bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Regions of Interest and Spectral Pre-Processing on the Detection of Non-0157 Shiga-Toxin Producing Escherichia Coli Serogroups on Agar Media by Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Windham William R. , Yoon Seung-Chul , Ladely Scott R. , Heitschmidt Jerry W. , Lawrence Kurt C. , Park Bosoon , Narrang Neelam , Cray William C.
Published: September 2012

Foodborne infection caused by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a major worldwide health concern. The best known and highly virulent STEC serogroup is E. coli 0157:H7, which can be easily identified when cultured on sorbitol-MacConkey (SMAC) agar. Recently, six non-0157 STEC serogroups have been found to cause human illnesses. These non-0157 serogroups ferment sorbital and form pink colonies; therefore SMAC agar cannot be used to differentiate non-0157 serogroups from each other and other flora growing on the plate. This study investigated the potential of visible and near infrared hyperspectral imaging and chemometrics to spectrally differentiate six representative non-0517 STEC serogroups (026, 045, 0103, 0111, 0121 and 0145) grown as spots on Rainbow agar media. Mahalanobis distance classifiers were developed with spectra obtained from ground truth regions of interest (ROIs) of each serogroup colony. The ROIs were selected as a doughnut-like open-ellipse to only include the leading edge of growth and as a closed-ellipse covering the entire colony. For each ROI type, the Mahalanobis distance classifiers were developed with log (1/Reflectance), first derivative and standard normal variate and detrending (SNVD) pre-processing treatments. Serogroups 045 and 0121 were consistently classified over 98% accurate, regard less of the classification algorithm used. The lowest classification accuracies were from classifiers developed with only log (1/ R) ROI spectra. First derivative and SNVD spectra helped to increase the detection accuracies of the other serogroups. The classification accuracy for serogroups 026, 0111, 0103 and 0145 with the closed-ellipse and open-ellipse classification algorithms showed varying results from 8% to 87% and 57% to 100%, respectively. The lower accuracies with closed ellipse spectra were due to greater spectral variation in the centre pixels on a per-pixel basis. Practical implications of this study are the demonstrated potential of hyperspectral imaging for presumptive-positive screening of non-0157 serogroups on Rainbow agar and the extensibility of the developed sampling methods and classification models for future research to identify the target bacteria in the presence of background flora grown on spread plates.
Hyperspectral near Infrared Image Analysis of a Phenol Formaldehyde Resin Curing Reaction
Authors: Lillhonga Tom , Dahlbacka John , Geladi Paul
Published: September 2012

In the production of sandpaper, a phenol formaldehyde polymer bonds the abrasive material to a backing material made of paper or a textile. The reaction takes place at elevated temperatures (90–120°C) for a long time (at least eight hours) and is thereby a very energy-demanding process step. A possible future application would be to use near infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging (1000–2498 nm) for (1) monitoring the curing reaction and determining an end point for it and (2) for identifying in homogeneous regions with low adhesion in the final product. A feasibility study was carried out on four series of resin-coated backing materials without abrasives. These were imaged at half hour intervals for eight hours of curing using a NIR line scan imager. In order to analyse the influence of the backing material on the net NIR signal from resin-coated samples, spectra of the backing material (paper, textile) were also collected using a moving grating NIR spectrometer (1100–2498 nm). Results from principal components analysis of the hyperspectral images indicated that the reaction was stabilised after five to six hours, although it continued slowly for at least 16 more hours. A relevant question was when to finish the heating (curing) and still obtain a final product of high quality. Partial least squares regression models for predicting the curing time were thus also evaluated. A calibration made on image mean spectra was used for predicting the curing time of each pixel in the full set of hyperspectral images. The predicted images showed the curing progress, in homogeneous regions where the reaction had progressed to a slower extent and other physical abnormalities (for example air bubbles). Pixel prediction distribution analysis of the images was found useful for determining the significant number of components of the proposed regression models.
Hyperspectral Imaging for Process and Quality Control in Recycling Plants of Polyolefin Flakes
Authors: Serranti Silvia , Gargiulo Aldo , Bonifazi Giuseppe
Published: September 2012

Hyperspectral imaging in the near infrared range (1000–1700 nm) was evaluated to identify different polyolefin flakes for quality assessment of recycled products. According to market requirements, the output of the recycling process of polyolefins must be high purity secondary polypropylene and polyethylene granulates. Hyperspectral images were acquired for selected plastic flakes coming from household waste, classified according to their typology. Spectra were analysed using principal component analysis to reduce the high dimensionality of data and for selecting effective wavelengths. Partial least square discriminant analysis was applied for classification of the two polyolefin typologies. Prediction results showed that it is possible to recognise the different plastic flakes with sensitivity and specificity ranging from 0.90 to 0.99. The developed procedures based on hyperspectral imaging can be utilised for quality control of the two pure polypropylene and polyethylene flow streams obtained by the innovative recycling process based on magnetic density separation.
Visualisation of Fat and Fatty Acid Distribution in Beef Using a Set of Filters Based on near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Kobayashi Ken-Ichi , Mori Masaaki , Nishino Ken , Toyota Toshihiro , Nakauchi Shigeki
Published: September 2012

