bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical Note—On Optimal Policies for Inventory Systems with Batch Ordering
Authors: Huh Woonghee Tim , Janakiraman Ganesh
Published: July 2012

We study a periodically reviewed multiechelon inventory system in series such that order quantities at every stage have to be multiples of a given stage-specific batch size. The batch sizes are nested in the sense that the batch size for every stage is an integer multiple of the batch size for its downstream stage. The problem is that of determining the policy that minimizes the expected discounted sum of costs over a finite horizon. The result is that an echelon (R, nQ) policy is optimal when demands are independent across periods or, more generally, Markov-modulated. We also comment on algorithmic implications of our result and on extensions.
Quantifying the Accuracy of a Diagnostic Test or Marker
Authors: Linnet Kristian , Bossuyt Patrick M M , Moons Karel G M , Reitsma Johannes B
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND

In recent years, increasing focus has been directed to the methodology for evaluating (new) tests or biomarkers. A key step in the evaluation of a diagnostic test is the investigation into its accuracy.

CONTENT

We reviewed the literature on how to assess the accuracy of diagnostic tests. Accuracy refers to the amount of agreement between the results of the test under evaluation (index test) and the results of a reference standard or test. The generally recommended approach is to use a prospective cohort design in patients who are suspected of having the disease of interest, in which each individual undergoes the index and same reference standard tests. This approach presents several challenges, including the problems that can arise with the verification of the index test results by the preferred reference standard test, the choice of cutoff value in case of a continuous index test result, and the determination of how to translate accuracy results to recommendations for clinical use. This first in a series of 4 reports presents an overview of the designs of single-test accuracy studies and the concepts of specificity, sensitivity, posterior probabilities (i.e., predictive values) for the presence of target disease, ROC curves, and likelihood ratios, all illustrated with empirical data from a study on the diagnosis of suspected deep venous thrombosis. Limitations of the concept of the diagnostic accuracy for a single test are also highlighted.

CONCLUSIONS

The prospective cohort design in patients suspected of having the disease of interest is the optimal approach to estimate the accuracy of a diagnostic test. However, the accuracy of a diagnostic index test is not constant but varies across different clinical contexts, disease spectrums, and even patient subgroups.
Food Insecurity and Obesogenic Maternal Infant Feeding Styles and Practices in Low-Income Families
Authors: Gross Rachel S. , Mendelsohn Alan L. , Fierman Arthur H. , Racine Andrew D. , Messito Mary Jo
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVES:

We explored the relationship between household food insecurity and maternal feeding styles, infant feeding practices, and perceptions and attitudes about infant weight in low-income mothers.

METHODS:

Mothers participating in the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children with infants aged between 2 weeks and 6 months were interviewed. By using regression analyses, the following relationships were examined between food insecurity and: (1) controlling feeding styles (restrictive and pressuring); (2) infant feeding practices, including breastfeeding, juice consumption, and adding cereal to the bottle; and (3) perceptions and attitudes about infant weight. Path analysis was used to determine if perceptions and attitudes about infant weight mediated the relationships between food insecurity and controlling feeding styles.

RESULTS:

The sample included 201 mother–infant pairs, with 35% reporting household food insecurity. Food-insecure mothers were more likely to exhibit restrictive (B [SE]: 0.18 [0.08]; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02–0.34) and pressuring (B [SE]: 0.11 [0.06]; 95% CI: 0.001–0.22) feeding styles compared with food-secure mothers. No associations were found with feeding practices. Concern for their infant becoming overweight in the future was associated with food insecurity (adjusted odds ratio: 2.11 [95% CI: 1.02–4.38]). This concern mediated the relationship between food insecurity and both restrictive (P = .009) and pressuring (P = .01) feeding styles.

CONCLUSIONS:

Increased concern about future overweight and controlling feeding styles represent potential mechanisms by which food insecurity could be related to obesity. Obesity prevention should aim to decrease food insecurity and to reduce controlling feeding styles in families who remain food insecure.
The Prevalence and Course of Idiopathic Toe-Walking in 5-Year-Old Children
Authors: Engström Pähr , Tedroff Kristina
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND:

Children walking on their toes instead of with a typical gait, without evidence of an underlying medical condition, are defined as idiopathic toe-walkers. The prevalence of idiopathic toe-walking is unknown.

METHODS:

A cross-sectional prevalence study of 5.5-year-old children (n = 1436) living in Blekinge County, Sweden, was performed at the regular 5.5-year visit to the local child welfare center. Children were assessed for a history of toe-walking or whether they still walked on their toes. Additionally, all 5.5-year-old children (n = 35) admitted to the clinic for children with special needs in the county were assessed.

