bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometrical Critical Thickness Theory for the Size Effect at the Initiation of Plasticity
Authors: Zhu Ting , Ehrler Bruno , Bushby Andy , Dunstan Dave
Published: August 2009

Recently, size effects in the initiation of plasticity have been clearly observed and reported in different geometries; e.g., bending (Ehrler et al. Phil. Mag. 2008), twisting (Ehrler et al., MRS, Spring Meeting 2009) and indentation (Zhu et al. J. Mech. Phys. Sol. 56, 1170, 2008). Strain gradient plasticity theory is the principal approach for explaining size effects during plastic deformation in these geometries. However, it fails to account for any size effect at the initial yield. Geometrical critical thickness theory was proposed to explain the yield size effect in bending and torsion (Dunstan and Bushby, Proc. Roy. Soc. A460, 2781, 2004). The theory shows that the initial yield strength is scaled with the inverse square root of the characteristic length scale without requiring any free fitting parameters. Here, we extend the theory to describe the yield size effect in indentation. The theory agrees fairly well with experimental observations in micro-torsion (Ehrler et al., MRS, Spring Meeting 2009) and nanoindentation (Zhu et al., J. Mech. Phys. Solid, 2008).
Peptide-Mediated Deposition of Nanostructured TiO2 into the Periodic Structure of Diatom Biosilica and its Integration into the Fabrication of a Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Device
Authors: Li Haiyan , Jeffryes Clayton , Gutu Timothy , Jiao Jun , Rorrer Gregory L.
Published: August 2009

Biological fabrication approaches were used to enhance the performance of a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) device stack for the conversion of light to electricity. Diatoms are single-celled algae that make silica shells called frustules that possess periodic structures ordered at the micro- and nanoscale. Nanostructured TiO2 was deposited onto the frustule biosilica of the diatom Pinnularia sp. Poly-L-lysine (PLL) conformally adsorbed onto surface of the frustule biosilica. The hydrolysis and condensation of soluble Ti-BALDH to TiO2 by PLL-adsorbed diatom biosilica deposited 0.77 ± 0.05 g TiO2/g SiO2 onto the diatom biosilica. The periodic pore array of the diatom frustule served as a template for the deposition of ˜20 nm TiO2 nanoparticles, which completely filled the 200 nm frustule pores and also coated the frustule outer surface. This material was then integrated into the DSSC device stack. Specifically, a single layer of diatom-TiO2 frustules was deposited to surface coverage 100μg/cm2 on top of the 25 nm anatase TiO2 nanocrystal layer (2.5 mg/cm2) that was doctor-bladed onto conductive FTO glass. The composite structure was thermally annealed in air at 400 °C, followed by addition of N719 dye, I3-/3I- liquid electrolyte, and semi-transparent Pt back electrode sputter coated on FTO glass. The solar cell efficiency increased from 0.20% to 0.70% when the diatom-TiO2 layer was added to anatase TiO2 base layer of the semi-transparent device. The increase in efficiency cannot be attributed solely to the added TiO2, because the amount of TiO2 in the diatom-TiO2 layer contributed to only 3% of the total TiO2 in the device. Instead, it is proposed that the diatom-TiO2 layer may have helped to improve photon capture within the DSSC because of its periodic structure and high dielectric contrast.
A Thermoviscoelastic Approach for Modeling Shape Memory Polymers
Authors: Nguyen Thao D
Published: August 2009

This paper presents a thermoviscoelastic model for shape memory polymers (SMPs). The model has been developed base on the hypothesis that structural and stress relaxation are the primary shape memory mechanisms of crosslinked, glassy SMP, and that consideration of these mechanisms is essential for predicting the time-dependence of the shape memory response. Comparisons with experiments show that the model can reproduce the rate-dependent strain-temperature and stress-strain response of a crossslinked, glassy SMP. The model also captures many important features of the temperature and time dependence of the free strain recovery and constrained stress recovery response.
Dome-like PVDF Actuators: Preparation, Phase Transformation and Piezoelectric Properties
Authors: Wegener Michael , Schwerdtner Robert , Schueller Martin , Morschhauser Andreas
Published: August 2009

In this work, dome structures in PVDF films were prepared as ultrasonic transducer. The domes are realized by a deep-drawing process. The dome-forming process leads to a phase transformation from the non-polar α into the polar β phase within dome wall and roof of the PVDF films. A ferroelectric polarization is obtained in these dome areas after suitable electrical poling which yields a piezoelectric activity. Because of the piezoelectric activity within the film plane, a dome-roof up-and-down actuation is observed with resonance frequencies in the range between 65 and 93 kHz.
In vitro study of mouse fibroblast tumor cells with TNF coated and Alexa488 marked silica nanoparticles with an endoscopic device for real time cancer visualization
Authors: Herz Marion , Rank Andreas , Tovar Güenter E. M. , Hirth Thomas , Kaltenbacher Dominik , Stallkamp Jan , Weber Achim
Published: August 2009