Food quality is strongly affected by its components and their spatial distributions. Recently, spectroscopic methods have been widely applied as a non-destructive and rapid method to measure food quality. Although it is a versatile technique, the measurement system is extremely costly for practical use. In this paper, we propose a simple measurement system using a small set of band-pass filters. A food constituent was predicted using output from the band-pass filters as input for a multiple linear regression model, and the bands were designed to obtain high prediction accuracy characterised by the determination coefficient, using hyperspectral data by the optimisation approach. We designed three sets of filters to separately determine contents such as oleic acid, total unsaturated fatty acid and fat content in raw beef using NIR hyperspectral data, and then we implemented these designs as real optical filters. By mounting the filter in front of the lens of an NIR monochrome camera, we captured a set of filtered images. We then performed a pixel-by-pixel prediction of the content to enable the spatial distribution to be visualised. The determination coefficient ( R2) and prediction error, which we characterised by the root mean square error of cross-validation ( RMSECV), of this filtering method ( R2 = 0.638–0.739, RMSECV = 3.13–5.15) were superior to those obtained with partial least squares (PLS) regression using hyperspectral measurements ( R 2 = 0.610–0.643, RMSECV= 3.70–6.12). Our method, therefore, facilitates the application of a hyperspectral technique for practical use.
Near Infrared Image Analysis for Online Identification and Separation of Wood Chips with Elevated Levels of Extractives
Authors: Lestander Torbjörn A. , Geladi Paul , Larsson Sylvia H. , Thyrel Mikael
Published: September 2012

Forest-based biorefinery feedstocks are usually broken up into wood chips prior to any form of processing. These wood chips have a complex and highly variable composition, although they may look identical to an inexperienced observer. Some chips have high contents of valuable extractives. Therefore, it would be desirable to separate such chips that are rich in extractives. Various fractions of pine and spruce wood were used to acquire near infrared (1000–2498 nm) hyperspectral images in order to explore the usefulness of multivariate image analysis for detection and separation purposes. Multivariate modelling by image principal component analysis detected large variations in extractive content among wood chips of different biomass types, for example, sapwood, heartwood and knotwood. The extractive parts could be classified in the images and their content could be reasonably well predicted. Partial least squares (PLS) regression models could be made between collected spectra and measured extractive contents. These worked better for milled and homogenised bulk samples than for average image spectra. Regression coefficients showed that the C–H bonds in the spectra were responsible for the validity of the models. The average image PLS models could be used to make prediction images showing the location of the regions with high extractive content in knotwood. The results indicate that extremely rapid spectral-based fractionation could be used to separate tailored biomass streams of wood chips.
E-procurement Service Provider Selection—An Analytic Network Process-Based Group Decision-Making Approach
Authors: Ramkumar M , Jenamani Mamata
Published: September 2012

E-procurement is used by companies as a tool to reduce procurement costs, bring transparency into the purchasing process, and reduce the procurement cycle time. The specialized expertise involved in building such systems and its associated costs have compelled some companies to hire third-party e-procurement service providers. Selecting the right service provider is a tricky task for two reasons: First, the company must be aware of the factors that need to be considered when comparing alternative providers. Second, the executives of the company must have a tool in place to compare the alternative providers in the most unbiased manner possible. In this paper we identify a set of selection criteria and subcriteria based on an extensive literature survey and discussions with procurement executives in an organization. From these criteria, we then propose a two-stage selection process that consists of an initial screening of the providers and a final analytic network process-based selection with group decision making. Finally, the proposed framework is applied to a real-life case to study the individual bias involved in the selection process and to study the sensitivity of the final selection process.
Informed Consent for Blood Transfusion
Authors: Friedman Mark , Arja Wajih , Batra Rashmi , Daniel Sugganth , Hoehn Daniela , Paniz Alberto Mondolfi , Selegean Sorin , Slova Denisa , Srivastava Swati , Vergara Norge
Published: September 2012

Blood transfusion is a common intervention in the hospital setting, and its benefits may not be clear but it has associated risks. Despite this, transfusion consent may not be obtained satisfactorily. We assessed transfusion consent effectiveness by comparing information given by residents with information understood by patients who receive transfusions. Medicine department residents who obtained consent were surveyed via telephone in conjunction with bedside surveys of adult inpatients who received transfusions. A total of 43 patient and 34 resident surveys were completed. Deficiencies in the transfusion consent process were noted. Discussed transfusion benefits (such as wound healing) were not always true benefits whereas some important risks (such as transfusion-related acute lung injury) were infrequently conferred. Risks were more often reported as “not discussed” than benefits. Only a few participants were aware of the hospital's Transfusion Health Guide, which provides information on transfusion benefits, risks, and alternatives.
With the raising of the ground: Catastrophism, geotrauma and cinema’s ecological niche
Authors: Matts Tim , Tynan Aidan
Published: September 2012

