bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy of Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes Modified with DNA or Poly(ethylene glycol)
Authors: Hayashida Takuya , Kawashima Takuya , Nii Daisuke , Ozasa Kazunari , Umemura Kazuo
Published: June 2013

Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) of DNA–single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) hybrids was performed for the first time. KPFM images indicated that the hybrids had a negative surface potential relative to a Au–Pd alloy surface. In contrast, the surface potential of SWNTs modified with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG–SWNTs) was positive even after they were wrapped by DNA. Modification with covalent bonding may have a significant effect on the potential. The results suggest a possible way to distinguish variously modified SWNTs through KPFM observation.
Effects of the 13-Keto Group in the E-Ring of Zinc Chlorophyll Derivatives on Demetalation Kinetics under Acidic Conditions
Authors: Saga Yoshitaka , Maruko Akane , Sadaoka Kana , Takahashi Naoya
Published: June 2013

Zinc methyl 131-deoxopyropheophorbide a, which lacked the 131-oxo group in the exo five-membered E-ring, exhibited faster demetalation kinetics than zinc methyl pyropheophorbide a under acidic conditions, indicating that the 13-keto group of chlorophyllous pigments was responsible for resistance against removal of the central metal from the chlorin macrocycle.
Electrochemical Oxidation of Silver Shells on Gold Nanorods in Potassium Chloride and Phosphate Buffer Solutions
Authors: Hamasaki Yuki , Nakashima Naotoshi , Niidome Yasuro
Published: June 2013

Electrochemical oxidation of silver shells on gold nanorods was examined using in situ spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The oxidation, in a phosphate buffer solution, was suppressed because of the formation of Ag3PO4. In contrast, oxidation in a KCl solution occurred at the corners of the nanorods and proceeded until giving gold nanorods without silver shells. After the 10-s electrolysis, nanoparticles with different shapes were found on the electrode. The inhomogeneous oxidation was due to rapid oxidation of the silver shells and occasional contact of the nanorods with the electrode surfaces.
Synthetic Study of Presilphiperfolan-8-ol: Construction of the Tricyclo[5.3.1.04,11]undecane Framework Utilizing Intramolecular Aldol Condensation and McMurry Coupling
Authors: Kobayashi Toyoharu , Shiroi Hidenori , Abe Hideki , Ito Hisanaka
Published: June 2013

The tricyclo[5.3.1.04,11]undecane framework of presilphiperfolan-8-ol, tricyclic sesquiterpene alcohol was constructed by intramolecular aldol condensation and the McMurry coupling from two types of diketone compounds, which were obtained from (+)-pulegone through a five-step process. This synthetic route does not require the use of any protective groups.
Tandem N-Alkylation–Addition Reaction of α-Aldimino Ester and Application to a New Flow System
Authors: Sano Takanori , Mizota Isao , Shimizu Makoto
Published: June 2013

N-Alkylation of α-imino ester derived from ethyl glyoxylate proceeded to give an aluminum enolate that reacted with aldehydes to give 1,2-amino alcohols in good yields. This kind of N-alkylation–addition reaction proceeds efficiently by the use of a new flow system consisting of connected two microreactors.
Electron Spectroscopy of Ultrathin Cycloalkane Films on Graphite (0001): Molecular Orbitals, Conformation, and Orientation
Authors: Yamazaki Shunya , Matsumoto Keiji , Ozaki Hiroyuki , Endo Osamu , Ogino Kenji , Tsuchiya Kousuke , Hasegawa Masashi , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: June 2013

The electronic structures, conformation, and orientation of cyclooctatetracontane were studied by ultraviolet photoelectron and metastable atom electron spectroscopy for ultrathin films prepared on cooled graphite (0001) surfaces. It was found that molecules in a long and thin rectangular form are laid flat with the long sides placed with edge-on orientation up to room temperature. The local electron distributions of molecular orbitals were probed outside the edge-on surface for the first time. The geometric structures are consistent with the STM image.
Cognitive Flexibility Among Individuals With Down Syndrome: Assessing the Influence of Verbal and Nonverbal Abilities
Authors: Campbell Colin , Landry Oriane , Russo Natalie , Flores Heidi , Jacques Sophie , Burack Jacob A.
Published: June 2013

The influences of verbal mental age (VMA) and performance mental age (PMA) on cognitive flexibility were examined among a group of participants with Down syndrome (DS), in order to disentangle the relative contributions of each. The impaired cognitive flexibility typically observed among individuals with DS in combination with uneven VMA and PMA development suggests an opportunity to further understand the developmental relationship between VMA, PMA, and cognitive flexibility. We examined the performance of 22 participants with DS on the Flexible Item Selection Task (FIST), used for measuring cognitive flexibility among preschoolers. Partial correlations revealed that only VMA was related to the FIST after controlling for PMA, highlighting the role of verbal abilities in the development of cognitive flexibility.
Taxonomic Classification of Phytoplankton with Multivariate Optical Computing, Part II: Design and Experimental Protocol of a Shipboard Fluorescence Imaging Photometer
Authors: Swanstrom Joseph A. , Bruckman Laura S. , Pearl Megan R. , Abernathy Elizabeth , Richardson Tammi L. , Shaw Timothy J. , Myrick Michael L.
Published: June 2013

