bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Release kinetics of sulfadimidine sodium and trimethoprim from tablets containing different excipients prepared by wet granulation method
Authors: Zimmer Łukasz , Belniak Piotr , Szumiło Michał , Kasperek Regina , Poleszak Ewa
Published: October 2013

In this study seven tablet batches were prepared by wet granulation process using different excipients such as: superdisintegrant – croscarmellose sodium (Ac- Di- Sol), silicon dioxide (Aerosil), lactose, pregelatinized starch (CPharm Gel) and microcrystalline cellulose (Avicel pH- 101). Sulfadimidine sodium (SDD-Na) and trimethoprim (TMP) were used as model active substances. Tablets were evaluated for uniformity of weight, hardness, friability, drug content, disintegration time and dissolution properties. To study the release kinetics of the drugs, data obtained from in vitro drug release studies were plotted into the following kinetic models: zero order, first order, Higuchi, Hixson-Crowell and Korsmeyer-Peppas. The obtained results demonstrate that SDD-Na release kinetics was best described by Higuchi model followed by first order model. TMP release kinetics was best explained by first order model followed by Higuchi model. The Hixson-Crowell plot showed good linearity for SDD-Na and TMP. Release exponents values for Korsmeyer-Peppas model were characteristic for anomalous transport (non-Fickian) which appears to indicate a coupling of the diffusion and erosion mechanism or super case II transport refers mainly to the erosion of the polymeric chain.
Sterols and triterpenoids in selected plant species of the family Cyperaceae
Authors: Czop Marcin , Janyszek Magdalena , Och Anna , Och Marek , Bogucka-Kocka Anna Bogucka-Kocka Anna
Published: October 2013

Triterpenes and sterol fractions were isolated from the herb Scirpus maritimus L. and Carex Paradoxa Willd. by typical extraction with petroleum ether. The fraction of sterols was investigated us ing Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) techniques. The occurrence of cholesterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol 5α-stigmast-7EN-3α-ol has been observed in the Carex paradoxa Willd. Their percentage in the herb has been determined by quantitative analysis. The presence of campesterol, stigmasterol and a mixture of sitosterols in the herb Scirpus maritimus L. was indicated and its percentage in the herb was determined. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) was carried out to identify triterpenoids contained in investigated plants. By comparison with the standards of lupeol and β-amyrine the presence of lupeol and an unknown compound in Scirpus maritimus Willd. has been indicated. In the separation of triterpenoids Column Chromatography (CC) was used. Melting point of an unknown compound was marked, but it was unidentified because of lack of appropriate standards.
Determination of vitamin C and selected low molecular weight organic acids in aqueous extract of mulberry leaves used as dietary supplements
Authors: Gryn Anna , Sperkowska Beata , Bazylak Grzegorz
Published: October 2013

Some scientific reports indicate the possibility of using different parts of mulberry (Morus alba L.) as the source of bioactive compounds to prevent type 2 diabetes. The aim of the present study was to determine the content of vit. C (ascorbic acid) and four different low molecular weight organic acids (citric, malic, oxalic, tartaric) in aqueous extracts made from the two kinds of dietary supplements: 1) containing 100% of M. alba leaf (coded as SICOM) and 2) containing admixture of mulberry leaves and other medicinal herbs (MUCOM). The content of vitamin C was determined by Tillmans method, oxalic acid - by manganometric titration, tartaric acid - by colorimetric procedure, citric and malic acid by enzymatic assays. Total acidity (expressed as content of citric acid) was determined by potentiometric titration. The average content of vitamin C in aqueous extracts of SICOM was found as 0.30 mg/100 mL, while the concentration of individual acids were found to be in range: oxalic 12.66-32.34 mg/100 mL, tartaric 14.18-26.29 mg/100 mL, citric 9.74-19.99 mg/100 mL, malic 4.52-5.23 mg/100 mL. Aqueous extracts prepared from SICOM containing coarse powder of mulberry leaves indicated the highest content of vitamin C and tartaric acid, respectively, 0.34 and 26.29 mg/100 mL, while the content of citric acid was the lowest (9.74 mg/100 mL). The results of chemometric analysis with PCA method showed that measured profile of vitamin C and the four low molecular weight organic acids could be used for superior differentiation of aqueous extracts obtained from SICOM and MUCOM dietary supplements, as well as enabling to distinguish such extracts prepared from the fine and coarse powdered mulberry leaves in these supplements.
Should we be using social security benefits data as proxies for income poverty?
Authors: Fenton Alex
Published: October 2013

Administrative data on means-tested benefits have come to be widely used as proxy measures of local poverty rates in the UK. Two such uses are described: allocating funding to local government, and constructing neighbourhood deprivation indices. The paper argues that such uses risk errors of both measurement and interpretation. Income poverty is conventionally defined against percentages of national median income. The paper shows that out-of-work means-tested benefit claims are valid, but incomplete, proxies for income poverty so conceived. Further, there is considerable regional variation in the statistical relationship between rates of income poverty and rates of benefit claims. Benefits data should be used only with caution to describe spatial differences in poverty.
Social impact bonds: a wolf in sheep's clothing?
Authors: McHugh Neil , Sinclair Stephen , Roy Michael , Huckfield Leslie , Donaldson Cam
Published: October 2013