A number of 'ecological' theories of cinema have emerged in recent years, many of which remain bound by antiquated models of figure and ground. These models typically belong to a pre-cinematic aesthetics of nature, sustaining an image of humanity uninformed by the recent prospect of
species self-extinction. We hereby propose a new model for conceiving of this relation, one based upon Nick Land's post-psychoanalytic notion of geotrauma, and which suggests that the earth as ground gives rise not just to territories but moreover to processes of ungrounding. These processes
are recapitulated in the human history of a traumatic relation to this (non)ground, suggesting a properly geophilosophical understanding of cinema that observes catastrophism as a genetic principle. Of consequence for any attempt to theorize human artifice and design under the present 'environmental'
moment, such an understanding presupposes a thoroughgoing revaluation of creative practice and process. We hereby provide a reading of three recent films in which the figures or iconography of the natural environment reflect this 'revolt' against ecological fixity. Visions of catastrophic
environmental change force us to reconceive of the very concept of nature as something fundamentally at odds with our perception of what is natural. We thus combine Land's theory of geotrauma with Deleuze's conception of cinema to argue that the cinematic image testifies to a 'pantraumatic
self-movement', one by which the relations between parts forming the conditioned or ecological whole are subjected to a universal ungrounding, and therefore by which something necessarily unconditioned escapes its 'natural' conditions. This geophilosophical emphasis upon escape, flight or
deterritorialization should replace the ecological aesthetics of figure and ground with a perceptual catastrophism, disrupting every naturalizing appeal to an harmonic relationship between the human and non-human, cultural and natural worlds.
Aren’t you a doll! Toying with avatars in digital playgrounds
Authors: Heljakka Katriina
Published: September 2012

As recognized play theorist Brian Sutton-Smith points out, we have entered a ‘ludic age’ in which a playful attitude is embraced at all ages and play has increasingly come to mean play with toys. Documentations of the material, creative and social dimensions of toy play
are increasingly seen in the playgrounds of digital media such as the photo management application Flickr. Dolls are considered as one of the earliest playthings, and in contemporary dolls, fantasy and reality blend into each other as their materialness and the design-storytelling are challenged
by adult players/prosumers. A doll may play a part in self-expression and style; owners may customize, photograph and display the toy or share the visual documentations of their play sessions in various digital spaces. In some cases a doll might even become an avatar for the player himself
or herself. This article examines how adults use doll characters as avatars by exploring visual narratives in social media environments. This is done through a visual analysis of doll images shared on the Internet-based Flickr and by analysing player created content on websites dedicated to
the popular doll Blythe. Through examining the ways of toying with contemporary dolls in the playgrounds of social media, the aim is to build a new understanding of adult creation of second lives online.
With or as avatars? The semiosis of avatars in actor-networks of human and non-human actors
Authors: Jensen Sisse Siggaard
Published: September 2012

This research sets out to examine the ways in which actors relate to choices regarding the design of avatars. The empirical data of the analysis is found in three case studies: one case from EverQuest®, the guild leader Sia with her shaman avatar Gelinu, and two cases from Second
Life®, the businessman Thomas with his avatar DC Aspen and the businesswoman Helle with her avatar Helle. Virtual ethnography and iterative video interviews with actors were conducted while they acted with their avatars during 2006–2010. Findings from the video interviews of the
case studies suggest that we extend the representational and psychological analysis to explicate the multiple, fluid and emergent relationships between human actors and non-human avatars. Semiotics and actor-network theory are some of the theoretical references contained within the analyses
of the three cases mentioned. The article concludes that the relationships of actors with their avatars can be seen as instances of semiosis, i.e., triadic … -relations that mutually and continuously translate the actor-networks of actors and their avatars. It is suggested that this
understanding of avatars as interpretants and mediators in ‘companionate’ relationships, characterized by acting ‘with’ rather than ‘as’ the avatars, will help us interpret and understand avatars as transformative phenomena in flux with blurred boundaries
and not only as bounded representations of actors in relation to projection, identification, self-construal and identity-making.
MACHINIMA REVIEW
Authors: Johnson Phylis
Published: September 2012

BLURRING THE LINES: MACHINIMA IS REAL-TIME ANIMATION.
Coloured paper in monument valley: Contradictions, resonances and pluralities in the art of Pat O’Neill1
Authors: Weinbren Grahame
Published: September 2012

This article focuses on a three-minute sequence of Pat O’Neil’s 1976 film Sidewinder’s Delta in order to develop a general understanding of the artist’s work. Themes discussed include Pat O’Neill’s embrace of paradox, his iconoclasm, his investigations
of formal features of cinematic representation and the resonances of his work with other artists, both recent and classical. These issues characterize O’Neill’s entire oeuvre, but in this article, examples are taken only from works made between 1972 and 2002.
The Impact of Disparate Levels of Marketplace Inclusion on Consumer–Brand Relationships
Authors: Bennett Aronté Marie , Hill Ronald Paul , Oleksiuk Daniel
Published: September 2012