Differential pigmentation between phytoplankton allows use of fluorescence excitation spectroscopy for the discrimination and classification of different taxa. Here, we describe the design and performance of a fluorescence imaging photometer that exploits taxonomic differences for discrimination and classification. The fluorescence imaging photometer works by illuminating individual phytoplankton cells through an asynchronous spinning filter wheel, which produces bar code-like streaks in a fluorescence image. A filter position is covered with an opaque filter to create a reference dark position in the filter wheel rotation that is used to match each fluorescence streak with the corresponding filter. Fluorescence intensities of the imaged streaks are then analyzed for the purpose of spectral analysis, which allows taxonomic classification of the organism that produced the streaks. The theoretical performance and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) specifications of these MOEs are described in Part I of this series. This report describes optical layout, flow cell design, magnification, depth of field, constraints on filter wheel and flow velocities, procedures for blank subtraction and flat-field correction, the measurement scheme of the instrument, and measurement of SNR as a measurement of filter wheel frequency. This is followed by an analysis of the sources of variance in measurements made by the photometer on the coccolithophore Emiliania huxleyi. We conclude that the SNR of E. huxleyi measurements is not limited by the sensitivity or noise attributes of the measurement system, but by dynamics in the fluorescence efficiency of the E. huxleyi cells. Even so, the minimum SNR requirements given in Part I for the instrument are met.
Polystyrene Beads as Probes of the Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Response Characteristics of Silver Nanorod Arrays
Authors: Marotta Nicole E. , Bottomley Lawrence A.
Published: June 2013

Polystyrene microspheres were used to interrogate the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) response of silver nanorod (AgNR) array substrates. It has been suggested that enhancement between nanorods is significantly greater than that at the top due to contributing electromagnetic fields from each nanostructure. To test this theory, two different sized fluorescent polystyrene microspheres were used. The SERS intensity of beads small enough to fit within the array was compared with that of larger beads confined to rest on top of the array. Location of the beads within the array was established using optical fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. The findings presented herein suggest that evaporation of the sample produces a nonuniform distribution of scatterers across the AgNR array and that the enhancement found for beads located on top of the AgNRs was significantly greater than that for beads located within the array.
Successful Implementation of a Neonatal Pain and Sedation Protocol at 2 NICUs
Authors: Deindl Philipp , Unterasinger Lukas , Kappler Gregor , Werther Tobias , Czaba Christine , Giordano Vito , Frantal Sophie , Berger Angelika , Pollak Arnold , Olischar Monika
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the implementation of a neonatal pain and sedation protocol at 2 ICUs.

METHODS:

The intervention started with the evaluation of local practice, problems, and staff satisfaction. We then developed and implemented the Vienna Protocol for Neonatal Pain and Sedation. The protocol included well-defined strategies for both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions based on regular assessment of a translated version of the Neonatal Pain Agitation and Sedation Scale and titration of analgesic and sedative therapy according to aim scores. Health care staff was trained in the assessment by using a video-based tutorial and bedside teaching. In addition, we performed reevaluation, retraining, and random quality checks. Frequency and quality of assessments, pharmacologic therapy, duration of mechanical ventilation, and outcome were compared between baseline (12 months before implementation) and 12 months after implementation.

RESULTS:

Cumulative median (interquartile range) opiate dose (baseline dose of 1.4 [0.5–5.9] mg/kg versus intervention group dose of 2.7 [0.4–57] mg/kg morphine equivalents; P = .002), pharmacologic interventions per episode of continuous sedation/analgesia (4 [2–10] vs 6 [2–13]; P = .005), and overall staff satisfaction (physicians: 31% vs 89%; P < .001; nurses: 17% vs 55%; P < .001) increased after implementation. Time on mechanical ventilation, length of stay at the ICU, and adverse outcomes were similar before and after implementation.

CONCLUSIONS:

Implementation of a neonatal pain and sedation protocol at 2 ICUs resulted in an increase in opiate prescription, pharmacologic interventions, and staff satisfaction without affecting time on mechanical ventilation, length of intensive care stay, and adverse outcomes.
Misdiagnosed Food Allergy Resulting in Severe Malnutrition in an Infant
Authors: Alvares Michael , Kao Leon , Mittal Vineeta , Wuu Alice , Clark April , Bird J. Andrew
Published: June 2013

As food allergies become increasingly prevalent and testing methods to identify “food allergy” increase in number, the importance of careful diagnosis has become even more critical. Misdiagnosis of food allergy and inappropriate use of unproven testing modalities may lead to a harmful food-elimination diet. This case is an example of an infant who was placed on an overly restrictive elimination diet at the recommendation of her health care providers, resulting in kwashiorkor and acquired acrodermatitis enteropathica.
Using Otoacoustic Emissions to Screen Young Children for Hearing Loss in Primary Care Settings
Authors: Foust Terry , Eiserman William , Shisler Lenore , Geroso Amy
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVES:

Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) technology, used widely in newborn hearing screening programs and validated by professional organizations as a reliable and objective tool, is beginning to be recognized as superior to subjective methods when screening young children in a variety of settings. This study examines the efficacy of integrating OAE hearing screening into services routinely provided in health care settings.