Tumor resection done by minimally invasive procedure owns the challenge of a fast and reliable differentiation between healthy and tumorous tissue. We aim at investigating and developing a method for an intraoperative visualization of tumor cells with functionalized nanoparticles. The goal is to use this technique for the intraoperative use. Our so-called biohybrid systems consist of nanoparticles that are produced by Stöber synthesis and coupled with bio active proteins. Such biomimetic nanostructures are capable of imitating the effects of membrane-bound cytokines, which bind to tumor cells for labeling them. A flexible and modular test environment has been developed to evaluate the spraying properties of the particles and to study tissue probes. It enables a fast investigation of different particle configurations and spraying parameters like pressure, spray volume, nozzle geometry, etc.
Tests of the Affinity Assumption in Phantomlike Elastomer Networks
Authors: Davies Misty , Lew Adrian
Published: August 2009

Phantomlike elastomer simulations do not always deform globally affinely in the way that classical theory predicts. Assuming that each crosslink will deform affinely with its topological neighbors gives much better results, and creates a way to isolate crosslinks with unpredictable deformation properties. The correlation of non-affinities and network properties depends on the constitutive model and boundary condition used. We always find a correlation between local density of crosslinks and degree of non-affinity.
Immunogenicity and cross reactivity indices of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi strains isolated from cases of Strangles and commercial vaccines
Authors: Moraes Carina Martins de , Silva Mariana Sá e , Vargas Agueda Palmira Castagna de , Nogueira Carlos Eduardo Wayne , Leite Fábio Pereira Leivas , Gil-Turnes Carlos
Published: August 2009

Horse Strangles appears frequently in animals vaccinated with commercial bacterins in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Aiming to know the antigenic relationships of strains recovered from sick animals among them and with two vaccines profusely used in the state, bilateral cross reactivity indices (CRI) were estimated. In addition, the immunogenicity of vaccines prepared with field isolates and commercial vaccines was tested in mice. Antibody titers were measured by ELISA and expressed as seroconversions. Thirteen strains of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi, nine classified biochemically as typical and other four as atypical strains, were recovered from 35 sick horses belonging to 10 herds of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The strains recovered from sick horses showed very close CRI, suggesting antigenic homogeneity among them, but not with the vaccinal strains. A vaccine produced with an atypical strain induced the highest seroconversion, 9.4, while two produced with typical strains were poorly-immunogenic. The commercial vaccines were less immunogenic than five and four vaccines produced with field strains, inducing seroconversions of 2.6 and 3.8, respectively.
Multinationals and interdependence in internationalisation processes
Authors: Rezende Sérgio Fernando Loureiro
Published: August 2009

This article deals with interdependence and the internationalisation process of multinationals (MNCs); a topic that has received scarce attention in the literature (e.g. Bell & Young, 1998; Holm et al., 1995). By reviewing the literature on behavioural models of internationalisation, initially, the article suggests that MNCs should be regarded as loosely coupled systems in which independence and interdependence of operations shape how MNCs evolve and organise activities across borders. Subsequently, the article models the internationalisation process of MNCs by highlighting three dimensions that characterise their pattern of evolution - uniformity, direction and rhythm, and lays out three hypotheses on the relationship between these dimensions and interdependence. The direction of the relationship is suggested to be negative, i.e., other things being equal, interdependence is negatively related to uniformity, direction and the rhythm of the internationalisation processes. The article concludes by claiming that the internationalisation of MNCs results from an intricate combination of independent, yet interdependent, internationalisation processes that evolve in various spatial and temporal contexts within the MNC network.
Atitudes frente às próteses auditivas
Authors: Bastos Bárbara Guimarães , Amorim Raquel Beltrão , Ferrari Deborah Viviane
Published: August 2009

OBJETIVOS: avaliar as atitudes frente à deficiência auditiva e o aparelho de amplificação sonora individual (AASI) em candidatos e usuários destes dispositivos. Verificar se existe relação entre tais atitudes e os dados demográficos, audiométricos e características do AASI. MÉTODOS: 63 indivíduos (35 homens e 28 mulheres, idade média de 64,3 anos) com deficiência auditiva neurossensorial bilateral de diferentes graus, candidatos e usuários de AASI responderam o "Questionário de Atitudes Frente à Deficiência Auditiva" (ALHQ v3.0). Foi analisada a distribuição da pontuação das subescalas do ALHQ e realizada a correlação entre estas e os dados demográficos, audiológicos e da adaptação do AASI dos participantes. Foram também realizadas comparações da pontuação do ALHQ entre os grupos de candidatos e usuários, entre homens e mulheres. RESULTADOS: não houve distribuição normal das respostas nas subescalas do ALHQ. Não houve correlações entre a pontuação do ALHQ com os dados demográficos e audiológicos. Foram verificadas correlações fracas e significativas entre as subescalas do questionário: "estratégias negativas" e "estima" (rho=-0,39), "negação" e "estima" (rho=-0,27), "estratégias negativas" e "associações negativas" (rho=0,25) e "negação" e "estratégias negativas" (rho=-0,30). Houve diferença significativa nas subescalas estratégias negativas (p=0,02) e associações negativas (p=0,00) entre o grupo de candidatos e usuários. Não houve diferença na pontuação entre homens e mulheres. CONCLUSÃO: a existência de atitudes negativas frente à deficiência auditiva e ao uso do AASI reforça a necessidade do aconselhamento de ajuste pessoal incluído no processo de adaptação do AASI em adultos e idosos. É necessário validar o questionário traduzido para o português brasileiro.
VP-128, a novel oestradiol-platinum(II) hybrid with selective anti-tumour activity towards hormone-dependent breast cancer cells in vivo
Authors: Van Themsche Céline , Parent Sophie , Leblanc Valérie , Descôteaux Caroline , Simard Anne-Marie , Bérubé Gervais , Asselin Eric
Published: August 2009

