bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Early Axon Scaffold in the Rostral Brain of the Small Spotted Cat Shark (Scyliorhinus canicula) Embryo
Authors: Ware Michelle , Waring Colin P. , Schubert Frank R.
Published: October 2014

The cat shark is increasingly used as a model for Chondrichthyes, an evolutionarily important sister group of the bony vertebrates that include teleosts and tetrapods. In the bony vertebrates, the first axon tracts form a highly conserved early axon scaffold. The corresponding structure has not been well characterised in cat shark and will prove a useful model for comparative studies. Using pan-neural markers, the early axon scaffold of the cat shark,Scyliorhinus canicula, was analysed. Like in other vertebrates, the medial longitudinal fascicle was the first axon tract to form from a small cluster of neurones in the ventral brain. Subsequently, additional neuronal clusters and axon tracts emerged which formed an array of longitudinal, transversal, and commissural axons tracts in theScyliorhinus caniculaembryonic brain. The first structures to appear after the medial longitudinal fascicle were the tract of the postoptic commissure, the dorsoventral diencephalic tract, and the descending tract of the mesencephalic nucleus of the trigeminal nerve. These results confirm that the early axon scaffold in the embryonic brain is highly conserved through vertebrate evolution.
Patterns of Acute Poisoning in Childhood in Zagazig, Egypt: An Epidemiological Study
Authors: Hassan Basheir A. , Siam Mohamed G.
Published: October 2014

Background. Acute poisoning represents one of the most common medical emergencies in childhood. In view of paucity of literature on accidental poisoning among children in Egypt, this study was designed to describe the pattern of childhood poisoning in Zagazig University Hospitals. Patients and Methods. This retrospective study included 300 children up to 12 years with acute poisoning admitted to the Pediatric Department and Poisoning Treatment Unit, Zagazig University Hospitals, from January 2011 to August 2012. Complete epidemiological and clinical data were recorded and analyzed. Results. Three hundred of poisoned children were enrolled in this study. Children from 1 to 6 years were more liable to poisoning (81%). More boys than girls were poisoned at all age groups. The majority of all cases (99%) were due to accidental poisoning. Overall, 32% of the poisoned cases were living in Zagazig city while 68% were living in the rural areas. The presenting symptoms were classic in 60% of the cases. Pesticides, therapeutic drugs, and cleaning and disinfectant agents were the most frequent poisoning agents (28.7%, 22.7%, and 17.0%, resp.). In 86.0% of cases, observation with or without supportive measures together with decontamination and specific antidote therapy whenever needed was sufficient. Conclusion. Most of the poisonings were due to accidental ingestions by infants and young children. Pesticides and medications were the most commonly involved agents.
Pumice Characteristics and Their Utilization on the Synthesis of Mesoporous Minerals and on the Removal of Heavy Metals
Authors: Ismail A. I. M. , El-Shafey O. I. , Amr M. H. A. , El-Maghraby M. S.
Published: October 2014

Wastewater treatment of some heavy metals was carried out by synthetic zeolite P1, which was prepared by alkaline hydrothermal treatment of the pumice. Both of the pumice raw materials and synthetic zeolite were investigated for their chemical phase composition, physical properties, and microstructure. The adsorption behavior of Na-zeolite P1 with respect to Co+2, Cu+2, Fe+2, and Cd+2 has been studied to be applied in the industrial wastewater treatment. Metal removal was investigated using synthetic solutions at different ions concentrations, time, and Na-P1 zeolite doses as well as constant temperature and pH. It is concluded that the optimum conditions for synthesis of highly active Na-P1 zeolite from natural pumice raw material are one molar NaOH concentration, temperature at 80°C, and one week as a crystallization time. In addition to the effect of time and zeolite dose as well as the ion concentration of the reaction efficiency for metals removals are recorded.
Oxya hyla hyla(Orthoptera: Acrididae) as an Alternative Protein Source for Japanese Quail
Authors: Das Mousumi , Mandal Suman Kalyan
Published: October 2014

