to study the effect of antitrust fines on the incentives to form cartels in the first place. In this paper, we adopt a coalitional game approach to modeling collusive agreements, showing that antitrust fines may drive firms from partial cartels to a monopolistic cartel. Moreover, by introducing uncertainty on market demand, we show that the socially optimal competition policy can call for a finite or even zero antitrust penalty, even if there are no enforcement costs. We provide a sufficient condition for these results to apply to any coalitional game of cartel formation with symmetric firms. Then, we discuss the extension to asymmetric firms and dynamic collusion.
Blow-up and global existence profile of a class of fully nonlinear degenerate parabolic equations
Authors: Li Jing , Yin Jingxue , Jin Chunhua
Published: September 2011

This paper is mainly concerned with the blow-up and global existence profile for the Cauchy problem of a class of fully nonlinear degenerate parabolic equations with reaction sources.
Controls on the recent speed-up of Jakobshavn Isbræ, West Greenland
Authors: Van Der Veen C.J. , Plummer J. C. , Stearns L.A.
Published: September 2011

Jakobshavn Isbræ, West Greenland, underwent a large, rapid and not well understood change in flow dynamics in 1998, leading to a doubling of its ice discharge rates. We calculate the width-averaged forces controlling flow of Jakobshavn Isbræ in 1995, 2000 and 2005 to elucidate processes responsible for this change in flow speed. In contrast to earlier suggestions, we conclude that the observed acceleration was not caused by the loss of back-stress due to weakening and subsequent break-up of the floating ice tongue alone. Gradients in longitudinal stress are small at all times considered (∼3% of the driving stress) and basal and lateral drag provide resistance to flow. Over the 10 year period considered, the average driving stress increased by 20 kPa, which was balanced by a comparable increase in lateral drag. We surmise that the velocity changes resulted from weakening of the ice in the lateral shear margins and perhaps a change in properties at the bed. Possible mechanisms for weakening of ice in the lateral shear margins include cryo-hydrologic warming of subsurface ice in the ablation zone and hydraulic weakening due to higher water content of ice in the shear margins.
Quantitative estimates of velocity sensitivity to surface melt variations at a large Greenland outlet glacier
Authors: Andersen M.L. , Nettles M. , Elosegui P. , Larsen T.B. , Hamilton G.S. , Stearns L.A.
Published: September 2011

The flow speed of Greenland outlet glaciers is governed by several factors, the relative importance of which is poorly understood. The delivery of surface-generated meltwater to the bed of alpine glaciers has been shown to influence glacier flow speed when the volume of water is sufficient to increase basal fluid pressure and hence basal lubrication. While this effect has also been demonstrated on the Greenland ice-sheet margin, little is known about the influence of surface melting on the large, marine-terminating outlet glaciers that drain the ice sheet. We use a validated model of meltwater input and GPS-derived surface velocities to quantify the sensitivity of glacier flow speed to changes in surface melt at Helheim Glacier during two summer seasons (2007–08). Our observations span ∼55 days near the middle of each melt season. We find that relative changes in glacier speed due to meltwater input are small, with variations of ∼45% in melt producing changes in velocity of ∼2–4%. These velocity variations are, however, of similar absolute magnitude to those observed at smaller glaciers and on the ice-sheet margin. We find that the glacier’s sensitivity to variations in meltwater input decreases approximately exponentially with distance from the calving front. Sensitivity to melt varies with time, but generally increases as the melt season progresses. We interpret the time-varying sensitivity of glacier flow to meltwater input as resulting from changes in subglacial hydraulic routing caused by the changing volume of meltwater input.
Spatial variability of surface mass balance along a traverse route from Zhongshan station to Dome A, Antarctica
Authors: Minghu Ding , Cunde Xiao , Yuansheng Li , Jiawen Ren , Shugui Hou , Bo Jin , Bo Sun
Published: September 2011

