bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação institucional: uso de abordagens diversificadas de pesquisa
Authors: Oliver Ana Cristina
Published: November 2015

O Sistema Nacional de Avaliação da Educação Superior (Sinaes), instituído pela Lei n. 10.861, de 14 de abril de 2004, é formado por três componentes principais: avaliação das instituições (externa e autoavaliação), avaliação dos cursos e avaliação do desempenho dos estudantes. O objetivo do presente artigo é descrever as várias abordagens de pesquisa utilizadas na auto-avaliação de uma instituição de ensino superior particular, para a obtenção dos dados necessários à avaliação das dez dimensões do Sinaes. O processo de avaliação foi operacionalizado a partir de uma sequência de etapas destinadas à coleta de dados para obtenção das informações necessárias, a fim de subsidiar o processo analítico da instituição. A coleta de dados constou de questionário eletrônico, vistorias às instalações físicas, reuniões com os grupos focais (coordenadores, docentes, discentes e corpo técnico-administrativo), entrevistas com os dirigentes e os responsáveis por setores de apoio e suporte às atividades acadêmicas e administrativas e levantamento e pesquisa de documentação e de dados institucionais. Com base nos dados e informações levantados, a comissão fez a compilação, o cruzamento e a análise completa dos dados. A etapa final consistiu da discussão sobre os dados entre os membros da Comissão Própria de Avaliação (CPA) e entre a CPA e os dirigentes, de modo que a comissão pudesse encaminhar um diagnóstico compartilhado sobre as fragilidades, as potencialidades e as ações a serem realizadas.
Avaliação da ação afirmativa no vestibular da UFBA
Authors: Costa Lilia Carolina Carneiro da , Santos Jessica Priscila Rivas dos , Guimarães Antonio , Guimarães Nadya Araujo
Published: November 2015

Com o objetivo de tornar o ensino superior acessível a todos, independentemente da classe social ou etnia, as universidades públicas vêm implantando ações afirmativas. A partir de 2005, o vestibular da Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA) possui um sistema de cotas que reserva cerca de 45% das vagas para candidatos originários de escola pública que se declaram pretos, pardos, índio-descendentes ou de outros grupos étnicos. Assim, desejando verificar as mudanças ocorridas no vestibular, em razão do sistema de cotas, este estudo utiliza dados da UFBA, de 2003 a 2008, e analisa a relação existente entre a aprovação no vestibular e as características dos candidatos, como renda familiar, cor/raça e nível educacional dos pais, entre outras variáveis. Mediante modelos logísticos ajustados a cada característica do candidato, foi observado que o sistema de cotas aumentou as chances de aprovação para os candidatos com renda familiar de 1 a 5 salários mínimos, que estudaram em escola estadual no 2º grau, e que trabalharam enquanto cursavam o ensino médio, entre outras variáveis. Já com o modelo logístico múltiplo, foi observado principalmente que a variável raça/cor apresentou uma tendência à equidade ao longo dos anos, isto é, independentemente da etnia, os candidatos tendem a ter as mesmas chances de serem aprovados no vestibular.
Análise acerca do boicote dos estudantes aos exames de avaliação do ensino superior
Authors: Leitão Thiago Miguel Sabino de Pereira , Moriconi Gabriela Miranda , Abrão Mariângela , Silva Dayse Souza da
Published: November 2015

Este estudo analisa o fenômeno popularmente denominado de boicote aos exames que compõem o sistema de avaliação do ensino superior no Brasil, dando ênfase ao Exame Nacional de Desempenho dos Estudantes (Enade). Ao fazê-lo, evidencia a magnitude do boicote ao longo do tempo, entre as instituições públicas e privadas, por tipo de boicote. Investigando o último triênio de avaliação do Enade, a análise econométrica identifica as variáveis que mais afetam a decisão do aluno ao adotar esse comportamento. Essas análises permitiram traçar um perfil do estudante que adere ao fenômeno. Como principal conclusão, o estudo aponta que o boicote, quando analisado de forma geral, não se mostra significativo, uma vez que o percentual de ocorrência nunca foi superior a 3,5%, mas quando analisado por curso a incidência desse fenômeno apresentou grandes variações. O presente artigo também revela algumas possíveis motivações para esse comportamento, entre elas a insatisfação do aluno com o curso e/ou a instituição.
Confiabilidade dos julgamentos de avaliadores de prova escrita na seleção para o mestrado
Authors: Santos Tahíse Maria de Brito Medeiros dos , Monteiro Viviane Rodrigues Viana , Rodrigues Junior José Florêncio
Published: November 2015

Setores da comunidade acadêmica têm expressado seu entendimento de que programas de pós-graduação, particularmente os de stricto sensu, devem-se submeter a auto-avaliações. O presente estudo insere-se num contexto de auto-avaliação de um programa de mestrado. Seu propósito é investigar o perfil de confiabilidade dos julgamentos dos examinadores da prova escrita no processo de seleção ao Mestrado em Educação de uma universidade privada do Centro-Oeste. O intervalo considerado abrangeu os anos de 1994 a 2006, totalizando 10 processos de seleção. Analisaram-se os dados numéricos das atribuições de notas, ano a ano, com base no coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Os resultados apresentam um perfil irregular, com índices de correlação tanto baixos (r=0,15) como elevados (r=0,89). A análise estritamente documental mostrou-se insuficiente para explicar o padrão errático das correlações ao longo dos dez processos examinados. Sugerem-se procedimentos adicionais, tanto no que se refere ao pesquisar como no que diz respeito à elevação da confiabilidade no aferimento das provas escritas do processo de seleção.
Nível socioeconômico e cor/raça em pesquisas sobre efeito-escola
Authors: Couri Cristina
Published: November 2015