Nutrient composition of the grasshoppersOxya hyla hylashowed that they are a rich nutrient source containing 687.7 g protein/kg of dry body weight. Their antinutrient values fell within nutritionally acceptable values of the poultry birdCoturnix japonica japonica(Japanese quail). The most required essential amino acids and fatty acids were also present in sufficient amount. For feeding trial nine diets were formulated on an equal crude protein (230 g/kg) basis with grasshopper meal, fish meal, and soybean meal. Three sets of diets with grasshopper meal were prepared with 50 g/kg, 100 g/kg, and 150 g/kg grasshopper of total feed. Similarly, other diet sets were prepared with fish meal and also with soybean meal. Results were compared with another group of Japanese quails fed on a reference diet that was considered as control. Two experiments were conducted with a total number of 600, seven-day-old, Japanese quails. In experiment 1 for determination of growth performance, quails were randomly distributed into ten groups of males and ten groups of females containing 30 birds each. In experiment 2 for determination of laying performance, identical ten groups were prepared in ten repetitions (2 females and 1 male in each group) from the six-week-old birds of experiment 1. Birds of diet set GM2 have gained the highest body weight (male 4.04 g/bird/day; female 5.01 g/bird/day) followed by birds of FM3 diet set (male 3.72 g/bird/day; female 4.40 g/bird/day), whereas birds of reference diet have gained 3.05 g/bird/day for male and 3.23 g/bird/day for female. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) of birds fed with GM2 was the lowest (male 3.33; female 2.97) whereas FCR of R group was higher (male 4.37; female 4.65) than grasshopper meal and fish meal based diets. Hen day production percentage was higher (72.2) in GM2 group, followed by FM3 (63.5) group. R group had lower 1st egg weight (9.0 g), weight gain (8.2 g), percentage of hen day production (41.8%), higher feed intake (33.6 g/day/bird), and age at 1st laid egg than the grasshopper meal and fish meal based diets. So growth and laying performance of the birds were significantly better in grasshopper meal and fish meal added diet fed sets than the reference diet fed group; among all the dietary groups 100 g/kg grasshopper meal added diet mostly gave significantly better results followed by 150 g/kg fish meal added diets. It was ascertained that theO. hyla hylameal had pronounced positive response on the birds. So, the quails could be easily fed 100 g/kg grasshopper meal added diet as it was the most suitable alternative feedstuff compared to the conventional protein source based diets.
Effect of Strontium Chloride on Experimental Bladder Inflammation in Rat
Authors: Korgali Esat , Dundar Gokce , Coskun Kubra Acikalin , Akyol Melih , Tutar Yusuf , Ayan Semih , Gokce Gokhan , Gultekin Emin Yener
Published: October 2014

Introduction. Strontium salts are anti-irritants for chemically induced sensory irritation. Interstitial cystitis is a painful disease without definitive therapy. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of strontium in bladder with experimental interstitial cystitis model. Material and Methods. Rats’ bladders in control group were instilled with NaCl. Second group was instilled with E. coli LPS. Third group was instilled with strontium. Fourth group was initially instilled with strontium and then LPS. Fifth group was instilled with LPS initially and then strontium. Urine of rats was collected at the beginning and end of the study. Results. Histamine and TNF-α changes were statistically significant in the second group but were not significant in the third group. When we compared the histamine levels of second via fourth and fifth groups the changes were statistically not significant. When we compared the TNF-α levels of second via fourth and fifth groups the changes were statistically significant. Conclusions. In our model, strontium did not make any significant changes in histopathology or histamine levels; however, it significantly reduced the levels of TNF-α. Given the role of TNF-α in the physiopathology of interstitial cystitis, these results suggested that further studies are required to evaluate the potential use of strontium in the management of interstitial cystitis.
Coefficient Estimates for New Subclasses of Meromorphic Bi-Univalent Functions
Authors: Bulut Serap
Published: October 2014

We introduce and investigate two new subclasses Mσα,λ and Mσβ,λ of meromorphic bi-univalent functions defined on Δ={z:z∈C,1<|z|<∞}. For functions belonging to these classes, estimates on the initial coefficients are obtained.
Simple Syntheses of Two New Benzo-Fused Macrocycles Incorporating Chalcone Moiety
Authors: Mondal Rina , Samanta Swati , Sarkar Saheli , Mallik Asok K.
Published: October 2014

Simple syntheses of the benzo-fused 26-membered macrocyclic bischalcone (19E,43E)-2.11.27.36-tetroxaheptacyclo[44.4.0.04,9.012,17.021,26.029,34.037,42]pentaconta-1(46),4(9),5,7,12(17),13,15,19,21,23,25,29,31,33,37,39,41,43,47,49-icosaene-18,45-dione (3) and the benzo-fused 13-membered macrocyclic chalcone (19E)-2.11-dioxatetracyclo[19.4.0.04,9.012,17]pentacosa-1(25),4(9),5,7,12(17),13,15,19,21,23-decaen-18-one (5) using very common starting materials and reagents are described. The compounds are new and they have been characterized from their analytical and spectral data.
Synthesis, Characterization, and In Vitro Antimicrobial and Anticancer Evaluation of Copolyester Bearing 4-Arylidene Curcumin in the Main Chain
Authors: Kandaswamy Narendran , Raveendiran Nanthini
Published: October 2014

Synthesis of random copolyester bearing 4-arylidene curcumin M1 in the polymer backbone was prepared by solution polycondensation method. The influence of copolyester bearing 4-arylidene curcumin M1 unit on the properties of copolyester such as inherent viscosity, solubility, and thermal stability was investigated and studied in detail. The inherent viscosity and polydispersity index of the copolyester were found to be 0.19 dL/g and 1.38, respectively. The chemical structure of the copolyester was investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy. The physical properties of copolyester were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. Agar disc diffusion method was employed to study the antimicrobial activity of the random copolyester. In vitro anticancer activity against lung cancer (Hep-2) cell line was investigated.
Determinants of Physical Health of Older People in Iran
Authors: Cheshmberah Azar , Hoseini Mostafa , Shojaee Zadeh Davood , Moghimi-Dehkordi Bijan
Published: October 2014