Stakes at 2 km intervals were installed in January 1997 and remeasured in February 1998, January 1999, January 2005 and during the 2007/08 austral summer along a 1248 km traverse route from Zhongshan station to Dome A, East Antarctica. Based on topographical parameters, meteorological features and the records of ∼650 stakes and six stake arrays, the route is divided into five zones. We find that the snow accumulation rate decreases with increasing altitude as one progresses inland, except in the zone 800–1128 km from the coast, where the average annual accumulation rate is higher than in the zone 524–800 km from the coast. The Dome A zone (1128–1248 km) has the lowest accumulation rate (35 kg m−2 a−1, 2005–08) due to having the highest elevation and being furthest from the coast. The surface mass balance in the region 202–1128 km from the coast exhibits no temporal change from 1999–2005 to 2005–08, but there is a change in the accumulation distribution. The zone from 202 to 524 km shows a decrease in surface mass balance from 84 kg m−2 a−1 in 1999–2005 to 67 kg m−2 a−1 in 2005–08, while the zone between 800 and 1128 km shows an increase from 67 kg m−2 a−1 in 1999–2005 to 75 kg m−2 a−1 in 2005–08.
An Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for the Job Shop Scheduling Problem with Random Processing Times
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wu Cheng
Published: September 2011

Due to the influence of unpredictable random events, the processing time of each operation should be treated as random variables if we aim at a robust production schedule. However, compared with the extensive research on the deterministic model, the stochastic job shop scheduling problem (SJSSP) has not received sufficient attention. In this paper, we propose an artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm for SJSSP with the objective of minimizing the maximum lateness (which is an index of service quality). First, we propose a performance estimate for preliminary screening of the candidate solutions. Then, the K-armed bandit model is utilized for reducing the computational burden in the exact evaluation (through Monte Carlo simulation) process. Finally, the computational results on different-scale test problems validate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed approach.
Comparison of In Situ Polymerization and Solution-Dispersion Techniques in the Preparation of Polyimide/Montmorillonite (MMT) Nanocomposites
Authors: Ahmad Mansor Bin , Gharayebi Yadollah , Salit Mohd. Sapuan , Hussein Mohd. Zobir , Shameli Kamyar
Published: September 2011

In this paper, Polyimide/Montmorillonite Nanocomposites (PI/MMT NCs), based on aromatic diamine (4-Aminophenyl sulfone) (APS) and aromatic dianhydride (3,3',4,4'-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride) (BTDA) were prepared using in situ polymerization and solution-dispersion techniques. The prepared PI/MMT NCs films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The XRD results showed that at the content of 1.0 wt % Organo Montmorillonite (OMMT) for two techniques and 3.0 wt % OMMT for the in situ polymerization technique, the OMMT was well-intercalated, exfoliated and dispersed into polyimide matrix. The OMMT agglomerated when its amount exceeded 10 wt % and 3.0 wt % for solution-dispersion and in situ polymerization techniques respectively. These results were confirmed by the TEM images of the prepared PI/MMT NCs. The TGA thermograms indicated that thermal stability of prepared PI/MMT NCs were increased with the increase of loading that, the effect is higher for the samples prepared by in situ polymerization technique.
Identification of a Protein with Antioxidant Activity that is Important for the Protection against Beer Ageing
Authors: Wu Ming J. , Clarke Frank M. , Rogers Peter J. , Young Paul , Sales Narelle , O’Doherty Patrick J. , Higgins Vincent J.
Published: September 2011