While most racial discrimination has manifested historically as explicit exclusion, its contemporary iteration may be an implicit failure to include. Both forms of discrimination affect the way racial minorities interact with the marketplace. After providing a conceptual grounding in relevant literature, the authors propose a novel examination of how American minority groups perceive brands in ways that are similar to one another but different from majority American consumers. Using the research paradigm advanced by Fiske and her colleagues on perception and stereotyping, the authors find that there are differences in brand perceptions between racial groups, suggesting that disparate levels of marketplace access have impactful, systematic consequences for minority consumers.
Cultural Diversity in Television Narratives: Homophilization, Appropriation, and Implications for Media Advocacy
Authors: Russell Cristel Antonia , Schau Hope Jensen , Crockett David
Published: September 2012

This research explores the role of cultural diversity in the construction of consumer identity, and in particular, how cultural diversity is appropriated through television viewing. Data based on depth interviews and surveys of young adults who created brand collages centered on a television-based character reveal that viewers identify and engage with television narratives through a process of “homophilization”; that is, they actively envision various features of television narratives as similar to themselves and their own lived experiences. The data also show that homophilizing processes are enacted primarily by customizing the narrative, or textual poaching, in which the consumers insert themselves and their experiences into the narrative, and that consumption choices serve as primary mechanisms for poaching. Because media narratives are important in the formation and maintenance of consumer identity, the authors strongly recommend vigilance in the production and dissemination of socially conscious narratives that allow prosocial and realistic characters with whom consumers can actively engage.
Living on the Other Side of the Tracks: An Investigation of Public Housing Stereotypes
Authors: Motley Carol M. , Perry Vanessa Gail
Published: September 2012

Many ascribe to the concept of “home sweet home”; however, this is an increasingly elusive end state. The economic recession and depressed housing market have resulted in unprecedented numbers of displaced homeowners and an insufficient supply of affordable housing options. As a result of these circumstances, the homeless rate in the United States is at an all-time high, and many jurisdictions report long waiting lists for temporary shelters and subsidized, or “public,” housing. According to research, public housing is often stigmatized, and there are several widely held, negative stereotypes of public housing residents. The authors examine the perceptions of residents when the occupants are renters and the landlord is a governmental entity (i.e., public housing). The authors propose a conceptual model that examines public housing resident stereotypes based on perceivers’ prior knowledge, the propensity to seek out cultural diversity, and demographic characteristics. The findings from an experiment suggest that public housing stereotypes are a function of prior knowledge and diversity-seeking tendencies and that consumers’ diversity-seeking tendencies can be altered in response to certain external, situational stimuli. The authors discuss implications for public policy and consumer welfare.
Bridging Cultural Divides: The Role and Impact of Binational Families
Authors: Cross Samantha N.N. , Gilly Mary C.
Published: September 2012

The binational household, in essence, is a marriage of cultures, providing a bridge between previously disconnected cultural dispositions and consumption experiences. This essay posits that studying the role and impact of this culturally diverse micro-setting adds to the field's knowledge and appreciation of culturally heterogeneous interactions. Understanding the impact of the binational family has several societal and public policy implications. The authors challenge researchers to think of the binational family as an important and relevant context in which to explore marketplace diversity, inclusion, and creativity.
Immigrants versus Nationals: When an Intercultural Service Encounter Failure Turns to Verbal Confrontation
Authors: Johnson Guillaume D. , Meyers Yuvay J. , Williams Jerome D.
Published: September 2012

As diversity in the marketplace increases through immigration, examples of intolerance, confrontation, and even violence by nationals toward immigrant small business owners have begun to appear in popular press worldwide. This study examines how a simple and potentially unintended service encounter failure can evolve into a verbal confrontation that is outside the realm of acceptable marketplace interaction, to recommend ways to protect immigrant shopkeepers and their pursuit of entrepreneurial success as business owners. The results of two experiments in South Africa and the United States highlight that intercultural service encounter failure may put the shopkeeper at risk, as consumers’ reactions depend on the perceived level of similarity and anger, as well as the context. The findings suggest ways for policy makers to address the issues beyond the obvious repressive tools (i.e., training for [immigrant] shopkeepers in the management of consumers’ anger and a public campaign promoting diversity in the small business community).
Intersectionality 101
Authors: Gopaldas Ahir
Published: September 2012

The concept of “intersectionality” refers to the interactivity of social identity structures such as race, class, and gender in fostering life experiences, especially experiences of privilege and oppression. This essay maps out the origins, evolution, and many contemporary meanings of intersectionality to make a notoriously ambiguous idea more concrete. In addition, the author clarifies the tenets of the intersectionality literature by contrasting traditional and intersectional research on marketplace diversity along three dimensions: ontology, methodology, and axiology. The essay concludes with implications for radicalizing diversity research, marketing, and advocacy.
Development of a hollow laser beam for micromachining
Authors: Demirci Erkan , Nölke Christian , Kaierle Stefan , Matteazzi Paolo
Published: September 2012

