bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Shapley Value as a Guide to FRAND Licensing Agreements
Authors: Dehez Pierre , Poukens Sophie
Published: September 2014

We consider the problem faced by standard-setting organizations of specifying
The modulated structure of labradorite
Authors: Boysen Hans , Kek Stefan
Published: September 2014

The crystal structure of labradorite is characterized by two modulation waves with largely different periods of about 1500 Å and 50 Å, giving rise to s- and e-satellites, respectively. The problems to determine the true structure by diffraction methods are discussed. Since each s-lamella has its own e-modulation, common experiments are not sufficient. Using only s-satellites around main reflections assumes e-averaged structures of the s-lamellae. On the other hand, using only averaged e-satellites and main reflections integrated over the s-satellites leads to a hypothetical, idealised structure such as if there were no s-modulation. For this reason the analysis of an extensive data set, including e-satellites up to third order, cannot resolve the Ca/Na modulation unambiguously, although the Si/Al modulation can be determined consistently from directly refined occupancies and T-O bond lengths.
The Boom List
Authors: Staff Boom
Published: September 2014

A list of interesting things to do, see, and read around California in the fall of 2014.
The End of Camping
Authors: Young Terence
Published: September 2014

Young likens camping to a pilgrimage to nature but notes that, after more than a century of increasing popularity, the number of campers is declining. Although camping remains among the top five outdoor recreations in the United States, the rate of participation by Americans sixteen and older is down from its peak in the late 1990s. Automobile, trailer, and motorhome camping at developed locations and at primitive”locations has decreased approximately 7 percent overall. He argues this is due to modern camping, with its gadgets and more comfortable accommodations, not offering a meaningful break from everyday life, and also to efforts to rewild cities so that urban dwellers no longer need to escape to find nature.
Paradise Transplanted
Authors: Hondagneu-Sotelo Pierrette
Published: September 2014

This article tells the story of a central Los Angeles community garden and the women, who came primarily from Southern Mexico and Central America, who had plots there. The garden fostered an informal support network for the women and families who used it, and a place to grow food and flowers common in their home communities but not found in Los Angeles. The essay then traces the upheaval the followed a local nonprofit’s takeover of, and investment in, the garden.
The small GTPase Arf1 modulates mitochondrial morphology and function
Authors: Ackema Karin B , Hench Jürgen , Böckler Stefan , Wang Shyi Chyi , Sauder Ursula , Mergentaler Heidi , Westermann Benedikt , Bard Frédéric , Frank Stephan , Spang Anne
Published: September 2014

The small GTPase Arf1 plays critical roles in membrane traffic by initiating the recruitment of coat proteins and by modulating the activity of lipid‐modifying enzymes. Here, we report an unexpected but evolutionarily conserved role for Arf1 and the ArfGEF GBF1 at mitochondria. Loss of function of ARF‐1 or GBF‐1 impaired mitochondrial morphology and activity in Caenorhabditis elegans. Similarly, mitochondrial defects were observed in mammalian and yeast cells. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, aberrant clusters of the mitofusin Fzo1 accumulated in arf1‐11 mutants and were resolved by overexpression of Cdc48, an AAA‐ATPase involved in ER and mitochondria‐associated degradation processes. Yeast Arf1 co‐fractionated with ER and mitochondrial membranes and interacted genetically with the contact site component Gem1. Furthermore, similar mitochondrial abnormalities resulted from knockdown of either GBF‐1 or contact site components in worms, suggesting that the role of Arf1 in mitochondrial functioning is linked to ER–mitochondrial contacts. Thus, Arf1 is involved in mitochondrial homeostasis and dynamics, independent of its role in vesicular traffic.
UK Cardiology Training in Core Echocardiography Symposium Report: the good the bad and the ugly
Authors: Kydd Anna , Sohaib Afzal , Sarwar Rizwan , Holdsworth David , Rana Bushra
Published: September 2014

Training in core echocardiography skills within the UK has been the focus of considerable discussion following recent national surveys. This article reports the proceedings of a joint meeting held by the British Society of Echocardiography and British Junior Cardiologists' Association. It considers the current issues impacting on high-quality training and presents potential solutions for the future.
Transcriptional regulators of the trophoblast lineage in mammals with hemochorial placentation
Authors: Knott Jason G , Paul Soumen
Published: September 2014

Mammalian reproduction is critically dependent on the trophoblast cell lineage, which assures proper establishment of maternal–fetal interactions during pregnancy. Specification of trophoblast cell lineage begins with the development of the trophectoderm (TE) in preimplantation embryos. Subsequently, other trophoblast cell types arise with the progression of pregnancy. Studies with transgenic animal models as well as trophoblast stem/progenitor cells have implicated distinct transcriptional and epigenetic regulators in trophoblast lineage development. This review focuses on our current understanding of transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms regulating specification, determination, maintenance and differentiation of trophoblast cells.
Gestão da Cadeia de Suprimentos de Serviços: uma análise das atividades operacionais logísticas de empresas exibidoras de filmes de longa-metragem de Belo Horizonte
Authors: Costa Marcio Roberto , Torres Júnior Noel
Published: September 2014