O texto apresenta uma proposta para a desagregação do índice de nível socioeconômico utilizado nas investigações sobre efeito-escola e escolas eficazes em quatro dimensões: capital econômico, capital cultural, capital social de convivência e capital social de intervenção, com o uso de novas técnicas, entre elas a técnica GOM. Propõe também a introdução, nos modelos hierárquicos utilizados nestas pesquisas, das variáveis de interação entre a cor/raça e os recursos familiares dos alunos.
O conhecimento do professor em avaliação educacional e a proficiencia do aluno
Authors: Fernandes Neimar da Silva , Soares Tufi Machado , Pena Anderson Córdova , Cunha Iago Carvalho
Published: November 2015

Este atigo propôe a mostra a associação existente entre o desempenho dos alunos nos testes de proficiência aplicadas pelo Proeb/simave - sistema Mineiro de Avalição Escolar - e o conhecimento que os professores têm sobre o tema da avaliação em larga escala. Foi constatado que, mesmo controlados os efeitos das características socioeconômicas dos alunos, da escola e das variáveis referentes à motiviação do professor e ao clima escolar, o conhecimento do docente sobre avaliação em larga escala associa-se a um maior desempenho dos alunos.
The Intelligent Storage Recording System Based On Cluster Bombs Testing and The Data Analysis
Authors: Wei Wang , Zhijie Zhang
Published: November 2015

According to the bullet of cluster bombs in the separated Rotate- speed, dispensing overload, parachuteopening
overload, landing overload and other parameters testing background, this paper designs a intelligent storage
recording system which selects a the thin film geomagnetic sensor and photoelectric accelerometer as the sensitive unit,
the intelligent storage recording system is mainly composed of the FPGA controller, FLASH memory, 12 bit high speed
analog to digital converter. After live-fire test and numerical analysis, intelligent storage recording system can accurately
obtain the whole process of flight parameter data from scatters to fall to the ground.
Modeling and Control System Design of Marine Controlled-Source Electromagnetic Detection Transmitter
Authors: Haijun Tao , Yiming Zhang , Xiguo Ren
Published: November 2015

Marine electromagnetic transmitter transmits large power variable frequency electromagnetic wave to the
seabed so as to obtain the submarine structure and mineral resources. The mathematical model of controlled source circuit
needs to be established to realize closed loop control for increasing control precision and output transient performance of
the electromagnetic wave. The operation process of controlled circuit is analyzed in continuous current mode, two
equivalent switching states of controlled source circuit are obtained through the analysis of the different states of the
switch in a switching period. A small signal equivalent model of the system is established using small ripple
approximation. For high output voltage fluctuation problem in single loop control, double loop control strategy of voltage
loop and current loop is designed. The simulation and experimental results show that, the system has the advantages of
fast transient response speed and good regulation performance.
Optimization Design on Power Filter of TCR Under Asymmetrical Voltage
Authors: Wenchuan Ma , Li Zhitong , Daochang Chen , Jiaming Qi , Qiang Zhou , Junlong Fang
Published: November 2015

For resolving the problem that power filter cannot work normally because TCR (thyristor controlled reactor)
generates extra third harmonic current under asymmetrical voltage, the paper proposes the estimation method of current
capacity that TCR generates extra third harmonic current under asymmetrical voltage. Considering extra third harmonic
current under asymmetrical voltage, Optimum method based on genetic algorithm is used to design the parameters of
power filter. With reactive power compensation and harmonic suppression project of a steel mill as example, the proposed
method is simulated by Matlab. Simulation results show optimized power filter can eliminate extra third harmonic current
effects under asymmetrical voltage, meet the requirement of reactive power compensation, reduce harmonics current that
load injects into system, and guarantee the power filter safe operation under asymmetrical voltage.
Fault Diagnosis of Gear Based on the Variable Fuzzy Similarity Nearness
Authors: Wu Di , Yao Jin , Li Hua
Published: November 2015

In order to improve the validity and accuracy of fault diagnosis on mechanical equipment, this study applies
fuzzy nearness approach by adjusting the traditional formulations. Besides, it points out the disadvantages in fault
diagnosis of traditional nearness approach based on experimental data of gear transmission. A fuzzy nearness functionbased
model is constructed to execute the fault diagnosis with the assistance of fuzzy nearness principles and fuzzy
mathematical membership degree. Following that, a experimental data-based numerical example is implemented, which
demonstrates that the adjusted fuzzy nearness approach performs better than the traditional one in diagnosing gear fault
effectively and meeting the practical requirements of gear transmission fault diagnosis.
Research of Risk Evaluation Model for CBM Development Based on
Multi-Information Fusion
Authors: Zhang Yongchang , Yang Yongguo
Published: November 2015