This article provides a rounded critique of social impact bonds (SIBs): a newly developed and innovative financial investment model, developed in the UK and starting to spread internationally that could transform the provision of social services. Although SIBs have the potential to influence delivery by all providers, this article raises three concerns about their possible effects – in relation to their potential outcomes, unintended consequences for the UK third sector, and governance – and then reflects on SIBs as the latest manifestation of the ideological shift which the UK third sector is undergoing.
Characterization of Silver Halide Fiber Optics and Hollow Silica Waveguides for Use in the Construction of a Mid-Infrared Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR FT-IR) Spectroscopy Probe
Authors: Damin Craig A. , Sommer André J.
Published: October 2013

Advances in fiber optic materials have allowed for the construction of fibers and waveguides capable of transmitting infrared radiation. An investigation of the transmission characteristics associated with two commonly used types of infrared-transmitting fibers/waveguides for prospective use in a fiber/waveguide-coupled attenuated total internal reflection (ATR) probe was performed. Characterization of silver halide polycrystalline fiber optics and hollow silica waveguides was done on the basis of the transmission of infrared light using a conventional fiber optic coupling accessory and an infrared microscope. Using the fiber optic coupling accessory, the average percent transmission for three silver halide fibers was 18.1 ± 6.1% relative to a benchtop reflection accessory. The average transmission for two hollow waveguides (HWGs) using the coupling accessory was 8.0 ± 0.3%. (Uncertainties in the relative percent transmission represent the standard deviations.) Reduced transmission observed for the HWGs was attributed to the high numerical aperture of the coupling accessory. Characterization of the fibers/waveguides using a zinc selenide lens objective on an infrared microscope indicated 24.1 ± 7.2% of the initial light input into the silver halide fibers was transmitted. Percent transmission obtained for the HWGs was 98.7 ± 0.1%. Increased transmission using the HWGs resulted from the absence or minimization of insertion and scattering losses due to the hollow air core and a better-matched numerical aperture. The effect of bending on the transmission characteristics of the fibers/waveguides was also investigated. Significant deviations in the transmission of infrared light by the solid-core silver halide fibers were observed for various bending angles. Percent transmission greater than 98% was consistently observed for the HWGs at the bending angles. The combined benefits of high percent transmission, reproducible instrument responses, and increased bending tolerance indicated HWGs should be preferred in the construction of a fiber/waveguide-coupled ATR probe.
A Comparative Study of Pressure-Dependent Emission Characteristics in Different Gas Plasmas Induced by Nanosecond and Picosecond Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) Lasers
Authors: Abdulmadjid Syahrun Nur , Idris Nasrullah , Marpaung Alion Mangasi , Pardede Marincan , Jobiliong Eric , Hedwig Rinda , Suliyanti Maria Margaretha , Ramli Muliadi , Suyanto Heri , Kagawa Kiichiro , Tjia May On , Lie Zener Sukra , Lie Tjung Jie , Kurniawan Hendrik Koo
Published: October 2013

An experimental study has been performed on the pressure-dependent plasma emission intensities in Ar, He, and N2 surrounding gases with the plasma induced by either nanosecond (ns) or picosecond (ps) yttrium aluminum garnet laser. The study focused on emission lines of light elements such as H, C, O, and a moderately heavy element of Ca from an agate target. The result shows widely different pressure effects among the different emission lines, which further vary with the surrounding gases used and also with the different ablation laser employed. It was found that most of the maximum emission intensities can be achieved in Ar gas plasma generated by ps laser at low gas pressure of around 5 Torr. This experimental condition is particularly useful for spectrochemical analysis of light elements such as H, C, and O, which are known to suffer from intensity diminution at higher gas pressures. Further measurements of the spatial distribution and time profiles of the emission intensities of H I 656.2 nm and Ca II 396.8 nm reveal the similar role of shock wave excitation for the emission in both ns and ps laser-induced plasmas, while an additional early spike is observed in the plasma generated by the ps laser. The suggested preference of Ar surrounding gas and ps laser was further demonstrated by outperforming the ns laser in their applications to depth profiling of the H emission intensity and offering the prospect for the development of three-dimensional analysis of a light element such as H and C.
Mapping of Leaf Water Content Using Near-Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Higa Sakura , Kobori Hikaru , Tsuchikawa Satoru
Published: October 2013

In this study, near-infrared hyperspectral imaging was applied to predict the water content of golden pothos ( Epipremnum aureum) leaves, after which partial least squares regression (PLSR) analysis was performed to predict their averaged water content. The resulting predictive model was then applied to each single-pixel spectra in order to construct a water content image that could be used to evaluate the model's applicability to the single-pixel spectra through partial least squares score comparisons between the averaged spectra used for calibration and the single-pixel spectra. In the next phase, it was determined that a rebuilt PLSR predictive model based on the averaged spectra of an applicable pixel showed higher prediction accuracy than that of the original model. This study provides effective information about the limitations of prediction mapping and the optimization of pixel selections for better calibrations.
Quantitative Assessment of Hydrocarbon Contamination in Soil Using Reflectance Spectroscopy: A “Multipath” Approach
Authors: Schwartz Guy , Ben-Dor Eyal , Eshel Gil
Published: October 2013