A despeito da importância do setor de serviços e da existência de certas especificidades na gestão da cadeia de suprimentos neste setor, muitos trabalhos relacionados a este tema abordam apenas organizações industriais. Neste contexto, dada a relevância deste tema, este artigo analisa as atividades operacionais logísticas de organizações de serviços voltadas ao mercado cultural. O mesmo analisa essas atividades no mercado exibidor de filmes de longa-Diante da importância do setor de serviços e da existência de certas especificidades na gestão da cadeia de suprimentos neste setor, este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar as atividades e práticas operacionais logísticas de organizações de serviços voltadas ao mercado cultural.Para tanto, o estudo de múltiplos casos foi realizado em três empresas exibidoras de filmes de longa-metragem localizadas em Belo Horizonte-MG. Três fontes de dados foram utilizadas: análise documental e entrevistas semiestruturadas com os responsáveis pelas empresas exibidoras e com especialistas em audiovisual. A partir destes dados, as atividades operacionais logísticas relacionadas à coordenação dos processos para a aquisição dos insumos, planejamento e entrega dos serviços foram identificadas pelo trabalho. Dada a intangibilidade e simultaneidade entre o consumo e a produção dos serviços analisados, as empresas pesquisadas reportaram grande dificuldade para a previsão da demanda e para o planejamento e controle da capacidade produtiva.Palavras-chave: Gestão da Cadeia de Suprimentos. Organizações de Serviços. Exibidoras de Filmes.
Innovation management in a small enterprise in the state of Amazonas
Authors: Coelho Moisés Israel Belchior de Andrade
Published: September 2014

This work aimed to identify and propose practical business focused on innovation management for small enterprises using the Temaguide model. The literature review focused on aspects related to innovation management and the management model used in the study. The work took place in a small enterprise in the food sector of the city of Manaus. The study took the form of an action research.The research approach is characterized as qualitative and indirect documentation (documentary research and literature), intensive direct observation (observation and interview), and extensive direct observation (forms) were the research techniques used. Results are presented in the application of the steps in the Temaguide enterprise model and innovations implemented. The relevance of this work consists of the presentation and adoption of a model for innovation management, in a small enterprise, which can be applied by the company itself or in collaboration with a university.Keywords: Innovation management. Entrepreneurship. Small Enterprise. Amazonas.
Himalaya Blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) Response to Goat Browsing and Mowing
Authors: Ingham Claudia S.
Published: September 2014

Himalaya blackberry is a nonnative shrub that has invaded sites throughout the Pacific Northwest. Its persistent canopy and large underground crowns create a competitive environment that prevents desirable species from germinating, establishing, or both. Cutleaf blackberry grows in association with Himalaya blackberry, and control efforts frequently target these two species. Control of Himalaya blackberry is complicated by vigorous vegetative regrowth after mechanical control, including mowing, and variable response to chemical methods. Recent interest in the use of goat browsing for invasive plant control has led land managers to use a variety of browsing regimes to control unwanted species through disturbance by herbivory. This study examined changes in functional group percent cover in a perennial grass pasture invaded by Himalaya blackberry and cutleaf blackberry in the southern Willamette Valley of Oregon. The appearance of species and their functional group membership after three treatment protocols are evaluated. Changes in the percentage of cover by Himalaya and cutleaf blackberries, annual grasses, perennial grasses, annual forbs, and perennial forbs were examined after two annual treatments with (1) high-intensity–short-duration goat browsing, (2) mowing, and (3) high-intensity–short-duration goat browsing followed by mowing. These data were then compiled by functional group to assess trends in the plants' revegetating the pasture after treatment. All treatments caused a significant decline in the percent cover of the invasive blackberries (P < 0.0001), but differences among treatments were not significant. The increase in the percent cover of perennial forbs for plots treated with goat browsing followed by mowing was significantly greater (P = 0.008) than it was in plots browsed only and those mowed only. Changes in percent cover of other functional groups were not significantly different with browsing or mowing treatments. Individual species within the perennial grass and perennial forb groups are discussed.
Rough Surface and High-Forb Seed Mix Promote Ecological Restoration of Simulated Well Pads
Authors: Johnston Danielle Bilyeu , Chapman Phillip L.
Published: September 2014

Because of disturbance and exotic plant invasions, ecological restoration is necessary for maintaining functional big sagebrush ecosystems in western North America. Downy brome control is often necessary in restoring this ecosystem type; however, many brome control measures hinder ecological restoration by limiting the types of plants which can be established. Microtopography manipulation may aid weed control by entrapping undesirable seeds. We undertook a field experiment at four sites in the Piceance Basin of western Colorado, USA to test the effects of microtopography (rough with brush mulch or flat with straw mulch), seed mix (high-forb or balanced), and herbicide (140 g ai ha−1imazapic ammonium salt or none) on downy brome control and perennial plant establishment following disturbance. Three years post-treatment, downy brome had become established at two of the four sites, one each with high (GVM) and low (MTN) downy brome seed rain. At GVM, the rough/brush treatment augmented the effectiveness of imazapic, reducing downy brome biomass six-fold. At MTN, the rough/brush surface reduced downy brome biomass 10-fold in the absence of imazapic. Across all four sites, forb and shrub biomass were higher with the high-forb mix, and there was no effect of seed mix on downy brome or annual forb biomass. Restoring a full complement of plant functional groups in big sagebrush ecosystems may be aided by increasing forbs in seed mixes, and manipulating soil microtopography.
Potential for Spread of Algerian Sea Lavender (Limonium ramosissimum subsp. provinciale) in Tidal Marshes
Authors: Archbald Gavin , Boyer Katharyn E.
Published: September 2014