CBM development is a major concern in national energy projects. With high investment, high risks and high
yield, CBM enables many investors generate the project plans while expressing concerns at the same time regarding the
risks. Focusing on the development of risk assessment model in CBM development and applications, this paper proposes
the CBM development risk assessment model of multi-information fusion, describing in detail the composite structure and
application methods of the model, and eventually proves the model feasibility and significance by practical instances.
Influences of pin profile on the macrostructure and mechanical properties of friction stir welded AA6061-T6 alloy T-joints
Authors: Alamdari Majid , Saeidi Mehdi , Manafi Babak , Masoumi Abolfazl , Ghowsi Kavan
Published: November 2015

Friction stir welding is a solid-state process in which the joining operation is performed while the base materials are not melted and they are merely plasticized. In this study, friction stir welding of the AA 6061-T6 aluminum alloy T-joint has been studied and the influences of the tool pin profile on the macrostructure and mechanical properties of the joints have been investigated. Accordingly, three different pin profiles, such as straight cylindrical, taper cylindrical and square have been utilized. Then the joints have been examined using macroscopic images. Also, the joints have been investigated by tensile and hardness tests. As obtained from the results, the fabricated joints by the cylindrical pin exhibited the maximum tensile strength and hardness due to the homogeneity of material flow and the lack of defects.
Effect of homogenization heat treatment on toughness and wear resistance of plastic mold steel
Authors: Çöl Mustafa , Koç Funda Gül
Published: November 2015

In this study, the effect of homogenization treatment on the microstructure, toughness and wear resistance of plastic mold steel was investigated. Homogenization heat treatment was performed at 1150 °C for 3 hours. All specimens were austenitized at 850 °C for 1 hour, quenched in oil and tempered at different temperatures. Wear tests were carried out using a pin-on-disc tribometer under dry sliding conditions. Charpy V notch impact tests were performed to determine the toughness properties. Microstructure, fracture and worn surfaces were investigated by scanning electron microscope. The results show that heat treatment conditions have an effect on the microstructure and mechanical properties of materials. It was determined that homogenization heat treatment causes more homogeneous structure, in particular, it has a positive effect on the toughness properties and wear resistance of the materials which were tempered at low temperatures.
Milling behavior of Hadfield steel with cryogenically treated tungsten carbide inserts
Authors: Ekici Ergün
Published: November 2015

In this study, the performance of cryogenically treated tungsten carbide inserts in the milling of Hadfield steel (X120Mn12) was evaluated in terms of surface roughness (Ra) and tool wear (VB). Cutting tools were assessed under three conditions: untreated (U), cryogenic treated (CT) and cryo-tempered (CTT). For the cutting parameters, three different cutting speeds (70, 100 and 130 m·min−1) and feed rates (0.08, 0.14 and 0.2 mm·rev−1) were used. The experiments were carried out under a fixed depth of cut and dry cutting conditions. To determine the factorial effects, the procedure Taguchi L27 (33) was used. For the estimation of Ra and VB, the response surface method (RSM) was employed and mathematical models were developed. In terms of Ra, the effective parameter was feed rate (89.45 %) and in terms of VB, it was the cutting speed (60.42 %). For Ra and VB, the optimum levels of factors were determined as A3B3C1 and A3B1C1, respectively. The effects of the factors were also assessed by RSM.
A German Approach to Freeway Facility Evaluation
Authors: Hartmann Martin , Vortisch Peter , Schroeder Bastian J.
Published: November 2015

In the Highway Capacity Manual 2010 (HCM 2010), Chapters 10 to 13 provide the methodology for analyzing freeway facilities in relation to level of service (LOS). Supplemental Chapter 25 contains additional details on the analytical methodology, which is tied to a computer program (FREEVAL) that implements the methodology and computer performance measures for oversaturated conditions. In the German Highway Capacity Manual (HBS), the methodology for oversaturated freeway facility analysis both assigns the complete facility with LOS F once the volume-to-capacity ratio on any of the component segments reaches 1.0 and terminates the analysis without further examination of the oversaturated segments. In German analysis practice, an alternative analysis should be performed next and represented, for example, by microscopic traffic flow simulation. But in practice, such simulation analyses are not often performed because of the complexity in the case of large freeway facilities. Therefore, a macro-scopic model able to handle the oversaturated traffic conditions is required. The FREEVAL implementation of HCM was tested for its usage in Germany but proved to be excessively U.S. specific and not applicable in Germany. The characteristics of the German facilities differ from those of the U.S. ones in driver behavior, capacity, and regulations and design standards. Therefore, a new approach was created to comply with German freeway design and operating standards, informed by lessons learned from the U.S. methodology. This paper presents the most important aspects of the German approach to freeway facility analysis and a direct comparison with implementation of the HCM software.
On the Treatment of Trucks in Roundabout Analyses
Authors: List George F. , Yang Bo , Schroeder Bastian J.
Published: November 2015