METHODS:

Three federally funded clinics serving low-income and uninsured people in a metropolitan area participated in the 10-month study. Subjects included 846 children (842 in the target population <5 years of age and 4 older siblings) who were screened during routine visits to their primary care providers using a distortion product OAE instrument. A multistep screening and diagnostic protocol, incorporating middle ear evaluation and treatment, was followed when children did not pass the initial screening. Audiological evaluation was sought for children not passing a subsequent OAE screening.

RESULTS:

Of the 846 children screened, 814 (96%) ultimately passed the screening or audiological assessment and 29 (3%) exited the study. Three children (1 was <5 years of age and 2 were >5) were identified with permanent hearing loss.

CONCLUSIONS:

The rate of identification of permanent hearing loss in this study is similar to findings from a study of OAE screening in early childhood educational settings. OAE screening holds the potential for being an effective method for helping to identify young children with permanent hearing loss in primary care settings.
A Study on Mechanical Properties of CNT Reinforced Carbon/Carbon Composites under Environment Aging Effects
Authors: Shen Ming-Yuan , Li Yi-Luen , Su Huang-Suo , Chiang Chin-Lung , Hsiao Yao- Kuei , Sung Ming- Hsien , Yip Ming-Chuen
Published: June 2013

Carbon/carbon composites (C/C composites) possess superior characteristics of low density, high strength, extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion, high fatigue resistance. In carbonization process, the high temperature pyrolysis made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and other elements, results in a lot of voids and cavities generated in the interior of C/C composites. Therefore, the C/C composites are densified to fill the void by using repeated impregnation. But densification is a time-wasting and complex process, which increases production costs in the manufacturing process.

In this study, the Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes (MWNTs) were adopted as reinforcement material for C/C composites to reduce the existence of voids or cavities and enhance the mechanical properties of C/C composites under environment aging effects. Three different temperature with high moisture conditions are used to be tested, including high temperature (150°C/ 90%RH), room temperature (25°C/90%RH), and low temperature (-15°C/90%RH) to analyze the mechanical properties of C/C composites, such as flexural and Interlaminar Shear Strength (ILSS).
Graphene Terahertz Lasers: Injection versus Optical Pumping
Authors: Otsuji Taiichi , Satou Akira , Ryzhii Maxim , Mitin Vladimir , Ryzhii Victor
Published: June 2013

In this paper we demonstrate that graphene is one of the best materials for new types of terahertz lasers as optical and/or injection pumping of graphene can exhibit negative-dynamic conductivity in the terahertz spectral range. We analyze the formation of nonequilibrium states in optically pumped graphene layers and in forward-biased graphene structures with lateral p-i-n junctions and consider the conditions of population inversion and lasing. The latter provides a significant advantage of the injection pumping in realization of graphene terahertz lasers. We benchmark graphene as a prospective material for injection-type terahertz lasers.
Effect of SWCNT Dilution on the Resistivity of MgB2
Authors: Ma Danhao , Jayasingha Ruwantha , Hess Dustin , Adu Kofi W. , Sumanasekera Gamini U.
Published: June 2013

We report an increase in superconducting temperature of magnesium diboride (MgB2) by minute single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) inclusions. The SWCNTs concentration was varied from 0.1wt% to 1.0wt%. The temperature dependence resistivity of sintered MgB2- SWCNTs composites containing 0.1wt%, 0.5wt% and 1.0wt% were measured and compared with that of the pure MgB2. The superconducting critical temperature (Tc) of the MgB2 increased from 40 K to as high as 42.4 K for the MgB2 containing 0.5wt% of SWCNTs. The room temperature resistivity ratio (RRR) shows dependence on the sample composition. The temperature width (ΔT) decreases with increasing SWCNT content from 0.1wt% to 1.0wt%. The normal state resistivity data were fitted with the generalized Block-Grüneisen function obtaining a Debye temperature of ∼ 900K.
Growth of silicon nanowires-based heterostructures and their plasmonic modeling
Authors: Li Yuan , Shi Wenwu , Dykes John C. , Chopra Nitin
Published: June 2013

Complex nanoscale architectures based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) can result in spatially-resolved plasmonics. Herein, we demonstrate the growth of silicon nanowires (SiNWs), heterostructures of SiNWs decorated with AuNPs, and SiNWs decorated with graphene shells encapsulated gold nanoparticles (GNPs). The fabrication approach combined CVD growth of nanowires and graphene with direct nucleation of AuNPs. The plasmonic or optical properties of SiNWs and their complex heterostructures were simulated using discrete dipole approximation method. Extinction efficiency spectra peak for SiNW significantly red-shifted (from 512 nm to 597 nm or 674 nm) after decoration with AuNPs, irrespective of the incident wave vector. Finally, SiNW decorated with GNPs resulted in incident wave vector-dependent extinction efficiency peak. For this case, wave vector aligned with the nanowire axial direction showed a broad peak at ∼535 nm. However, significant scattering and no peak was observed when aligned in radial direction of the SiNWs. Such spatially-resolved and tunable plasmonic or optical properties of nanoscale heterostructures hold strong potential for optical sensor and devices.
Conductive and Sensing Performance of PVA and PEDOT/PSS Blended Fiber
Authors: Miura Hiroaki , Omori Akio , Takizawa Junko , Kimura Mutsumi
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we developed textile-based sensors for measuring vital signs. We fabricated conductive fiber made from organic conjugated polymers without the use of inorganic materials. While the tensile strength of pure poly-3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene/poly-4-styrene sulfonic acid (PEDOT/PSS) fiber was low, it was unsuitable to fabricate textile-based devices. To avoid this drawback, we examined the composite fibers composed of PEDOT/PSS and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) to obtain good mechanical properties as well as a high electronic conductivity. PVA was used as a matrix component to connect colloidal PEDOT/PSS particles within the fibers. We succeeded continuous and uniform spinning from the mixed solution of PEDOT/PSS and PVA through the modified wet spinning process. Tensile strength of the composite fiber increased to twice that consisted only of PEDOT/PSS. In addition, the electric conductivity increased about three times by the combination with PVA. Textiles made of conductive fibers behaved as flexible electrodes for the detection of heartbeat.
Optical and Structural Characterization of Li-doped CdS Nanoparticles
Authors: Sandoval U. , Torres M. E. Hernández , Jimenez J. M. Gracia , González N. R. Silva
Published: June 2013