We investigated the potential for an invasive sea lavender, Limonium ramosissimum subsp. provinciale (Algerian sea lavender; LIRA) to spread in San Francisco Estuary (SFE) tidal marshes by testing how two determinants of tidal marsh plant distribution, salinity and inundation, affect LIRA dispersal, germination, growth, and reproduction. Simulating dispersal in 0, 15, and 30 parts per thousand (ppt) salinity water, we found seeds remained afloat similarly regardless of salinity, and seed viability after floatation was high (88%); however, seeds in 0 ppt aquaria germinated after just 4 d, suggesting shorter dispersal distances in fresh than in brackish or saline water. Next, we compared LIRA and native halophyte seed germination in 0, 15, 30, and 45 ppt water. Percentage of germination was similar between species after 3 wk, but LIRA germinated faster in fresh water than all native species (90% vs. 5% germination after 4 d), suggesting a possible establishment advantage for LIRA at low salinities. Finally, we grew LIRA under crossed salinity and inundation levels in a tidal simulator for a growing season. LIRA growth and seed production increased when either salinity or inundation was reduced. We conclude that spread could be greatest among salt marshes due to high potential for seed dispersal in saline water, yet spread within marshes may be greatest in relatively lower salinity conditions where growth and reproduction are maximized.
A simulation impact evaluation of social-economic development on water resource use
Authors: Wang Wenyi , Zeng Weihua , Yao Bo , Wei Jing
Published: September 2014

Due to the fast growth of the economy and population, the water scarcity issue has aroused widespread critical concern. In fact, reasonable structure, adaptive patterns and effective regulation of the economy, society and water resources can bring a harmonious future. Therefore, the study of how to balance economic social growth and water resources is of great importance. A model of the water resource, society and economy system of the Tongzhou district was designed by Stella. The model established here attempts to analyze future trends in social-economic development and the impact of the economic and population growth on water use in the Tongzhou district under three scenarios. The results reveal that the water shortage is very serious. If the current trends persist, the existing water supply will not be able to meet the water demand in the future. Tongzhou district's water shortage will be 162.50 million m3 in 2020 under the business-as-usual scenario. Therefore, it is necessary to develop unconventional water sources and improve the water-saving capacity of production and life to alleviate the water tensions. This research offers insight into larger questions regarding economic growth and water resource management in general.
Development of permeability properties of polyamide thin film composite nanofiltration membrane by using the dimethyl sulfoxide additive
Authors: Akbari Ahmad , Mojallali Rostami Sayed Majid
Published: September 2014

A novel polyamide thin film composite (PATFC) as a nanofiltration (NF) membrane was prepared by a modified interfacial polymerization (IP) reaction. Herein trimesoyl chloride and piperazine as the reagents, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as additive and polysulfone (PSF) ultrafiltration membrane as support were used respectively. The main goal of the present study is to improve TFC membrane water flux by addition of DMSO into the aqueous phase of IP reaction, without considerable rejection loss. Morphological, roughness, and chemical structures of the PATFC membrane were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), respectively. The AFM analysis demonstrated that as DMSO was added to the aqueous phase, the surface roughness of PATFC membrane increased. Results showed that the pure water flux of modified-PATFC membranes increased up to 46%, compared to nonmodified-PATFC membrane, while salt rejection was not sacrificed considerably. The results elucidated that the addition of DMSO leads to an increase in the number of cross-linking bonds between monomers and pore diameter, which results in enhancement of the membrane flux. Finally, the results showed that the newly developed PATFC membrane is a high-performance NF membrane which augments the efficiency of conventional PATFC membrane.
Experimental Study on Precast Concrete Shear Walls with Different Hollow Slabs
Authors: Zhao Qinyan , Zhang Zhongyong , Liu Jiliang , Chu Mingjin
Published: September 2014

To study mechanical behaviors of shear walls built with precast two-way hollow slabs, two shear walls with
different details of hollow slabs were quasi-statically tested under low cyclic loading. The failure mode was analyzed,
which vertical macro-cracks appeared on walls due to the details of hollow slabs. Brittle shear failure can be avoided in
terms of the failure behaviors evolved from integral wall to the combination of wall and columns. Test results also show
that that dimension of transverse holes can affect compressive capacity of the walls when it is larger than that of
longitudinal holes in the hollow slab.
A Review on Progressive Collapse of Building Structures
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhang Anqi , Li Yi , Yan Weiming
Published: September 2014