We have previously reported the synthesis of VP-128, a new 17β-oestradiol (E2)-linked platinum(II) hybrid with high affinity for oestrogen receptor α (ERα). In the present study, we have investigated the anti-tumour activity of VP-128 towards breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. We used human ERα-positive (MCF-7) and -negative (MDA-MB-468) cells as a model for treatment with increasing doses of VP-128, cisplatin or E2 in vitro and for xenograft experiments in nude mice in vivo. Compared with cisplatin, VP-128 showed markedly improved in vitro and in vivo anti-tumour activity towards ERα-positive MCF-7 breast cancer cells, without increased systemic toxicity. In these caspase-3-deficient cells, treatment with VP-128 overcame weak cellular sensitivity to cisplatin in vitro and in vivo. In these cells, only the hybrid induced apoptosis in an ERα-dependent manner, inactivated both X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein and Akt, and induced selective nuclear accumulation of ERα and the expression of ER-regulated genes c-myc and tff1, which was blocked by ERα-specific antagonist ICI 282 780. In the case of ERα-negative MDA-MB-468 cells, VP-128, but not cisplatin, induced nuclear accumulation of apoptosis-inducing factor and inhibited c-myc expression. However, VP-128 did not show enhanced in vivo anti-tumour activity compared with cisplatin. These results reveal two different modes of action for VP-128 in ERα-positive and -negative breast cancer cells, and highlight the promising therapeutic value of this unique E2-platinum hybrid for selective targeting of hormone-dependent cancers.
Fabrication of 5.8‐in. OTFT‐driven flexible color AMOLED display using dual protection scheme for organic semiconductor patterning
Authors: Nakajima Yoshiki , Takei Tatsuya , Tsuzuki Toshimitsu , Suzuki Mitsunori , Fukagawa Hirohiko , Yamamoto Toshihiro , Tokito Shizuo
Published: August 2009

Abstract— A 5.8‐in. wide‐QQVGA flexible color active‐matrix organic light‐emitting‐diode (AMOLED) display consisting of organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs) and phosphorescent OLEDs was fabricated on a plastic film. To reduce the operating voltage of the OTFTs, Ta2O5 with a high dielectric constant was employed as a gate insulator. Pentacene was used for the semiconductor layer of the OTFTs. This layer was patterned by photolithography and dry‐etched using a dual protection layer of poly p‐xylylene and SiO2 film. Uniform transistor performance was achieved in the OTFT backplane with QQVGA pixels. The RGB emission layers of the pixels were formed by vacuum deposition of phosphorescent small molecules. The resulting display could clearly show color moving images even when it was bent and operated at a low driving voltage (below 15 V).
Thermal‐deformation characterization on the panel of TFT‐LCD TV. Part I: Mechanism of color distortion
Authors: Chu Chung‐Yi , Chan Chih‐Po , Pan Min‐Chun
Published: August 2009

Abstract— In this study we applied both numerical simulation and experimental validation to characterize the thermal deformation of the panel and the direct‐lit backlight unit (BLU) of a thin‐film‐transistor liquid‐crystal‐display television (TFT‐LCD TV). Heat emitted from cold‐cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs) causes thermal deformation of the LCD and extrudes the panel from the metal front shield at both upper corners: this finally leads to color distortion. In the numerical simulation based on thermal‐fluidic fields of the TFT‐LCD TV, natural convection of air that surrounded the CCFLs resulted in a high temperature at the upper‐right and upper‐left corners of the LCD panel. Numerical results were verified by temperature measurements with good consistency. Additionally, this study has established a measurement system to characterize the temperature distribution on both the BLU and panel and the thermal deformation of the panel causing the color distortion.
Exit pupil expander with a large field of view based on diffractive optics
Authors: Äyräs Pekka , Saarikko Pasi , Levola Tapani
Published: August 2009

Abstract— The field of view is an important parameter of a near‐to‐eye display. To achieve an immersive viewing experience, the field of view should be as high as possible. Presently, in most of the commercially available devices the field of view is between 15° and 30°. In this paper, a large‐field‐of‐view exit pupil expander that is based on diffractive optics was demonstrated. Usually these types of diffractive expanders cannot have a field of view much more than 25°. Here, an exit pupil expander with an extended field of view, based on two stacked plates, was demonstrated. The expander is designed for green light and it achieves a field of view of more than 40°.
Mura‐type effect on human‐vision inspection
Authors: Wang Pei‐Chia , Hwang Sheue‐Ling
Published: August 2009