CdS:Li nanoparticles were grown by the thermolysis method using a surfactant to control the nanoparticles growth and the passivity of the dangling bonds. The effect of the Li incorporation on the optical and structural properties of the CdS nanoparticles was studied by means of the optical transmission, photoluminescence, X-ray diffraction and HR-SEM&TEM techniques. The optical energy band gap lies in the interval from 2.7 to 3.6 eV. The photoluminescence spectra present a band with peak at 465 nm, which is indicative of the quantum confinement. The energy peak position (465 nm) is blue-shifted respect to the bulk material (512 nm). Then, one can infer that the energy band gap and the peak intensity vary according to the nominal lithium concentration in the growth solution. An average crystallite size of about 5 nm was estimated by the Brus equation and the Debye-Scherrer formula, and confirm by HR-SEM&TEM measurements.
Automatic Determination of Tight-Binding Parameters in Bulk Systems
Authors: Ohtani Yasuaki , Fujiwara Takeo , Nishino Shinya , Suzuki Takashi , Yamamoto Susumu , Zempo Yasunari
Published: June 2013

We have studied a procedure to determine Tight-Binding (TB) parameters automatically, by which the band structure of the crystalline solid can be reproduced so as to be good agreement with that of first-principles molecular dynamics calculation. According to this procedure, we determine TB parameter sets for silicon and diamond accurately, and a fairly good set for their compound SiC.
Development of high k/III-V (InGaAs, InAs, InSb) structures for future low power, high speed device applications
Authors: Chang Edward Yi , Trinh Hai-Dang , Lin Yueh-Chin , Iwai Hiroshi , Lin Yen-Ku
Published: June 2013