RESULTS:

Of the 1436 children in the cohort (750 boys, 686 girls), 30 children (2.1%, 20 boys and 10 girls) still walked on their toes at age 5.5 years and were considered as active toe-walkers. Forty children (2.8%, 22 boys and 18 girls) had previously walked on their toes but had stopped before the 5.5-year visit and were considered as inactive toe-walkers. At age 5.5 years, the total prevalence of toe-walking was 70 (4.9%) of 1436. For children with a neuropsychiatric diagnosis or developmental delay, the total prevalence for active or inactive toe-walking was 7 (41.2%) of 17.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study establishes the prevalence and- early spontaneous course of idiopathic toe-walking in 5.5-year-old children. At this age, more than half of the children have spontaneously ceased to walk on their toes. The study confirms earlier findings that toe-walking has a high prevalence among children with a cognitive disorder.
Correlative Microscopy Study of FIB Patterned Stainless Steel Surfaces as Novel Nano-Structured Stents for Cardiovascular Applications
Authors: Schmidt Michael , Nazneen Feroze , Herzog Gregoire , Arrigan Damien , Galvin Paul , Dickinson Calum , de Silva Johann P , Scanlan Declan , O’Hara Neal , Cross Graham L W , Petkov Nikolay , Holmes Justin D
Published: July 2012

Coronary artery disease is a major problem worldwide causing 7.2 million deaths worldwide annually, resulting from vascular occlusion, myocardial infarction and its complications. Stent implantation is a percutaneous interventional procedure that mitigates vessel stenosis, providing mechanical support within the artery. However, stenting causes physical damage to the arterial wall. It is well accepted that a valuable route to reduce in-stent re-stenosis can be based on promoting cell response to nano-structured stainless steel (SS) surfaces such as, for example, by patterning nano-pits in SS. In this regard patterning by Focussed Ion-Beam (FIB) milling offers several advantages for flexible prototyping (i) practically any substrate material that is able to withstand high vacuum conditions of the microscope chamber can be used, (ii) there is high flexibility in the obtainable shapes and geometries by modulating the ion beam current and the patterning conditions, (iii) reduced complexity of the pattering process e.g. it is a single-step process with a possibility of real-time monitoring of the milling progression. On the other hand FIB patterning of polycrystalline metals is greatly influenced by channelling effects and re-deposition. Correlative microscopy methods present an opportunity to study such effects comprehensively and derive structure-property understanding that is important for developing improved pattering. In this report we present a FIB patterning protocol for nano-structuring features (concaves) ordered in rectangular arrays on pre-polished 316L Stainless Steel (SS) surfaces. An investigation based on correlative microscopy approach of the size, shape and depth of the developed arrays in relation to the crystal orientation of the underlying SS domains, is presented. The correlative microscopy protocol is based on cross-correlation of top-view Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Electron Backscattered Diffraction (EBSD), and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).Various dose tests were performed, aiming at improved productivity by preserving nano-size accuracy of the patterned process. The optimal FIB patterning conditions for achieving reasonably high throughput (patterned rate of about 0.03 mm2 per hour) and nano-size accuracy in dimensions and shapes of the features, are discussed as well.
Nano-Biohybrid Light-Harvesting Systems for Solar Energy Applications
Authors: An Woo-Jin , Co-Reyes Jessica , Shah Vivek B. , Wang Wei-Ning , Orf Gregory S. , Blankenship Robert E. , Biswas Pratim
Published: July 2012

All photosynthetic organisms contain light-harvesting antenna complexes and electron transfer complexes called reaction centers. Some photosynthetic bacteria contain large (~100 MDa) peripheral antenna complexes known as chlorosomes. Chlorosomes lose their reaction center when they are extracted from organisms. Lead sulfide (PbS) quantum dots (QDs) were used for artificial reaction centers. Successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) allows different sizes of PbS QDs with different cycles to be easily deposited onto the nanostructured columnar titanium dioxide (TiO2) film with single crystal. Chlorosomes were sequentially deposited onto the PbS QDs surface by electrospray. Compared to the typical PbS QD sensitized solar cells, overall energy conversion efficiency increased with the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) effect between PbS QDs and chlorosomes.
Modification of optical response in quantum dots embedded in a photonic crystal waveguide via photonic band engineering
Authors: Ozaki Nobuhiko , Yoneda Hayato , Takeuchi Koichi , Oda Hisaya , Ikeda Naoki , Sugimoto Yoshimasa , Watanabe Yoshinori , Asakawa Kiyoshi
Published: July 2012

We propose to use Purcell effect emerged at slow light regions in photonic crystal waveguide (PC-WG) modes for controlling the relaxation time of excited carriers in QDs. Straight GaAs PC-WGs including InAs-QDs with various lattice constants of PC were prepared in order to control the wavelength of the slow light in the PC-WG modes. PL measurements of the PC-WGs indicated enhancements of emission from QDs at the localized wavelength of slow light regions due to the Purcell effect. The enhanced emission peak wavelength was continuously shifted with the PC lattice constant. These results suggest that the PC-WG can be utilized to modify the spontaneous emission rate and carrier relaxation time of the embedded QD. This modification can be applied and useful for various QD-based optical devices as well as our proposed all-optical switching device based on PC-WG/QD.
A Phase Field Model of Solid Electrolyte Interface Formation in Lithium-ion Batteries
Authors: Deng Jie , Wagner Gregory J. , Muller Richard P.
Published: July 2012