Abstract— Currently, the image quality of LCDs is examined subjectively by humans. There are no consistent rules for examining Mura, so it is necessary to develop an acceptable Mura standard between users and manufacturers. A Mura simulation experiment can establish the relationship between human visual perception and Mura phenomenon. The present study used several types and sizes of real Mura and subjects with different experiences to develop a starting point for examining Mura by the systematical approach of human factors. The objective in this study is to search the relationships between Mura characteristics and visual contrast thresholds. From the experimental results, Mura type, Mura size, and Mura location were the most important factors in the visual contrast threshold. A domestic Just Noticeable Difference model of the LCD industry was also constructed that could be used as an inspection criterion for LCD industry.
Ambient‐light sensor system with wide dynamic range enhanced by adaptive sensitivity control
Authors: Park Hyun‐Sang , Ji Seon‐Beom , Han Min‐Koo , Lee Jae‐Sic , Kim Chi‐Woo , Choi Kwang‐Soo
Published: August 2009

Abstract— A new digital ambient‐light sensor system is presented which employs two linear light sensors with different sensitivities and automatically adjusts the sensitivity based on the illumination condition. The adaptation mechanism allows a very wide range of light intensity to be detected, and the input dynamic range of the system is substantially improved from 22.5 to 45.1 dB. The proposed method does not require any additional precision bits for output data. Due to the small number of the output bits and the simple conversion process, the system can be easily integrated on the display panel.
Use of Ester as a Precursor to Clean Formate Drill-In Fluid Damage in Horizontal Wells
Authors: Alotaibi M. B. , Nasr-El-Din H. A. , Hill A. D.
Published: August 2009

Long horizontal and multilateral oil and gas wells provide an attractive option for maximizing reservoir contact. Formate-based brines have been used in drilling and completion operations for more than 10 years. Advantages of these fluids include high density, solid-free brines, better compatibility with XC polymer, starches, and less potential for formation damage. These advantages were reported in several previous publications.

Filter cakes that are generated by drilling fluids can act as a barrier to the fluid flow in both cased and openhole wells. Calcium carbonate particles are frequently used as weighting material to maintain the pressure that is required for well control and minimizing leakoff rate. These solid particles become consolidated and trapped in a polymeric material, and this makes the filter cake a very effective permeability barrier.

The conventional method for cleaning filter cake is by using solids-free formate brines, either by soaking or circulating for many hours at high flow rates. This mechanical technique removes only external filter cake. Chemical means like acids, oxidizers, chelating agents, enzymes, or combinations of these chemicals are usually used as an alternative method for dissolving both the external and internal filter cake. Most of these fluids cannot give a full coverage to the wellbore because of the formation heterogeneity.

A new precursor (ester of an organic acid) can generate an acid downhole at a low release rate, which results in uniform fluid distribution through the wellbore. Compatibility and thermal stability tests between the precursor solution and formation brine were studied in detail. Return permeability experiments were conducted by using high-pressure/high-temperature (HP/HT) dynamic fluid loss cells. The ester solution was effective in cleaning the filter cake in comparison to the formate brines.

A field application, where formate brine was used to drill and complete a gas producer in a sandstone reservoir, is included in this paper. The gas well was drilled in a weakly consolidated reservoir and was completed with expandable sand screens (ESSs). The bottomhole temperature was 285°F. The produced gas contained 2–3 vol% carbon dioxide and no hydrogen sulfide. Full analysis of flowback samples indicated that most of the returned solids were calcium carbonate. Laboratory tests indicated that the ester solution can be used to restore well productivity by removing damage induced by the drilling mud filter cake.
And Never the Two Shall Meet?: Student vs. Faculty Perceptions of Online Courses
Authors: Osborne Randall E. , Kriese Paul , Tobey Heather , Johnson Emily
Published: August 2009

The education literature is blossoming with work on perceptions of distance education, online teaching, hybrid courses, and the like. Although this literature is important for helping faculty to understand the costs and benefits for teaching in these newer formats, little attention has been paid to documenting potential differences between student expectations for taking and faculty perceptions about teaching online courses. The current project gathered perceptual data from students and faculty about online courses. Findings suggest that differences between student and faculty perceptions of online courses might create barriers that diminish the effectiveness of the teaching-learning environment in such courses.
Examining Online Learning Patterns with Data Mining Techniques in Peer-Moderated and Teacher-Moderated Courses
Authors: Hung Jui-Long , Crooks Steven M.
Published: August 2009

The student learning process is important in online learning environments. If instructors can “observe” online learning behaviors, they can provide adaptive feedback, adjust instructional strategies, and assist students in establishing patterns of successful learning activities. This study used data mining techniques to examine and compare learning patterns between peer-moderated and teacher-moderated groups from a recently completed experimental study (Zhang, Peng, & Hung, 2009). The online behaviors of the students from the Zhang et al. study were analyzed to determine why teacher-moderated groups performed significantly better than peer-moderated groups. Three data mining techniques—clustering analysis, association rule analysis, and decision tree analysis—were used for data analysis. The results showed that most students in the peer-moderated condition had low participation levels and relied on student-content interaction only. On the other hand, teacher presence promoted student interaction with multiple sources (content, student, and teacher). The findings demonstrate the potential of data mining techniques to support teaching and learning.
Instructor and Student Classroom Interactions during Technology Skills Instruction for Facilitating Preservice Teachers' Computer Self-Efficacy
Authors: Koh Joyce H. L. , Frick Theodore W.
Published: August 2009