III-V compounds such as InGaAs, InAs, InSb have great potential for future low power high speed devices (such as MOSFETs, QWFETs, TFETs and NWFETs) application due to their high carrier mobility and drift velocity. The development of good quality high k gate oxide as well as high k/III-V interfaces is prerequisite to realize high performance working devices. Besides, the downscaling of the gate oxide into sub-nanometer while maintaining appropriate low gate leakage current is also needed. The lack of high quality III-V native oxides has obstructed the development of implementing III-V based devices on Si template. In this presentation, we will discuss our efforts to improve high k/III-V interfaces as well as high k oxide quality by using chemical cleaning methods including chemical solutions, precursors and high temperature gas treatments. The electrical properties of high k/InSb, InGaAs, InSb structures and their dependence on the thermal processes are also discussed. Finally, we will present the downscaling of the gate oxide into sub-nanometer scale while maintaining low leakage current and a good high k/III-V interface quality.
Occupational stress and self-rated health among nurses
Authors: Theme Filha Mariza Miranda , Costa Maria Aparecida de Souza , Guilam Maria Cristina Rodrigues
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the association between job stress and self-rated health among nurses in public hospital emergency units. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study undertaken through the administration of a self-administered questionnaire in a sample of 134 health professionals, using the brief version of the Job Stress Scale. Descriptive analyses of the socio-demographic, health and work variables were undertaken, as was multivariate analysis through unconditional logistic regression for adjustment of the association between job stress and poor self-rated health, in accordance with potential confounding variables, with a level of significance of 5%. RESULTS: 70% of the interviewees were classified as passive workers or as with high strain. Poor self-rated health was significantly greater among health professionals with high demand and low control, compared to those with low strain, after adjusting for co-variables. CONCLUSIONS: Low control, allied with low demand, can serve as a demotivating factor, contributing to the increase in professional dissatisfaction. It is recommended that institutions should adopt a policy of planning and managing human resources so as to encourage the participation of health professionals in decision-making, with a view to reducing job stress among nurses.
Evaluation of pre-natal care from the perspective of different models in primary care
Authors: Oliveira Renata Leite Alves de , Fonseca Cátia Regina Branco da , Carvalhaes Maria Antonieta de Barros Leite , Parada Cristina Maria Garcia de Lima
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the quality of the pre-natal care delivered in primary care, comparing the traditional model and the Family Health Strategy. METHOD: a service evaluation study, grounded in the public health policies. The data was obtained from interviews with managers, observation in the health centers, and analysis of patient records of pregnant women, selected at random. Differences in the indicators for structure and process were evaluated using the Chi-squared test, adopting p<0.05 as the critical value, calculation of the odds ratio, and confidence intervals of 95%. RESULTS: Similar structures were evidenced in both models of care. Synthesis indicators for the process created in the present study, and those indicated by the public policies, indicated that the situation is more favorable in Family Health Centers. Regarding the set of activities called for in pre-natal care, the performance was flawed in both models, although it was slightly better in the Family Health Centers. CONCLUSION: the results indicate the need for actions to improve pre-natal care in the two models of primary care evaluated in the municipality.
Parental role conflict: the nursing diagnosis in mothers of hospitalized newborns
Authors: Carmona Elenice Valentim , Vale Ianê Nogueira do , Ohara Conceição Vieira da Silva , Abrão Ana Cristina Freitas de Vilhena
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: To verify if mothers of newborns hospitalized recognize the defining characteristics of "parental role conflict" as representative of that experience. METHODS: A cross-sectional and descriptive study, developed in a neonatal unit of a public teaching hospital in the state of São Paulo. The sample consisted of 100 women who assigned scores of 1 to 5 to the defining characteristics of the diagnosis, where 1 meant "not at all characteristic" and 5 meant "completely characteristic of what I am experiencing." RESULT: Of the total sample, 96 women self-identified with the diagnosis. The most prevalent defining characteristics were: "anxiety," "mother expresses concern(s) in relation to changes in maternal role"; "verbalizes feelings of frustration," "reports concern about family" and "fear". Women who were with their children less often during hospitalization had a higher number of defining characteristics. CONCLUSION: There was a high prevalence of the defining characteristics of the studied diagnosis, suggesting the relevance of the topic and the need for further studies to be developed in the neonatal unit.
Institutional shelter to protect adolescent victims of domestic violence: theory or practice?
Authors: Carlos Diene Monique , Ferriani Maria das Graças Carvalho , Silva Marta Angelica Iossi , Roque Eliana Mendes de Souza Teixeira , Vendruscolo Telma Sanchez
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: To understand and analyze, from the perspective of adolescent victims of domestic violence who were cared for in an institution in Campinas-SP, the protective factors to which they are submitted and / or have access. METHOD: This was qualitative research, with data collection occurring through focus groups with 17 adolescents, and semistructured interviews with seven of them; the data analysis was based on content analysis, using a thematic modality. RESULTS: Two themes emerged, entitled Four Walls and Trust. We discuss the context of institutional care, that despite the efforts made contemporaneously, still maintains an authoritarian environment; the importance of the bond and trust established with some employees, acting as protective factors for the adolescents and the protective aspect of religiosity. CONCLUSIONS: It is understood that these considerations should be valued and reinforced through the healthcare services provided to children and adolescents, as they contribute to the promotion of the physical and mental health of this population.
Effectiveness of disinfection with alcohol 70% (w/v) of contaminated surfaces not previously cleaned
Authors: Graziano Maurício Uchikawa , Graziano Kazuko Uchikawa , Pinto Flávia Morais Gomes , Bruna Camila Quartim de Moraes , Souza Rafael Queiroz de , Lascala Cesar Angelo
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the disinfectant effectiveness of alcohol 70% (w/v) using friction, without previous cleaning, on work surfaces, as a concurrent disinfecting procedure in Health Services. METHOD: An experimental, randomized and single-blinded laboratory study was undertaken. The samples were enamelled surfaces, intentionally contaminated with Serratia marcescens microorganisms ATCC 14756 106 CFU/mL with 10% of human saliva added, and were submitted to the procedure of disinfection WITHOUT previous cleaning. The results were compared to disinfection preceded by cleaning. RESULTS: There was a reduction of six logarithms of the initial microbial population, equal in the groups WITH and WITHOUT previous cleaning (p=0.440) and a residual microbial load ≤ 102 CFU. CONCLUSION: The research demonstrated the acceptability of the practice evaluated, bringing an important response to the area of health, in particular to Nursing, which most undertakes procedures of concurrent cleaning /disinfecting of these work surfaces.
A novel technique to mitigate the effect of gapping on the uplift capacity of offshore shallow foundations
Authors: MANA D.S.K. , GOURVENEC S. , RANDOLPH M.F.
Published: June 2013

A flexible mat was provided around the periphery of skirted shallow foundations – a so-called ‘gap arrester' – to assess the potential to mitigate the effect of gapping on uplift capacity. Results are presented from a series of drum centrifuge tests on skirted foundations with an intact skirt/soil interface, a gapped skirt/soil interface, and a gapped interface with gap arrester, subjected to undrained and sustained uplift. The results are promising, showing that the provision of an effective gap arrester preserves suction to larger foundation displacements and reduces the rate of displacement under sustained uplift, compared with the case of a gapped interface without arrester.
Adding limestone fines, fly ash and silica fume to reduce heat generation of concrete
Authors: Kwan Albert K. H. , Chen Jia-jian , Ng Pui-lam , Fung Wilson W. S.
Published: June 2013