Petroleum hydrocarbons are contaminants of great significance. The commonly used analytic method for assessing total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in soil samples is based on extraction with 1,1,2-Trichlorotrifluoroethane (Freon 113), a substance prohibited to use by the Environmental Protection Agency. During the past 20 years, a new quantitative methodology that uses the reflected radiation of solids has been widely adopted. By using this approach, the reflectance radiation across the visible, near infrared–shortwave infrared region (400–2500 nm) is modeled against constituents determined using traditional analytic chemistry methods and then used to predict unknown samples. This technology is environmentally friendly and permits rapid and cost-effective measurements of large numbers of samples. Thus, this method dramatically reduces chemical analytical costs and secondary pollution, enabling a new dimension of environmental monitoring. In this study we adapted this approach and developed effective steps in which hydrocarbon contamination in soils can be determined rapidly, accurately, and cost effectively solely from reflectance spectroscopy. Artificial contaminated samples were analyzed chemically and spectrally to form a database of five soils contaminated with three types of petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs), creating 15 datasets of 48 samples each at contamination levels of 50–5000 wt% ppm (parts per million). A brute force preprocessing approach was used by combining eight different preprocessing techniques with all possible datasets, resulting in 120 different mutations for each dataset. The brute force was done based on an innovative computing system developed for this study. A new parameter for evaluating model performance scoring (MPS) is proposed based on a combination of several common statistical parameters. The effect of dividing the data into training validation and test sets on modeling accuracy is also discussed. The results of this study clearly show that predicting TPH levels at low concentrations in selected soils at high precision levels is viable. Dividing a dataset into training, validation, and test groups affects the modeling process, and different preprocessing methods, alone or in combination, need to be selected based on soil type and PHC type. MPS was found to be a better parameter for selecting the best performing model than ratio of prediction to deviation, yielding models with the same performance but less complicated and more stable. The use of the “all possibilities” system proved to be mandatory for efficient optimal modeling of reflectance spectroscopy data.
A Fluorescent Nanoprobe Based on Graphene Oxide Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer for the Rapid Determination of Oncoprotein Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)
Authors: Wang Sheng-E , Si Shihui
Published: October 2013

Oncoprotein vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most critical growth factors that regulates tumor growth and division. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is also an important biomarker for different diseases and clinical disorders. Herein, we propose a graphene oxide (GO) fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based aptasensor for rapid, sensitive, and selective detection of VEGF in homogeneous solution. The fluorescent dye-labeled anti-VEGF aptamer is adsorbed on the surface of GO via π-π interaction between the flat planar GO sheets and the ring structures in the nucleobases, which results in the fluorescence quenching of the dye due to the highly effective FRET from the dye to GO. Upon recognition and binding with the target VEGF, it specifically forms a VEGF/aptamer complex and then release from the GO surface, leading to the restoration of fluorescence signal of the dye. This GO-based sensing platform exhibits high sensitivity and specificity toward VEGF versus other proteins, with the detection limits corresponding to 2.5 × 10−10 M. The sensitivity of this new type of aptamer-based assay is at least one order of magnitude higher than that of conventional homogeneous optical assays. Moreover, the application of this nanosensor for human serum sample analysis is also demonstrated. The GO/aptamer-based assay approach holds great promise as a general platform for detection of a variety of target molecules.
A Review on the Applications of Portable Near-Infrared Spectrometers in the Agro-Food Industry
Authors: dos Santos Cláudia A. Teixeira , Lopo Miguel , Páscoa Ricardo N.M.J. , Lopes João A.
Published: October 2013

Industry has created the need for a cost-effective and nondestructive quality-control analysis system. This requirement has increased interest in near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, leading to the development and marketing of handheld devices that enable new applications that can be implemented in situ. Portable NIR spectrometers are powerful instruments offering several advantages for nondestructive, online, or in situ analysis: small size, low cost, robustness, simplicity of analysis, sample user interface, portability, and ergonomic design. Several studies of on-site NIR applications are presented: characterization of internal and external parameters of fruits and vegetables; conservation state and fat content of meat and fish; distinguishing among and quality evaluation of beverages and dairy products; protein content of cereals; evaluation of grape ripeness in vineyards; and soil analysis. Chemometrics is an essential part of NIR spectroscopy manipulation because wavelength-dependent scattering effects, instrumental noise, ambient effects, and other sources of variability may complicate the spectra. As a consequence, it is difficult to assign specific absorption bands to specific functional groups. To achieve useful and meaningful results, multivariate statistical techniques (essentially involving regression techniques coupled with spectral preprocessing) are therefore required to extract the information hidden in the spectra. This work reviews the evolution of the use of portable near-infrared spectrometers in the agro-food industry.
News coverage of the 2010 Iraqi general elections
Authors: Al-Rawi Ahmed K. , Gunter Barrie
Published: October 2013