Background. Many of the older people are encountered with physical and mental health problems, chronic diseases, and also living conditions. We aimed to evaluate the disability scores and its associated factors among a sample of older people in Iran. Material and Methods. 330 people aged 60–70 years were interviewed about daily living activities and physical functioning using two standard questionnaires. Results. According to univariate analysis, aging 66–70 years, being employed, and receiving financial aids were associated with better ADL mean score (P<0.05). Also, being between 66 and 70 years of age, males, being illiterate, being employed, and receiving financial aids were statistically related to higher SF-36 mean scores (P<0.05). Multivariate analyses have shown that higher age and receiving financial aids were related to less need for help and being unemployed with salary was related to higher need for help. However, being illiterate, being employed, and receiving financial aids were significant related factors for better physical functioning. Conclusions. Physical health in old people is decreased not only by aging of people but also by other factors such as financial problems and also employment status could decrease physical health of old people regardless of aging.
Occlusal Characteristics and Spacing in Primary Dentition: A Gender Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Vegesna Madhuri , Chandrasekhar R. , Chandrappa Vinay
Published: October 2014

Context.Occlusion in primary teeth varies among children of different populations and races.Aim. To assess and compare the occlusal characteristics and spacing in primary dentition among 3–6-year-old Dravidian children.Materials and Methods. The study included 2281 school going children. The primary molar relation, canine relation, overjet, and overbite were assessed using Foster and Hamilton criteria. Spacing conditions were registered according to Kisling and Krebs criteria.Results.The flush terminal plane molar relation (80.3%) was the most common primary molar relation. The distal step molar relation was more frequently found in female children (12.8%) than in males (8.6%). Class 1 canine relation was the most prevalent canine relation (81.3%) among males and females. Ideal overjet (84.3%) and overbite (72.7%) were observed among the majority of the children. Spaced type of arches occurred more frequently than closed arches in this sample. The incidence of primate spaces was more in males than in females.Conclusion.The study population has fewer deviations from normal occlusion which indicates decreased tendency for malocclusion in permanent dentition. However, further longitudinal studies are necessary to identify the potential limitations of a clinical approach relying on early orthodontic diagnosis and intervention.
Epidemiologic Behavior and Estimation of an Optimal Cut-Off Point for Homeostasis Model Assessment-2 Insulin Resistance: A Report from a Venezuelan Population
Authors: Bermúdez Valmore , Rojas Joselyn , Martínez María Sofía , Apruzzese Vanessa , Chávez-Castillo Mervin , Gonzalez Robys , Torres Yaquelín , Salazar Juan , Bello Luis , Añez Roberto , Chacín Maricarmen , Toledo Alexandra , Cabrera Mayela , Mengual Edgardo , Ávila Raquel , Pachano Freddy , López-Miranda José
Published: October 2014

Background. Mathematical models such as Homeostasis Model Assessment have gained popularity in the evaluation of insulin resistance (IR). The purpose of this study was to estimate the optimal cut-off point for Homeostasis Model Assessment-2 Insulin Resistance (HOMA2-IR) in an adult population of Maracaibo, Venezuela. Methods. Descriptive, cross-sectional study with randomized, multistaged sampling included 2,026 adult individuals. IR was evaluated through HOMA2-IR calculation in 602 metabolically healthy individuals. For cut-off point estimation, two approaches were applied: HOMA2-IR percentile distribution and construction of ROC curves using sensitivity and specificity for selection. Results. HOMA2-IR arithmetic mean for the general population was 2.21±1.42, with 2.18±1.37 for women and 2.23±1.47 for men (P=0.466). When calculating HOMA2-IR for the healthy reference population, the resulting p75 was 2.00. Using ROC curves, the selected cut-off point was 1.95, with an area under the curve of 0.801, sensibility of 75.3%, and specificity of 72.8%. Conclusions. We propose an optimal cut-off point of 2.00 for HOMA2-IR, offering high sensitivity and specificity, sufficient for proper assessment of IR in the adult population of our city, Maracaibo. The determination of population-specific cut-off points is needed to evaluate risk for public health problems, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome.
The Membrane Associated RING-CH Proteins: A Family of E3 Ligases with Diverse Roles through the Cell
Authors: Samji Tasleem , Hong Soonwook , Means Robert E.
Published: October 2014

Since the discovery that conjugation of ubiquitin to proteins can drive proteolytic degradation, ubiquitination has been shown to perform a diverse range of functions in the cell. It plays an important role in endocytosis, signal transduction, trafficking of vesicles inside the cell, and even DNA repair. The process of ubiquitination-mediated control has turned out to be remarkably complex, involving a diverse array of proteins and many levels of control. This review focuses on a family of structurally related E3 ligases termed the membrane-associated RING-CH (MARCH) ubiquitin ligases, which were originally discovered as structural homologs to the virals E3s, K3, and K5 from Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). These proteins contain a catalytic RING-CH finger and are typically membrane-bound, with some having up to 14 putative transmembrane domains. Despite several lines of evidence showing that the MARCH proteins play a complex and essential role in several cellular processes, this family remains understudied.
On the Influence of Soret and Dufour Effects on MHD Free Convective Heat and Mass Transfer Flow over a Vertical Channel with Constant Suction and Viscous Dissipation
Authors: Uwanta Ime Jimmy , Usman Halima
Published: October 2014

