bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reverberant Chamber Enhancement
Authors: Hayes Daniel
Published: November 2015

Typical reverberant chambers used for High Intensity Acoustic Testing (HIAT) can achieve high sound pressure levels (SPL) across most of the applicable frequency range (20 Hz to 10 kHz), but they have limitations. Depending on the size of the chamber, low frequency chamber modes may be limited in the testing frequency range. In addition, reverberant chambers that use conventional 1/3-Octave controllers are not able to control low frequency chamber modes as effectively as the higher frequencies. A typical response to this inability to control the chamber modes is to high pass the frequency range of the excitation in the chamber to prevent exciting the low frequency modes. This method protects the test article from over-testing, although it also might under-test an article that has a fundamental mode below the high-pass frequency of the chamber. Recently, Maryland Sound International conducted a test at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) to determine if Direct Field Acoustic Testing (DFAT) technology could be applied to conventional reverberant chambers.
Comparison of Eight Academic Cost Models: A Detailed Study of User Costs, Impact on Laboratory Operations, User Behavior, and User Experience
Authors: Hower Robert W. , Martin Sandrine , Grimard Dennis S.
Published: November 2015

As operating costs for all academic nanofabrication facilities continue to increase, research groups are finding it more difficult, and in some cases impossible, to fund their efforts. Adding to this difficulty, funding agencies are imposing more stringent funding guidelines as well as significantly increasing the tangible deliverables they demand for initial or continued funding. Furthermore, some academic institutions are cutting back on their direct and indirect subsidies of these efforts. Lastly, the costs to fund students, even before they enter the lab, have risen dramatically over the past several decades. Thus, it is critical that each facility provide not only a competitive recharge model but an explicit justification of recharge rates to enhance the confidence of researchers that they are competitive with their peer institutions. Additionally, a well-defined recharge model will enable researchers and their financial administrators to determine how best to proceed with their proposed research objectives and create an accurate estimate of the research costs. Only then can a researcher confidently make bold proposals that they believe will allow them to succeed scientifically and financially in this highly competitive environment.

The reported data illustrate that integrated annual usage costs across the study groups are similar under vastly different fee structures if the subsidy of each site is factored in. There exists a significant range of cost differentials between sites depending on what a research group is working on, the subsidy level of the site, and what emphasis the site's model places on how to distribute the subsidy. We believe that the data further illustrate that the operational costs of each site and the educational experience of users can be significantly affected by the individual site's unique cost model. Lastly, we postulate that regarding resource management between the adviser and student lead to significant operational efficiencies that are critical to controlling costs and maintaining a world-class facility while providing the optimum opportunity for an experiential education for a significantly increased group of students.
Trends in the Cost-effectiveness of Chemoprevention for Breast Cancer—2001 to 2015
Authors: Coe Austin M , Crew Katherine D ,   Masters Student, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, US,   Assistant Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, US,   Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, US,   Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, US
Published: November 2015

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among US women and costs of treatment are estimated to be over $16.5 billion annually. The use of chemopreventive agents for the primary prevention of breast cancer has been an available option for women at high risk for breast cancer since 1998, however, uptake has been low. Cost-effectiveness analyses are used to determine whether a given intervention will be beneficial for a specific population while maintaining costs below a standard threshold for health systems. A number of cost-effectiveness analyses on the use of the chemopreventive drugs, tamoxifen and raloxifene, among women at high risk for breast cancer have been published over the past 15 years. These studies have used diverse methodologies to determine which, if any, high-risk women would benefit from the use of chemoprevention. The results of these cost-effectiveness analyses have been highly varied, with about half finding that chemoprevention is cost-effective for women who meet high-risk criteria for breast cancer. The sparse literature available in this field highlights the need for a more comprehensive analysis of the cost-effectiveness of chemoprevention that takes into account the most recently available information on costs and outcomes.
Current and Future Therapeutics for Patients with Non-small Cell Lung Cancer and Known Activating Mutations in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor
Authors: Fenton Moon ,   Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, The West Clinic, Memphis, Tennessee, US
Published: November 2015

Treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) is no longer based solely on histologic subtype. Recent discoveries have led to treatments tailored to the molecular drivers associated with each tumor (e.g., epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR]-activating mutations). In the US, there are now three approved EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs): gefitinib, erlotinib, and afatinib for first-line therapy inEGFRmutation-positive metastatic NSCLC. These agents have comparable efficacy, however, their tolerability profiles differ. Therefore, multiple factors should be considered before initiation of therapy. NSCLC tumors eventually develop resistance to EGFR TKIs; the most prevalent resistance mechanism is theEGFRT790M mutation, which occurs in 51–68 % of EGFR TKI-resistant aNSCLC. Two agents, osimertinib (AZD9291) and rociletinib (CO-1686), are currently in late-stage development. They target the T790M mutation and are expected to provide an important option for patients with acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs. Identification of the T790M mutation or other resistance mechanisms will allow for a personalized treatment approach for patients with EGFR TKI-resistant aNSCLC. This review discusses the current and future treatment options for patients with activating mutations inEGFRand the importance of biopsy and molecular testing at disease progression.
La lexicografía de internet y el diseño de diccionarios pedagógicos especializados: el diccionario de comercio internacional español-inglés
Authors: García Llamas Begoña  Inmaculada
Published: November 2015

El presente trabajo forma parte de un proyecto de investigación más general que abarca la propuesta para la elaboración de un diccionario de Comercio Internacional dentro del marco teórico de la Teoría Funcional de la Lexicografía. Este proyecto, que se expondrá en forma de tesis doctoral, propone la creación de un diccionario electrónico pedagógico especializado en lenguas inglesa y española para alumnos universitarios españoles. Presentamos a continuación un resumen de aquellas secciones del estudio que tienen en común el enfoque pedagógico de la propuesta: la selección de categorías de información y dos elementos estructurales (Introducción Sistemática y Guía de Uso) relevantes para el usuario. Tras una introducción en la que presentamos el estado de la cuestión, resumimos el marco teórico en el que se circunscribe nuestra propuesta. A continuación exponemos los hechos que la justifican desde un punto de vista pedagógico junto con nuestros objetivos y un listado de categorías de información y elementos estructurales relevantes para nuestro usuario y que consideramos decisivos en el proceso de formación del alumno. Por último, se ofrecen ilustraciones de una posible interfaz del diccionario en distintas fases de una consulta.
Tiempo para hablar y tiempo para callar: uso y función del silencio en un auto religioso de fines del XVI
Authors: Durá Celma Rosa
Published: November 2015

En este artículo nos proponemos una primera aproximación a un auto religioso inédito de fines del siglo XVI titulado "Auto de la cena a lo divino", tomando como eje articulatorio del mismo la estrategia comunicativa que el anónimo dramaturgo lleva a cabo con la noción de silencio. En la primera parte analizaremos ampliamente el modo en que el autor se sirve de la ausencia de palabras para crear una atmósfera ritual y celebrativa que vincula esta pieza dramática con la liturgia. A continuación subrayaremos algunas fórmulas teatrales inherentes al lenguaje teatral relacionadas con el silencio que se descubren ineficaces en cuanto a su función primordial de generar tensión dramática, pero sí consiguen establecer cierta complicidad entre la acción y el virtual público de la representación.
Mohamed Bouissef Rekab y la literatura marroquí en español
Authors: Mangada  Cañas Beatriz
Published: November 2015

En el ámbito del hispanismo literario, la literatura marroquí en español aparece hoy en día como un corpus aún poco conocido por el lectorado hispanohablante. Frente al reconocimiento y la difusión de las variantes literarias en francés o en árabe, los autores marroquíes que han elegido y eligen libremente el español como lengua de creación artística recuerdan que la presencia española en Marruecos favoreció el nacimiento y florecimiento de una tradición literaria que cuenta con figuras relevantes como la de Mohamed Bouissef Rekab. Con el análisis propuesto de sus cuatro primeras producciones literarias se pretende ofrecer un nuevo acercamiento crítico a una de las variantes literarias menos estudiadas de las letras hispánicas.
La erótica del terror en la figura del vampiro: Nosferatu frente a Clarimonde
Authors: Luengo López Jordi
Published: November 2015