The conventional method of adding limestone fines and fly ash as cement replacement to reduce the heat generation of curing concrete would significantly lower the strength. To reduce the heat generation and at the same time maintain a reasonable strength, adding limestone fines as cementitious paste replacement (the cementitious paste is the paste formed of cementitious materials and water) and adding fly ash together with silica fume as cement replacement should be a better method. Herein, a series of concrete mixes with water/cementitious materials ratios ranging from 0·40 to 0·50, and various limestone fines, fly ash and silica fume contents were tested for their workability, strength and heat generation. The results revealed that limestone fines, fly ash and silica fume are all effective in reducing heat generation. With all of them added, a concrete mix with a workability of at least 200 mm slump, a cube compressive strength higher than 65 MPa and an adiabatic temperature rise of only 30°C is developed.
Long‐term Effects of Nitrogen and Potassium Fertilization on Perennial Ryegrass Turf
Authors: Ebdon J. S. , DaCosta M. , Spargo J. , Dest W. M.
Published: June 2013

Research on the effects of potassium (K) fertilization on turfgrass growth and its relationship to tissue K and soil K have been inconsistent due to the many factors affecting tissue K such as nitrogen (N) fertilization. This 5‐yr study was initiated in 2004 to better understand N (as urea) and K (as K2SO4) effects on soil and plant response of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. ‘Brightstar’). A field study was conducted to evaluate five rate levels of N (49, 147, 245, 343, or 441 kg ha−1 yr−1) with three rate levels of K (49, 245, or 441 kg ha−1 yr−1). Clipping yield (CY), leaf tissue K, soil pH, rooting (in 2004 and 2005 only), and soil K were assessed in spring of each year. Leaf K and soil K increased linearly with K applied, whereas leaf K and CY regression slopes with soil K increased with greater N applied. Leaf K and CY increased linearly with N, whereas rooting, soil pH, and soil K decreased linearly with increased N. Rooting was inversely related to CY. Luxury consumption of K was observed in the latter years of the test (2006) at N rates of 245 kg N ha−1 yr−1 and lower. The strength of the regression (r2) and covariation between CY and leaf K increased with N rate and decreased with year of the test. There were no observed changes in shoot and root growth in response to K fertilization even at low soil test K levels (50 mg kg−1).
Identifying High Yielding, Stable Chickpea Genotypes for Spring Sowing: Specific Adaptation to Locations and Sowing Seasons in the Mediterranean Region
Authors: Imtiaz Muhammad , Malhotra Rajinder Singh , Singh Murari , Arslan Suhaila
Published: June 2013

Superior genotypes are needed to give farmers a choice of improved cultivars of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) suitable for traditional spring sowing. From 1997 to 2010, 68 experiments comprising 404 elite chickpea lines were conducted for two seasons per year (spring and winter) at two locations—Tel Hadya, Syria (TH), and Terbol, Lebanon (TR). Genotypic differences were significant (P < 0.05) in 65 of 68 experiments. Genotype × season interaction was more important than the genotype × location. The predicted means in the two growing seasons were significantly correlated, implying the possibility of conducting yield trials in only one of the seasons, such as at TH. Stability analyses showed that S95082 (FLIP95‐78C), with a predicted yield of 1725 kg ha−1, was the top yielding genotype at the TH spring sowing, with a temporal stability rank of 14. The line S95419 ranked second for yield (1633 kg ha−1) followed by S95335 (FLIP95‐147C) with the spring yield at TH of 1583 kg ha−1. The genotype main effect plus genotype × environment interaction (GGE) biplot analyses showed that the FLIP95‐78C and S95335 genotypes were high yielding at TH while FLIP98‐91C and FLIP98‐162C did better at TR in both seasons. Three lines, FLIP01‐06C, FLIP01‐30C, and FLIP01‐49C, having high yields across locations and seasons and being tolerant to drought, were identified for dual season sowing. The findings show the potential to improve chickpea for spring sowing. The ICARDA breeding program is enriching the germplasm base with elite chickpea genotypes benefiting regional and international chickpea improvement programs.
A Flexible, Low‐Cost Cart for Proximal Sensing
Authors: White Jeffrey W. , Conley Matthew M.
Published: June 2013

Increasing interest in deploying multiple types of sensing instruments for agricultural plot‐level observations has created a need for simple, high‐clearance vehicles that can be easily maneuvered through crops while minimizing damage due to wheel traffic. We describe a simple cart built from a 2‐m‐wide by 1.2‐m‐long steel frame that was welded onto two bicycle frames at a height providing 1 m of vertical clearance. Instruments such as radiometers and infrared thermometers are attached to the frame via arms that are secured with U‐bolts. A large, horizontal surface allows mounting data loggers, batteries, or computers. The cart is easily maneuvered by one person on level ground or by two persons on terrain with furrows, berms, or other obstacles. Design sketches and lists of materials are provided in an electronic supplement. The basic design is readily modifiable for different interrow spacings and sensor positions.
Dynamic Soil Properties across a Suburban Landscape
Authors: Langner Amy N. , Manu Andrew , Nath Dan A.
Published: June 2013