The present paper investigates the combined effects of Soret and Dufour on free convective heat and mass transfer on the unsteady one-dimensional boundary layer flow over a vertical channel in the presence of viscous dissipation and constant suction. The governing partial differential equations are solved numerically using the implicit Crank-Nicolson method. The velocity, temperature, and concentration distributions are discussed numerically and presented through graphs. Numerical values of the skin-friction coefficient, Nusselt number, and Sherwood number at the plate are discussed numerically for various values of physical parameters and are presented through tables. It has been observed that the velocity and temperature increase with the increase in the viscous dissipation parameter and Dufour number, while an increase in Soret number causes a reduction in temperature and a rise in the velocity and concentration.
Fractional Order Two-Temperature Dual-Phase-Lag Thermoelasticity with Variable Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Mondal Sudip , Mallik Sadek Hossain , Kanoria M.
Published: October 2014

A new theory of two-temperature generalized thermoelasticity is constructed
in the context of a new consideration of dual-phase-lag heat conduction with fractional
orders. The theory is then adopted to study thermoelastic interaction in an isotropic homogenous
semi-infinite generalized thermoelastic solids with variable thermal conductivity
whose boundary is subjected to thermal and mechanical loading. The basic equations of the
problem have been written in the form of a vector-matrix differential equation in the Laplace
transform domain, which is then solved by using a state space approach. The inversion of
Laplace transforms is computed numerically using the method of Fourier series expansion
technique. The numerical estimates of the quantities of physical interest are obtained and
depicted graphically. Some comparisons of the thermophysical quantities are shown in figures
to study the effects of the variable thermal conductivity, temperature discrepancy, and
the fractional order parameter.
A Novel Effective Approach for Solving Fractional Nonlinear PDEs
Authors: Aminikhah Hossein , Malekzadeh Nasrin , Rezazadeh Hadi
Published: October 2014

The present work introduces an effective modification of homotopy perturbation method for the solution of nonlinear time-fractional biological population model and a system of three nonlinear time-fractional partial differential equations. In this approach, the solution is considered a series expansion that converges to the nonlinear problem. The new approximate analytical procedure depends only on two iteratives. The analytical approximations to the solution are reliable and confirm the ability of the new homotopy perturbation method as an easy device for computing the solution of nonlinear equations.
Object Transportation by Two Mobile Robots with Hand Carts
Authors: Sakuyama Takuya , Figueroa Heredia Jorge David , Ogata Taiki , Hara Tatsunori , Ota Jun
Published: October 2014

This paper proposes a methodology by which two small mobile robots can grasp, lift, and transport large objects using hand carts. The specific problems involve generating robot actions and determining the hand cart positions to achieve the stable loading of objects onto the carts. These problems are solved using nonlinear optimization, and we propose an algorithm for generating robot actions. The proposed method was verified through simulations and experiments using actual devices in a real environment. The proposed method could reduce the number of robots required to transport large objects with 50–60%. In addition, we demonstrated the efficacy of this task in real environments where errors occur in robot sensing and movement.
Health Care Workers and Standard Precautions: Perceptions and Determinants of Compliance in the Emergency and Trauma Triage of a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India
Authors: Punia Sangini , Nair Suma , Shetty Ranjitha S.
Published: October 2014

Background. Careful adherence to standard precautions can protect both health care workers (HCWs) and patients from infections. The present study identified the perceptions and compliance with the use of standard precautions and assessed the determinants of noncompliance among the HCWs in an emergency and trauma triage centre. Methods. A cross-sectional study using a semistructured questionnaire was carried out to collect the relevant information from the study participants. Results. A total of 162 HCWs were recruited into the study, who reported varying degrees of compliance with standard precautions. While most of them declared the use of hand rub (95%) and gloves (77%), reported use of protective eye gear and outer protective clothing was very low (22 and 28%, resp.). Despite a perceived risk of exposure to blood-borne infections, 8% of the HCWs had not completed the hepatitis B vaccination schedule. About 17% reported at least one needle stick injury in the past year but only 5.6% received medical attention. Conclusion. Inadequate adherence to standard precautions among health care providers warrants new training and monitoring strategies. Establishment of an effective occupational health cell incorporating these elements including periodic surveillance could be the way forward.
The Mass of Graviton and Its Relation to the Number of Information according to the Holographic Principle
Authors: Haranas Ioannis , Gkigkitzis Ioannis
Published: October 2014