La atracción que en la actualidad provoca la figura del vampiro en el imaginario colectivo tiene su génesis en la producción literaria que, dentro del género de lo fantástico, se llevó a cabo en el período decimonónico. La estética del vampiro nacería en ese momento, cristalizando, así, en los albores del siglo XX, dentro del discurso cinematográfico a través del personaje de Nosferatu. Sin embargo, el miedo generado por el vampiro de Friedrich-Wilhelm Murnau, ya había sido vencido décadas atrás por la imaginación de Lord Byron al hacer de éste un temido e inquietante seductor, cuyas formas y apariencia lo aproximaban a su homólogo femenino. Clarimonde, la mujer-vampiro que Théophile Gautier imaginó para "La morte amoureuse", será, sin duda, el máximo exponente de ese nuevo vampiro oriundo de la Modernidad.
El imperio amenazado: La literatura de Rider Haggard ante la decadencia
Authors: Sánchez García Ráquel
Published: November 2015

Literatura inglesa, gótico imperial, imperialismo, literatura popular, Haggard, decadencia.
"El pudor me obliga a callar". De la bienséance dans la traduction d'une histoire tragique de Belleforest par Agustín Pérez Zaragoza dans la "Galería Fúnebre" (1831)
Authors: Pédeflous Justine
Published: November 2015

Este artículo pretende poner de relieve una dimensión del trabajo de traducción efectuado por Agustín Pérez Zaragoza en la colección gótica titulada "Galería fúnebre" (1831), que fue considerada durante mucho tiempo como una obra original del autor. En esta obra, Pérez Zaragoza se inspira no sólo en una colección gótica francesa, las "Ombres sanglantes" (1820), de Pierre Cuisin sino también en las "Histoires tragiques" (1566), de François de Belleforest. Ahora bien, su comprensión de la traducción se parece más bien al concepto de adaptación, en particular en su consideración de la sensibilidad femenina y burguesa de su lectorado. El ejemplo de la traducción de la historia XXIII de Belleforest nos permitirá mostrar en qué medida la pudibundez del traductor o su atención a la decencia transforma el texto-fuente en una verdadera reescritura.
Construcciones del lenguaje del vino en español y en francés
Authors: Planelles Iváñez Montserrat
Published: November 2015

De todos es conocido el auge del enoturismo en la cultura del ocio de la sociedad occidental. Esta actividad, con todas sus manifestaciones, tiene implicaciones directas sobre el lenguaje utilizado, sobre todo, en la crítica enológica. Una de las controversias existentes es la de considerarlo como un lenguaje específico, que lo convierte en sociolecto, o como un lenguaje pseudoliterario prolijo en metáforas. En cualquiera de los casos resulta incomprensible o al menos extraño para el público no iniciado. De este modo, adjetivos como corto o largo –long, court–, masculino o femenino –masculin, féminin–, corpulento o delgado –corpulent, maigre–, aplicados al vino, resultan oscuros si no se conoce el significado acuñado en el ámbito de la crítica enológica. Me propongo analizar las características de este tipo de textos, que suelen ser breves, nominales, con escasez de verbos conjugados, con proliferación de adjetivos específicos y de ciertas expresiones y construcciones propias del lenguaje del vino. Analizaré asimismo el tipo de verbos que les acompañan. Y todo ello desde una perspectiva comparativa español-francés.
RODRÍGUEZ-MOÑINO, Antonio (2012). Estudios y ensayos de literatura hispánica de los Siglos de Oro. Edición a cargo de Víctor Infantes. Cáceres [etc.]: Genueve Ediciones, 376 pp. (Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades; 8). ISBN 978-84-940186-4-0
Authors: Martínez-López Maribel
Published: November 2015