A phase field model is developed to investigate the formation of a solid electrolyte interface layer on the anode surface in lithium-ion batteries. Numerical results show that the growth of solid electrolyte interface exhibits power-law scaling with respect to time, and the growth rate depends on various factors such as temperature, diffusivity of electrons, and rates of electrochemical reactions.
Nano-Sized Lithium Manganese Phosphate/Carbon Nanotube Composites with Enhanced Electrochemical Activity for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Tsumeda Satoru , Korlann Scott D. , Suematsu Shunzo , Tamamitsu Kenji
Published: July 2012

Olivine lithium manganese phosphate, LiMnPO4 is a promising cathode material for high energy and safe lithium ion batteries. However, LiMnPO4 possesses excessively poor electrochemical activity, compared to conventional cathode materials. To enhance the electrochemical activity, we have synthesized LiMnPO4/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composites by employing an in-situ sol-gel method. The LiMnPO4/MWCNT composites were investigated by utilizing X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and galvanostatic charge-discharge cycling. The LiMnPO4 showed a particle size of ca. 50 nm and capacity of 102 mAh/g at 0.1 C without C.V. charging mode. This study demonstrated that the electrochemical activity of LiMnPO4 was significantly affected by not only pH and the amount of a chelating agent but also unreacted Mn2+. This is the first report analyzing the existence and effects of unreacted Mn2+ in LiMnPO4 synthesized by a sol-gel method.
Synthesis and Patterning of Polymer Matrix Nanocomposites Using Femtosecond Laser-assisted Processing
Authors: DeJournett Travis J. , Spicer James B.
Published: July 2012

We describe a scalable synthesis process for the production and patterning of polymer matrix nanocomposites (PMNCs) using femtosecond laser irradiation to target specific functional behaviors. A modified, in situ chemical vapor deposition (CVD), nanoinfusion process was used to nucleate and grow nanoparticles in the bulk of an optically transparent polytetrafluoroethylene-co-hexafluoropropylene (FEP) polymer matrix. Metallic nanoparticles synthesized with this process can have a strong optical absorption at their surface plasmon resonance (SPR) frequency and we have utilized this property to selectively irradiate and pattern nanocomposites via femtosecond, photothermal heating. If the nanoparticle environment includes species used for chemical vapor deposition, the heat causes a localized decomposition of the precursor species in the immediate vicinity of the nanoparticle leading to a variety of core-shell nanostructures. Using this processing scheme, we have grown shells of tungsten oxide around silver nanoparticles within the polymer matrix resulting in a 40 nm red shift in the SPR of the silver nanoparticles in regions of the material exposed to femtosecond laser pulses. This process has also been adapted to polymers containing tungsten oxide nanoparticles so that the photocatalytic behavior of the particles could be used to the decompose precursor species in the immediate vicinity of the irradiated nanoparticles. These results demonstrate that, by using optical masks and laser processing, it is possible to synthesize nanocomposites with a high degree of control over the location, composition, size, and distribution of nanoparticles within a polymer matrix resulting in patterned materials with tailored electrical, optical, and photocatalytic properties.
Antibacterial activity by nanosilver particles
Authors: Sotiriou Georgios A. , Pratsinis Sotiris E.
Published: July 2012

The antibacterial activity of nanosilver against Gram negative Escherichia coli bacteria is investigated by immobilizing nanosilver on nanostructured silica particles and closely controlling Ag content and size. These Ag/SiO2 nanoparticles were characterized by S/TEM, EDX spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction. The antibacterical activity of these composite samples was investigated for a constant composite particle concentration. The highest activity was observed for the higher silver content particles.
Reducing solvent evaporation rates for the detachment of anodic TiO2 nanotubular membranes
Authors: Liu Guohua , Hoivik Nils , Wang Kaiying , Jakobsen Henrik
Published: July 2012

In this paper, a simple process to fabricate free of disorder nanostructures, large area, flat and mechanically robust free-standing TiO2 nanotube (TNT) membranes was developed. Self-organized TNTs with ultrahigh aspect ratio (∼2000) were fabricated via anodization of Ti foil in fluorine containing ethylene glycol. Then by controlling the evaporation rate of rinsing solvent on the as-anodized TNT films in atmosphere, large area TNT membranes were self-detached uniformly from the metallic Ti substrate during the drying process. These free-standing membranes may exhibit many potential applications for optoelectronic devices.
Survival Following Surgery with or without Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Stage I–IIIA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: An East Asian Population-Based Study
Authors: Lin Zhong-Zhe , Shau Wen-Yi , Shao Yu-Yun , Yang Yen-Yun , Kuo Raymond Nien-Chen , Yang James Chih-Hsin , Lai Mei-Shu
Published: July 2012

Background.

Asian ethnicity is associated with a distinct molecular etiology, treatment response, and survival outcome among patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study examines the survival impact of platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy for Asian patients with stage I–IIIA NSCLC.

Methods.

This study recruited patients aged ≥18 years with histologically proven stage IA–IIIA NSCLC registered in the Taiwan Cancer Registry database in January 2004 to December 2007. Platinum-containing adjuvant chemotherapy had to be started within 90 days of the primary surgery. Kaplan–Meier survival curves, log-rank tests, and the Cox proportional hazards regression model were used to assess the influence of various risk factors on survival time.