We investigate the relation of the mass of the graviton to the number of information N in a flat universe. As a result we find that the mass of the graviton scales as mgr∝1/N. Furthermore, we find that the number of gravitons contained inside the observable horizon is directly proportional to the number of information N; that is, Ngr∝N. Similarly, the total mass of gravitons that exist in the universe is proportional to the number of information N; that is, Mgr∝N. In an effort to establish a relation between the graviton mass and the basic parameters of the universe, we find that the mass of the graviton is simply twice the Hubble mass mH as it is defined by Gerstein et al. (2003), times the square root of the quantity q-1/2, where q is the deceleration parameter of the universe. In relation to the geometry of the universe we find that the mass of the graviton varies according to the relation mgr∝Rsc, and therefore mgr obviously controls the geometry of the space time through a deviation of the geodesic spheres from the spheres of Euclidean metric.
Natural Prey Preferences and Spatial Variability of Predation Pressure by Cyphoma gibbosum (Mollusca: Gastropoda) on Octocoral Communities off La Parguera, Puerto Rico
Authors: Lucas Matthew Q. , Rodríguez Luis R. , Sanabria Duane J. , Weil Ernesto
Published: October 2014

This study evaluated the natural prey preferences and spatial variability of predation pressure (PP = proportion of colonies with snails and/or clear predation signs) by the gastropod Cyphoma gibbosum on octocoral communities off the La Parguera Natural Reserve, Puerto Rico. All octocoral colonies were checked for presence of C. gibbosum and/or clear predation signs in four permanent band-transects (2×10 m), along three depth intervals (0–5, 7–12, >15 m deep) in each of six reefs along an inshore offshore gradient. Results indicate that C. gibbosum preys on at least 16 species, six of which (Briareum asbestinum, Gorgonia ventalina, Pseudoterogorgia americana, P. acerosa, Plexaura flexuosa, and Pseudoplexaura porosa) consistently showed significantly higher (K-W, P<0.05) (17–37%) PP compared to all other species. Plexaura flexuosa, P. americana, and P. porosa had significantly higher PP (11–38%) among inner and mid-shelf reefs, and G. ventalina had higher PP in shelf-edge reefs (16–20%). A combination of differential spatial distributions and octocoral species abundances seems to explain the observed patterns of predation by C. gibbosum. Prey preference and higher abundances of 3-dimensional octocorals providing increased refuge or microhabitats utilized for mating or egg-deposition could be driving the spatial distribution of C. gibbosum and the observed differential predation pressure.
Application of Hydrotropic Solubilization in Spectrophotometric Estimation of Lornoxicam from Tablets
Authors: Abraham Sindhu , Deveswaran Rajamanickam , Furtado Sharon , Bharath Srinivasan , Madhavan Varadharajan
Published: October 2014

Lornoxicam is a selective cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor that exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities. It is used in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis; and in treatment of postoperative pain and primary dysmenorrhoea. Lornoxicam is completely insoluble in water but soluble in alkaline solutions. Hydrotropic solubilization is a technique used to increase the aqueous solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs and the present study was aimed at developing a hydrotropic technique to increase the solubility of lornoxicam, using 2 M sodium benzoate as the hydrotropic agent. Beer’s law was obeyed in the concentration range of 4–24 μg/mL at 381 nm. The solubility of lornoxicam in distilled water considerably increased with the addition of a hydrotropic agent. The analysis of tablets indicated good correlation between the amounts estimated and label claim. The LOD and LOQ of lornoxicam were found to be 0.34 μg/mL and 1.038 μg/mL, respectively, indicating good sensitivity of the proposed method. The percentage recovery was found to be 99.99%–100.21%. Thus the proposed method is new, simple, environmentally friendly, accurate, and cost effective and can be successfully employed in routine analysis of lornoxicam in tablets.
Experiment on Bifurcation and Chaos in Coupled Anisochronous Self-Excited Systems: Case of Two Coupled van der Pol-Duffing Oscillators
Authors: Kengne J. , Kenmogne F. , Kamdoum Tamba V.
Published: October 2014

The analog circuit implementation and the experimental bifurcation analysis of coupled anisochronous self-driven systems modelled by two mutually coupled van der Pol-Duffing oscillators are considered. The coupling between the two oscillators is set in a symmetrical way that linearly depends on the difference of their velocities (i.e., dissipative coupling). Interest in this problem does not decrease because of its significance and possible application in the analysis of different, biological, chemical, and electrical systems (e.g., coupled van der Pol-Duffing electrical system). Regions of quenching behavior as well as conditions for the appearance of Hopf bifurcations are analytically defined. The scenarios/routes to chaos are studied with particular emphasis on the effects of cubic nonlinearity (that is responsible for anisochronism of small oscillations). When monitoring the control parameter, various striking dynamic behaviors are found including period-doubling, symmetry-breaking, multistability, and chaos. An appropriate electronic circuit describing the coupled oscillator is designed and used for the investigations. Experimental results that are consistent with results from theoretical analyses are presented and convincingly show quenching phenomenon as well as bifurcation and chaos.
On Positive Solutions for the Rational Difference Equation Systems xn+1=A/xnyn2, and yn+1=Byn/xn-1yn-1
Authors: Ma Hui-li , Feng Hui
Published: October 2014

Our aim in this paper is to investigate the behavior of positive solutions for the following systems of rational difference equations: xn+1=A/xnyn2, and yn+1=Byn/xn-1yn-1, n=0,1,…, where x-1, x0, y-1, and y0 are positive real numbers and A and B are positive constants.
Computational Aerodynamic Analysis of Offshore Upwind and Downwind Turbines
Authors: Zhao Qiuying , Sheng Chunhua , Afjeh Abdollah
Published: October 2014