This study was carried out with fresh Australian lager beer which was sampled directly off the production line, the same samples aged for 12 weeks at 30 °C, and the vintage beer which was kept at 20 °C for 5 years. Characteristic Australian lager flavour was maintained in the fresh and vintage beers but was lost in the aged beer. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and free thiol group labelling analyses of beer proteins found that this flavour stability correlated with the presence of an unknown 10 kilodaltons (kDa) protein with a higher level of free thiols. The protein was purified by size-exclusion chromatography, then peptide sequencing and database matching identified it as the barley lipid transfer protein (LTP1). Further characterisation using diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and a Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based antioxidant screening assay demonstrated that the LTP1 protein was active in DPPH reduction and antioxidant activity. The absence of free thiol in the aged beer indicates that the thiol functional groups within the LTP1 protein were saturated and suggests that it is important in the flavour stability of beer by maintaining reduction capacity during the ageing process.
High-Density Real-Time PCR-Based in Vivo Toxicogenomic Screen to Predict Organ-Specific Toxicity
Authors: Fabian Gabriella , Farago Nora , Feher Liliana Z. , Nagy Lajos I. , Kulin Sandor , Kitajka Klara , Bito Tamas , Tubak Vilmos , Katona Robert L. , Tiszlavicz Laszlo , Puskas Laszlo G.
Published: September 2011

Toxicogenomics, based on the temporal effects of drugs on gene expression, is able to predict toxic effects earlier than traditional technologies by analyzing changes in genomic biomarkers that could precede subsequent protein translation and initiation of histological organ damage. In the present study our objective was to extend in vivo toxicogenomic screening from analyzing one or a few tissues to multiple organs, including heart, kidney, brain, liver and spleen. Nanocapillary quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR) was used in the study, due to its higher throughput, sensitivity and reproducibility, and larger dynamic range compared to DNA microarray technologies. Based on previous data, 56 gene markers were selected coding for proteins with different functions, such as proteins for acute phase response, inflammation, oxidative stress, metabolic processes, heat-shock response, cell cycle/apoptosis regulation and enzymes which are involved in detoxification. Some of the marker genes are specific to certain organs, and some of them are general indicators of toxicity in multiple organs. Utility of the nanocapillary QRT-PCR platform was demonstrated by screening different references, as well as discovery of drug-like compounds for their gene expression profiles in different organs of treated mice in an acute experiment. For each compound, 896 QRT-PCR were done: four organs were used from each of the treated four animals to monitor the relative expression of 56 genes. Based on expression data of the discovery gene set of toxicology biomarkers the cardio- and nephrotoxicity of doxorubicin and sulfasalazin, the hepato- and nephrotoxicity of rotenone, dihydrocoumarin and aniline, and the liver toxicity of 2,4-diaminotoluene could be confirmed. The acute heart and kidney toxicity of the active metabolite SN-38 from its less toxic prodrug, irinotecan could be differentiated, and two novel gene markers for hormone replacement therapy were identified, namely fabp4 and pparg, which were down-regulated by estradiol treatment.
Polymeric Optical Code-Division Multiple-Access (CDMA) Encoder and Decoder Modules
Authors: Lu Xuejun , Chen Ray T.
Published: September 2011

We propose a low cost polymeric optical waveguides-based optical CDMA encoder and decoder modules. The structures of the optical CDMA encoder and decoder modules are presented. The performance of the optical CDMA encoder and decoder modules is simulated using 10-chip binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) coding schemes. The optical CDMA encoder and decoder modules can effectively transmit and recover optical CDMA data streams. The SNR of the received signal is analyzed and determined to be primarily from the cross correlation with other channels.
Diversité culturelle et employabilité : enquête sur les atouts de la culture d'origine dans le processus d'amélioration de l'employabilité des étudiants africains francophones, en sciences de gestion
Authors: Delaye Richard , Duru Fabrice , Okamba Emmanuel
Published: September 2011

Résumé La culture initiale d’un apprenant semble avoir des impacts non négligeables sur la vision qu’il peut avoir de son projet professionnel ainsi que sur sa représentation de l’entreprise. Nous allons nous intéresser, dans cet article, aux étudiants africains francophones inscrits dans un cursus en sciences de gestion, sur le territoire français afin de démontrer qu’il existe un lien entre la diversité culturelle et le degré d’employabilité. Pour cela, il est nécessaire, dans un premier temps, de comprendre les spécificités du management dans certains Etats d’Afrique francophone. Elles tiennent aux références culturelles que les individus qui le pratiquent apportent au quotidien dans la gestion de leurs affaires. Ces schémas de pensée, transposés à un contexte de développement des compétences dans le cadre d’une mobilité internationale pratiquée par une diaspora d’étudiants en sciences de gestion, peuvent apparaître comme des éléments tangibles sur lesquels on peut s’appuyer pour renforcer l’employabilité de cette catégorie d’étudiants. L’enquête en cours auprès de ces étudiants cherche à démontrer l’influence des apports culturels nationaux et l’évolution qu’ils subissent dans le cadre d’une ouverture culturelle, facteur d’amélioration de leur employabilité.
Predictors of Nonpharmacological and Pharmacological Treatments Stopped and Started Among Nursing Home Residents With Dementia
Authors: Simpson Michelle R. , Kovach Christine R. , Stetzer Frank
Published: September 2011