Current laser cladding technologies have limited resolutions of about 50 μm. A new solution has been developed within the project ‘Nanomicro’ to improve the spatial resolution. The ‘micro hollow laser beam system’ and a deposition system for highly focused metal micropowders are innovative parts within a high-precision 3D micromanufacturing laser cladding platform. We demonstrate, here, a new hollow laser sintering concept that is aiming on more efficient laser cladding and manufacturing of highly precise and functional parts in the range of a few microns.
Effects of short-term testosterone administration on variables of the metabolic syndrome, in particular aldosterone
Authors: Goncharov Nikolay , Katsya Gulinara , Gaivoronskaya Lidiya , Zoloedov Vladimir , Uskov Valentin , Gooren Louis
Published: September 2012

Background: The ATPIII criteria of the metabolic syndrome (MS) comprise impaired fasting glucose (>5.6 nmol/L), waist circumference >102 cm, hypertension (>130/85 mm Hg), high triglycerides (>1.7 nmol/L) and low HDL cholesterol (≤1.03 nmol/L). Aldosterone is currently recognized as a key factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases and insulin resistance, linking hypertension to MS and obesity. Further, the MS is related to psychological functioning.

Materials and methods: Forty-two men older than 40 years with BMI >30 kg/m2, chronic heart failure (CHF) and serum testosterone (T) <12.0 nmol/L were recruited. Of these 42, 26 consented to T treatment and received two injections with T undecanoate 1000 mg. Biochemical variables relevant for the MS and also serum aldosterone were determined before and after injections; an echocardiography and Aging Males’ Symptoms (AMS) scale were also utilized.

Results and conclusions: After 24 weeks of testosterone administration, there were significant declines of insulin and homeostatic model assessment and of serum aldosterone, but no changes in blood pressure. Serum glucose declined but not significantly (p=0.073). There was a slight increase in LDL cholesterol and a decrease in triglycerides. Other variables of MS and other biochemical variables did not change. Echocardiographical variables did not change. The AMS showed improvements over the first 3 months after testosterone administration but, although sustained, there was no further improvement. Short-term testosterone administration over 24 weeks led to some improvements of variables of the MS, notably of aldosterone. Longer-term studies are needed to analyze whether the decrease in serum aldosterone will improve blood pressure and glycemic control.
A Review of Microblogging in the Enterprise
Authors: Stocker Alexander , Richter Alexander , Riemer Kai
Published: September 2012

As a worldwide phenomenon, Microblogging has gained increasing popularity. Twitter has not only attracted more than 100 Million active users in its six year history but is also said to have a considerable impact on public communication as is signified by its use during the Arab spring movement. In the corporate arena, the Enterprise Microblogging platform Yammer claims to have grown to more than 100000 corporate users. Since Microblogging is claimed to have benefits in fostering communication and knowledge sharing within enterprises, it seems timely to take a closer look at the phenomenon. Our paper summarizes the state of the art on Enterprise Microblogging. It reviews three Enterprise Microblogging case studies and compares their key findings regarding implementation, use and created benefits.
Social Software Beyond the Desktop — Ambient Awareness and Ubiquitous Activity Streaming
Authors: Ott Florian , Koch Michael
Published: September 2012

Our daily work in the information society relies on creating, editing and collecting different information objects. Without additional presentation mechanisms these activities of particular knowledge workers remain hidden in the underlying IT systems. The resulting lack of awareness can lead to inefficient coordination as well as to the duplication of work in the worst case. Activity streams from Social Software offer new ways to increase the awareness, but the desktop-based user interfaces in typical organizational settings currently only utilize a small portion of their full socio-technical potential. In this paper we present CommunityMirrors as one potential solution to this problem.
Spektral abstimmbare IR-Sensoren für die industrielle Prozessmesstechnik und die medizinische Gasanalyse
Authors: Ebermann Martin , Neumann Norbert , Hiller Karla , Meinig Marco
Published: September 2012

Mikrospektrometer besitzen ein großes Potenzial in der IR-Absorptionsspektroskopie. Im Beitrag werden durchstimmbare IR-Sensoren für das mittlere und langwellige Infrarot vorgestellt, welche auf pyroelektrischen Detektoren und mikromechanischen Fabry-Pérot-Filtern basieren. Ausgewählte Beispielapplikationen aus der medizinischen und industriellen Analytik werden erläutert und ein Ausblick auf eine neue Generation höher auflösender und schnellerer FP-Spektrometer gegeben.
Autonome Sensorpartikel zur Prozessdiagnose in Großbehältern
Authors: Reinecke Sebastian , Hampel Uwe
Published: September 2012