Progressive collapse of building structures is generally triggered by a local failure due to accidental actions, followed by subsequent chain effect of the structures which may result in wide range failure or even collapse of the entire buildings. Since the “911” event, progressive collapse of building structures has been widely concerned by engineers and researchers. This paper assesses the current researches on this issue from experimental study, numerical simulation and theoretical analysis. Given the limitation of costs and difficulties of experimental tests, the experimental studies investigate the collapse mechanism, such as development of stress/strain and damage/failure of materials, mainly via the scaled down specimens of structural components and substructures. On the other hand, the collapse behavior of entire building structures is analyzed via the numerical methods, such as the finite element method and the discrete element method. Further, the collapse resistance demand and the robustness assessment for building structures are theoretically studied in depth in which the simplified theoretical models of the collapse-resisting demand and the collapse risk assessment are proposed respectively. At last, the design method to prevent progressive collapse for building structures is also discussed.
Damage Identification of Continuous Rigid Frame Concrete Bridge
Authors: Huang Shengnan , Ye Lieping , Lu Xinzheng
Published: September 2014

During a bridge service life, many factors can cause damage accumulation such as overloaded traffic, fatigue effect, and so on. Hence, the identification of potential damages has been received wide attention to prevent such sudden fatal accident. An experiment of a continuous rigid frame concrete bridge, which had 3 spans and a total length of 18 meters, was presented in this paper. Two load stages and ten different load steps were simulated to test various scenario of long-term loading and different levels of overload. Curvature mode method was adopted to detect the damage during the exercises. The changes of curvature modes were used to detect damage after the ten load steps. This method performed excellent to identify the damage position of the bridge. So, it is concluded that the curvature modes can be used to detect damage in actual structures. In addition, the Finite-Element Analysis (FEA) was utilized, and the experimental recurring was verified positively through FEA model.
Corrosion Monitoring Using Embedded Piezoelectric Sensors
Authors: Qin Lei , Qin Qi , Ren Hongwei , Dong Biqin , Xing Feng
Published: September 2014

In this research, a new type of corrosion monitoring technique for reinforce concrete was developed. The technique used piezoelectric sensors to detect the ultrasonic signals during corrosion. The mechanism of the method was presented. Experiment was carried out to monitor the corrosion process using piezoelectric sensors. The corrosion was also monitored using stain gauge for comparison.
Influence of polyvinyl alcohol amount on producing in situ photo-crosslinked thioamide functionalized nanofiber membranes
Authors: Zeytuncu Bihter , Morcali Mehmet , Akman Suleyman , Yucel Onuralp
Published: September 2014

Poly(vinyl alcohol)/maleic anhydride/acryloyl thioamide monomer (PVA/MA/ATM)
photo-cured nanofiber membranes and pure PVA nanofiber membranes were
produced by electrospinning technique. In situ UV radiation was applied
during the electrospinning in order to provide polymerization during the jet
flight and promote crosslinking of ATM and MA with PVA. The cross-linking was
examined by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The morphology
and thermal behavior of electrospun nanofiber were characterized by scanning
electron microscope (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), respectively.
The surface area of nanofiber membranes was measured by
Brunauer-Emmert-Teller (BET) analysis. Furthermore, water durability test was
examined. Water durability test demonstrated that in situ photo-cured
PVA/MA/ATM nanofiber membrane had the least average mass loss. The surface
areas of PVA/MA/ATM nanofiber membranes were 160-280 m2/g. The surface area
and diameter of PVA/MA/ATM nanofibers decreased as the PVA content increased.
The diameter of nanofibers was obtained less than 100 nm. The results showed
that the water-insoluble nanofiber membranes with better chemical and thermal
resistance were obtained. These nanofiber membranes may be a promising
candidate for the usage of water treatment.
Skeletal and dental effects of molar distalization using a modified palatal anchorage plate in adolescents
Authors: Sa'aed Noor Laith , Park Chong Ook , Bayome Mohamed , Park Jae Hyun , Kim YoonJi , Kook Yoon-Ah
Published: September 2014

Objective: 

To evaluate and compare skeletal effects and the amount of molar distalization in maxilla using modified palatal anchorage plate (MPAP) vs headgear appliances in adolescent patients.

Materials and Methods: 

Pre- and posttreatment lateral cephalograms of 45 Class II malocclusion patients were analyzed; 24 were treated with MPAP appliances (age, 12.4 years) and 21 with headgear (age, 12.1 years). Fixed orthodontic treatment started with the distalization process in both groups. Thirty-two variables were measured and compared between both groups using multivariate analysis of covariates.

Results: 

There was no significant main effect of the appliance type on the treatment results (P  =  .063). Also, there was no significant main effect of the appliance type on both pre- and posttreatment comparisons (P  =  .0198 and .135, respectively). The MPAP and headgear groups showed significant distalization of maxillary first molars (3.06 ± 0.54 mm and 1.8 ± 0.58 mm, respectively; P < .001). Sagittal skeletal maxillomandibular differences were improved after treatment (P < .001), with no significant differences between the two groups. No significant difference in treatment duration was found between the groups.

Conclusions: 

The MPAP showed a significant skeletal effect on the maxilla. Both MPAP and headgear resulted in distalization of maxillary first molars. Therefore, it is recommended that clinicians consider the application of MPAP, especially in noncompliant Class II patients.
Treatment effects of fixed functional appliances alone or in combination with multibracket appliances: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Perinetti Giuseppe , Primožič Jasmina , Furlani Giovanna , Franchi Lorenzo , Contardo Luca
Published: September 2014

Objective: 

To assess skeletal and dentoalveolar effects of fixed functional appliances, alone or in combination with multibracket appliances (comprehensive treatment), on Class II malocclusion in pubertal and postpubertal patients.