The purpose of this study was to describe the nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatments stopped and started over 6 weeks among a sample of nursing home residents with moderate to severe dementia and to identify nurse and resident factors associated with starting new and stopping ineffective/unnecessary nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatments. One hundred thirty-four nursing home residents with dementia and 39 nurses from 12 nursing homes in the Midwest participated in this study. Resident and nursing process data were collected on daily tracking forms completed by the primary nurse over a 6-week period. Both assessment-driven intervention and evaluation-driven follow through significantly predicted treatments stopped and new treatments started. The findings demonstrate that nurses serve an essential role in maintaining resident physiological and psychological homeostasis by vigilantly responding to residents’ physical problems and behaviors with assessment-driven intervention and evaluation-driven follow through.
Evaluate Students' Perceptions of the Virtual Learning Environment at Paisley University
Authors: Abbad Muneer , Al bargothi Mohamad
Published: September 2011

The number of students studying online has been dramatically increased. This has brought an interest and encouragement to some researchers to examine and evaluate the values perceived from the online learning, and why these vast amounts of students are joining the online learning. The purpose of this study is dedicated to evaluate the studentsâ?? perception of the e-learning system at Paisley University. This study evaluates several factors influencing the perceptions of the undergraduate students who undertaken the information management course. The outcome of this study shows that online students perceived the values of the e-learning system differently and the factors mentioned in the literature review each of whom has its own effect on their perceptions.
Meta-model of EPortfolio Usage in Different Environments
Authors: Balaban Igor , Divjak Blazenka , Mu Enrique
Published: September 2011

EPortfolio offers a new philosophy of teaching and learning, giving the learner an opportunity to express oneself, to show oneâ??s past work and experience to all the interested parties ranging from teachers to potential employers. However, an integral model for ePortfolio implementation in academic institutions that would take into account three different levels of stakeholders: 1. Individual (student and teacher); 2. Institution; and 3. Employer, currently does not exist. In this paper the role of ePortfolio in academic environment as well as the context in which ePortfolio operates is analyzed in detail. As a result of the comprehensive analysis that takes into account individual, academic institution and employer, a meta-model of ePortfolio usage in Lifelong Learning is proposed.
E-Learning: Justifications and Obstacles
Authors: Khoury Ansar , Nasir Eddeen Lubna , Saadah Doaa , Harfoushi Osama
Published: September 2011

Many educational institutions have adopted E-Learning system or are thinking to adopt it in their educational systems. As a nearly recent system, many do not know the exact meaning of E-Learning, or why should it be used? After using it, will the institution face any problems? And what are the best solutions for these problems? This paper aims to answer all the above questions. In addition, it discusses the ways to transform traditional learning systems to E-Learning, and how to measure the advantages of this transformation. Finally, the students' views of E-Learning show that they prefer e-learning over traditional system.
Two Algorithms for Web Applications Assessment
Authors: Valsamidis Stavros Ioannis , Kontogiannis Sotirios , Karakos Alexandros Spiros
Published: September 2011