Aerodynamic interactions of the model NREL 5 MW offshore horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWT) are investigated using a high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. Four wind turbine configurations are considered; three-bladed upwind and downwind and two-bladed upwind and downwind configurations, which operate at two different rotor speeds of 12.1 and 16 RPM. In the present study, both steady and unsteady aerodynamic loads, such as the rotor torque, blade hub bending moment, and base the tower bending moment of the tower, are evaluated in detail to provide overall assessment of different wind turbine configurations. Aerodynamic interactions between the rotor and tower are analyzed, including the rotor wake development downstream. The computational analysis provides insight into aerodynamic performance of the upwind and downwind, two- and three-bladed horizontal axis wind turbines.
Lifetime Estimation of the Upper Stage of GSAT-14 in Geostationary Transfer Orbit
Authors: Jeyakodi David Jim Fletcher , Sharma Ram Krishan
Published: October 2014

The combination of atmospheric drag and lunar and solar perturbations in addition to Earth’s oblateness influences the orbital lifetime of an upper stage in geostationary transfer orbit (GTO). These high eccentric orbits undergo fluctuations in both perturbations and velocity and are very sensitive to the initial conditions. The main objective of this paper is to predict the reentry time of the upper stage of the Indian geosynchronous satellite launch vehicle, GSLV-D5, which inserted the satellite GSAT-14 into a GTO on January 05, 2014, with mean perigee and apogee altitudes of 170 km and 35975 km. Four intervals of near linear variation of the mean apogee altitude observed were used in predicting the orbital lifetime. For these four intervals, optimal values of the initial osculating eccentricity and ballistic coefficient for matching the mean apogee altitudes were estimated with the response surface methodology using a genetic algorithm. It was found that the orbital lifetime from these four time spans was between 144 and 148 days.
Prediction of Slot Shape and Slot Size for Improving the Performance of Microstrip Antennas Using Knowledge-Based Neural Networks
Authors: Khan Taimoor , De Asok
Published: October 2014

In the last decade, artificial neural networks have become very popular techniques for computing different performance parameters of microstrip antennas. The proposed work illustrates a knowledge-based neural networks model for predicting the appropriate shape and accurate size of the slot introduced on the radiating patch for achieving desired level of resonance, gain, directivity, antenna efficiency, and radiation efficiency for dual-frequency operation. By incorporating prior knowledge in neural model, the number of required training patterns is drastically reduced. Further, the neural model incorporated with prior knowledge can be used for predicting response in extrapolation region beyond the training patterns region. For validation, a prototype is also fabricated and its performance parameters are measured. A very good agreement is attained between measured, simulated, and predicted results.
Lex and consuetudo in English lawsuits from the Conquest to Glanvill
Authors: van Caenegem R.C.
Published: October 2014

Medieval people wrote and copied numerous law books, custumals and borough charters, which, however, were seldom quoted or even referred to in the law courts. Many legal historians have remarked on this phenomenon in general terms, but the present author has systematically looked for such references in English lawsuits of Norman and Angevin times. He found a number of cases where local or national customary law was mentioned, and others where specific enactments were followed. In a case of 1088 a well-known canon law book was quoted by one party in support of his claim. Laws and customs were, however, seldom specifically invoked. The author discusses the meaning of such terms as Anglica lex, leges regni, jus militare, jus feodi and patriae consuetudo and finally looks at the impact of royal legislation on ancient custom.
Enhanced Psychological Health Among Chronic Pain Clients Engaged in Hope-Focused Group Counseling
Authors: Howell Andrew J. , Jacobson Ryan M. , Larsen Denise J.
Published: October 2014

Researchers have begun to evaluate interventions intended to enhance hope in various populations. Chronic pain is a pervasive problem with significant psychosocial consequences. This article presents studies that examined the extent to which a hope-focused group counseling intervention enhances hope and well-being in two community-based samples of participants ( N =10 and N = 24) experiencing chronic pain. A pilot study (Study 1a) and a main study (Study 1b) both used a one-group, pretest–posttest design to determine whether participants experienced changes regarding their hope, well-being, acceptance of pain, and catastrophizing of pain. Both studies showed that participants experienced numerous and significant changes from pre- to post-intervention, including improvements in well-being and pain acceptance in Study 1a and improvements in hope, well-being, and catastrophizing cognitions in Study 1b. Self-reported pain severity, assessed only in Study 1a, did not change. We discuss implications for practice, study limitations, and potential lines of hope-related inquiry for future research.
REDUNDANT: The Effects of Avatar Stereotypes and Cognitive Load on Virtual Interpersonal Attraction
Authors: Peña Jorge , Yoo Seung-Chul
Published: October 2014

The editors of Communication Research, Drs. Gibbs and Knobloch-Westerwick, wish to issue this notification of redundant publication regarding an article that Communication Research has published online on October 28, 2014 as doi: 10.1177/0093650214554613 (never published in print). This article, “The Effects of Avatar Stereotypes and Cognitive Load on Virtual Interpersonal Attraction: Mediation Effects of Perceived Trust and Reversed Perceptions Under Cognitive Load,” by Jorge Peña and Seung-Chul Yoo, was first submitted to Communication Research on July 11, 2012 and accepted for publication on April 4, 2014.