Materials and Methods: 

Literature survey was conducted using the Medline, SCOPUS, LILACS, and SciELO databases and The Cochrane Library, and through a manual search. The studies retrieved had to have a matched untreated control group. No restrictions were set regarding the type of fixed appliance, treatment length, or to the cephalometric analysis used. Data extraction was mostly predefined at the protocol stage by two authors. Supplementary mandibular elongation was used for the meta-analysis.

Results: 

Twelve articles qualified for the final analysis of which eight articles were on pubertal patients and four were on postpubertal patients. Overall supplementary total mandibular elongations as mean (95% confidence interval) were 1.95 mm (1.47 to 2.44) and 2.22 mm (1.63 to 2.82) among pubertal patients and −1.73 mm (−2.60 to −0.86) and 0.44 mm (−0.78 to 1.66) among postpubertal patients, for the functional and comprehensive treatments, respectively. For pubertal subjects, maxillary growth restraint was also reported. Nevertheless, skeletal effects alone would not account for the whole Class II correction even in pubertal subjects with dentoalveolar effects always present.

Conclusions: 

Fixed functional treatment is effective in treating Class II malocclusion with skeletal effects when performed during the pubertal growth phase, very few data are available on postpubertal patients.
Characterizations of strong Morita equivalence for ordered semigroups with local units
Authors: Tart Lauri
Published: September 2014

We prove that partially ordered semigroups S and T with local units are strongly Morita equivalent if and only if there exists a surjective strict local isomorphism to T from a factorizable Rees matrix posemigroup over S. We also provide two similar descriptions which use Cauchy completions and Morita posemigroups instead.
On some new identities for the Fibonomial coefficients
Authors: Marques Diego , Trojovský Pavel
Published: September 2014

Let F
n be the nth Fibonacci number. The Fibonomial coefficients $$\left[ {\begin{array}{*{20}c}
n \\
k \\

\end{array} } \right]_F$$ are defined for n ≥ k > 0 as follows $$\left[ {\begin{array}{*{20}c}
n \\
k \\

\end{array} } \right]_F = \frac{{F_n F_{n - 1} \cdots F_{n - k + 1} }}
{{F_1 F_2 \cdots F_k }},$$ with $$\left[ {\begin{array}{*{20}c}
n \\
0 \\

\end{array} } \right]_F = 1$$ and $$\left[ {\begin{array}{*{20}c}
n \\
k \\

\end{array} } \right]_F = 0$$. In this paper, we shall provide several identities among Fibonomial coefficients. In particular, we prove that $$\sum\limits_{j = 0}^{4l + 1} {\operatorname{sgn} (2l - j)\left[ {\begin{array}{*{20}c}
{4l + 1} \\
j \\

\end{array} } \right]_F F_{n - j} = \frac{{F_{2l - 1} }}
{{F_{4l + 1} }}\left[ {\begin{array}{*{20}c}
{4l + 1} \\
{2l} \\

\end{array} } \right]_F F_{n - 4l - 1} ,}$$ holds for all non-negative integers n and l.
On the group sheaf of $$\mathcal{A}$$-symplectomorphisms
Authors: Ntumba Patrice
Published: September 2014

This is a part of a further undertaking to affirm that most of classical module theory may be retrieved in the framework of Abstract Differential Geometry (à la Mallios). More precisely, within this article, we study some defining basic concepts of symplectic geometry on free $$\mathcal{A}$$-modules by focussing in particular on the group sheaf of $$\mathcal{A}$$-symplectomorphisms, where $$\mathcal{A}$$ is assumed to be a torsion-free PID ℂ-algebra sheaf. The main result arising hereby is that $$\mathcal{A}$$-symplectomorphisms locally are products of symplectic transvections, which is a particularly well-behaved counterpart of the classical result.
On the multiple exterior degree of finite groups
Authors: Rezaei Rashid , Niroomand Peyman , Erfanian Ahmad
Published: September 2014

Recently the first two authors have introduced a group invariant, called exterior degree, which is related to the number of elements x and y of a finite group G such that xΛy = 1 in the exterior square GΛG of G. Research on this topic gives some relations between this concept, the Schur multiplier and the capability of a finite group. In the present paper, we will generalize the concept of exterior degree of groups and we will introduce the multiple exterior degree of finite groups. Among other results, we will obtain some relations between the multiple exterior degree, multiple commutativity degree and capability of finite groups.
Lp-spaces on locally compact groups
Authors: Samea H.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, some relations between L
p-spaces on locally compact groups are found. Applying these results proves that for a locally compact group G, the convolution Banach algebras L
p(G) ∩ L
1(G) (1 < p ≤ ∞), and A
p(G) ∩ L
1(G) (1 < p < ∞) are amenable if and only if G is discrete and amenable.
The boundary value problems of quadratic mixed type of delay differential equations with eigenvalues
Authors: He Zhimin , Shen Jianhua
Published: September 2014

In this paper, by using a fixed-point theorem in cones to study the boundary value problem for a class of quadratic mixed type of delay differential equations with eigenvalue, the sufficient condition of existence of their solutions is derived. The main results in this paper are the generalization and improvement of those existing ones.
Periodic solutions of non-autonomous second order systems with (q(t), p(t))-Laplacian
Authors: Paşca Daniel , Tang Chun-Lei
Published: September 2014