This study investigates the tone of election news coverage in the evening newscasts of four Iraqi satellite TV channels: Iraqia (government-run), Furat (Shiite), Hurria (Kurdish) and Baghdad (Sunni) for two weeks leading up to the general election. A total sample of 56 evening newscasts containing 857 news stories that were related to the election was analysed. Although all channels claimed to be addressing all Iraqis and to be following the principles of professional journalism, the evidence presented here argues that all four channels disregarded professional news values. Even the state-run al-Iraqia channel, that is supposed to be independent, showed preferences for some topics over others.
The ‘ancient’ body of modern Yoga: The influence of Ramanuja on Iyengar Yoga and the use of Yoga in actor training
Authors: Kapsali Maria
Published: October 2013

Yoga is one of the most popular leisure activities that flourish in contemporary western societies and also one of the most common non-theatrical disciplines used in performer training. This article focuses on the pedagogy that underlies the practice of yoga and poses and outlines two different ways of practising: the active and passive. It draws links between the pedagogy of modern yoga and the conceptualization of the human body in the pre-modern religious doctrine of Ramanuja. Based on this account, it presents the ways in which yoga can inform the actor’s work with different dramaturgies. In this manner, this article aims to examine modern yoga from a perspective that has been neglected so far and also proposes additional ways in which yoga may be used in actor training.
Quantification of linezolid in serum by LC-MS/MS using semi-automated sample preparation and isotope dilution internal standardization
Authors: Zander Johannes , Maier Barbara , Zoller Michael , Teupser Daniel , Vogeser Michael
Published: October 2013

Background: Linezolid serum concentrations have been shown to be highly variable in critically ill patients with often sub-therapeutic drug levels regarding minimal inhibitory concentrations for relevant pathogens. Consequently, therapeutic drug monitoring of linezolid must be considered, requiring a reliable and convenient analytical method. We therefore developed and validated an LC-MS/MS method applying isotope dilution internal standardization and on-line solid phase extraction for serum linezolid quantification.

Methods: Sample preparation was based on protein precipitation and on-line solid phase extraction with two-dimensional liquid chromatography and column switching. Three-fold deuterated linezolid was used as the internal standard. The method was validated involving two separate LC-MS/MS systems covering the concentration range of 0.13–32 mg/L. The run time was 4 min.

Results: Validation revealed good analytical performance, with inaccuracy <6% and imprecision of <7.3% (CV) for six quality control samples (0.38–16.0 mg/L). The method was found to be robust during the validation process and during a pharmacokinetic study so far involving 600 samples. Comparative measurements on two LC-MS/MS systems revealed close agreement.

Conclusions: This LC-MS/MS assay described herein is a convenient, robust and reliable method for linezolid quantification in serum which can be routinely applied using different LC-MS/MS systems. The method can be used for clinical studies and subsequent TDM of linezolid.
Microstructural Investigation of W-Cu Composite and 1Cr18Ni9 Stainless Steel Brazed Joint with Ag-Cu Filler Metal
Authors: Xia C. Z. , Liang Q. H. , Zou J. S. , Xu X. P.
Published: October 2013

Abstract: Tungsten-copper (W-Cu) composite and 1Cr18Ni9 stainless steel were brazed with Ag-28wt%Cu brazing filler metal in a vacuum furnace, via controlling brazing temperature 855–865 °C and holding time 30 min. Microstructure, microhardness, four-point bend strength, element distribution and phase constituents near interface of the brazed joint, were investigated by a series of standard technique. Results indicated that Ag-Cu eutectic phase near W-Cu composite side and the bulk phase near 1Cr18Ni9 steel side were formed in the brazing seam region. Microhardness of the eutectic phase was low, while that of the bulk copper-rich phase was high. Four-point bend strength was as high as 576 MPa, and the fracture occurred at interface near 1Cr18Ni9 steel side. On the brazed interface, Cu and a little W element were transited from W-Cu composite into the brazing seam region, as same as Fe from 1Cr18Ni9 steel. Ag contained in the brazing filler metal was diffused into the W-Cu composite. Element concentration of Ag was high at interface of both two base metals, which was helpful to promote the metallurgical reaction. Phase constituents of the brazed joint were Cu(Ag, Fe), Ag(Cu) and a little of Ag0.7Fe0.3 and FeCu4, formed in the metallurgy of Fe from 1Cr18Ni9 steel and the Ag-Cu brazing filler metal.
Drying Kinetics, Biochemical and Functional Properties of Products in Convective Drying ofAnchovy (Engraulis anchoita) Fillets
Authors: de Moraes Kelly , de Almeida Pinto Luiz Antonio
Published: October 2013