Zur Erfassung räumlich verteilter Parameter in Prozessbehältern wurde das Konzept autonomer Sensorpartikel entwickelt und getestet. Die Sensorpartikel sind auftriebsneutral und bewegen sich frei mit der vorherrschenden Strömung im Prozess. Die integrierte Messelektronik erfasst die Signale der internen Messfühler für die Temperatur, die Eintauchtiefe und die Beschleunigung in einem autonomen und energieeffizienten Messregime. Die Validierung des Messsystems erfolgte unter realen Strömungsbedingungen in einem Versuchsfermenter. Die aufgenommenen Messdaten und die daraus extrahierten Prozesskenndaten charakterisieren den Zustand des Prozesses und die Strömungsbedingungen.
Thermoelemente für den Einsatz in Abgassystemen von Verbrennungsmotoren
Authors: Augustin Silke , Fröhlich Thomas , Mammen Helge , Ament Christoph , Güther Thomas
Published: September 2012

Thermoelemente, die in Abgassystemen von Verbrennungsmotoren eingesetzt werden, sind großen Temperaturgradienten und -sprüngen (ΔT > 900 K), hohen Anströmgeschwindigkeiten und Drücken ausgesetzt. Bei der Herstellung dieser Thermoelemente muss ein Kompromiss zwischen den daraus resultierenden hohen Anforderungen an die mechanisch-thermische Stabilität, die Messgenauigkeit und den für die Motorregelung notwendigen schnellen Ansprechzeiten gefunden werden. Auch eine numerische Korrektur des Messsignals kann einen Beitrag zur Verbesserung der Sensordynamik liefern.
Degradation of Lithium Ion Batteries under Complex Conditions of Use
Authors: Wenzl Heinz , Haubrock André , Beck Hans-Peter
Published: September 2012

It is well known that lithium ion batteries degrade due to cycling (cycle life), but also when in standby mode with little or no current throughput (calendar life). Experimental results exist which show the lifetime of a battery under either of these conditions, cycling or standby operation. Results for an application specific mix of cycling and standby operation are, however, not readily available in the scientific literature. The ageing mechanisms of these two modes of operation differ in their impact on capacity and internal resistance as the two most important performance characteristics of a battery. The question is how the ageing mechanisms interact and how certain ageing mechanisms occurring particularly in one mode of operation affect ageing mechanisms which occur predominantly in the other mode of operation. As the conditions of use are very different in terms of current amplitude, state-of-charge and temperature, it is clear that the interaction needs to be considered taking the application into account by using application specific load collectives.

This paper will discuss how to approach this problem, shows first results and their relevance for vehicle batteries when used for vehicle to grid operation.
Ion Transfer Mechanisms Accompanying p-Doping of Poly(3,4-Ethylenedioxythiophene) Films in Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Hillman A. Robert , Ryder Karl S. , Zaleski Christopher J. , Fullarton Claire , Smith Emma L.
Published: September 2012

Redox-driven ion transfer processes accompanying p-doping and undoping were investigated for poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) films. The PEDOT films were potentiostatically grown from acetonitrile solutions of monomer onto the Au electrodes of 10 MHz AT-cut quartz crystal resonators. The films were then sequentially exposed to 0.1 M LiClO4/CH3CN solution and to two deep eutectic solvent (DES) media, Ethaline 200 (choline chloride and ethylene glycol in 1:2 molar ratio) and Propaline 200 (choline chloride and propylene glycol in 1:2 molar ratio). In each case, the electron and ion transfer processes accompanying PEDOT redox switching were investigated using the EQCM. The maintenance of film electroneutrality was achieved in quite different ways in the three media. In contrast to anion transfer domination in 0.1 M LiClO4/CH3CN solution, cation transfer (in the opposite direction) was dominant in Ethaline 200. In Propaline 200, a two stage mixed mechanism was observed, with cation transfer domination in the early stages of p-doping (later stages of undoping) and anion transfer domination in the later stages of p-doping (earlier stages of undoping). The roles of thermodynamic and kinetic factors in these competitive situations were explored by observing the effect of experimental timescale (potential scan rate) in voltammetric experiments.
Surface Modification of a n-Si(111) Electrode through Aldehyde Grafting and Subsequent Metallization: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Metzler Martin , Fantauzzi Donato , Anton Josef , Jacob Timo
Published: September 2012

Motivated by our previous studies on metallic substrates, in the present work we addressed the functionalization and the subsequent metallization of a hydrogen-terminated n-Si(111) electrode. DFT provides atomistic insights on the grafting mechanism of 4-pyridinecarboxaldehyde (C6H5NO) what encouraged electrochemical investigations, i. e. cyclic voltammetry and in-situ STM, combined with XPS measurements which together provide evidence for a successful transfer of the so far obtained knowledge from metal single crystal to semiconductor surfaces.
Trends and current questions of cardiovascular prevention in primary health care
Authors: Ilyés István , Jancsó Zoltán , Simay Attila
Published: September 2012