Technology skills instruction is an important component of educational technology courses, which has been shown to raise pre-service teachers' computer self-efficacy. Computer self-efficacy, in turn, is positively related to their self-efficacy for technology integration. Studies of undergraduate technology skills instruction found that classroom interactions between instructors and students can influence students' computer self-efficacy. These relationships are not well understood with respect to technology skills instruction of pre-service teachers as there is a dearth of such studies in teacher education literature. This study addressed the gap by analyzing video recordings of three educational technology classes to derive a taxonomy of classroom interactions that occur during technology skills instruction. Survey and interview data were further used to determine how these interaction categories influenced pre-service teachers' computer self-efficacy. Based on these findings, we offer guidelines for how teacher educators can foster pre-service teachers' computer self-efficacy through the process of technology skills instruction.
Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use for Websites Used by Students in Higher Education
Authors: Van Schaik Paul
Published: August 2009

A unified framework for researching technology acceptance, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), was previously proposed and validated. The aim of this article is to explore the application UTAUT to websites used by students in higher education. Both prescribed websites and user-selected sites were studied using a non-experimental research design and questionnaire-based measures. The results support direct and moderated effects of technology-acceptance variables on acceptance outcomes in the research model, supporting UTAUT. As predicted, the research model—based on UTAUT—was more successful in explaining the acceptance of a prescribed library site than that of a prescribed virtual learning environment. The model was also successfully applied to user-selected websites. User-selected sites were especially intrinsically motivating. The effect of intrinsic motivation on performance expectancy, mediated by effort expectancy, was confirmed. The results demonstrate the broad scope of applicability of UTAUT and motivate its recommended wider use.
The Political Economy of Agricultural Market Reforms in Developing Countries
Authors: Giuliano Paola , Scalise Diego
Published: August 2009

We study the determinants of agricultural market reforms in developing countries. What prompted the governments in these countries to abruptly begin deregulating their agricultural markets in the late 1980's? We answer this question by constructing a completely new dataset based on agricultural market regulations in 88 developing countries from 1960 to 2003. Our results suggest that the sudden and strong decline in the international price of agricultural commodities played a crucial role in destabilizing the financial equilibrium of marketing boards. In addition, changes in the rural representation in the political arena and government ideology also played significant roles in breaking up the status quo.
Infectious Disease Modeling: Creating a Community to Respond to Biological Threats
Authors: Kaufman James , Edlund Stefan , Douglas Judith
Published: August 2009

The rise of global economies in the 21st century, the rapid national and international movement of people, and the increased reliance of developed countries on global trade, all greatly increase the potential and possible magnitude of a worldwide pandemic. New epidemics may be the result of global climate change, vector-borne diseases, food-borne illness, new naturally occurring pathogens, or bio-terrorist attacks. The threat is most severe for highly communicable diseases. When rapidly spreading microparasitic infections coincide with the rapid transportation, propagation, and dissemination of the pathogens and vectors for infection, the risks associated with emerging infectious disease increase. We discuss the use of publicly-available technologies in assisting public health officials and scientists in protecting populations from emerging disease or in implementing improved response measures. We illustrate possibilities using the SpatioTemporal Epidemiological Modeler (STEM) that was developed to run on the Open Health Framework (OHF) created by the Eclipse Foundation in 2004. An illustration regarding the spread of the influenza H1N1 virus from Mexico to the United States via air travel in Spring 2009 is briefly discussed.
Investigation of Non-Linear Adaptive Responses and Split Dose Recovery Induced by Ionizing Radiation in Three Human Epithelial Derived Cell Lines
Authors: Ryan Lorna A. , Seymour Colin B. , Mothersill Carmel E.
Published: August 2009

Two almost completely exclusive fields in radiobiology deal with splitting doses of radiation and comparing the effect to a similar total dose given in one exposure. In radiotherapy, dose “fractionation” is used to “spare” normal tissue and in the low dose field, the adaptive response is well documented as a phenomenon where a small “priming” dose administered before the larger “challenge” dose reduces the effect of the large dose. There have been very few studies where these fields overlap, thus it is not possible to ascertain whether common or distinct mechanisms underlie both phenomena but this is certainly an interesting question and relevant to our understanding of high and low dose radiobiology. This paper presents data for three human cell lines with varying p53 status and radiation responses, treated at a range of times between first and second dose and for 3 different first doses (0.1, 0.5 and 2Gy). The data show that time between doses is critical. Protective (adaptive) effects were seen in each cell line but most prominently in the malignant HT 29 cell line. Surprisingly none of the cell lines showed pronounced split dose recovery. This suggests different mechanisms may underlie the two phenomena.
Variable Assessment of Product Benefits in Consumer Behavior Using a Means-End Approach
Authors: Lin Chin-Feng , Huang Hsin-Chung
Published: August 2009

Perceived benefits associated with product consumption are the main consideration for consumers when purchasing particular products or services. Taking perfume as an example, the authors applied Means-End chain theory to establish attribute-benefit-value (A-B-V) hierarchies, and further
adopted centrality and prestige indices to assess the variable assessment of product benefits. Analytical results indicate that consumers are primarily concerned with personal feeling, seduction and self-imagery benefits. Marketers can utilize analytical results of benefit-variable assessment
for product design and marketing strategy formation.
Exploring the Construct Validity of the Chinese Version of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator-G
Authors: Shi Ru , Yang Yebing
Published: August 2009