The aim of this work was to study the convective drying of anchovy (Engraulis anchoita) fillets and to evaluate the final product characteristics through its biochemical and functional properties. The drying temperatures were of 50, 60 and 70°C, and the fillet samples were dried with the skins down (with air flow one or the two sides) and skins up (with air flow one side). The drying experimental data were analyzed by Henderson–Pabis model, which showed a good fit (R
2 > 0.99 and REQM < 0.05). The moisture effective diffusivity values ranged from 4.1 × 10–10 to 8.6 × 10–10 m2 s−1 with the skin down and 2.2 × 10–10 to 5.5 × 10–10 m2 s−1 with the skin up, and the activation energy values were 32.2 and 38.4 kJ mol−1, respectively. The product characteristics were significantly affected (p < 0.05) by drying operation conditions. The lower change was in drying at 60°C with air flow for two sides of the samples and skin up. In this condition, the product showed solubility 22.3%; in vitro digestibility 87.4%; contents of available lysine and methionine 7.21 and 2.64 g 100 g−1, respectively; TBA value 1.16 mgMDA kg−1; specific antioxidant activity was 1.91 mMDPPH g−1 min−1, and variation total color was 10.72.
Optical microfibers and nanofibers
Authors: Wu Xiaoqin , Tong Limin
Published: October 2013

As a combination of fiber optics and nanotechnology, optical microfibers and nanofibers (MNFs) have been emerging as a novel platform for exploring fiber-optic technology on the micro/nanoscale. Typically, MNFs taper drawn from glass optical fibers or bulk glasses show excellent surface smoothness, high homogeneity in diameter and integrity, which bestows these tiny optical fibers with low waveguiding losses and outstanding mechanical properties. Benefitting from their wavelength- or sub-wavelength-scale transverse dimensions, waveguiding MNFs exhibit a number of interesting properties, including tight optical confinement, strong evanescent fields, evident surface field enhancement and large and abnormal waveguide dispersion, which makes them ideal nanowaveguides for coherently manipulating light, and connecting fiber optics with near-field optics, nonlinear optics, plasmonics, quantum optics and optomechanics on the wavelength- or sub-wavelength scale. Based on optical MNFs, a variety of technological applications, ranging from passive micro-couplers and resonators, to active devices such as lasers and optical sensors, have been reported in recent years. This review is intended to provide an up-to-date introduction to the fabrication, characterization and applications of optical MNFs, with emphasis on recent progress in our research group. Starting from a brief introduction of fabrication techniques for physical drawing glass MNFs in Section 2, we summarize MNF optics including waveguiding modes, evanescent coupling, and bending loss of MNFs in Section 3. In Section 4, starting from a “MNF tree” that summarizes the applications of MNFs into 5 categories (waveguide & near field optics, nonlinear optics, plasmonics, quantum & atom optics, optomechanics), we go to details of typical technological applications of MNFs, including optical couplers, interferometers, gratings, resonators, lasers and sensors. Finally in Section 5 we present a brief summary of optical MNFs regarding their current challenges and future opportunities.
Tip enhanced Raman scattering: plasmonic enhancements for nanoscale chemical analysis
Authors: Schultz Zachary D. , Marr James M. , Wang Hao
Published: October 2013

Tip enhanced Raman scattering (TERS) is an emerging technique that uses a metalized scanning probe microscope tip to spatially localize electric fields that enhances Raman scattering enabling chemical imaging on nanometer dimensions. Arising from the same principles as surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), TERS offers unique advantages associated with controling the size, shape, and location of the enhancing nanostructure. In this article we discuss the correlations between current understanding of SERS and how this relates to TERS, as well as how TERS provides new understanding and insights. The relationship between plasmon resonances and Raman enhancements is emphasized as the key to obtaining optimal TERS results. Applications of TERS, including chemical analysis of carbon nanotubes, organic molecules, inorganic crystals, nucleic acids, proteins, cells and organisms, are used to illustrate the information that can be gained. Under ideal conditions TERS is capable of single molecule sensitivity and sub-nanometer spatial resolution. The ability to control plasmonic enhancements for chemical analysis suggests new experiments and opportunities to understand molecular composition and interactions on the nanoscale.
Occupational Burnout and Severe Injuries: An Eight‐year Prospective Cohort Study among Finnish Forest Industry Workers
Authors: Ahola Kirsi , Salminen Simo , Toppinen‐Tanner Salla , Koskinen Aki , Väänänen Ari
Published: October 2013

Occupational Burnout and Severe Injuries: An Eight‐year Prospective Cohort Study among Finnish Forest Industry Workers : Kirsi AHOLA, et al. Development of Work and Work Organizations, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Finland—

Objectives

Burnout is a psychological consequence of prolonged work stress. Studies have shown that it is related to physical and mental disorders. The safety outcomes of burnout have been studied to a lesser extent and only in the work context. This study explored the effect of burnout on future severe injuries regardless of their context.

Methods

A total of 10,062 forest industry employees (77% men, 63% manual workers) without previous injuries participated in 1996 or 2000 in the “Still Working” study examining the work‐related antecedents of health and mortality. Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory‐General Survey. Injuries leading to death or hospitalization were regarded as severe. We extracted such injuries from independent national registers. The relationship between burnout and new injuries was analyzed using Cox proportional regression. The analyses were adjusted for age, sex, marital status, and occupational status.