Although an impressive progress has been achieved in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, they are at the top of the mortality statistics in Hungary. Prevention of these diseases is an essential task of the primary health care. Cardiovascular prevention is carried out at primary, secondary and tertiary levels using risk group and population preventive strategies. The two main tasks of primary cardiovascular prevention are health promotion and cardiovascular disease prevention, and its main programs are ensuring healthy nutrition, improving physical training and accomplishing an anti-smoking program. The essential form of secondary prevention is the screening activity of the primary health care. The majority of cardiovascular risk factors can be discovered during the doctor–patient consultation, but laboratory screening is needed for assessing metabolic risks. The official screening rules of the cardiovascular risk factors and diseases are based on diagnostic criteria of the metabolic syndrome; however, nowadays revealing of global cardiometabolic risks is also necessary. In patients without cardiovascular diseases but with risk factors, a cardiovascular risk estimation has to be performed. In primary care, there is a possibility for long term follow-up and continuous care of patients with chronic diseases, which is the main form of the tertiary prevention. In patients with cardiovascular diseases, ranking to cardiovascular risk groups is a very important task since target values of continuous care depend on which risk group they belong to. The methods used during continuous care are lifestyle therapy, specific pharmacotherapy and organ protection with drugs. Combined health education and counselling is the next element of the primary health care prevention; it is a tool that helps primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. Changes needed for improving cardiovascular prevention in primary care are the following: appropriate evaluation of primary prevention, health education and counselling, renewal of the cardiovascular screening system based on the notion of global cardiometabolic risk, creating a unified cardiovascular prevention guideline, and operating primary care cardiovascular prevention within the framework of an integrated prevention system. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1536–1546.
Proposal for the administration of metformin in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Balogh Zoltán , Mátyus János
Published: September 2012

Metformin is the first-line, widely used oral antidiabetic agent for the management of type 2 diabetes. There is increasing evidence that metformin use results in a reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and might have anticancer activity. An extremely rare, but potentially life-threatening adverse effect of metformin is lactic acidosis, therefore, its use is traditionally contraindicated if the glomerular filtrate rate is below 60 mL/min. However, lactic acidosis is always associated with acute events, such as hypovolemia, acute cardiorespiratory illness, severe sepsis and acute renal or hepatic failure. Furthermore, administration of insulins and conventional antihyperglycemic agents increases the risk of severe hypoglycemic events when renal function is reduced. Therefore, the magnitude of the benefit of metformin use would outweigh potential risk of lactic acidosis in moderate chronic renal disease. After reviewing the literature, the authors give a proposal for the administration of metformin, according to the calculated glomerular filtrate rate. Orv.Hetil., 2012, 153, 1527–1535.
Characteristics of smoking and secondhand smoke exposure in monozygotic and dizygotic twins: Results from an international twin study
Authors: Tárnoki Dávid László , Tárnoki Ádám Domonkos , Lázár Zsófia , Karlinger Kinga , Molnár Andrea Ágnes , Garami Zsolt , Bérczi Viktor , Horváth Ildikó
Published: September 2012

Introduction: Zygosity differences in smoking exposure are unclear in twins. Aims: To assess smoking and secondhand smoke exposure characteristics in twins. Methods: 151 monozygotic and 62 dizygotic Hungarian and American adult twin pairs (age 43.8±16.5 years, mean±SD) participated in the study. Results: Monozygotic twins started smoking 1.8 years earlier compared to dizygotic twins (p = 0.08). Dizygotic twins smoked longer (p<0.01) and suffered more parental smoke exposure during childhood (p<0.05). Monozygotic twins reported stricter smoking restrictions at home and workplaces (p<0.005) and less smoke exposure in indoor public places (p<0.01). 85.7% of monozygotic twins were ex or active smokers, while only 69.5% of the dizygotics (p<0.01). Lesser difference was observed in the self-reported smoke exposure rate in monozygotic compared to dizygotic pairs concerning restaurants and cafés (p<0.05) which was not present regarding bars, pubs and transportation facilities. Conclusions: Different psychological family orientation may be present across zygosity. Preventive parental care is warranted in twin families exposed to smoking. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1552–1559.
Left ventricular rotation and twist of the heart. Let’s reveal some concepts
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kalapos Anita , Domsik Péter , Forster Tamás
Published: September 2012

In case of a healthy heart basal part of the left ventricle rotates clockwise in systole, while the apex rotates counter-clockwise. This sort of squeezing-turning motion is called “twisting” of the heart. The aim of the current review is to summarize knowledge regarding left ventricular rotation and twist as well as methodological aspects of their evaluation. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1547–1551.
The Prevalence of Platybasia in Patients with Velopharyngeal Incompetence
Authors: Nachmani Ariela , Aizenbud Dror , Berger Gilead , Berger Rachel L. , Hazan-Molina Hagai , Finkelstein Yehuda
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of platybasia in patients with velopharyngeal incompetence (VPI) and its relation with palatal anomalies and syndromes.

Design and Settings

Retrospective case analysis.

Setting

A university-affiliated hospital.

Patients

The VPI patients (n =366) included five groups with either cleft lip and palate (CLP), cleft palate (CP) only, submucous cleft palate (SMCP), occult submucous cleft palate (OSMCP), or non-CP. The control group (n = 126) comprised healthy, normal-speech individuals.

Outcome Measures

The cranial-base angle was measured by lateral cephalometric radiography. The prevalence of platybasia (defined as cranial base angle > 137°) was estimated and the patient's syndromes were recorded.