Results.

This study included 2,231 patients with stage IA–IIIA NSCLC who underwent primary surgery with a clear surgical margin. The percentages of all causes of death were significantly lower for the chemotherapy group for both stage II and stage IIIA patients. Multivariate analysis identified platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy as an independent prognostic factor for the overall survival outcome of stage II (hazard ratio [HR], 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.39–0.94; p = .024) and IIIA (HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.52–0.96; p = .029) patients. Among these patients, those who received adjuvant chemotherapy had a superior overall survival outcome for both genders, for the subgroup of patients aged ≥70 years, and for those with adenocarcinoma.

Conclusion.

Platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy should be considered in the treatment plan for Asian patients with resected stage II and stage IIIA NSCLC.
Management of Unusual Histological Types of Breast Cancer
Authors: Cadoo Karen A. , McArdle Orla , O'Shea Anne-Marie , Power Colm P. , Hennessy Bryan T.
Published: July 2012

There is increased understanding of the heterogeneity of breast tumors, with greater emphasis now being placed on histological and molecular profiles and, in particular, their implications for prognosis and therapy. This review addresses breast cancers of unusual histological subtype with an approximate incidence ≤1%. Given the rarity of these tumors, the literature contains primarily case reports, small series, and population-based studies. Data are heterogeneous and almost entirely retrospective, frequently gathered over long time periods, in the context of changing pathological techniques and reporting. In addition, our understanding of the disease biology and therapeutic context has also evolved significantly over this time. There is often limited information about the specific therapies used and the rationale for choosing such an approach. Meaningful comparisons of treatment modalities are not feasible and it is not possible to define management guidelines. Instead, this review correlates the available information to give an impression of how each subgroup behaves—of the favored surgical technique, responses to therapy, and prognosis—as well as the emerging molecular data, highlighting new research areas for potential target in clinical trials. Each tumor subtype described represents a small but real cohort of patients with breast cancer, and although inferences may be made from this review, we are mindful of the paucity of data. The management of each patient must be considered in the context of their unique clinical presentation and correlated with the evidence-based principles that apply to more common breast cancer histologies.
Design and development of a low-cost thermal response rig
Authors: Hemmingway Phil , Long Mike
Published: July 2012

A thermal response test is a controlled in situ test during which a known quantity of heat energy is injected into a closed loop heat-exchanger pipe while the heat dissipation rate into the surrounding ground is monitored. Results from a test can be interpreted to determine a number of ground thermal parameters that are vital design requirements for any medium- to large-scale ground-source energy system. This paper describes the design and construction of a low-cost thermal response test rig and compares the results obtained from a test using the constructed rig and a commercially built rig in order to evaluate the accuracy of the constructed equipment. The thermal response test rig is designed in accordance with the following principles: keep construction costs low, improve the cost-efficiency of thermal response test testing by incorporating remote data transmission capability and ensure attainment of sufficient accuracy to satisfy the design requirements of ground-source energy systems. Analysis of data collected by the thermal response test rigs results in a calculated thermal conductivity of 1·9 W/mK in both cases. This value falls within the range expected for the tested geological formation and confirms the accuracy of both test rigs.
Precipitation‐driven carbon balance controls survivorship of desert biocrust mosses
Authors: Coe Kirsten K. , Belnap Jayne , Sparks Jed P.
Published: July 2012

Precipitation patterns including the magnitude, timing, and seasonality of rainfall are predicted to undergo substantial alterations in arid regions in the future, and desert organisms may be more responsive to such changes than to shifts in only mean annual rainfall. Soil biocrust communities (consisting of cyanobacteria, lichen, and mosses) are ubiquitous to desert ecosystems, play an array of ecological roles, and display a strong sensitivity to environmental changes. Crust mosses are particularly responsive to changes in precipitation and exhibit rapid declines in biomass and mortality following the addition of small rainfall events. Further, loss of the moss component in biocrusts leads to declines in crust structure and function. In this study, we sought to understand the physiological responses of the widespread and often dominant biocrust moss Syntrichia caninervis to alterations in rainfall. Moss samples were collected during all four seasons and exposed to two rainfall event sizes and three desiccation period (DP) lengths. A carbon balance approach based on single precipitation events was used to define the carbon gain or loss during a particular hydration period. Rainfall event size was the strongest predictor of carbon balance, and the largest carbon gains were associated with the largest precipitation events. In contrast, small precipitation events resulted in carbon deficits for S. caninervis. Increasing the length of the DP prior to an event resulted in reductions in carbon balance, probably because of the increased energetic cost of hydration following more intense bouts of desiccation. The season of collection (i.e., physiological status of the moss) modulated these responses, and the effects of DP and rainfall on carbon balance were different in magnitude (and often in sign) for different seasons. In particular, S. caninervis displayed higher carbon balances in the winter than in the summer, even for events of identical size. Overall, our results suggest that annual carbon balance and survivorship in biocrust mosses are largely driven by precipitation, and because of the role mosses play in biocrusts, changes in intra‐annual precipitation patterns can have implications for hydrology, soil stability, and nutrient cycling in dryland systems.
The Impact of Choice and Control on Women’s Childbirth Experiences
Authors: Cook Katie , Loomis Colleen
Published: July 2012