RODRÍGUEZ-MOÑINO, Antonio (2012). Estudios y ensayos de literatura hispánica de los Siglos de Oro. Edición a cargo de Víctor Infantes. Cáceres [etc.]: Genueve Ediciones, 376 pp. (Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades; 8), ISBN 978-84-940186-4-0.
Quand l’écriture devient catharsis: la trilogie de Neel Doff, le récit d’une femme en quête du moi
Authors: Iglesias Pruvost Virginia
Published: November 2015

Neel Doff (de son vrai nom, Cornelia-Hubertina Doff) est une écrivaine hollandaise d’expression française, qui témoigne de la misère de la classe ouvrière. Dans sa trilogie d’inspiration autobiographique qui représente une quête mémorielle, l’auteure relate le combat de Keetje, une jeune femme courageuse, qui lutte inlassablement pour sortir de la pauvreté. Cet émouvant récit représente non seulement un témoignage historique de grande valeur, mais également un moyen pour l’auteure d’enterrer les fantômes du passé qui l’ont hantée pendant si longtemps.
Huellas cervantinas en el ciclo farsesco de Federico García Lorca
Authors: Cobo Marta
Published: November 2015

A lo largo de toda su vida Federico García Lorca declaró en varias ocasiones la deuda para con el teatro del Siglo de Oro, y concretamente, los entremeses de Miguel de Cervantes. Los entremeses se convierten, en manos del dramaturgo granadino, en la raíz a partir de la cual poder dar forma al entramado bajo el que se tejen las piezas del ciclo farsesco. Los entremeses cervantinos aparecen así como fuente de personajes, temas y tonos humanos con los que el poeta escribe tres farsas en las que consigue retomar temas tradicionales para construir un espacio mítico, universal y atemporal que se convierte en espejo del mundo que ahoga a aquellos individuos que viven fuera del margen establecido por la sociedad.
Nuevos escritos de Manuel Ibo Alfaro en "La Ilustración" de Barcelona
Authors: Bravo Vega Julián
Published: November 2015

Serie de cinco escritos originales localizados en La Ilustración (1882-1883) de Barcelona. Fortuna editorial. Aportación para el catálogo bibliográfico del autor: valoración de dos escritos no censados. Los románticos y el viaje a Oriente. El costumbrismo árabe. El recuerdo y la ensoñación románticos. El desarrollo narrativo de la leyenda de la “mora encantada”: interrelaciones entre “La cueva de la mora” de Bécquer y “La cueva de la luna” de Ibo Alfaro. El entramado de leyendas moriscas (la peña de Antequera, la cueva de la mora, la mora y el cautivo, la última reina mora, la mora caritativa y piadosa, la conversión de la mora, los tesoros escondidos) y su contribución a la explicación de dos motivos cervantinos: “el moro encantado” y la leyenda de Muzaraque.
La corrupción de la sociedad o la lucha del vicio contra la virtud: "La Mode, Conte" (1807) de Boufflers
Authors: Vicente-Yagüe Jara Antonio José de
Published: November 2015

En 1807, Boufflers publicó "La Mode" en el "Mercure de France", en forma de folletín. "La Mode" es, por un lado, un cuento moral que se propone denunciar las fechorías de la moda, que corrompe y tiraniza a los hombres, y, por otro lado, un cuento edificante que demuestra que la virtud puede triunfar en cualquier parte. Este relato describe la corrupción que existe en los círculos mundanos de la alta sociedad parisina y que hace imposible toda forma de felicidad a los individuos buenos, sencillos y honrados.
Ramonismos contemporáneos: la greguería en las obras de Juan Manuel de Prada, Juan Bonilla y Ray Loriga
Authors: Cattaneo Simone
Published: November 2015

El presente ensayo analiza la presencia de la greguería en las obras de tres autores que empezaron a publicar en los años 90 del siglo XX, cuando estaba en alza una novela marcada por un crudo realismo juvenil, entre las aristas del cual afloró un sorprendente redescubrimiento de Ramón Gómez de la Serna, cuya influencia es notoria en Juan Manuel de Prada y Juan Bonilla, mientras que se refleja de forma sesgada en Ray Loriga, ya que su pluma, más escueta, pule la greguería a través de la canción y del magisterio de Marguerite Duras. En el caso de los primeros se asiste a una contraposición cáustica o humorística con respecto al realismo literario dominante, en cambio para Loriga se trata de una visión personal, debida tanto a una inclinación anímica como a una melancólica rebelión contra la sociedad.
Revolución, desencanto y crítica: la novela criminal cubana
Authors: Sánchez Zapatero Javier , Martín Escribá Àlex
Published: November 2015