Soil properties in urban settings are impacted by human activities. This study investigated human influence on dynamic soil properties including bulk density (BD), organic C (OC), pH, and inorganic C (IC) in the suburban environment of Ankeny, IA. Nine periods of urban development were delineated, and 10 homes from each period were randomly selected. Soils were sampled from front yards of these homes. All soils had a loamy texture. Mean BD values were significantly higher (1.70 g cm−3) in newer developments than older sites (1.23 g cm−3). Bulk density increased significantly with depth. This could be the effect of increased compaction associated with newer and heavier equipment in the case of newer developments and improved aggregation and structural development in soils in older areas. Soils from the 2003 to 2005 period had significantly lower levels of OC (0.49 g kg−1) than those from the pre‐1939 period (4.49 g kg−1). Mean OC decreased with depth. The pH ranged from 5.4 to 8.5, with a mean of 7.7, and pH increased with time of development and with depth. Disturbance at newer sites could have exposed calcareous till. Long‐term use of acid fertilizers could have decreased surface pH. The amount of IC ranged from 0.11 g kg−1 in the older development to 8.41 g kg−1 in the newest development. The IC increased with depth. These results could indicate that time has impacted the loss of IC through leaching and acid‐forming processes. We conclude that current intensive site preparation techniques significantly affect dynamic soil properties; however, this impact is reduced as the time since the initial disturbance increases.
A Hysteretic Model of Hydraulic Properties for Dual‐Porosity Soils
Authors: Rudiyanto  , Toride Nobuo , Sakai Masaru , Šimůnek Jiří
Published: June 2013

We propose a hysteretic model of hydraulic properties for dual‐porosity soils based on the bimodal van Genuchten model and Kool and Parker (K&P) hysteresis model. Hysteresis is considered only in the first pore domain, affecting mainly higher water contents, while a nonhysteretic behavior is assumed in the second pore domain, affecting mainly lower water contents. The main drying and wetting curves are described with the same set of parameters except for α1, which is different for the drying and wetting curves. The scanning hysteresis loops in the first subregion are also described using the K&P model. The hysteretic water retention model agrees reasonably well with drying and wetting retention curves and scanning loops observed for Andisols. Although the corresponding unsaturated hydraulic conductivity, evaluated using the Mualem pore‐size distribution model, as a function of the water content, K(θ), is nonhysteretic for higher water contents, unrealistic hysteresis occurs in K(θ) for lower water contents. To obtain an “almost” nonhysteretic K(θ) function for the entire range of water contents, an additional constraint on the value of the α1 parameter for K(θ) is imposed, and a single value is used for both drying and wetting curves.
Irrigation System and Tillage Effects on Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Fractions
Authors: Sainju Upendra M. , Stevens William B. , Evans Robert G. , Iversen William M.
Published: June 2013

Irrigation and tillage systems may affect surface residue and soil C and N fractions by influencing crop biomass yield, residue placement, and movement of water soluble C and N in the soil. We studied the effects of irrigation (mid‐elevation spray application [MESA] and low energy precision application [LEPA]) and tillage (conventional [CT] and strip‐tillage [ST]) systems on crop biomass (stems and leaves) yield, surface residue, and soil C and N fractions at the 0‐ to 20‐cm depth from 2004 to 2007 in a Savage clay loam (fine, smectitic, frigid Vertic Argiustolls) in Sidney, MT. Soil C and N fractions were soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (STN), particulate organic carbon and nitrogen (POC and PON), microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen (MBC and MBN), potential carbon and nitrogen mineralization (PCM and PNM), NH4–N, and NO3–N. While crop biomass across treatments increased from 2004 to 2007, surface residue was greater with ST than with CT from 2005 to 2007. The NH4–N and NO3–N contents at 5 to 10 and 10 to 20 cm in 2005 and STN at 0 to 5 cm in 2007 were greater with ST than with CT, but SOC at 5 to 10 and 10 to 20 cm, POC and MBN at 5 to 10 cm, and PNM at 0 to 5 cm in 2007 were greater with CT than with ST. The MBC at 0 to 5 cm and MBN at 10 to 20 cm were greater in LEPA than in MESA. The PCM at 10 to 20 cm was greater with CT than with ST in LEPA. While ST increased surface soil residue and N storage, residue incorporation to a greater depth in CT increased soil C storage, microbial activity, and N mineralization. Slow rate of water application near the soil surface increased microbial biomass in LEPA.
Reimagining Knowledge Terrains: The Economic and Social Research Council, Governmentalism and the Social Science Landscape
Authors: Priyadharshini Esther
Published: June 2013

This article analyses publications that pronounce on the health and direction of the social sciences in the United Kingdom, focusing on those commissioned or published by an authoritative source like the Economic and Social Research Council. It speculates on the ways in which fields of study are imagined and shaped through the mix of emotions – fears, desires and ambitions – that can underlie the collective writing of such documents. Using lessons from post-colonial criticism, governmentalised ways of ‘knowing’, ‘representing’ and ‘imagining’ are critically examined and a case is put forward for other ways of envisioning the field. An argument is made for a more cosmopolitan, eclectic outlook to define and describe the social sciences, and the field of education in particular, and the need for a greater awareness of and scepticism towards a ‘governmentalism’ that may limit the diversity of the social sciences and the vibrancy of the social science imagination itself. Such thinking has implications that stretch beyond the United Kingdom, to other states that are also preoccupied with governing and shaping the social sciences.
Effects of a Single Bout of Interval Hypoxia on Cardiorespiratory Control in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Duennwald Tobias , Bernardi Luciano , Gordin Daniel , Sandelin Anna , Syreeni Anna , Fogarty Christopher , Kytö Janne P. , Gatterer Hannes , Lehto Markku , Hörkkö Sohvi , Forsblom Carol , Burtscher Martin , Groop Per-Henrik ,   on behalf of the FinnDiane Study Group
Published: June 2013