Subsequently, on May 30, 2014, Jorge Peña and Seung-Chul Yoo published an article that is based on the same experiment and data set as the abovementioned article in Presence, titled “Under Pressure: Avatar Appearance and Cognitive Load Effects on Attitudes, Trustworthiness, Bidding, and Interpersonal Distance in a Virtual Store” (doi:10.1162/PRES_a_00166). The Peña and Yoo articles in Presence and Communication Research are highly redundant in their contribution.

We, the editors of Communication Research, have examined the two articles and conferred with the corresponding contributor, Dr. Peña, on the matter. The two pieces utilize different dependent variables that are, however, extremely similar. They are nearly identical in their findings and present substantially overlapping material. Because the findings in the two articles could have easily been presented in one publication, we see this as a case of fragmented (“piecemeal” or “salami”) publication. Drawing on the guidance on publication ethics from various academic associations and the Committee on Publication Ethics, we consider the article in Communication Research a covert redundant publication; the authors failed to acknowledge any other articles reporting data from the same data set in their initial correspondence with the journal editorial office or through a citation in the manuscript.

Dr. Peña suggested that Dr. Yoo should be explicitly exculpated from the matter because Dr. Yoo was a graduate student at the time of submission. Dr. Peña wishes to bear the entire responsibility for this matter.

We have contacted the editors of Presence to inform them of this redundant publication.
How do movements to produce letters become automatic during writing acquisition? Investigating the development of motor anticipation
Authors: Kandel Sonia , Perret Cyril
Published: October 2014

Learning how to write involves the automation of grapho-motor skills. One of the factors that determine automaticity is motor anticipation. This is the ability to write a letter while processing information on how to produce following letters. It is essential for writing fast and smoothly. We investigated how motor anticipation processes build up during the period of handwriting automation. Children aged 8, 9 and 10 years had to write two letters ( ll, le, ln) in cursive writing on a digitizer. Motor anticipation referred to processing changes in size ( ll vs. le) and rotation direction ( le vs. ln) of the second letter while writing the l. We recorded three measures on the l upstroke and downstroke. The movement time data indicate that the l upstroke was very variable. The l’s downstroke duration was shorter for ll than le and the latter was in turn shorter than ln. This pattern was already observed at age 8. Trajectory length data revealed that the anticipation of a single parameter such as size change is enough to produce a trajectory increase but the addition of parameters is not cumulative, as we observed for stroke duration. The dysfluency data indicated that at age 8, dysfluency values were equivalent for upstrokes and downstrokes. At ages 9 and 10, the children produced more dysfluency on downstrokes than upstrokes. Previous studies on writing with adults have shown that the anticipation of the following letter affects the production of the l’s downstroke. The production of the upstroke did not vary. This experiment suggests that learning to anticipate in handwriting production requires: a) rendering the movements to produce the upstroke constant; and b) modulating the downstroke as a function of the spatial characteristics of the following letter. The pattern of movement time data suggest that motor anticipation would start to be adult-like at around age 9. Dysfluency and latency measures do not seem to be very informative about the development of motor anticipation in handwriting.
Who to punish? Retrospective voting and knowledge of government composition in a multiparty system
Authors: Rapeli Lauri
Published: October 2014

Performance voting studies implicitly assume that voters know who the government is, and can thus judge office-holders retrospectively. Scholars have recently addressed the issue in a majoritarian electoral context. This study expands into looking at (1) knowledge of the government in a multiparty setting by (2) focusing on the sociodemographic determinants of that knowledge. Using a 2008 survey data from Finland, the study finds that ignorance of government composition is more widespread in a proportional electoral system with a coalition government. Only 38% of the respondents correctly identified the government. Those on the political left, and hence in parliamentary opposition, men, over 45 years old and those with a high socioeconomic status were more likely to correctly identify the government. The results suggest that most voters do not know what they need to know in order to vote retrospectively. The implications for government accountability are discussed.
Preclinical Study Design for Evaluation of Stem Cell–derived Cellular Therapy Products
Authors: Baker Julia F. M. , Assaf Basel T.
Published: October 2014

Despite—or perhaps because of—the rapid expansion of interest in stem cell–derived cellular therapy products, relatively few guidelines have been published to assist in the design of scientifically sound preclinical studies. The field is complex and wide ranging, and of necessity regulators tend to treat each project on a case by case basis. One of the core tenets remains the need to retain all tissues from the study, thereby allowing for further analysis of tissues should unexpected effects be seen in clinical studies; attempts to comply with this may result in an unmanageable financial burden. Judicious input from the pathologist at the earliest stages of study design may not only improve the scientific integrity of the study but also help to mitigate some of the cost. Careful animal selection, the development of robust cell markers, and justifiable triage of tissues based on phased tissue examination can all be discussed with the regulatory authorities at pre-pre-investigational new drug (IND) and pre-IND meetings to achieve optimal study design.
The efficacy of Botulinum Toxin A on improving ease of care in the upper and lower limbs: a systematic review and meta-analysis using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach
Authors: Baker Jennifer A , Pereira Gavin
Published: October 2014

Objectives:

A systematic review and meta-analysis using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach; evaluating Botulinum Toxin type A efficacy on improving ease of care in the upper/lower limb.