Trucks are not always addressed explicitly in planning studies and operational analyses, even though they are a very important part of the nation's economic engine. Most planning studies account for trucks as a percentage of the total traffic flow. The Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) converts trucks into autos through the use of a passenger car equivalency (PCE) factor. If the PCE is 2, then a truck is assumed to be equivalent to two autos. However, trucks are beginning to receive more attention, including that in the context of capacity assessments. A recent research effort focused on developing a level-of-service assessment for trucks and for enhancing the way that the impact of trucks is taken into account on freeways, arterials, and roundabouts. This paper focuses on the roundabout aspects of that research. The three roundabout-related objectives in the project were (a) to refine the PCE values used to convert trucks into auto equivalents for the flow on roundabout approaches, (b) to recalibrate the capacity equation so that it more appropriately accounts for trucks, and (c) to develop ways to estimate truck speeds so that travel times through the roundabout could be computed. The results of these analyses are presented as well as the methodology and data employed.
Generating Scenarios of Freeway Reliability Analysis
Authors: Aghdashi Seyedbehzad , Hajbabaie Ali , Schroeder Bastian J. , Trask Joseph Lake , Rouphail Nagui M.
Published: November 2015

The freeway reliability methodology proposed for the Highway Capacity Manual, which is based on SHRP2 L08 methodology, produces an approach to scenario generation that can result in several thousand scenarios to be evaluated to estimate travel time reliability. This large number of scenarios can result in cumbersome user input, a demanding computational burden, and more important, extensive challenges posed when trying to error-check and interpret individual scenarios or to calibrate the model on the basis of real-world observations. This paper presents a novel scenario-generating methodology that accounts for multiple operating conditions. The objective of the proposed approach is to increase the quality of each scenario to make it more representative of the expected congestion patterns on the freeway. This paper shows that the new approach estimates reliability performance measures more accurately than current methods, while reducing the number of scenarios significantly. Thus, the new approach results in a more direct interpretation of results, while simultaneously relaxing many assumptions in the present approach to scenario generation and decreasing biases and errors. The proposed approach uses three core mathematical schemes: (a) a deterministic mathematical model for demand generation and scheduled work zones, (b) a Monte Carlo simulation for incident and weather events, and (c) an optimization algorithm to maximize similarities between the generated set of scenarios and the population of all scenarios. A comparison of results between the proposed method and the SHRP 2 Project L08 approach confirms that the proposed approach yields a higher level of accuracy in matching observed freeway reliability performance measures.
L'emprunt aux « justices de l'invisible »
Authors: Strimelle Véronique
Published: November 2015

Cet article vise à explorer et questionner les modèles de justice restauratrice et, pour ce faire, à les analyser en recourant au modèle de socialité vindicatoire. Ce modèle est vu ici à titre heuristique, comme un modèle de régulation actif dans les rapports sociaux, uniquement perceptible au niveau de l'action et adapté aux caractéristiques d'une société étatisée, centralisée et organique. Procéder à une telle analyse aide à faire ressortir et à réaffirmer certaines valeurs fondamentales de l'approche restauratrice, valeurs qui, selon plusieurs études empiriques, sont quelquefois édulcorées ou passées sous silence lors de leur mise en application. Poser un regard différent sur l'approche restauratrice et en faire ressortir les facettes vindicatoires conduit au final à interroger la place occupée par la justice restauratrice dans les modes de régulation contemporains.
Du contexte villageois au village global
Authors: Milazzo Josepha
Published: November 2015

Répondre à une problématique, c’est présenter des résultats de recherche de sorte qu’ils résolvent un problème, géographique ici en l’occurrence, en vue d’apporter une contribution théorique. Cet objectif appelle la mise en œuvre d’une méthodologie rigoureusement pensée (Huff, 1999 ; Booth, Colomb et Williams, 2008 ; Pierre, 2009 ; Turabian, 2013). À l’aune de ma participation à diverses rencontres scientifiques portant sur les méthodologies et les méthodes de recherche dans les études migratoires, j’ai pu constater qu’un point récurrent semblait ressortir dans les critiques faites aux participants, suite à l’exposé de leurs analyses. La plupart des chercheurs évoquaient, au gré de leurs expériences, la spécificité de leur terrain et de la construction de leur sujet de recherche, semés d’embuches. Toutefois, nous sommes difficilement à l’aise avec la formulation explicite des répercussions concrètes de ces expériences dans les données collectées, dans la manière de les collecter ou encore dans les analyses que nous en faisons. Ces allers-retours conduisent pourtant à de multiples reformulations dans nos recherches. C’est à ce titre que des travaux dans les études migratoires soulignent l’importance de la réflexivité dans la recherche, pour soumettre au mieux à la critique la production du savoir en sciences humaines et sociales, « la crédibilité des procédés selon lesquels les informations factuelles et les interprétations significatives ont été collectées et produites » (DeWind, 2007, 9). J’aimerais précisément joindre une discussion sur l’importance de l’approche réflexive. Mon sujet de recherche a connu un changement de focus important au gré de mon cheminent intellectuel et en réaction aux premiers terrains que j’ai effectués. J’ai à cette occasion recentré mon intérêt sur une seule partie de mes objectifs initiaux. Mon parcours méthodologique a ainsi évolué selon les ajustements nécessaires et possibles à la réalisation de ces objectifs. Je propose de revenir sur ces étapes de construction de ma thèse. Ce processus s’est voulu itératif, entre empirie et théorie.
Comparer deux espaces urbains du commerce transnational (Le Caire et Oran), ou comment gérer les écarts entre théorie de la comparaison et pratique sur le terrain
Authors: Bouhali Anne
Published: November 2015