Women’s choice and control impact birthing experiences. This study used a qualitative, descriptive approach to explore how women develop their initial birth plan and how changes made to the plan affect overall birth experiences. Narrative, semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 women who had given birth in Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada, and data were analyzed using a phenomenological approach. Findings showed that women relied on many resources when planning a birth and that changes made to a woman’s initial birth plan affected her recollection of the birth experience. Conclusions are that women’s positive and negative recollections of their birth experiences are related more to feelings and exertion of choice and control than to specific details of the birth experience.
Corrosion Performance of Austenitic Stainless Steel Bipolar Plates for Nafion- and Room-Temperature Ionic-Liquid-Based PEMFCs
Authors: Mele Claudio , Bozzini Benedetto
Published: July 2012

In this paper we study the corrosion of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel PEMFC bipolar plates in aqueous and
room-temperature ionic-liquid electrolytes. The anodic potential thresholds and dynamics have been investigated by
electrochemical (potentiodynamic and potentiostatic) and in situ spectroelectrochemical methods (visible
electroreflectance and VIS-UV spectroellipsometry). We measured the values of damage potentials and we followed the
time evolution of corrosion current and reflectivity above and below the pitting potential, obtaining an accurate
characterisation of the surface conditions under oxidative attack. The ability of AISI 304 to repassivate in Cl¯-containing
aqueous solution as well as the amount of residual surface damage have been assessed quantitatively by following
electrode reflectivity under applied potential. Outstanding inertness of AISI 304 in [BMP][TFSA] was proved. The results
of this work show that low-cost AISI 304 is a promising interconnect material for both Nafion- and RTIL-based PEMFCs.
The Relationship of Narcissism with Workaholism, Work Engagement, and Professional Position
Authors: Andreassen Cecilie Schou , Ursin Holger , Eriksen Hege R. , Pallesen Ståle
Published: July 2012

We examined scores on the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI; Raskin & Terry, 1988) in relation to drive to work, enjoyment of and engagement in work, and professional position. A sample of 235 Norwegian bank employees completed a cross-sectional survey. We found that managers
scored higher than subordinates on all measures. NPI scores correlated significantly and positively with drive, enjoyment of and engagement in work. Multiple regression analyses controlling for demographic and work variables showed that narcissism was significantly related to enjoyment of
work and work engagement but unrelated to drive. Although the associations were rather weak, our findings support previous clinical observations of narcissistic traits in workaholics as well as findings in empirical research on narcissistic traits in managers.
Stress-Amplifying Effects of Negative Social Exchanges Among Female Japanese College Students
Authors: Fukukawa Yasuyuki
Published: July 2012

The role of negative social exchanges that amplify the association between stressor and depressive symptoms was examined. Data collected from 121 female college students (mean age = 18.9, SD = 0.7) were analyzed to determine whether the effect of life event stress on depression
differs depending on participants' negative exchanges with members of their social network. The results indicated that the association between the total number of experienced life events and depressive symptoms was not amplified by negative exchanges. However, analyses testing life events
individually indicated that negative exchanges significantly amplified the association of depressive symptoms with life events that were related to participants' financial strain or salient social roles.
The Relationship Between Appearance-Related Stress and Internalizing Problems in South Korean Adolescent Girls
Authors: Lee Julie
Published: July 2012

I examined the relationship between appearance-related stress and internalizing problems in adolescent girls in South Korea. A total of 1,320 girls who were beginning Grade 4 (M age = 9.8) were assessed annually for 5 years. I conducted an analysis using a cross-lagged autoregressive
model and 5 waves of longitudinal data from the Korea Youth Panel Study carried out by the National Youth Policy Institute (2008), a nationally representative sample of Korean adolescents. Appearance-related stress experienced during Grade 5 was found to cause problems of internalization in
Grade 6, and problems of internalization in Grades 6 and 7 was found to induce appearance-related stress in Grades 7 and 8 (M age = 13.8), respectively. The social pressure that young women in South Korea face to maintain a certain type of appearance is discussed in a cultural context.
Predicting Cheating Behavior: A Longitudinal Study with Chinese Business Students
Authors: Yang Jianfeng
Published: July 2012

The theory of planned behavior (Ajzen, 1985) was applied to predict Chinese business students' cheating behavior. Chinese business students (N = 205; response rate, 77.6%) were surveyed at 2 time points separated by 1 month. Attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control,
cheating intention, and demographic information were recorded at Time 1, and self-reported subsequent cheating behavior was measured at Time 2. The results show that attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were positively associated with the intention to cheat and cheating
behavior; that subjective norms could impact significantly on attitude; and that perceived behavioral control had a direct effect on cheating behavior, but did not influence cheating behavior through the medium of intention. Finally, I developed a modified version of the theory of planned
behavior designed to predict Chinese students' cheating behavior effectively.
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE FUTURE RELATIONSHIP OF HOSPITAL PROCUREMENT STAFF WITH MEDICAL DEVICE SUPPLIERS
Authors: Chao Cheng-Min , Cheng Bor-Wen
Published: July 2012