Hypoxemia is common in diabetes, and reflex responses to hypoxia are blunted. These abnormalities could lead to cardiovascular/renal complications. Interval hypoxia (IH) (5–6 short periods of hypoxia each day over 1–3 weeks) was successfully used to improve the adaptation to hypoxia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We tested whether IH over 1 day could initiate a long-lasting response potentially leading to better adaptation to hypoxia. In 15 patients with type 1 diabetes, we measured hypoxic and hypercapnic ventilatory responses (HCVRs), ventilatory recruitment threshold (VRT-CO2), baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), blood pressure, and blood lactate before and after 0, 3, and 6 h of a 1-h single bout of IH. All measurements were repeated on a placebo day (single-blind protocol, randomized sequence). After IH (immediately and after 3 h), hypoxic and HCVR increased, whereas the VRT-CO2 dropped. No such changes were observed on the placebo day. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure increased, whereas blood lactate decreased after IH. Despite exposure to hypoxia, BRS remained unchanged. Repeated exposures to hypoxia over 1 day induced an initial adaptation to hypoxia, with improvement in respiratory reflexes. Prolonging the exposure to IH (>2 weeks) in type 1 diabetic patients will be a matter for further studies.
Thermoelasticity of thin shells based on the time-fractional heat conduction equation
Authors: Povstenko Yuriy
Published: June 2013

The time-nonlocal generalizations of Fourier’s law are analyzed and the equations of the generalized thermoelasticity based on the time-fractional heat conduction equation with the Caputo fractional derivative of order 0 < α ≤ 2 are presented. The equations of thermoelasticity of thin shells are obtained under the assumption of linear dependence of temperature on the coordinate normal to the median surface of a shell. The conditions of Newton’s convective heat exchange between a shell and the environment have been assumed. In the particular case of classical heat conduction (α = 1) the obtained equations coincide with those known in the literature.
A multi-analytical approach to amber characterisation
Authors: Truică Georgiana , Ditaranto Nicoletta , Caggiani Maria , Mangone Annarosa , Liţescu Simona , Teodor Eugenia , Sabbatini Luigia , Radu Gabriel
Published: June 2013

Increased need for non-destructive investigation methods in archaeology has become a major issue since sampling is in most cases restricted in view of the importance or uniqueness of the objects. For this reason, preliminary investigation using non-destructive techniques was performed on five samples of amber beads obtained from different excavation and archaeological sites. The use of FTIR and micro-Raman analysis revealed the presence of carboxyl, peroxide, hydroxyl, and complex ester functional groups as well as single and double bonds in the structure of the studied resin varieties. Further analysis of the amber samples from both archaeological and geological types by XPS, XRF, and SEM showed the presence of sulfur and a wide range of trace elements on the surface of the analysed samples. Our results proved that the combination of structural-molecular and surface elemental techniques for amber characterisation provides a very useful and simple methodology for the description of geological and archaeological amber samples from different regions of Europe.
Holocene sediments of the Ustka Cliff (Northern Poland) in view of radiometric dating
Authors: Wróblewski Radosław , Fedorowicz Stanisław , Kamieńska Katarzyna
Published: June 2013

The cliff in Ustka is an active one. The area is one of the most eroded sea shores of the Polish coast. The Ustka Cliff mainly consists of Holocene sandy deposits, but its basis is built of glacial till and clay. Field search allowed to recognize the structure and sedimentary conditions of Holocene deposits exposed in the cliff. A comparison of dating results obtained for fossil soils and peat as well as aeolian deposits, using 14C and TL methods, respectively, with available literature records is presented. The evaluation of results obtained allowed to define three main dune-forming phases for the first time for this part of the Polish coast. During the research studies new data on the processes and environmental conditions was gained and the development of structure of the area during the last 10 thousand years was reconstructed. The analysis of available data from other sections of the southern Baltic coast shows that results obtained are age similar to those determined for the Łeba Spit. The research is part of a project concerning the geomorphology of the Ustka Bay.
Characteristics of ESR signals and TLCLs of quartz included in various source rocks and sediments in Japan: A clue to sediment provenance
Authors: Shimada Aiko , Takada Masashi , Toyoda Shin
Published: June 2013

The variation of electron spin resonance (ESR) signal intensities and thermoluminescence colour images (TLCIs) of quartz was investigated in the present study for various rocks and sediments in Japan, to discuss the possibilities of identifying the sediment provenance. The ESR signal intensity of the E1’ centre in the same grain size in granitic quartz varies from sample to sample, except for that in Quaternary samples of volcanic sediment, which is very low, close to the noise level. It was found that the diagram, ESR intensities of Al versus Ti-Li centre signal intensities, distinguish volcanic from the same grain size in granitic quartz as well as distinguish individual tephra from another. The TLCIs from volcanic quartz and some granitic quartz samples is almost red and that from the rest of granitic and metamudstone quartz is blue as results of TLCIs although the emission intensities are different. Our results suggest that examining the multiple-centre signal intensities of ESR and the TLCIs are effective to identify the source of quartz and to estimate the sediment provenance.