Using the least action principle in critical point theory we obtain some existence results of periodic solutions for (q(t), p(t))-Laplacian systems which generalize some existence results.
Global behavior of a higher order difference equation
Authors: Abo-Zeid R.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this paper is to investigate the global stability and periodic nature of the positive solutions of the difference equation $$x_{n + 1} = \frac{{A + Bx_{n - 2k - 1} }}
{{C + D\prod\limits_{i = 1}^k {x_{n - 2i} } }}, n = 0,1,2, \ldots ,$$ where A, B are nonnegative real numbers, C,D > 0 and l, k are nonnegative integers such that l ≤ k.
Perov type results in gauge spaces and their applications to integral systems on semi-axis
Authors: Novac Adela , Precup Radu
Published: September 2014

In this paper we present Perov type fixed point theorems for contractive mappings in Gheorghiu’s sense on spaces endowed with a family of vector-valued pseudo-metrics. Applications to systems of integral equations are given to illustrate the theory. The examples also prove the advantage of using vector-alued pseudo-metrics and matrices that are convergent to zero, for the study of systems of equations.
On comparison of ℓ-stable vector optimization results
Authors: Dvorská Marie , Pastor Karel
Published: September 2014

Two papers with similar optimality conditions were published by I. Ginchev, and by D. Bednařík and K. Pastor independently in Nonlinear Analysis in 2011. We compare these results. We also show the equivalence of two definitions of ℓ-stability of vector functions. Moreover, we generalize another result given by I. Ginchev and V. I. Ivanov [J. Math. Anal. Appl. 340 (2008), 646–657] and compare it with the previously mentioned optimality conditions.
Core-free, rank two coset geometries from edge-transitive bipartite graphs
Authors: Saedeleer Julie , Leemans Dimitri , Mixer Mark , Pisanski Tomaž
Published: September 2014

It is known that the Levi graph of any rank two coset geometry is an edge-transitive graph, and thus coset geometries can be used to construct many edge transitive graphs. In this paper, we consider the reverse direction. Starting from edge-transitive graphs, we construct all associated core-free, rank two coset geometries. In particular, we focus on 3-valent and 4-valent graphs, and are able to construct coset geometries arising from these graphs. We summarize many properties of these coset geometries in a sequence of tables; in the 4-valent case we restrict to graphs that have relatively small vertex-stabilizers.
Continuity of separately continuous mappings
Authors: Mirmostafaee Alireza
Published: September 2014

By means of a topological game, a class of topological spaces which contains compact spaces, q-spaces and W-spaces was defined in [BOUZIAD, A.: The Ellis theorem and continuity in groups, Topology Appl. 50 (1993), 73–80]. We will show that if Y belongs to this class, every separately continuous function f: X × Y → Z is jointly continuous on a dense subset of X × Y provided that X is σ-β-unfavorable and Z is a regular weakly developable space.
The Hoffmann-Jørgensen inequality of NA random variables and its applications to the logarithm law
Authors: Yang Xiaorong
Published: September 2014

In this paper, the Hoffmann-Jørgensen inequality for negatively associated (NA) random variables is derived. As an important tool, it will be applied to the establishing for the logarithm law of NA arrays, and the results of Su, Hu and Liang {xc[15]} are extended.
Limiting behavior of generalized delayed average of random sequence
Authors: Wang Zhong-zhi , Chen Wen-bo
Published: September 2014

Let (ξ
n)n∈N be a sequence of arbitrarily dependent random variables, and let $$T_{a_n ,k_n }$$ be delayed sums. By virtue of the notion of asymptotic delayed log-likelihood ratio and Laplace transformation, the almost sure limiting behavior of the generalized delayed averages $$\frac{1}
{{k_n }}T_{a_n ,k_n }$$ is investigated, of which the results generalize and improve some work of Liu.
A randomized controlled dual-center trial on shunt complications in idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus treated with gradually reduced or “fixed” pressure valve settings
Authors: Sæhle Terje , Farahmand Dan , Eide Per Kristian , Tisell Magnus , Wikkelsö Carsten
Published: September 2014

Object

This study was undertaken to investigate whether a gradual reduction of the valve setting (opening pressure) decreases the complication rate in patients with idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) treated with a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt.

Methods

In this prospective double-blinded, randomized, controlled, dual-center study, a VP shunt with an adjustable valve was implanted in 68 patients with iNPH, randomized into two groups. In one group (the 20–4 group) the valve setting was initially set to 20 cm H2O and gradually reduced to 4 cm H2O over the course of the 6-month study period. In the other group (the 12 group), the valve was kept at a medium pressure setting of 12 cm H2O during the whole study period. The time to and type of complications (hematoma, infection, and mechanical problems) as well as overdrainage symptoms were recorded. Symptoms, signs, and outcome were assessed by means of the iNPH scale and the NPH grading scale.

Results

Six patients in the 20–4 group (22%) and 7 patients in the 12 group (23%) experienced a shunt complication; 9 had subdural hematomas, 3 mechanical obstructions, and 1 infection (no significant difference between groups). The frequency of overdrainage symptoms was significantly higher for a valve setting ≤ 12 cm H2O compared with a setting > 12 cm H2O. The 20–4 group had a higher improvement rate (88%) than the 12 group (62%) (p = 0.032). There was no significant relationship between complications and body mass index, the use of an antisiphon device, or the use of anticoagulants.