Results

There were 788 new injuries over eight years. Injuries were more common among male and manual workers. After adjustments, each one‐unit increase in the burnout score was related to a 9% increase in the risk of injury (95% confidence interval: 1.02−1.17). Experiencing symptoms at least monthly was related to a 1.18‐fold adjusted injury risk (95% CI: 1.02−1.36). Of the subscales of burnout, exhaustion and cynicism but not lack of professional efficacy predicted injuries after adjustments.

Conclusions

In addition to mental and physical disorders, burnout predicts severe injuries. Developing work conditions and optimizing workload may enhance safety and decrease health expenses related to all injuries.
Growth of Polycrystalline Indium Phosphide Nanowires on Copper
Authors: Norris Kate J. , Zhang Junce , Fryauf David M. , Coleman Elane , Tompa Gary S. , Kobayashi Nobuhiko P.
Published: October 2013

Our nation discards more than 50% of the total input energy as waste heat in various industrial processes such as metal refining, heat engines, and cooling. If we could harness a small fraction of the waste heat through the use of thermoelectric (TE) devices while satisfying the economic demands of cost versus performance, then TE power generation could bring substantial positive impacts to our society in the forms of reduced carbon emissions and additional energy. To increase the unit-less figure of merit, ZT, single-crystal semiconductor nanowires have been extensively studied as a building block for advanced TE devices because of their predicted large reduction in thermal conductivity and large increase in power factor. In contrast, polycrystalline bulk semiconductors also indicate their potential in improving overall efficiency of thermal-to-electric conversion despite their large number of grain boundaries. To further our goal of developing practical and economical TE devices, we designed a material platform that combines nanowires and polycrystalline semiconductors which are integrated on a metallic surface. We will assess the potential of polycrystalline group III-V compound semiconductor nanowires grown on low-cost copper sheets that have ideal electrical/thermal properties for TE devices. We chose indium phosphide (InP) from group III-V compound semiconductors because of its inherent characteristics of having low surface states density in comparison to others, which is expected to be important for polycrystalline nanowires that contain numerous grain boundaries. Using metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) polycrystalline InP nanowires were grown in three-dimensional networks in which electrical charges and heat travel under the influence of their characteristic scattering mechanisms over a distance much longer than the mean length of the constituent nanowires. We studied the growth mechanisms of polycrystalline InP nanowires on copper surfaces by analyzing their chemical, optical, and structural properties in comparison to those of single-crystal InP nanowires formed on single-crystal surfaces. We also assessed the potential of polycrystalline InP nanowires on copper surfaces as a TE material by modeling based on finite-element analysis to obtain physical insights of three-dimensional networks made of polycrystalline InP nanowires. Our discussion will focus on the synthesis of polycrystalline InP nanowires on copper surfaces and structural properties of the nanowires analyzed by transmission electron microscopy that provides insight into possible nucleation mechanisms, growth mechanisms, and the nature of grain boundaries of the nanowires.
Quaternary Chalcogenide Nanocrystals: Synthesis of Cu2ZnSnSe4 by Solid State Reaction and their Thermoelectric Properties
Authors: Farva Umme , Park Chan
Published: October 2013

In this paper, synthesis of Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) materials by using simple and cost-effective solid state reaction method from the elemental Cu, ZnO, SnO and elemental Se powders are carried out. The SEM images show spherical, non-uniform size with aggregation of nanopowders. The phase separation and thermal analysis of the milled powders suggested that most of the starting powders reacted because of a mechanical alloying effect during milling process. After the solid state reaction at above 500 °C, the nanopowders crystallized into stannite single phase, which are confirm by XRD spectra. The thermoelectric properties of synthesized powder are under study.
Harvest Time and Nitrogen Fertilization to Improve Bioenergy Feedstock Yield and Quality
Authors: Mohammed Yesuf Assen , Chen Chengci , Lee D. K.
Published: October 2013

Biomass from Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land can be used as a lignocellulosic bioenergy feedstock. This experiment investigated the effect of harvest timing and N rate on changes in species composition, biomass, cell wall composition, energy content, and post‐harvest soil nutrient content. The experiment was conducted from 2009 to 2012 in grass and alfalfa (Medicago sativaL.) mixed CRP land in central Montana in a split‐plot design with three replications. The main‐plot treatments were three N rates (0, 56, and 112 kg N ha–1), and subplot treatments were two harvest timings (July and October). Averaged across years, application of 112 kg N ha–1significantly increased total (alfalfa plus grass) biomass from 3175 to 3685 kg ha–1. As the N application rates increased, the species composition shifted, with an increase in grass and a decrease in alfalfa contributions to biomass. The increased N rates also increased N uptake in the grass but not the alfalfa. Nitrogen fertilization did not affect cell wall composition for grass or alfalfa. July harvesting significantly increased total biomass and the contribution of alfalfa by 27 and 82%, respectively, compared with October harvesting. October harvested biomass had higher cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and energy content than July harvest per unit biomass, yet energy per hectare was higher for the July harvest due to the higher biomass yield. Because the October harvest provided higher energy content, it would contribute to reduced biomass storage and transportation costs. In addition, October harvest reduced biomass ash and minimized soil nutrient mining.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Using Payment to Increase Living Donor Kidneys for Transplantation
Authors: Barnieh Lianne , Gill John S. , Klarenbach Scott , Manns Braden J.
Published: October 2013

Background and objectives

For eligible candidates, transplantation is considered the optimal treatment compared with dialysis for patients with ESRD. The growing number of patients with ESRD requires new strategies to increase the pool of potential donors.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Using decision analysis modeling, this study compared a strategy of paying living kidney donors to waitlisted recipients on dialysis with the current organ donation system. In the base case estimate, this study assumed that the number of donors would increase by 5% with a payment of $10,000. Quality of life estimates, resource use, and costs (2010 Canadian dollars) were based on the best available published data.