The construct validity of the Chinese version of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (Myers & Briggs, 1962) was examined by conducting two analyses – factor analysis and correlation analysis on four different personality tests in their revised Chinese versions and comparing the
corresponding results. A sample of 998 undergraduates in China was used: 798 males and 200 females ranging in age from 19 to 23. Four Chinese-version personality questionnaires, Myers-Briggs Type Indication Form G, the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2, 16 Personality Factors and
Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, were used. The results showed that either a 4- or a 5-factor design appears to be the best choice for the Chinese version of the MBTI, the SN scale can be further divided into two parts, with one dealing with the problem “where to gather or perceive
information”, and the other involving attitudes towards, and methods for selecting, information. The JP scale was largely unitary in nature compared with the 3 other scales of the MBTI.
Employees' Organizational Justice Perceptions in Turkish Schools
Authors: Titrek Osman
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of organizational justice in staff at Turkish schools, according to managers' and employees' perceptions. Participants were 104 school managers, 834 teachers and 78 other employees (1,016) who were selected from 7 city schools. To
gather data, the Perceptions of Fair Interpersonal Treatment Scale Turkish version (Wasti, 2001) was used. Results from ANOVA and t test showed that most deficiencies in organizational justice behaviors in Turkish schools related to managers' behaviors towards employees. School position,
gender, experience, and marital status also significantly affect employees' perception.
An Extension of Financial Cost and TAM Model with IDT for Exploring Users' Behavioral Intentions to Use the CRM Information System
Authors: Tung Feng-Cheng , Lee Ming Shing , Chen Chih-Chung , Hsu Yao-Sheng
Published: August 2009

In the present study, the researcher investigated innovation diffusion theory, the technology acceptance model, trust, and perceived financial cost. Based on 288 questionnaires collected from 65 corporations in Taiwan, it was found that compatibility, perceived usefulness, perceived
ease of use, trust, and perceived financial cost were critical factors for users' behavioral intentions to use the customer relationship management information system. Results indicated that compatibility, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and trust have a significant positive effect
on behavioral intentions, and perceived financial cost has a significant negative effect on behavioral intentions.
Male Body Image: The Role of Muscle Magazine Exposure, Body Mass Index, and Social Comparison in Men's Body Satisfaction
Authors: Jonason Peter K. , Krcmar Marina , Sohn Steve
Published: August 2009

Unrealistic images of male beauty are on the rise (e.g., Baghurst, Hollander, Nardella, & Haff, 2006). However, research on male body image tends to assume that the same theoretical models used to account for body satisfaction in women are appropriate for men (e.g., McCabe &
Ricciardelli, 2004). Few have tested the assumption that female-typical models can be applied to men. Three variables have proven instrumental in accounting for body satisfaction in women: (a) exposure to relevant content, (b) BMI, and (c) social comparison (e.g., Blond, 2008). We present
an exploratory study, using path modeling, to simultaneously assess the relative impact of each of these on body satisfaction in young men.
Mathematics Anxiety and Mathematical Self-Concept: Considerations in Preparing Elementary-School Teachers
Authors: Isiksal Mine , Curran Joanne M. , Koc Yusuf , Askun Cengiz S.
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of type of educational system and years spent in teacher education programs on preservice teachers' mathematics anxiety and mathematical self-concept scores. The sample consisted of 234 American and 276 Turkish early childhood and
elementary school preservice teachers. The Abbreviated Mathematics Anxiety Scale (AMAS; Hopko, 2003) was used to measure how anxious preservice teachers feel during a specific mathematics related event. In order to measure the mathematical self-concept of preservice teachers, the Experience
with Mathematics Questionnaire (EMQ; Gourgey, 1982) was used. Regarding the effect of the educational system, results revealed that while the American preservice teachers had significantly higher anxiety scores, Turkish preservice teachers had significantly higher self-concept scores. Results
supported previous findings emphasizing the negative relationship between mathematical anxiety and mathematical self-concept.
Personality Traits and Personal and Organizational Inducements: Antecedents of Workaholism
Authors: Liang Ying-Wen , Chu Chen-Ming
Published: August 2009

Personality has been shown to be a valid predictor of behavior in work settings, but few studies have tested the causality of relationships between personality and workaholism. Extending the propositions of Ng, Sorenson, and Feldman (2007), in this article personality traits were treated
as multidimensional and causal relationships were proposed between personality traits and workaholism. We also investigated the interactions among antecedents of workaholism using the definition of Ng et al. as the construct of workaholism, and deduced its antecedents from dimensions that
underlie workaholism. Our model identified the following antecedents as being potentially linked to workaholism: personality traits, personal inducements, and organizational inducements. Obsessive compulsion, achievement orientation, perfectionism, and conscientiousness are key personality
traits leading to workaholism. Intrinsic work values and vicarious learning in the family are two components of personal inducements, while putting work ahead of family commitments, peer competition, and vicarious learning at the workplace constitute three organizational inducements.
To be Richer, to be More Miserly? How Purchase Purpose and Affluence Moderate Price Perception
Authors: Yu Zonghuo , Wang Dengfeng , Bastin Mike , Tang Xiaojuan
Published: August 2009