Conclusions

Gradual lowering of the valve setting to a mean of 7 cm H2O led to the same rate of shunt complications and overdrainage symptoms as a fixed valve setting at a mean of 13 cm H2O but was associated with a significantly better outcome.
Kinetics and Mechanism of Formation of Benzoin Ethyl Ether from Benzaldehyde and Ethanol Using Heterogeneous Ni(HCO3)2 as Catalyst
Authors: Wu Xu , Pang Xianyong , An Xia , Xie Xianmei
Published: September 2014

Ni(HCO3)2, with a unique phase and high crystallinity, was synthesised utilising urea hydrolysis. The physicochemical properties of the synthetic samples were characterised by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and N2-adsorption – desorption measurements. The heterogeneous Ni(HCO3)2 catalysts presented high catalytic activity in the synthesis reaction of benzoin ethyl ether from benzaldehyde and ethanol. Furthermore, the catalysts could be recycled several times and showed stable activity without structural change. The kinetic parameters were obtained by the half-life law which showed that the reaction was belong first-order. The apparent activation energy was 42.72 kJ mol–1. The reaction mechanism was probed theoretically using the HF/3-21G method, which suggested that benzoin ethyl ether is formed via a series of states i.e. a complex, transition states and intermediates. Especially, the role of C6H5CHOC2H5OH as an intermediate is significant.
A DFT Study of 1,3-dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction of Benzonitrile Oxide and N-aryl-2,4,6-heptatrien-1-imine
Authors: Zardoost Mohammad Reza , Eyvazi Neda
Published: September 2014

A theoretical study of the effect of substitution on the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of benzonitrile oxide was performed using the DFT method at the B3LYP level of theory using 6–311G(d,p) basis sets. Equilibrium molecular geometries and harmonic vibrational frequencies of the reactants, transition state, and product were calculated. The corresponding rate constants and activation parameters were calculated. The results showed good agreement with experimental data. These calculations indicated that the reaction proceeds through an asynchronous mechanism.
Rôle de la forêt protectrice dans la gestion intégrée des risques
Authors: Losey Stéphane , Sandri Arthur
Published: September 2014

Role of the protection forest in integrated risk management

Half the Swiss forests play a role in protecting against natural hazards. After a historical overview of the strategy of protection against natural hazards and of the development of the protection function of the forest, the authors, basing the analysis on the modern definition of integrated risk management, demonstrate, on the basis of evidence, that protection forests may be considered as a protective measure for integrated risk management. Some complementary analysis is necessary, including the assessment and quantification of the protection function, strengthening the role of forest planning, quantifying the cost-benefit ratio, and clearly defining the legal responsibility of the forest owner.
Modulation of oxidative stress by enalapril and valsartan in adrenaline treated rats: a comparative study
Authors: Huda S , Akhter N
Published: September 2014

Angiotensin (Ang II) II is known to promote oxidative stress in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Inhibition of renin angiotensin system (RAS) or blockade of Ang II receptors may therefore be effective in reducing oxidative stress during AMI. The study evaluates and compares the protective effect of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and AT1 receptor blocker in adrenaline induced oxidative stress in rats. Rats were treated with two successive injections of adrenaline subcutaneously at a dose of 2 mg/kg administered 24 hours apart. In other two groups of rats enalapril (30 mg/kg) or valsartan (30 mg/kg) were given orally once daily through intragastric tube for 2 weeks and then two injections of adrenaline were administered 24 hours apart. Serum Aspertate Transaminase (AST), plasma Malonde Aldehyde (MDA), erythrocyte GSH and serum vitamin E levels were measured 24 hours after the 2nd injection of adrenaline in all the groups. Administration of adrenaline caused significant increase (p<0.001) in serum AST and plasma MDA levels and decrease (p<0.001) in erythrocyte GSH and serum vitamin E levels. Pre-treatment of enalapril or valsartan for 14 days reduced (p<0.001) serum AST and plasma MDA levels and increased the concentration of erythrocyte GSH in enalapril pre-treated group (p<0.01) and in valsartan pre-treated group (p<0.05). Pre-treatment of enalapril or valsartan also increased (p<0.01) serum vitamin E levels in adrenaline treated rats. However, no significant difference was noted between the effect of enalapril and valsartan on serum AST, plasma MDA, erythrocyte GSH and serum vitamin E levels. It may be concluded that both enalapril and valsartan offered cardioprotection in adrenaline induced oxidative stress, but the protection afforded by valsartan was not superior to enalapril. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v40i1.20333 Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2014; 40: 25-30
Potential antibacterial activity of crude extracts and silver nanoparticles synthesized from Sargassum wightii
Authors: Thirumalairaj Vinoth Kumar , Vijayan Mahitha Puthanpurayal , Durairaj Geetharamani , Shanmugaasokan Lakshmanasenthil , Yesudas Rincy , Gunasekaran Suja
Published: September 2014