L’article proposé revient sur la méthodologie de la comparaison adoptée et développée en vue de la réalisation d’une thèse en géographie. Notre thèse propose d’analyser la constitution de dispositifs urbains commerciaux sur les routes de la « mondialisation discrète » (Pliez, 2007) entre Afrique du Nord et Asie du Sud-est, dans deux villes du monde arabe, Le Caire en Égypte et Oran en Algérie. La présente contribution a pour objectif de décortiquer les apports à la fois théoriques et pratiques de la comparaison en géographie, mais aussi d’en soulever les difficultés rencontrées par le jeune chercheur lors de sa mise en pratique sur le terrain et lors de l’écriture.
Le commerce ethnique dans les espaces marchands de Château Rouge (Paris) et Brixton (Londres)
Authors: Mung Guillaume Ma
Published: November 2015

Cet article a pour objectif d’étudier des processus d’appropriation de l’espace inhérents à l’implantation de commerces ethniques dans les quartiers de Château Rouge à Paris et de Brixton à Londres. Il se concentre sur les modalités selon lesquelles ce commerce, qui implique des populations d’origine africaine et antillaise, peut conditionner la visibilité de ces groupes au sein de l’espace urbain, et plus largement de la société d’accueil. Spécifiquement, il s’agit de privilégier l’étude de marqueurs symboliques attachés à l’espace par les pratiques inhérentes au commerce ethnique. Notre recherche tâchera de montrer que son implantation à Château Rouge et à Brixton produit différentes configurations spatiales et implique différents processus d’appropriation de l’espace. Nous verrons ainsi que le commerce ethnique entraine une variété de références à un « ailleurs » géographique et culturel dans l’espace urbain et de discours en rapport avec sa visibilité et celle des groupes migrants concernés.
Caspase-12, but Not Caspase-11, Inhibits Obesity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Skeldon Alexander M. , Morizot Alexandre , Douglas Todd , Santoro Nicola , Kursawe Romy , Kozlitina Julia , Caprio Sonia , Mehal Wajahat Z. , Saleh Maya
Published: November 2015

Inflammation is well established to significantly impact metabolic diseases. The inflammatory protease caspase-1 has been implicated in metabolic dysfunction; however, a potential role for the related inflammatory caspases is currently unknown. In this study, we investigated a role for caspase-11 and caspase-12 in obesity and insulin resistance. Loss of caspase-12 in two independently generated mouse strains predisposed mice to develop obesity, metabolic inflammation, and insulin resistance, whereas loss of caspase-11 had no effect. The use of bone marrow chimeras determined that deletion of caspase-12 in the radio-resistant compartment was responsible for this metabolic phenotype. The Nlrp3 inflammasome pathway mediated the metabolic syndrome of caspase-12–deficient mice as ablation of Nlrp3 reversed Casp12−/− mice obesity phenotype. Although the majority of people lack a functional caspase-12 because of a T125 single nucleotide polymorphism that introduces a premature stop codon, a fraction of African descendents express full-length caspase-12. Expression of caspase-12 was linked to decreased systemic and adipose tissue inflammation in a cohort of African American obese children. However, analysis of the Dallas Heart Study African American cohort indicated that the coding T125C single nucleotide polymorphism was not associated with metabolic parameters in humans, suggesting that host-specific differences mediate the expressivity of metabolic disease.
Spirituality and religion in pain and pain management
Authors: Dedeli Ozden , Kaptan Gulten
Published: November 2015

Pain relief is a management problem for many patients, their families, and the medical professionals caring for them. Although everyone experiences pain to some degree, responses to it vary from one person to another. Recognizing and specifying someone else’s pain is clinically a well know challenge. Research on the biology and neurobiology of pain has given us a relationship between spirituality and pain. There is growing recognition that persistent pain is a complex and multidimensional experience stemming from the interrelations among biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. Patients with pain use a number of cognitive and behavioral strategies to cope with their pain, including religious/spiritual factors, such as prayers, and seeking spiritual support to manage their pain. This article provides an overview of the complex phenomenon of pain, with a focus on spiritual and religious issues in pain management.
Profound associations between pain and quality of life
Authors: Thielke Stephen
Published: November 2015

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A cross sectional, observational survey to assess levels and predictors of psychological wellbeing in adults with epidermolysis bullosa
Authors: Dures Emma , Rumsey Nichola , Morris Marianne , Gleeson Kate
Published: November 2015