This study was aimed at examining how purchase purpose and affluence influence price perception. A total of 84 participants were involved in a 2x2 experiment, the results of which showed that in the case of a primed very affluent condition, participants priced items which they bought
for themselves higher than when they bought the same items for their friends. However, in the primed average wealth condition, the price of the goods which participants marked for themselves was similar to prices of items bought for their friends. These findings give an important insight into
the relationship between affluence and purchase purpose and the influence of these on price perception.
Cancer Preventing Properties of Cruciferous Vegetables
Authors: Czapski Janusz
Published: August 2009

Cancer Preventing Properties of Cruciferous Vegetables

Health-promoting phytonutrients in cruciferous vegetables have been gaining attention for their powerful effects in combating cancer. This review concerns anticancer properties of cruciferous green vegetables of "Brassica" genus such as broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, watercress. The role and mechanisms of action of cruciferous active compounds such as sulforaphane, indole-3-carbinol, diindolylmethane and phenethyl isothiocyanate in protection against cancer and cancer-fighting are discussed. Losses of nutrients and active compounds during cooking, microwaving, and blanching of vegetables which may be more substantial than commonly perceived are also reviewed.
Relationship between Technological Characters in Capsicum SPP. Soft-Flesh Forms
Authors: Nowaczyk Lubosława , Nowaczyk Paweł , Banach-Szott Magdalena
Published: August 2009

Relationship between Technological Characters in Capsicum SPP. Soft-Flesh Forms

The present research involved the evaluation of relationships between technological characters of soft-flesh fruit in the lines derived from the hybrid Capsicum frutescens L. × C. annuum L. The evaluation was performed in groups of genotypes which differed in their fruit weight and pericarp thickness. The material researched was made up of the pericarp from which placenta with seeds was removed and the puree obtained as a result of whole fruit crushing. The analysis of the content of capsaicinoids was made using the HPLC method. The content of capsaicin was in each case higher than that of dihydrocapsaicin. There were observed highly significantly positive correlations between the average fruit weight and the wall thickness in the genotypes of a higher level of these characters, namely in the groups over 20 g (fruit weight) and over 3 mm (wall thickness). In these groups the content of capsaicinoids was negatively correlated with the average fruit weight. The significance of this relationship was confirmed in the genotypes of a higher fruit weight as compared with the content of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicine in the puee. The relationships between the capsaicinoids researched were more stable in the genotypes of a higher fruit weight and demonstrating a higher pericarp wall thickness.
Canopy Architecture and Yielding of Different Tomato Morphotypes Under Glasshouse Conditions
Authors: Abukhovich Aliaksandr , Pietkiewicz Stefan , Karwowska Romualda , Kobryń Jolanta , Kalaji Hazem
Published: August 2009

Canopy Architecture and Yielding of Different Tomato Morphotypes Under Glasshouse Conditions

Two tomato morphotypes (cvs. Favorita, Organza and Azarro) of different fruit size were grown during 2005-2006 on a rockwool substrate under greenhouse conditions. Leaf area index (LAI), solar radiation absorption coefficient (TAO) and leaf area duration (LAD) were determined. Tested tomato cultivars proved different yielding strategies expressed by dissimilar values of the measured and calculated physiological indices (LAI, LAD, TAO and the canopy yielding efficiency). Cv. Organza showed the highest canopy yielding efficiency, cv. Azarro showed a negative dependence between LAD and yield, while cv. Favorita canopy architecture allowed to achieve better penetration of light energy to lower canopy layers and showed better tolerance of this cultivar to thermal stress.
Changes of Macro and Micronutrients Contents in the Root Environment of Greenhouse Tomato Grown in Fiber Wood
Authors: Komosa Andrzej , Piróg Józef , Kleiber Tomasz
Published: August 2009

Changes of Macro and Micronutrients Contents in the Root Environment of Greenhouse Tomato Grown in Fiber Wood

Wood fiber can be used in horticultural practice as biodegradable horticultural substrate. In these studies carried out in the years 2007-2008, changes of the macro and micronutrients in nutrient solution collected from the root environment of greenhouse tomato cv. Emotion F1 grown in the slabs of wood fiber with densities of 60, 80 and 100 g·dm-3, were determined. Results were compared with the tomato growing in the rockwool slabs of density 60 g·dm-3. Increase of the wood fiber density from 60 to 100 g·dm-3 significantly declined the contents of N-NO3, P, K, Ca, S-SO4 and Fe in the root environment, but increased the N-NH4 and Mn contents. No significant effect of the wood fiber density on the changes of Mg, Zn, Cu, B and Na contents was found. Decrease of the main nutrients in the root environment of plants grown in the wood fiber with an increasing density, significantly decreased EC in nutrient solution. However, there were no significant changes in the pH value. In the growing of tomato on the rockwool and wood fiber slabs, in comparable density of 60 g·dm-3, there was a significant differentiation of the N-NH4, N-NO3, K, Fe and Zn contents in the root environment. Growing of plants in the wood fiber it was shown the higher contents of N-NO3, K and Zn, but in the rockwool the higher amounts of N-NH4 and Fe. The lowering series of nutrient contents in the rockwool showed the following sequence: Na>Fe>Ca>N-NH4>Cu>K>Cl>N-NO3>Mg>S-SO4>B, while in the wood fiber was: Na>Zn>Ca>N-NO3K>Mg>Cl>S-SO4>B. In the wood fiber, in contrast to the rockwool, there was no effect of Cu, Fe and N-NH4 concentration.
The Effect of Wood Fiber Density on the Content of Macro And Microelements in the Root Environment of Greenhouse Cucumber
Authors: Piróg Józef , Komosa Andrzej , Markiewicz Bartosz
Published: August 2009