El artículo analiza la evolución del género criminal en la literatura cubana a lo largo del siglo XX. Para ello, establece un recorrido histórico analizando de qué forma los acontecimientos históricos han condicionado las características de la novela criminal cubana y la han dotado de identidad dentro del neopolicial latinoamericano.
Changing the immunological indices of viral infections in patients with lichen planus of the oral mucosa
Authors: Чуйкин С. , Chuykin S. , Акмалова Г. , Akmalovа G. , Чернышева Н. , Chernysheva N.
Published: November 2015

Herpes viruses (cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus (HSV) able persist in the body for life and can be reactivated under the influence of various exo- and endogenous trigger factors after primary infection in childhood. Persistent herpes virus infection causes marked clinical immunological changes in a number of somatic and dental diseases. However, the work on the impact of herpes infection on the development and clinical course of oral lichen planus (CPL GRA), in particular, different types of herpes simplex virus (HSV), Epstein-Barr (EB) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) are rare and contradictory. The aim of the work was to determine the immunological parameters of herpesvirus infections in patients with lichen planus of the oral mucosa. The study was performed involving 107 patients with oral lichen planus. A control group comprised 79 healthy people matched for age and sex with the patients of the research team. The examination was performed by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) with determination of antibody Ig classes M and G of HSV and CMV in serum of studied patients. Latent herpes infection found in more than 2/3 of all patients with oral lichen planus, and in patients with severe disease is detected in 2.3 times more likely. Considering that activation and persistence of herpes viruses, regardless of the localization caused them inflammation, promote aggravation immunodeficiency, including the mucous membrane of the mouth, we can assume their role in protracted or chronic course of inflammation with oral lichen planus, possibly including autoimmune mechanisms. This fact must be taken into account in the appointment of an integrated treatment of lichen planus of the oral mucosa.
Role of the dentist orthopedist in implant placement planning using surgical templates and software complex implant-assistant®
Authors: Жолудев С. , Zholudev S. , Стрижаков В. , Strizhakov V. , Ремов А. , Remov A. , Жолудев Д. , Zholudev D. , Нерсесян П. , Nersesyan P.
Published: November 2015

In the article on the basis of the literature are shown main errors during dental implantation, as well as the difficulties encountered by the dentist orthopedist during the stage of prosthetics on implants
in the absence of parallel superstructures, as well as improperly installed cylindrical implants. On the example of the technology of the planning of surgical stage of implant placement using a surgical
template and software complex IMPLANT-ASSISTANT® is shown that orthopedist can not only plan the position of the implants, but also to predict the outcome of orthopedic treatment of partial or total loss of teeth with implants. The article shows the algorithms of treatment of patients with surgical guide and software complex IMPLANT-ASSISTANT®, as well as on clinical examples illustrates the results of this technology. It is talked about future work results of the medical team in Yekaterinburg.
A comparison of sixth grade middle school teachers perceived benefits of the implementation of one to one digital conversion of laptops in the classroom
Authors: Bevans Haley K. , Donaldson Kathryn D. , Al-Bataineh Adel T.
Published: November 2015