Data sources:

Pubmed, Cinahl, Amed, Embase and Cochrane databases. English Language. Search to July 2014.

Review methods:

All randomized, placebo controlled trials on adults with difficulty in caring for the upper/lower limb resulting from spasticity of any origin and treated with a single dose of Botulinum Toxin A. Evidence quality was assessed by GRADE.

Results:

A total of 32 studies were reviewed. Meta-analysis was carried out on 11 upper limb and three lower limb studies. Evidence quality for the upper limb was moderate. A significant result for Botulinum Toxin A was found at four to 12 weeks for the upper limb (SMD 0.80, CI 0.55, 1.06, p < 0.0001). The effects were maintained for up to six months (SMD 0.48, CI 0.34, 0.62, p < 0.0001). Evidence quality was very low for the lower limb. Meta-analysis was only possible for global assessment of benefit. No significant effect was found. (Patient: RR 1.37 CI (0.94, 2.00) p = 0.11; clinician: RR 1.06 (0.84, 1.34) p = 0.60.)

Conclusion:

Botulinum Toxin A improves ease of care in the upper limb for up to six months. No conclusion can be drawn for the lower limb.
Emotional Taint
Authors: Rivera Kendra Dyanne
Published: October 2014

Poised within the borderlands between two nations, Border Patrol agents form the largest federal law enforcement organization in the nation, yet the public knows very little about agents themselves. Agents complete a variety of job duties that may be viewed as “dirty work,” or work that society considers physically, socially, or morally objectionable. They also perform emotional duties and emotional labor, which are often stigmatized by the public. This interpretive ethnographic research provides a descriptive portrayal of the Patrol and extends theory in the areas of emotional labor—the emotional performances required to carry out certain jobs—and dirty work. This article asserts that emotion and emotional labor are emotionally tainted, and that engaging emotion provides one strategy for workers to make sense of this type of dirty work. A definition and framework for emotional taint are offered, extending the current discussion of both emotion and taint at work.
Online Employment Screening and Digital Career Capital
Authors: Berkelaar Brenda L. , Buzzanell Patrice M.
Published: October 2014

This study explores how employers report using online information to evaluate job candidates during personnel selection. Qualitative analysis of 45 in-depth employer interviews emphasizes how new and different information visibility afforded by the Internet simultaneously replicates and shifts how employers evaluate reconstructed information about candidates during personnel selection. Data revealed that employers evaluate the relative presence or absence of certain types of visual, textual, relational, and technological information in patterned and idiosyncratic ways. We discuss the likely consequences for theory and practices of personnel selection and careers, emphasizing the increasing expectations for workers to curate digital career capital to manage the expanding contexts within which employers construct and evaluate professional and/or workplace identities.
Rheological behaviour and cure kinetic studies of a trifunctional phenylethynyl-terminated imide oligomer
Authors: Yang Ming , Wang Daming , Sun Ningwei , Chen Chunhai , Zhao Xiaogang
Published: October 2014

A phenylethynyl-terminated imide oligomer (PETI)was prepared from a triamine and 4-phenylethynylphthalic anhydride. The oligomer can be used to prepare high performance resin-based composite material via resin transfer moulding due to its low melt viscosity. The cured resin also exhibited excellent thermal stability with 5% weight loss at temperature above 531°C and higher glass transition temperature Tg (410°C) than PETI series as a result of the introduction of star-branched units. The rheological properties of the oligomer were measured and numerically fit with the dual Arrhenius model. The curing of the resin was also studied by dynamic and isothermal differential scanning calorimetry measurements. Based on the experimental data, both the curing reaction rate and the curing degree were calculated in the dynamic mode and tested under isothermal conditions.
Oil debris monitoring in misaligned spline couplings subjected to fretting wear
Authors: Cuffaro Vincenzo , Curà Francesca , Mura Andrea
Published: October 2014

Mechanical components may be subjected to wear damage that may cause the component failure. From the experimental point of view, the wear damage may be detected by analyzing the debris produced by the wear phenomena into the lubrication oil. This technique may be used to monitor the structural integrity of bearings and gear health by means of dedicated sensors. In this work, the oil debris production due to fretting wear in spline couplings has been investigated; in particular, the aim of this work is to identify both entity and onset phase of the surface damage by means of parameters obtained from the oil debris monitoring. Experimental tests have been performed by means of a dedicated test that allows to reproduce the real working conditions on spline coupling specimens, by varying both transmitted torque and misalignment angle. The oil debris production has been monitored by means of an optical sensor, in terms of particles size and numerosity. Results show that the wear damage may be identified by monitoring the variation of both Kurtosis of the particle distribution and amount of the particles production, both for as concerns phenomenon entity and corresponding onset.