We explored whether or not trust and commitment play important roles in supply chain management and can affect future relationships between hospitals and suppliers. We conducted a survey of medical supplies procurement staff at local community hospitals, regional hospitals, and medical
centers in Taiwan, using a self-report survey. Structural equation modeling revealed no significant effect of the supplier's reputation or relationship tenure on trust within, and commitment to, future dealings. However, both communication and perceived benefits had positive effects on trust.
In addition, trust had a significantly positive effect on the future relationship, whereas the effect of commitment was nonsignificant. The results also confirmed that trust can play an important role as a mediating variable.
Effective atomic numbers, electron densities, and tissue equivalence of some gases and mixtures for dosimetry of radiation detectors
Authors: Singh Vishwanath , Badiger Nagappa
Published: July 2012

Total mass attenuation coefficients, ?m, effective atomic number, Zeff, and
effective electron density, Neff, of different gases - carbon dioxide,
methane, acetylene, propane, butane, and pentane used in radiation detectors,
have been calculated for the photon energy of 1 keV to 100 GeV. Each gas has
constant Zeff values between 0.10 to 10 MeV photon energies; however, these
values are way far away from ICRU tissue. Carbon dioxide gas shows the
closest tissue equivalence in the entire photon energy spectrum. Relative
tissue equivalences of the mixtures of gases with respect to ICRU tissue are
in the range of 0.998-1.041 for air, argon (4.5%) + methane (95.5%), argon
(0.5%) + carbon dioxide (99.5%), and nitrogen (5%) + methane (7%) + carbon
dioxide (88%). The gas composition of xenon (0.5%) + carbon dioxide (99.5%)
shows 1.605 times higher tissue equivalence compared to the ICRU tissue. The
investigated photon interaction parameters are useful for exposure and energy
absorption buildup factors calculation and design, and fabrication of gaseous
detectors for ambient radiation measurement by the Geiger-Muller detector,
ionization chambers and proportional counters.
Biomonitoring of 137Cs, 40K, 232Th, and 238U using oak bark in Belgrade forest, Istanbul, Turkey
Authors: Kilic Onder
Published: July 2012

In the present study, the bark of oak trees (Quercus petraea Liebl.) was
collected from Belgrade Forest northwest of Istanbul for determination of
137Cs, 40K, 232Th, and 238U activity. A gamma spectrometer equipped with
high-purity germanium detector was used for radioactivity measurement. Bark
samples were collected from the northern and southern sides of trees at a
height of 1.5 m above the ground in order to see the effects of rainfall and
wind; and they were also collected from the northern side at a height of 0.5
m above the ground to assess the effect of soil splash. The activity
concentrations of 137Cs, 40K, 232Th, and 238U in the bark samples were found
to vary in the range of 1.40-27.50, 45.0-221.2, 0.92-9.64, and 4.04-36.10
Bq/kg, respectively. The elevated activity of 238U in bark samples could be
attributed to a large amount of coal combustion in the region until the
1990s. According to one-way ANOVA, a significant difference was not found in
bark samples collected at a height of 0.5 m and 1.5 m above the ground in
terms of radionuclide activity. There was also no significant variation
regarding radionuclide accumulation between northern and southern sides.
The influence of gamma radiation on polarization mode dispersion of fibers applied in communications
Authors: Sekulic Rade , Slavkovic Nikola , Sreckovic Milesa , Kovacevic Milojko , Stamenovic Miljan
Published: July 2012

The fiber optics technology is constantly being developed, and is becoming an
essential component of contemporary communications, medicine and industry.
Fibers, their connections and system components play a major role in optical
signal transmission, telecommunications, power transmission, and sensing
processes using fiber technology. The two main light propagation
characteristics of an optical fiber are attenuation and dispersion. The
possibility of controling these parameters is of utmost importance for
obtaining the requested transmission quality. This paper reports on an
investigation to determine the influence of gamma radiation of 60Co on the
variation of optical fiber propagation parameters, such as polarization mode
dispersion. In addition, it also considers chosen topics in the field of
fiber optics technology.
Human reliability analysis in low power and shut-down probabilistic safety assessment: Outcomes of an international initiative
Authors: Manna Giustino , Holy Jaroslav , Kuzmina Irina
Published: July 2012

Since the beginning of the nuclear power generation, human performance has
been a very important factor in all phases of the plant lifecycle: design,
commissioning, operation, maintenance, surveillance, modification, and
decommissioning. This aspect has been confirmed by the operating experience.
A workshop was organized by the IAEA and the Joint Research Centre of the
European Commission, on Harmonization of low power and shutdown probabilistic
safety assessment for WWER nuclear power plants. One of the major objectives
of the Workshop was to provide a comparison of the approaches and results of
human reliability analyses for WWER 440 and WWER 1000, and gain insights for
future application of human reliability analyses in Low Power and Shutdown
scenarios. This paper provides the insights and conclusions of the workshops
concerning human reliability analyses and human factors.
The Impact of Quadriceps Femoris Strength Asymmetry on Functional Performance at Return to Sport Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Schmitt Laura C. , Paterno Mark V. , Hewett Timothy E.
Published: July 2012

Study Design

Cross-sectional study.