The purpose of the study was twofold: (1) to compare feedback and gain a better understanding of how sixth grade middle school teachers are going through a one to one digital conversion with laptops and (2) to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of this technology in the classrooms. The study used a mixed research design. The study findings revealed that teachers who went through the one to one digital conversion used technology in the classroom to support whole group instruction through the utilization of technology supported presentations on a daily tool. The teacher participants agreed that the technology they used helped to motivate students by keeping them on task. They also agreed that the use of technology had allowed the students to become more independent learners. Furthermore, the teacher participants found that discussion with other staff members seemed to be the most beneficial form of gaining computer skills and knowledge. The findings revealed that the most common problem that occurred during the implantation had to do with hardware break down.Â  Aside from this problem, the use of technology in the classroom was found to be extremely beneficial for both teachers and students.Keywords: educational technology, one to one digital conversion, Technology implementation, Teachers perception, Middle School teachers.
An Aggravated Trajectory of Depression and Anxiety Co-morbid with Hepatitis C: A Within-groups Study of 61 Australian Outpatients
Authors: J.R. Stewart Benjamin , Turnbull Deborah , Mikocka-Walus Antonina A. , Harley Hugh , Andrews Jane M.
Published: November 2015

Background: This study aimed to explore the course of depression and anxiety in chronic hepatitis C patients.Methods:  Data were combined from two studies: (1) Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores in 395 consecutive Australian outpatients from 2006 to 2010 formed the baseline measurement; and (2) Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) scores in a survey of a sub-sample of these patients in 2011 formed the follow-up measurement. After converting DASS to HADS scores, changes in symptom scores and rates of case-ness (≥8), and predictors of follow-up symptoms were assessed.Results:  Follow-up data were available for 61 patients (70.5% male) whose age ranged from 24.5 to 74.6 years (M=45.6). The time to follow-up ranged from 20.7 to 61.9 months (M=43.8). Baseline rates of depression (32.8%) and anxiety (44.3%) increased to 62.3% and 67.2%, respectively. These findings were confirmed, independent of the conversion, by comparing baseline HADS and follow-up DASS scores with British community norms. Baseline anxiety and younger age predicted depression, while baseline anxiety, high school non-completion, and single relationship status predicted anxiety.Conclusion: This study demonstrated a worsening trajectory of depression and anxiety. Further controlled and prospective research in a larger sample is required to confirm these findings.
Impact of Alprazolam on Comorbid Pain and Knee Functions in Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients Diagnosed with Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Yılmaz Barış , Kömür Baran , Aktaş Erdem , Sonnur Yılmaz Firdes , Çopuroğlu Cem , Özcan Mert , Çiftdemir Mert , Çopuroğlu Elif
Published: November 2015

Purpose:

Studies report 19-33% postoperative moderate-severe pain and dissatisfaction in uncomplicated total knee arthroplasty (TKA), even after 1 year. High rates of undiagnosed depression and anxiety may have a strong impact on these unfavourable outcomes. Here we aimed to investigate the efficacy of alprazolam on postoperative analgesic use and knee functions.

Methods:

Seventy-six patients with a mean age of 65 ± 9.3 years (range 46-80) diagnosed with mild-moderate anxiety or depression according to the Hamilton anxiety scale (HAS) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) that underwent TKA were evaluated in the study. Group 1 patients were subjected to alprazolam treatment in addition to an analgesic/antiinflammatory drug, whereas Group 2 consisted of patients receiving only the standard postoperative pain management protocol. Visual analog scale (VAS) and postoperative analgesic use (g/day) were calculated to evaluate the magnitude of pain experienced. Preoperative and postoperative knee functions were assessed from the patients’ Knee Society Score and Knee Society Functional Score records.

Results:

A positive correlation was found between the preoperative HAS, BDI, and total postoperative analgesic use in both groups. Although the decrease in VAS was significant in both groups, postoperative analgesic need (4.25 ± 0.30 g) in Group 1 was less compared to Group 2 (4.81 ± 0.41 g) (p=0.01). The mean change in postoperative (1 month) Knee Society Score and Knee Society Functional Score were also significantly improved in Group1 compared to Group 2.