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) describes a cluster of genetically determined skin disorders. Symptoms can be painful, disabling and disfiguring, yet there is little research on the psychological impact of the disease. The study aim was to measure psychological wellbeing in adults with EB; and to examine the association between psychological wellbeing and self efficacy, health locus of control and adjustment to appearance in an observational, cross sectional survey. Questionnaire packs comprising the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), the General Self Efficacy Scale (GSE), the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLOC), and the Derriford Appearance Scale (DAS-24), were sent to approximately 385 adults with EB. The data were analysed using SPSS. Eighty-seven participants responded. Scores on the GHQ-12 showed non-problematic psychological health in 36% of the sample; levels bordering on clinical disorder in 32.1% and severe psychological distress in 31.9%. No correlations were found between demographic factors (age and sex) or clinical factors (EB type and perceived severity) and psychological well-being. Scores on the GSE, the internal locus of control sub-scale of the MHLOC and the DAS-24 showed them to be statistically significant correlates of psychological wellbeing (P<0.001; P<0.018; and P<0.001 respectively). In a regression analysis, adjustment to appearance and self efficacy accounted for 24% of the variation in psychological wellbeing. Adults with EB might be at risk of experiencing poor psychological health. Interventions designed to enhance disease self management, self efficacy and improve body image are likely to be beneficial in this clinical group.
Psychological barriers and facilitators of colorectal cancer screening: a French qualitative study
Authors: Bridou Morgiane , Aguerre Colette , Gimenes Guillaume , Kubiszewski Violaine , Le Gall Armel , Potard Catherine , Sorel Olivier , Reveillere Christian
Published: November 2015

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the psychological barriers to and facilitators of undergoing the Hemoccult-II® colorectal cancer screening test in France. Sixty-nine French people aged 50 to 74 years were divided into seven qualitative focus groups. Three issues were discussed with participants: knowledge and beliefs about colorectal cancer screening; facilitators of colorectal cancer screening by Hemoccult-II®; barriers to colorectal cancer screening by Hemoccult-II®. All the discussions were led by two psychologists and were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative data analysis software. Correspondence factor analyses identified three dimensions for each topic. The main psychological facilitators of colorectal cancer screening were: information about colorectal cancer screening, perceived simplicity of using Hemoccult-II®, and perception of risk. Uncertainty about the reliability of Hemoccult-II®, health anxiety, and embarrassment emerged as the main barriers to colorectal cancer screening. Cross-sectional analyses identified the differences between the views expressed by women and men. Women appeared more embarrassed about Hemoccult-II® and men seemed to be more worried about colorectal cancer. This preliminary study suggests that psychological factors play an important role in colorectal cancer screening by Hemoccult-II®. This finding may help health organizations to conceive better awareness campaigns to promote colorectal cancer screening in order to reduce the related mortality rate by taking into account psychological determinants.
Post-surgical pain, physical activity and satisfaction with the decision to undergo hernia surgery: a prospective qualitative investigation
Authors: Powell Rachael , McKee Lorna , King Peter M. , Bruce Julie
Published: November 2015

Surgical repair is a common treatment for inguinal hernias but a substantial number of patients experience chronic pain after surgery. As some patients are pain-free on presentation, it is important to investigate whether patients perceive the treatment to be beneficial. The present study used qualitative methods to explore experiences of pain, activity limitations and satisfaction with treatment as people underwent surgery and recovery. Twenty-nine semi-structured interviews were conducted. Seven participants were interviewed longitudinally: before surgery and two weeks and four months post-surgery. Ten further participants with residual pain four months post-surgery were interviewed once. Semi-structured interviews included experience and perception of pain; activity limitations; reasons for having surgery; satisfaction with the decision to undergo surgery. A thematic analysis was conducted. Pain did not cause concern when perceived as part of the usual surgery and recovery processes. Activity was limited to avoid damage to the hernia site rather than to avoid pain. None of the participants reported dissatisfaction with the decision to have surgery; reducing the risk of life-threatening complications associated with untreated hernias was considered important. These findings suggest that people regarded surgical treatment as worthwhile, despite chronic post-surgical pain. Further research should ascertain whether patients are aware of the actual risk of complications associated with conservative rather than surgical management of inguinal hernia.
An experience sampling study of physical activity and positive affect: investigating the role of situational motivation and perceived intensity across time
Authors: Guérin Eva , Fortier Michelle S. , Sweet Shane N.
Published: November 2015

The nature of the association between physical activity and positive affect is complex, prompting experts to recommend continued examination of moderating variables. The main purpose of this 2-week field study was to examine the influence of situational motivational regulations from self-determination theory (SDT) on changes in positive affect from pre- to post- to 3-hours post-physical activity. Another purpose was to clarify the relationship between physical activity intensity [i.e., Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE)] and positive affect at the stated time points. This study employed an experience sampling design using electronic questionnaires. Sixty-six healthy and active, multiple-role women provided recurrent assessments of their physical activity, situational motivation, and positive affect in their everyday lives over a 14-day period. Specifically, measures were obtained at the three time points of interest (i.e., pre-, post-, 3-hours post-physical activity). The data were analyzed using multilevel modeling. Results showed that intrinsic motivation was related to post-physical activity positive affect while the influence of identified regulation appeared 3-hours post-physical activity. In addition, RPE, which was significantly predicted by levels of introjection, was more strongly associated with an increase in positive affect post-physical activity than three hours later. The theoretical implications of these findings vis-à vis SDT, namely in regards to a viable motivational sequence predicting the influence of physical activity on affective states, are discussed. The findings regarding the differential influences of RPE and motivational regulations carries applications for facilitating women’s well-being.
Sertraline induced acute mandibular dystonia
Authors: Raveendranathan Dhanya , Rao Swaminath
Published: November 2015