The present work investigates the antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) synthesized by biological method using Sargassum wightii. The fresh live seaweed was collected from the Mandapam coast of Tamilnadu, India. Solvent extract was prepared using acetone, petroleum ether and methanol. Aqueous extract of the seaweed was also used for the synthesis of silver Ag-NPs. Seaweed extract is used as a reducing agent of 2mM silver nitrate solution for the synthesis of Ag-NPs. Periodical monitoring of reaction mixture was done using UV-vis spectroscopy at 300-750 nm. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the sample confirms the presence of Ag-NPs. The antibacterial activity of solvent extract was done by Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay. The methanol extract of the seaweed at a concentration of 250µg/ml exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against the test microorganism. The zone of inhibition ranging from 8-14 mm was observed with different extracts. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized Ag-NPs against the organism was also done by MIC test. The MIC of Ag-NPs was found to be 130µg/ml for all pathogenic microorganisms selected for the study. The zone of inhibition against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus anhtracis, Staphylococcus aureus and Vibrio alginoyticus were found to be 10, 8, 10 and 9 mm, respectively. The synthesized Ag-NPs exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against the selected microorganisms than the solvent extract of seaweed.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v3i10.20337 International Current Pharmaceutical Journal, September 2014, 3(10): 322-325
Patients’ experiences of being nursed by student nurses at a teaching hospital
Authors: Mukumbang Ferdinand C. , Adejumo Oluyinka
Published: September 2014

Background: Teaching hospitals are medical institutes at which most nursing education institutions provide their students with practical nursing experience. Although the focus of care is the patient, attention is sometimes focused more on the nursing students rather than on the patients who are undergoing care at the hands of both the nursing professionals and students. However, proper nursing care should also take into account the experiences of patients during the care process in the health facility.Objectives: The study had three objectives: to describe the experiences of patients nursed by student nurses in a teaching hospital in the Western Cape; to identify patterns in the experiences of patients receiving patient care from student nurses; and to analyse aspects of the experiences that may need further attention for the training of student nurses.Method: A descriptive phenomenological approach was used to explore the experiences of patients nursed by student nurses. Participant selection took place purposively from different wards of the identified teaching hospital, and thematic saturation was achieved at 10 participants. The data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed using thematic content analysis.Results: Three main themes were discovered after data analysis: methods of identification of student nurses by patients; positive perceptions of student nurses by patients; and negative perceptions of student nurses by patients.Conclusion: The findings will inform the clinical supervisors and educational institutions of aspects of the nursing training of student nurses that need improvement and those that require enforcement.
Limitations of Using Propidium Monoazide with qPCR to Discriminate between Live and Dead Legionella in Biofilm Samples
Authors: Taylor Michael J. , Bentham Richard H. , Ross Kirstin E.
Published: September 2014

Accurately quantifying Legionella for regulatory purposes to protect public health is essential. Real-time PCR (qPCR) has been proposed as a better method for detecting and enumerating Legionella in samples than conventional culture method. However, since qPCR amplifies any target DNA in the sample, the technique's inability to discriminate between live and dead cells means that counts are generally significantly overestimated. Propidium monoazide (PMA) has been used successfully in qPCR to aid live/dead discrimination. We tested PMA use as a method to count only live Legionella cells in samples collected from a modified chemostat that generates environmentally comparable samples. Counts from PMA-treated samples that were pretreated with either heat or three types of disinfectants (to kill the cells) were highly variable, with the only consistent trend being the relationship between biofilm mass and numbers of Legionella cells. Two possibilities explain this result: 1. PMA treatment worked and the subsequent muted response of Legionella to disinfection treatment is a factor of biofilm/microbiological effects; although this does not account for the relationship between the amount of biofilm sampled and the viable Legionella count as determined by PMA-qPCR; or 2. PMA treatment did not work, and any measured decrease or increase in detectable Legionella is because of other factors affecting the method. This is the most likely explanation for our results, suggesting that higher concentrations of PMA might be needed to compensate for the presence of other compounds in an environmental sample or that lower amounts of biofilm need to be sampled. As PMA becomes increasingly toxic at higher concentrations and is very expensive, augmenting the method to include higher PMA concentrations is both counterproductive and cost prohibitive. Conversely, if smaller volumes of biofilm are used, the reproducibility of the method is reduced. Our results suggest that using PMA is not an appropriate method for discriminating between live and dead cells to enumerate Legionella for regulatory purposes.
Educação Profissional de Pessoas com Deficiência: adaptações para a acessibilidade
Authors: Pinto Lima Michelle , Carvalho Alves Cappelle Mônica
Published: September 2014

Este artigo foi realizado com o objetivo de conhecer as adaptações curriculares realizadas no âmbito da Educação Profissional que atende pessoas com defi ciência. Para o estudo, foram selecionadas sete instituições educacionais que ofertam esta modalidade de ensino, sendo elas: SENAC, SENAI e Organizações não governamentais (ONGs) de atendimento à pessoa com deficiência. A coleta de dados se deu com o uso de entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas com representantes destas instituições que estão à frente do planejamento e da organização dos cursos. A natureza qualitativado estudo permitiu o tratamento dos dados por análise de conteúdo, de forma essencialmente temática. Os resultados obtidos na investigação demonstram que as ONGs se destacam em relação ao sistema S pela diversidade de medidas adaptativas empregadas no atendimento das necessidades educacionais especiais destas pessoas.