Results

Compared with the current organ donation system, a strategy of increasing the number of kidneys for transplantation by 5% by paying living donors $10,000 has an incremental cost-savings of $340 and a gain of 0.11 quality-adjusted life years. Increasing the number of kidneys for transplantation by 10% and 20% would translate into incremental cost-savings of $1640 and $4030 and incremental quality-adjusted life years gain of 0.21 and 0.39, respectively.

Conclusion

Although the impact is uncertain, this model suggests that a strategy of paying living donors to increase the number of kidneys available for transplantation could be cost-effective, even with a transplant rate increase of only 5%. Future work needs to examine the feasibility, legal policy, ethics, and public perception of a strategy to pay living donors.
A Canadian ESL Teacher in China: A Stranger in a Strange Land
Authors: Ragoonaden Karen , Akehurst Jessica
Published: October 2013

Through a self-study of teacher and teacher education practices, this article explores cultural discontinuities between Canadian teachers and Chinese students enrolled in Canadian offshore schools. The methodology of self-study provides a means to think about, understand and develop teachers' practice in contexts where intercultural diversity impacts on best practice. Strategies and techniques to ameliorate teacher–student interaction, conceptions of teaching and learning, assessment norms, and voluntary and involuntary plagiarism are discussed. The strategies and techniques presented have the potential to contribute to the development of culturally relevant teaching pedagogy which aims to negate cultural discontinuities between teachers and students.
Goal-Driven, Girl-Driven: Citizenship Education in an English Independent School
Authors: Leighton Ralph
Published: October 2013

Numerous studies have identified the nature and effect of the various versions of the national curriculum for citizenship education in state schools in England. However, considerably less attention has been given to independent schools in England, even though they do not have to follow the national curriculum and their pupils will go on to play significant roles in society. Interviews were conducted with staff and pupils at one school, and relevant school documentation was scrutinised, in order to map and understand the place of citizenship education in one of England's independent schools. The main purpose of the study was to gain some understanding of how independent school pupils perceive and are prepared for their roles as citizens of influence.
Reproducibility of measurements in tablet-assisted, PC-aided, and manual cephalometric analysis
Authors: Goracci Cecilia , Ferrari Marco
Published: October 2013

Objective:

To assess the reproducibility of cephalometric measurements performed with software for a tablet, with a program for personal computers (PCs), and manually.

Materials and Methods:

The pretreatment lateral cephalograms of 20 patients that were acquired using the same digital cephalometer were collected. Tracings were performed with NemoCeph for Windows (Nemotec), with SmileCeph for iPad (Glace Software), and by hand. Landmark identification was carried out with a mouse-driven cursor using NemoCeph and with a stylus pen on the iPad screen using SmileCeph. Hand tracings were performed on printouts of the cephalograms, using a 0.3-mm 2H pencil and a protractor. Cephalometric landmarks and linear and angular measurements were recorded. All the tracings were done by the same investigator. To evaluate reproducibility, for each cephalometric measurement the agreement between the value derived from NemoCeph, that given by SmileCeph and that measured manually was assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Agreement was rated as low for an ICC ≤0.75, and an ICC > 0.75 was considered indicative of good agreement. Also, differences in measurements between each software and manual tracing were statistically evaluated (P < .05).

Results:

All the measurements had ICC >0.8, indicative of a high agreement among the tracing methods. Relatively lower ICCs occurred for linear measurements related to the occlusal plane and to N perpendicular to the Frankfurt plane. Differences in measurements between both software programs and hand tracing were not statistically significant for any of the cephalometric parameters.

Conclusion:

Tablet-assisted, PC-aided, and manual cephalometric tracings showed good agreement.
Cone-beam computed tomography for assessment of palatal displaced canine position: A methodological study
Authors: Naoumova Julia , Kjellberg Heidrun , Palm Reet
Published: October 2013

Objective:

To assess the inter- and intraexaminer reliability of a measurement method for evaluation of eruption angles and position of palatal displaced canines (PDCs) with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and to test the validity of the measured angles on a dry skull.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty patients (eight boys, 12 girls; age 11.4 ± 1.2 years) were randomly chosen among 67 patients from a study evaluating the interceptive effect of extracting the deciduous canine in children with PDCs. In total, 60 images were analyzed, because each patient had three CBCT examinations (baseline, 6-month control, and endpoint). Two observers assessed the following measurements twice: mesioangular and sagittal angle, vertical position, canine cusp tip, and canine apex to dental arch. The validity of the angular measurements was tested against angular measurements on a dry skull using mathematical formulations.