The Effect of Wood Fiber Density on the Content of Macro And Microelements in the Root Environment of Greenhouse Cucumber

Wood fiber is a biodegradable growing substrate. In the years 2007-2008 the investigation on macro and microelement content changes in the nutrient solutions collected from the root environment of greenhouse cucumber cv. Onyks F1 grown in the wood fiber slabs with differentiated density (60, 80, 100 g·dm-3) was done. Results were compared with the rockwool at the density of 60 g·dm-3. Increase of the wood fiber density to 80-100 g·dm-3 significantly increased in the root environment the contents of ammonium, manganese, copper, boron and sodium. At high density of the wood fiber - 100 g·dm-3, there was a distinct increase of the nutrient solution EC in the root environment. On the other hand, no differences were found in the pH value. In the root environment of plants grown in the rockwool, a higher content of ammonium, nitrates, iron and boron was found, while in the wood fiber, there was a greater amount of calcium and copper. In the root environment, there occurred the effect of nutrient increasing concentration, which for the rockwool was the following: Na>Zn>Cu>Ca>Cl>K>B>Fe>N-NO3>Mg>S-SO4>N-NH4 (P and Mn did not concentrate). This sequence for the wood fiber, calculated for the average density 60-100 g·dm-3, was: Cu>Na>Zn>Ca>Cl>K>B>S-SO4>Mg. The decreasing effect of N-NH4 and N-NO3 contents in the wood fiber can be connected with the biological sorption because of a high C:N relation in this root medium (C:N=125).
The Effect of Different Kind of Polyethylene Film Used as a Low Tunnel Cover on Celery Yield and Stalk Quality
Authors: Siwek Piotr , Wojciechowska Renata , Libik Andrzej , Kalisz Andrzej
Published: August 2009

The Effect of Different Kind of Polyethylene Film Used as a Low Tunnel Cover on Celery Yield and Stalk Quality

Earlier experiments showed that celery could be grown under different plastic covers for spring and autumn harvest. The most significant for yield quantity and quality were light conditions. In conducted studies (2005-2007) the effect of three different covers for low tunnels: transparent, white and black film (made of original and recycled polyethylene) on the growth, yield and some quality factors of celery Tango stalks was estimated. Only small differences in the length of celery stalks grown under different films were observed. In the third year of experiment stalks grown under black film were around 1cm longer than all the others. Mean values of the yield indicate that transparent film used as a cover and the control treatment increased slightly the obtained yield but the differences did not exceed several percent. Plants grown in more favourable light conditions accumulated more dry matter as well as more soluble sugars in celery stalks. No such differences were observed under original and recycled films.
The Effect of Pot Zize and Transplant Age on the Yield and Quality of White, Green and Romanesco Cauliflower Curds
Authors: Cebula Stanisław
Published: August 2009

The Effect of Pot Zize and Transplant Age on the Yield and Quality of White, Green and Romanesco Cauliflower Curds

The subject of the experiment were three cultivars representing three different kinds of cauliflower: white (‵Planita F1‵), green (‵Trevi F1‵) and romanesco (‵Amfora F1‵). All plants were cultivated from transplants of various age (ca. 30 and 40 days) prepared in different size pots (96 and 160 cells/tray). The parameters of transplants ready for planting were determined and the yield level as well as commercial quality of curds was assessed. The fresh mass of overground part and root system of transplants of all cauliflower types was higher in case of older transplants and transplants grown in pots of larger cell volume. The commercial yield and the average curd weight were highest for white cauliflower cultivar, lower for green cultivar and the lowest for the romanesco type variety. All three cauliflower varieties reached their maximal values in this respect with the older-transplant and larger pot size. Most curds of grade I and the biggest diameter were formed in case of white cauliflower plants, slightly fewer of green variety and the least of the romanesco type. In case of all cauliflower varieties plants cultivated from older transplants had a larger root system, which ensured the best quality and most favourable marketable curds. Particular cauliflower types differed quite considerably in respect to their tendency to form curd defects (green bracts, hollow stem, riciness and browning). White cauliflower was the least susceptible to disorder in curd formation with the romanesco being the most sensitive type. In case of white cauliflower, transplants obtained from smaller pots, particularly in the case of younger transplants, resulted in the increased number of defects. However, in case of green and romanesco forms transplants produced in larger pots resulted in the occurrence of higher number of curd defects, particularly for older transplants.