The usage of web applications can be measured with the use of metrics. In a LMS, a typical web application, there are no appropriate metrics which would facilitate their qualitative and quantitative measurement. The purpose of this paper is to propose the use of existing techniques with a different way, in order to analyze the log file of a typical LMS and deduce useful conclusions. Three metrics for course usage measurement are used. It also describes two algorithms for course classification and suggestion actions. The metrics and the algorithms and were in Open eClass LMS tracking data of an academic institution. The results from 39 courses presented interest insights. Although the case study concerns a LMS it can also be applied to other web applications such as e-government, e-commerce, e-banking, blogs e.t.c.
Determination of Testicular Blood Flow in Camelids Using Vascular Casting and Color Pulsed-Wave Doppler Ultrasonography
Authors: Kutzler Michelle , Tyson Reid , Grimes Monica , Timm Karen
Published: September 2011

We describe the vasculature of the camelid testis using plastic casting. We also use color pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonography to measure testicular blood flow and compare the differences between testicular blood flow in fertile and infertile camelids. The testicular artery originates from the ventral surface of the aorta, gives rise to an epididymal branch, and becomes very tortuous as it approaches the testis. Within the supratesticular arteries, peak systolic velocity (PSV) was higher in fertile males compared to infertile males (P=0.0004). In addition, end diastolic velocity (EDV) within the supratesticular arteries was higher for fertile males when compared to infertile males (P=0.0325). Within the marginal arteries, PSV was also higher in fertile males compared to infertile males (P=0.0104). However, EDV within the marginal arteries was not significantly different between fertile and infertile males (P=0.121). In addition, the resistance index was not significantly different between fertile and infertile males within the supratesticular (P=0.486) and marginal arteries (P=0.144). The significance of this research is that in addition to information obtained from a complete reproductive evaluation, a male camelid's fertility can be determined using testicular blood flow measured by Doppler ultrasonography.
Characterization of the Duffy-Binding-Like Domain ofPlasmodium falciparumBlood-Stage Antigen 332
Authors: Nilsson Sandra , Moll Kirsten , Angeletti Davide , Albrecht Letusa , Kursula Inari , Jiang Ning , Sun Xiaodong , Berzins Klavs , Wahlgren Mats , Chen Qijun
Published: September 2011

Studies on Pf332, a majorPlasmodium falciparumblood-stage antigen, have largely been hampered by the cross-reactive nature of antibodies generated against the molecule due to its high content of repeats, which are present in other malaria antigens. We previously reported the identification of a conserved domain in Pf332 with a high degree of similarity to the Duffy-binding-like (DBL) domains of the erythrocyte-binding-like (EBL) family. We here describe that antibodies towards Pf332-DBL are induced after repeated exposure toP. falciparumand that they are acquired early in life in areas of intense malaria transmission. Furthermore, a homology model of Pf332-DBL was found to be similar to the structure of the EBL-DBLs. Despite their similarities, antibodies towards Pf332-DBL did not display any cross-reactivity with EBL-proteins as demonstrated by immunofluorescence microscopy, Western blotting, and peptide microarray. Thus the DBL domain is an attractive region to use in further studies on the giant Pf332 molecule.
Malaria Treatment Policy Change and Implementation: The Case of Uganda
Authors: Nanyunja Miriam , Nabyonga Orem Juliet , Kato Frederick , Kaggwa Mugagga , Katureebe Charles , Saweka Joaquim
Published: September 2011

Malaria due to P. falciparum is the number one cause of morbidity and mortality in Uganda where it is highly endemic in 95% of the country. The use of efficacious and effective antimalarial medicines is one of the key strategies for malaria control. Until 2000, Chloroquine (CQ) was the first-line drug for treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Uganda. Due to progressive resistance to CQ and to a combination of CQ with Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine, Uganda in 2004 adopted the use of ACTs as first-line drug for treating uncomplicated malaria. A review of the drug policy change process and postimplementation reports highlight the importance of managing the policy change process, generating evidence for policy decisions and availability of adequate and predictable funding for effective policy roll-out. These and other lessons learnt can be used to guide countries that are considering anti-malarial drug change in future.
Simple Preparation of Pacific Cod Trypsin for Enzymatic Peptide Synthesis
Authors: Fuchise Tomoyoshi , Sekizaki Haruo , Kishimura Hideki , Klomklao Sappasith , Nalinanon Sitthipong , Benjakul Soottawat , Chun Byung-Soo
Published: September 2011