Specific serotonin reuptake inhibitors have been linked with the occurrence of drug-induced parkinsonism, dystonia, dyskinesia, and akathisia. Here, we describe a patient with a diagnosis of emotionally unstable personality disorder and depression who developed severe mandibular dystonia with sertraline in the absence of concurrent prescription of medications, which have potential action on the dopaminergic system. This case highlights the need for clinicians to be aware of this alarming acute adverse effect with sertraline, which is conventionally considered to be well-tolerated and safe.
Remote multiple intracranial hemorrhage in multiple metastatic lung adenocarcinoma following decompression of posterior fossa lesion: Unknown cause
Authors: Konar Subhas , Babu R. Arun , Shukla Dhaval P. , Devi B Indira
Published: November 2015

Cerebral metastasis can present with hemorrhage. However, multiple hemorrhages in metastatic lesions following surgical decompression of a single lesion are never reported. We report a case of cerebral metastasis from lung cancer that developed multiple hemorrhages in supratentorial metastatic lesions following surgical resection of an infratentorial lesion.
Characteristics and sources of submicron aerosols above the urban canopy (260 m) in Beijing, China, during the 2014 APEC summit
Authors: Chen C. , Sun Y. L. , Xu W. Q. , Du W. , Zhou L. B. , Han T. T. , Wang Q. Q. , Fu P. Q. , Wang Z. F. , Gao Z. Q. , Zhang Q. , Worsnop D. R.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. The megacity of Beijing has experienced frequent severe fine particle pollution during the last decade. Although the sources and formation mechanisms of aerosol particles have been extensively investigated on the basis of ground measurements, real-time characterization of aerosol particle composition and sources above the urban canopy in Beijing is rare. In this study, we conducted real-time measurements of non-refractory submicron aerosol (NR-PM1) composition at 260 m at the Beijing 325 m meteorological tower (BMT) from 10 October to 12 November 2014, by using an aerosol chemical speciation monitor (ACSM) along with synchronous measurements of size-resolved NR-PM1 composition near ground level using a high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR–ToF–AMS). The NR-PM1 composition above the urban canopy was dominated by organics (46 %), followed by nitrate (27 %) and sulfate (13 %). The high contribution of nitrate and high NO3− / SO42− mass ratios illustrates an important role of nitrate in particulate matter (PM) pollution during the study period. The organic aerosol (OA) was mainly composed of secondary OA (SOA), accounting for 61 % on an average. Different from that measured at the ground site, primary OA (POA) correlated moderately with SOA, likely suggesting a high contribution from regional transport above the urban canopy. The Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit with strict emission controls provides a unique opportunity to study the impacts of emission controls on aerosol chemistry. All aerosol species were shown to have significant decreases of 40–80 % during APEC from those measured before APEC, suggesting that emission controls over regional scales substantially reduced PM levels. However, the bulk aerosol composition was relatively similar before and during APEC as a result of synergetic controls of aerosol precursors. In addition to emission controls, the routine circulations of mountain–valley breezes were also found to play an important role in alleviating PM levels and achieving the "APEC blue" effect. The evolution of vertical differences between 260 m and the ground level was also investigated. Our results show complex vertical differences during the formation and evolution of severe haze episodes that are closely related to aerosol sources and boundary-layer dynamics.
Twin-cuvette measurement technique for investigation of dry deposition of O3 and PAN to plant leaves under controlled humidity conditions
Authors: Sun S. , Moravek A. , von der Heyden L. , Held A. , Sörgel M. , Kesselmeier J.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. We present a dynamic twin-cuvette system for quantifying the trace gas exchange fluxes between plants and the atmosphere under controlled temperature, light and humidity conditions. Compared with a single cuvette system, the twin-cuvette system is insensitive for disturbing background effects such as wall deposition. In combination with a climate chamber we can perform flux measurements under constant and controllable environmental conditions. With an Automatic Temperature Regulated Air Humidification System (ATRAHS) we are able to regulate the relative humidity inside both cuvettes between 40 to 90 % with a high precision of 0.3 %. Thus, we could demonstrate that for a cuvette system operated with a high flow rate (> 20 L min−1) such a temperature regulated humidification system as ATRAHS is an accurate method for air humidification of the flushing air. Furthermore, the fully automatic progressive fill-up of ATRAHS based on a floating valve improved the performance of the entire measurement system and prevented data gaps. Two reactive gas species, ozone (O3) and peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN), were used to demonstrate the quality and performance of the twin-cuvette system. O3 and PAN exchange with Quercus ilex was investigated over a 14 day measurement period under controlled climate chamber conditions. By using O3 mixing ratios between 32–105 ppb and PAN mixing ratios between 100–350 ppt a linear dependency of the O3 flux as well as the PAN flux in relation to its ambient mixing ratio could be observed. At relative humidity (RH) of 40 %, the deposition velocity ratio of O3 and PAN was determined to be 0.45. At that humidity, the deposition of O3 to the plant leaves was found to be only controlled by the leaf stomata. For PAN an additional resistance inhibited the uptake of PAN by the leaves. Furthermore, the formation of water films on the leaf surface of plants inside the chamber could be continuously tracked with our custom built leaf wetness sensors. Using this modified leaf wetness sensor measuring the electrical surface conductance on the leaves, an exponential relationship between the ambient humidity and the electrical surface conductance could be determined.
Societal Participation of the Elderly: Information and Communication Technologies as a “Social Junction”
Authors: Biniok Peter , Menke Iris
Published: November 2015