Objectives

To investigate the impact of quadriceps femoris (QF) muscle strength asymmetry at the time of return to sport on self-reported function and functional performance of individuals following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Background

Evidence-based QF strength guidelines for return-to-sport decision making are lacking. Objective guidelines necessitate understanding the impact of QF strength deficits at the time of return to sport on function and performance.

Methods

Fifty-five individuals (mean age, 17.3 years) who were cleared for return to sport following primary ACLR (ACLR group) and 35 uninjured individuals (mean age, 17.0 years) in a control group participated in the study. QF strength (maximum voluntary isometric contraction) was assessed, and the quadriceps index (QI) was calculated [(involved strength/uninvolved strength) × 100%]. The ACLR group was further subdivided into 2 groups, based on the QI: high quadriceps (QI of 90% or greater) and low quadriceps (QI of less than 85%). The International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation Form score was used to assess self-reported function, and hop tests were used to assess functional performance. Multivariate analysis of variance and hierarchical regression analyses were performed.

Results

The individuals in the ACLR group were weaker, reported worse function, and performed worse on hop tests compared to those in the control group (P<.05). The low-quadriceps group demonstrated worse performance on the hop tests compared to the high-quadriceps group and the control group (P≤.016). Hop test performance did not differ between the high-quadriceps and control groups (P≥.14). QF strength predicted performance on the hop tests beyond graft type, presence of meniscus injury, knee pain, and knee symptoms.

Conclusion

At the time of return to sport, individuals post-ACLR who had weaker QF (QI of less than 85%) demonstrated decreased function, whereas those with minimal QF strength deficits (QI of 90% or greater) demonstrated functional performance similar to uninjured individuals. QF strength deficits predicted hop test performance beyond the influences of graft type, presence of meniscus injury, knee pain, and knee symptoms. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(9):750–759, Epub 19 July 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.4194
Direct and Efficient Plant Regeneration from Different Explants Sources of Potato Cultivars as Influenced by Plant Growth Regulators
Authors: Dhital Shambhu P. , Lim Hak T. , Manandhar Hira K.
Published: July 2012

Response of widely grown potato cv. Superior and newly developed cvs. Gui valley and Bora valley to plant growth regulators (PGRs) for direct plant regeneration from internode, leaf blade and petiole explants were investigated. The explants were cultured on a MS solid medium supplemented with different concentrations and combinations of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), zeatin, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA3). Potato cv. Superior, regenerated direct shoot without callus and root formation on MS solid medium supplemented with BAP or zeatin, proliferous roots were produced on NAA or IAA supplemented medium and only some calli were produced on GA3 supplemented medium. The regeneration response varied with different concentrations of PGRs, singly and also in combinations. In the case of combined application of PGRs, the highest shoot regeneration (75.3%) and number of shoot per explant (11.5) and number of roots per explant (7.0) were obtained from the MS solid medium supplemented with zeatin (2 mg l-1), NAA (0.1 mg l-1) and GA3 0.1 mg l-1). Among the three types of explants evaluated, internodes produced the highest number of shoots and roots for both potato cvs. Gui valley and Bora valley, and petiole produced the least number of shoots and roots. The regenerated shoots were rooted in PGRs-free MS solid medium and successfully established under glasshouse condition. Leaf, flower, and tuber morphology were identical to in vitro control and mother plants in the same conditions. This optimized regeneration system can be used for rapid shoot proliferation and also for gene transformation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6471 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 1-6
Effect of Corm Size and Varieties on Corm/Cormels Production and Vase Life of Gladiolus
Authors: Joshi KR , Gautam DM , Baral DR , Pun UK
Published: July 2012

An experiment was conducted to assess the effect of corm size and varieties on corm/cormels production and vase life of gladiolus ( Gladious grandiflorus L.) under Chitwan condition. A Field experiment was conducted in a farmer’s field at Gunjanagar VDC, Chanauli, Chitawan during November 2008 to April 2009. The experiment consisted of 12 treatment combinations laid out in two factorial Randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Four sizes of corms viz. 2-3 cm, 3-4 cm, 4-5 cm and 5-6 cm and three varieties viz. American Beauty, Interpret and Yellow Summer Sunshine formed 12 treatment combinations. Laboratory experiment was conducted to determine the effect of corm size and varieties on the vase life of harvested cut spikes of gladiolus at ambient temperature at the central laboratory of the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Sciences (IAAS), Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal. Corm size and varieties significantly affected corm/cormels production and vase life of gladiolus. Large sized corms (5-6 cm) performed better with respect to number of daughter corms and cormels per plant. Similarly, large sized corms (5-6 cm) showed better performance with respect to postharvest behavior such as total number of florets opened/spike (11.40), days to first and 100% floret withering as compared to small sized (2-3 cm) corms. Significant variation among three varieties was observed in most of the characters. Numbers of daughter corms were found highest in Yellow Summer Sunshine while maximum numbers of cormels/plant were found in Interpret. Similarly, Interpret proved best having more number of florets opened per spike and more days needed to first and 100% floret withering.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6477 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 35-40
Effect of Non genetic Factors on Weight Traits of Local Tarai Goats under Farmers’ Managed Condition
Authors: Bhattarai Nirajan , Sapkota Saroj
Published: July 2012