Trypsin from the pyloric caeca of Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) was easily prepared by affinity chromatography on Benzamidine Sepharose 6B and gel filtration on Superdex 75. Pacific cod trypsin was composed of three isozymes, and their molecular masses were estimated 23,756.34 Da, 23,939.62 Da, and 24,114.81 Da by desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (MALDI/TOF-MS) and their isoelectric points (pIs) were approximately 5.1, 6.0, and 6.2, respectively. The isolated Pacific cod trypsin showed high similarity to other frigid-zone fish trypsins. The kinetic behavior of tryptic hydrolysis toward N-p-tosyl-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (TAME), N-benzoyl-L-arginine p-nitroanilide hydrochloride (BAPA), and p-amidinophenyl ester were also analyzed. In addition, the cod trypsin-catalyzed dipeptide synthesis was investigated using twelve series of “inverse subdtrates” that is p- and m-isomer of amidinophenyl, guanidinophenyl, (amidinomethyl)phenyl, (guanidinomethyl)phenyl, and four position isomers of guanidinonaphtyl esters derived from N-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino acid as acyl donor components. They were found to couple with an acyl acceptor such as L-alanine p-nitroanilide to produce dipeptide in the presence of the trypsin. All inverse substrates tested in this study undergo less enantioselective coupling reaction. The p-guanidinophenyl ester was most practical substrate in twelve series tested. The enzymatic hydrolysis of the resulting products was negligible.
Precipitation as the main driver of Neoglacial fluctuations of Gualas glacier, Northern Patagonian Icefield
Authors: Bertrand S. , Hughen K. A. , Lamy F. , Stuut J.-B. W. , Torrejón F. , Lange C. B.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Glaciers are frequently used as indicators of climate change. However, the link between past glacier fluctuations and climate variability is still highly debated. Here, we investigate the mid- to late-Holocene fluctuations of Gualas Glacier, one of the northernmost outlet glaciers of the Northern Patagonian Icefield, using a multi-proxy sedimentological and geochemical analysis of a 15 m long fjord sediment core from Golfo Elefantes, Chile, and historical documents from early Spanish explorers. Our results show that the core can be sub-divided in three main lithological units that were deposited under very different hydrodynamic conditions. Between 5400 and 4180 cal yr BP and after 750 cal yr BP, sedimentation in Golfo Elefantes was characterized by the rapid deposition of fine silt, most likely transported by fluvio-glacial processes. By contrast, the sediment deposited between 4130 and 850 cal yr BP is composed of poorly sorted sand that is free of shells. This interval is particularly marked by high magnetic susceptibility values and Zr concentrations, and likely reflects a major advance of Gualas glacier towards Golfo Elefantes during the Neoglaciation. Several thin silt layers observed in the upper part of the core are interpreted as secondary fluctuations of Gualas glacier during the Little Ice Age, in agreement with historical and dendrochronological data. Our interpretation of the Golfo Elefantes glaciomarine sediment record in terms of fluctuations of Gualas glacier is in excellent agreement with the glacier chronology proposed for the Southern Patagonian Icefield, which is based on terrestrial (moraine) deposits. By comparing our results with independent proxy records of precipitation and sea surface temperature, we demonstrate that the fluctuations of Gualas glacier during the last 5400 yr were mainly driven by changes in precipitation in the Andes.
First record of Leptomeliola uvariae for South America
Authors: Silvério Michelline L. , Cavalcanti Maria Auxiliadora Q. , Bezerra José L.
Published: September 2011

During a mycological expedition to the 'Reserva Ecológica de Saltinho', Municipality of Tamandaré, Pernambuco State, Brazil, the ascomycete Leptomeliola uvariae was found on leaves of the fern Lygodium volubile, parasitizing the mycelium of a meliolaceous
fungus. This is the first report of Leptomeliola uvariae from South America.