Results:

The inter- and intraexaminer mean differences for angular and linear measurements were all low and statistically insignificant (P > .05). The mean differences between the physical and 3D measurements were 0.5 ± 0.39 mm for the sagittal angle and 0.22 ± 0.19 mm for the mesioangular angle.

Conclusions:

Linear and angular measurements on CBCT images are accurate and precise and can be used to assess the precise position of a PDC.
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase g894t (rs1799983) gene polymorphism in polish athletes
Authors: Eider Jerzy , Ficek Krzysztof , Kaczmarczyk Mariusz , Maciejewska-Karłowska Agnieszka , Sawczuk Marek , Cięszczyk Paweł
Published: October 2013

The NOS3 gene has been associated with athletic endurance performance and elite power athletic status. With respect to NOS3 G894T and its relation to athletic performance or status, results across various studies have not been consistent. Therefore, the lack of consistency among previous studies prompted us to design a case-control study in a Polish Caucasian population to examine the relationship between the NOS3 G894T polymorphism and athletes' status, i.e. type and intensity of exercise performed (poweroriented, “mixed” power/endurance activity, endurance-oriented) and the possible association between the G894T variant and athletic performance. The case-control study was performed in a group of 360 Polish athletes (cases) of the highest nationally competitive standard (male n=156 and female n=67) and 191 unrelated, sedentary control subjects. The G894T genotype and allele distributions differed significantly between power-oriented (P=0.009, P=0.003), “mixed” (P=0.021, P=0.009), endurance (P=0.043, P=0.014) athletes when compared to control subjects (P values for genotypes and alleles, respectively). There were no significant differences between elite and sub-elite athletes in any group. The over-representation of the GG genotype and G allele in all athletes suggests that the G894 allele may favour all types of sports, however, the strongest predisposition was seen among power-oriented athletes.
Do novel cement-type biomaterials reveal ion reactivity that affects cell viability in vitro?
Authors: Przekora Agata , Czechowska Joanna , Pijocha Dawid , Ślósarczyk Anna , Ginalska Grażyna
Published: October 2013

Calcium phosphate bioceramics have been studied as bone filler materials for years and have become a component of many commercial products. It is widely known that surface-reactive biomaterials may cause changes in the concentration of crucial ions in the surrounding environment, thereby affecting cell metabolism and viability. The aim of this study was to produce five cement-type biomaterials and characterize their phase composition using X-ray diffraction method, and porosity and pore size distribution using mercury intrusion porosimeter. We then evaluated ion interactions of the novel biomaterials with the surrounding environment (culture medium). A commercially available bone substitute, HydroSet™ (Stryker®), was used as a reference. MTT and NRU cytotoxicity tests were performed to assess the effect of changes in the concentration of crucial ions (calcium, magnesium, phosphate) on osteoblast metabolism and viability in vitro. Our study clearly indicated that various biomaterials demonstrated different ion reactivity and consequently may cause changes in ion concentration in the local environment. Critically low or high values of calcium, magnesium, and phosphate concentrations in the medium exerted cytotoxic effects on the cultured cells. Moreover, we discovered that the chemical composition of the culture medium had a substantial influence on ion interactions with biomaterials.
Preceding crops and residue management practices on performance of mustard under zero-till semi-arid condition
Authors: Amgain LP , Sharma AR
Published: October 2013

A field experiment was conducted in 2010/11 and 2011/12 at New Delhi to study the performance of zero-till rainfed mustard. The influence of preceding rainy season crops, viz. pearl millet, cluster bean and green gram; and residue management, viz. no residue, crop residue and Leucaena twigs mulching on this mustard crop was observed. Pooled analysis of mustard seed yield was significantly higher (+51%) in 2010/11 (1.80 t/ ha) than 2011/12 (1.19 t/ha) due to favourable weather condition in the first year. Further, Leucaena twigs mulching resulted higher seed yield of 2.17 t/ha in 2010/11 than 1.94 t/ha in 2011/12. Green gram as preceding crop resulted significantly higher mustard yield in 2010/11, while it was higher after cluster bean in 2011/12. Interaction between crop residue and preceding rainy season crops on growth parameters exerted significant variations, while yield attributes showed the mixed response. Cluster bean with Leucaena twigs led to higher yield of mustard, followed by green gram with crop residue. Economic analysis exhibited the highest net return of mustard grown after cluster bean with Leucaena twigs mulching. From the findings it is observed that growth indices, yield, and yield attributes and economics of mustard were influenced significantly by preceding crops and crop residue application. The effect of Leucaena twigs was found better in 2010/11, while both crop residues and Leucaena twigs mulching were equally effective in 2011/12. Cluster bean as preceding crop to mustard resulted higher yield and net returns, followed by green gram and cluster bean with crop residues. It was suggested that mustard after cluster bean with Leucaena twigs was a high yielding and profitable cropping system under zero-till semi-arid condition. It was concluded that growing mustard after cluster bean with Leucaena twigs mulching resulted increased yield and profitable cropping system for rainfed areas in zero-till semi arid condition of New Delhi. Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 3. 2013, Page 23-32 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v3i0.8983