Results

The prevalence of platybasia was significantly higher in the VPI group (28.7%) than in the normal controls (2.4%) (P < .001). A significant difference (P < .01) was found in the prevalence of platybasia among the five VPI groups: 16.7%, 20.3%, 28.8%, 33.7%, and 40.3% for CLP, CP only, SMCP, OSMCP, and non-CP, respectively. No significant difference was found between the cranial-base angle of VPI patients and of controls and between the cranial-base angle of the five VPI groups. The VPI nonplatybasic patients had a significantly smaller cranial-base angle than normal controls (P < .01). Platybasia was the highest among patients with velocardiofacial syndrome (50%), followed by those with Pierre Robin syndrome (27.3%).

Conclusions

Platybasia, which may cause enlargement of the nasopharyngeal space and difficulties in achieving velopharyngeal closure, can be found in high numbers of VPI patients with or without CP. This supports the belief that velopharyngeal anomaly may be part of a more complex craniofacial anomaly influenced by the cranial-base flexure.
Recent Victimization Experiences and Continued Criminal Behaviors: What Are the Links for Adult Drug-Involved Offenders?
Authors: Zweig Janine M. , Yahner Jennifer , Rossman Shelli B.
Published: September 2012

Using data from the Multi-Site Adult Drug Court Evaluation (MADCE), we examined the relationship between recent victimization experiences and the likelihood of subsequent criminal behavior among a sample of adult drug-involved offenders. The MADCE data used in this study involved interviews with 674 men and 284 women at baseline and then, 18 months later. Multilevel modeling showed that physical victimizations in the year before baseline, but not sexual victimization experiences, were associated with self-reported criminal offending behavior 18 months later. All relationships held true despite controlling for respondents’ demographic, criminal history, prior drug-related characteristics, and their participation in a drug court or comparison site program.
Patterns of Victimization Between and Within Peer Clusters in a High School Social Network
Authors: Swartz Kristin , Reyns Bradford W. , Wilcox Pamela , Dunham Jessica R.
Published: September 2012

This study presents a descriptive analysis of patterns of violent victimization between and within the various cohesive clusters of peers comprising a sample of more than 500 9th–12th grade students from one high school. Social network analysis techniques provide a visualization of the overall friendship network structure and allow for the examination of variation in victimization across the various peer clusters within the larger network. Social relationships among clusters with varying levels of victimization are also illustrated so as to provide a sense of possible spatial clustering or diffusion of victimization across proximal peer clusters. Additionally, to provide a sense of the sorts of peer clusters that support (or do not support) victimization, characteristics of clusters at both the high and low ends of the victimization scale are discussed. Finally, several of the peer clusters at both the high and low ends of the victimization continuum are “unpacked,” allowing examination of within-network individual-level differences in victimization for these select clusters.
An Examination of General Aggression and Intimate Partner Violence in Women With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Kirby Angela C. , Beckham Jean C. , Calhoun Patrick S. , Roberts Sushma T. , Taft Casey T. , Elbogen Eric B. , Dennis Michelle F.
Published: September 2012

Research has documented significant relationships between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), aggression, and intimate partner violence (IPV). Most of these studies have focused on men and measured violence by self-report. This study examined (a) the association between PTSD and general aggression among women, (b) the association between IPV and PTSD among married and/or cohabitating couples, and (c) the concordance between self and collateral reports of IPV. One hundred twenty participants provided information about PTSD symptoms and general aggression toward others, and 43 married and/or cohabitating couples provided information about PTSD and IPV. Women with PTSD reported more general aggression, IPV perpetration, and IPV victimization. Collateral informants of those with and without PTSD did not differ significantly in their report of IPV. Concordance between participants and spouses or partners was low to moderate. These results are discussed within the context of extant IPV literature.
License to Operate: Nontechnical Risks and Shale Gas Development in Europe
Authors: Nuyens Dirk , Heinz Walter , Hiller Dieter
Published: September 2012

This paper discusses how non-technical risks are impacting shale gas developments in Europe and how challenging it is to obtain the Social License to Operate. Although still at the early exploration phase, most European developments are already significantly hit by stakeholder concerns, lack of public acceptance and often lack of government support. Some European countries have even halted early exploration - at least temporarily - by political decision. Most of the public concerns are of environmental nature, especially linked to the use of chemical additives in the hydraulic fracturing process and related concerns about potential groundwater impacts, but hardly any is based on real events in Europe. Most concerns have developed on the back of perception and experiences in the US. This paper also takes a critical look at the discrepancy between public environmental concerns and real environmental risks.

Initial experience in Europe has shown that the non-technical challenges have initially been underestimated, and that huge efforts are necessary to gain public acceptance and political support. A lot of efforts have already been put on stakeholder engagement, public information on technical processes, disclosure of chemicals and initial promotion campaigns, but the acceptance in most parts of Europe – Poland being the only exception - remains challenging. Besides technical and regulatory requirements, obtaining a "social license to operate" is thus of increasing importance for the success of a project.