A field study was carried out to characterize, evaluate and estimate the effect of non-genetic factors on the productive and reproductive performance of local Terai goats during March 2006 to February 2007 in Siraha, district. Altogether 206 dams and 318 kids of different age groups were identified for this study and data on productive performance was collected based on periodic field monitoring. The mean body weight of kids at birth, pre-weaning, weaning, and post weaning at 6 and at 8 months were was 2.23±0.04, 5.75±0.16, 10.18±0.23, 13.67±0.28, and 19.31±0.44 kg, respectively. Among the non-genetic factors, parity significantly (p<0.05) influenced but only to post-weaning weight of kids at 8 months. Post weaning weight of kids at 6 and 8 months significantly differed (p<0.05) with respect to sex, and birth type significantly differed to the body weight at birth (p<0.001), pre-weaning (p<0.01), weaning and at 6 months post-weaning (p<0.05) age. Thus, the results of this study suggested that the overall productivity of local Terai goat breed could be improved through selective breeding practices, especially by considering the non genetic factors such as, birth type and sex of kids.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6479 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 51-54
Biochemical Analysis for the Determination of Renal and Pancreatic Disorders in Dogs
Authors: Sharma Nisha , Shrestha Mukti N
Published: July 2012

A study was conducted to evaluate the renal and pancreatic disorders in the dogs from September to December 2010. One hundred serum samples were collected from one hundred dogs showing the common signs and symptoms of renal and pancreatic disorders. All the serum samples were analyzed in the Laboratory of the Vet Clinic, Krishnagalli, Lalitpur. The biochemical analysis for kidney function tests was Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine whereas for pancreatic disorders was alpha amylase test. The result showed the higher prevalence of both renal and pancreatic disorders together (25%) followed by pancreatic disorder which (24%) and renal disorders was (14%). Among breeds, pure breeds were found to have higher prevalence for both renal and pancreatic disorders (25.6%). Mongrels were found to have higher prevalence of pancreatic disorders (50%), and cross breeds had higher prevalence for renal disorders (38 %.) Among the pure breeds, German Shepherd had the higher prevalence. In sexwise distribution, males were more vulnerable than females. In the agewise prevalence, age groups of 5-10 were found to be more vulnerable for renal disorders followed by 10-15 and 0-5 years age group. Similarly, age groups of 10-15 were found to be highly vulnerable for pancreatic disorders followed by 5-10 and 0-5 years age group. This study, showed range value of BUN, Creatinine, and Alpha amylase were found to be 7-227 mg/dl, 0.6-41mg/dl and 112-2686 IU/L respectively.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6481 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 61-68
Pharmacological and Antagonistic Potentials of Mikania micrantha
Authors: Baral Bikash , Bhattarai Nabin , Vaidya Geeta Shrestha
Published: July 2012

The antimicrobial, chemical and allelopathical properties of invasive alien weed Mikania micrantha Kunth ex H.B.K were analyzed. The extraction was performed in different solvents by soxhlet extraction technique. Some bacteria (Acinetobacter sp. and Bacillus subtilis) were found to be highly inhibited, whereas the extract was found effective against Fusarium species (F. eridiforme) among the fungi. Of all the solvents used for extraction, methanolic hot extract showed good antimicrobial properties against tested pathogenic strains. The preliminary qualitative phytochemical assay divulged the presence of glycosides and quinones in the test plant. Germination rate was higher for all crops with control treatment. The germination rate decreased with the increase in the extract concentration and was found to be lowest at 5% concentration of extract. Generally, the radicle length of all bioassayed species decreased with increasing concentrations of Mikania, with Barley and Paddy being the most susceptible to the plant extract at full strength. The broad spectrum of activity of the extract indicated possibilities for wide use of M. micrantha for controlling the human pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungus that have been widely destroying crops.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6483 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 75-84
Additional Benefits of Community Managed Forest: A Case Study of Champadevi Community Forest
Authors: Panthi Bhanu B
Published: July 2012

This research attempts to identify the existing condition of the community managed forest based on the assumption that it will serve as a proxy for the condition of other forests in the mid hills region of Nepal. The research area has an atypical variation in altitude and diverse pattern of vegetation. This study mainly focuses on estimating carbon content in the forest and identifying the species that has more carbon storage capacity. The research signifies the role of forests in mitigation of ‘Global warming’ and ‘Climate change’ by storing carbon in tree biomass. These types of community based forest management programs are significant for their additional carbon sequestration through the avoidance of deforestation and degradation. The carbon sequestration have a significant contribution to environmental benefits, any shrinkage of forests have an enormous impact on CO2 emission with long term consequences. Thus, the development and expansion of community managed forests provide many benefits to the adjacent community and globally at large.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v12i0.6490 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 12 (2011) 127-32