The technoscape is described as the global configuration of technology as well as its intermingling and intertwining with other spheres of society. In fact, society and technology are hard to separate. Technology and the overall technoscape influence lifestyles and living conditions; conversely, developing, implementing and utilizing technologies all shape the technoscape. Starting from this interdependence, we examine how sociotechnical configurations determine social participation among the elderly in rural regions. To investigate the extent to which social participation of the elderly may be enhanced, a tablet PC with a self-developed communication platform was submitted to a field test. The results of our qualitative analysis show three ideal-type developments: the emergence of a new participation space, the extension of established participation space and engagement in the existing participation space. Technology as a “social junction” can thus have positive impacts on the social participation of the elderly.
On Einstein’s Program and Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Elbaz Claude
Published: November 2015

The Einstein’s program forms a consistent system for universe description, beside the standard model of particles. It is founded upon a scalar field propagating at speed of light c, which constitutes a common relativist framework for classical and quantum properties of matter and interactions. Matter corresponds to standing waves. Classical domain corresponds to geometrical optics approximation, when frequencies are infinitely high, and then hidden. Quantum domain corresponds to wave optics approximation. Adiabatic variations of frequencies yield electromagnetic interaction. They lead also to Classical and Quantum Mechanics equations, with unification of first and second quantifications for interactions and matter, and to the wave-particle duality, by space reduction of the introduced space-like amplitude function u(r,t), which completes the usual time-like function ψ(r,t).
Classical Definitions of Gravitation, Electricity and Magnetism
Authors: Philip Obande Ogaba
Published: November 2015

In further demonstration of simultaneous existence of the atom as wave and particle, we reproduce values of a number of physical constants using the classical mass equation hϑ = mc2. Most, possibly all, physical constants are coefficients of linear correlations of parameters of the intrinsic electromagnetic (e-m) oscillation that defines the atom; for example: (i) angular frequency per unit radius ω/r correlates with rotational strain τ to produce the effect identified with atomic mass; (ii) the atomic waveform’s e-m flux density ρw correlates with its radius rw and with the field modulus ϵw to produce the effect associated with Newtonian Gravitation G; (iii) universal (Galilean) gravitational acceleration g arises from correlations of (a) the particulate atom’s centripetal force Fp with its mass mp, (b) the material density ρp with radius rp and (c) the field (i.e., waveform) modulus ϵw with stress σw; (iv) the particulate atom’s modulus correlates with its stress field to define the electric constant or permittivity; (v) the waveform (i.e., field) centripetal force Fw correlates with strain τw to give electron magnetic moment μe and τw correlates with ω/r to define electrostatic atomic mass unit amu/eV; (vi) the particulate atom’s mass mp correlates with density ρp to produce the effect associated with magnetic flux density B and (vii) a universal invariant waveform gravitational (centripetal) acceleration g = 7.9433 x 1059 m s-2 kg-1 binds matter together on atomic, stellar, galactic and cosmic scales, it is identifiable with the strong nuclear force (SNF) suggesting that the SNF is not electromagnetic but mechanical. The investigation identifies centripetal force as the only causality of gravitation raising valid questions regarding possibility for quantum gravitation.
About Unusual Properties of Kinematical Magneto-Electric Systems Possessing Spherical Geometry
Authors: Leus Vladimir A.
Published: November 2015

It is common knowledge that properties of any system cannot be reduced to the sum of properties of its elements as relations between elements play an important role in the system structure and therefore in the system behavior. In the given paper the systems constructed from rather simple well-known elements, which spatial interposition is characterized by spherical symmetry, are examined. Each element is a source of a field that is easy calculated. However the result of superposition of these fields is beyond the scope of classical notions.
Preterm Birth Prevention: Effects of Vaginal Progesterone Administration on Blood Flow Impedance in Uterine-Fetal Circulation by Doppler Sonography
Authors: Vafaei Homeira , Zamanpour Tarlan , Raeisi Shahraki Hadi
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of vaginal progesterone administration on maternal and fetal circulation to prevent preterm birth.

METHODS: The present prospective study was conducted on 35 women with singleton pregnancy at 18–33 weeks of gestation, who presented with at least one episode of preterm labor or asymptomatic short cervix, or past medical history of preterm birth. Doppler flow and Pulsatility Index (PI) assessment of the umbilical artery, fetal middle cerebral artery, uterine arteries, and ductusvenosus were performed before and 72 h after vaginal progesterone administration.

RESULTS: Results showed a significant reduction in the PI of the uterine artery following progesterone administration. Nevertheless, no significant changes were observed in the PI of other vessels. No significant difference was found in Doppler flow parameters in any of the examined vessels before or after progesterone treatment in women with Preterm Labor Pain (PLP). Yet, a statistically significant association was observed between short cervix complication in the current pregnancy and medical history of PLP in the previous pregnancy.

CONCLUSION: Treatment with vaginal progesterone reduced the PI in the uterine arteries in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Thus, this medication may have useful vasodilatory effects on uterine-fetal vessels.