Conclusion:

Alprazolam can reduce postoperative analgesic use and improve knee functions by reducing the pain threshold, and enhancing overall mood via its antidepressive and anxiolytic properties in patients undergoing TKA diagnosed with mild-moderate anxiety/depression.
Diatoms - nature materials with great potential for bioapplications
Authors: Medarevic Djordje , Losic Dusan , Ibric Svetlana
Published: November 2015

Diatoms are widespread unicellular photosynthetic algae that produce unique
highly ordered siliceous cell wall, called frustule. Micro- to nanoporous
structure with high surface area that can be easily modified, high mechanical
resistance, unique optical features (light focusing and luminescence) and
biocompatibility make diatom frustule as a suitable raw material for the
development of devices such as bio- and gas sensors, microfluidic particle
sorting devices, supercapacitors, batteries, solar cells, electroluminescent
devices and drug delivery systems. Their wide availability in the form of
fossil remains (diatomite or diatomaceous earth) as well as easy cultivation
in the artificial conditions further supports use of diatoms in many
different fields of application. This review focused on the recent
achievements in the diatom bioapplications such as drug delivery,
biomolecules immobilization, bio- and gas sensing, since great progress was
made in this field over the last several years.
FEM modeling on the compaction of Fe and Al composite powders
Authors: Han P. , An X.Z. , Zhang Y.X. , Zou Z.S.
Published: November 2015

The compaction process of Fe and Al composite powders subjected to single
action die compaction was numerically modeled by FEM method. The relationship
between the overall relative density and compaction pressure of the compacts
with various Al contents was firstly identified, and the influences of Al
content on the local relative density, stress, and their distributions were
studied. Then the compaction pressure effects on the above properties with
fixed Al content were discussed. Furthermore, detailed flow behaviors of the
composite powders during compaction and the relationship between the
compaction pressure and the ejection force/spring back of the compact were
analyzed. The results show that: (1) With each compaction pressure, higher
relative density can be realized with the increase of Al content and the
relative density distribution tends to be uniform; (2) When the Al content is
fixed, higher compaction pressure can lead to composite compact with higher
relative density, and the equivalent Von Mises stress in the central part of
the compact increases gradually; (3) Convective flow occurs at the top and
bottom parts of the compact close to the die wall, each indicates a different
flow behavior; (4) The larger the compaction pressure for each case, the
higher the residual elasticity, and the larger the ejection force needed.
Assessment of heavy metal pollution of topsoils and plants in the City of Belgrade
Authors: Andrejic Gordana , Rakic Tamara , Sinzar-Sekulic Jasmina , Mihailovic Nevena , Grubin Jasmina , Stevanovic Branka , Tomovic Gordana
Published: November 2015

In order to assess heavy metal pollution in the city of Belgrade (Serbia)
concentrations of V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb were measured on 18
topsoil samples collected in the proximity to central urban boulevards and in
urban parks. In addition, concentrations of specified elements were
determined in leaves of three evergreen plant species Buxus sempervirens L.,
Mahonia aquifolium (Pursh) Nutt. and Prunus laurocerasus L. so as to estimate
their sensitivity to heavy metal pollution. Even though various types of
soils from different quarts of Belgrade were sampled, their heavy metal
contents were very similar, with somewhat higher concentrations of almost all
elements detected in the proximity to high traffic roads. Generally,
concentrations of heavy metals in leaves of investigated plant species
paralleled the heavy metal concentrations found in their respective soils and
were higher in plants sampled from boulevards then from urban parks. Since
investigated plant show no visible injuries induced by detected heavy metal
pollution these species are suitable for the successful urban landscaping.
Does an Asset Management Firm's Stock Holding Made in Response to Buy-Side Analysts' Prior Recommendations Induce Subsequent Forecast Optimism?
Authors: Tan Hun-Tong , Duh Rong-Ruey , Chiu Shean-Bii , Li Shu-Hsing
Published: November 2015

In this study, we examine whether buy-side analysts' forecasts are biased when they cover stocks that are held by the mutual fund. Specifically, we conduct an experiment with buy-side analysts and fund managers in which we manipulate whether the forecasts are released to colleagues and clients or kept private, and whether the mutual fund has made an investment in the stock based on the recommendation of the analyst. We posit and find evidence that when forecasts are made available to other colleagues and clients, participants' forecasts are more positive when the mutual fund has a holding (versus no holding) in a stock based on the buy-side analysts' recommendations. These forecasts are also more optimistic than a control group where participants have an accuracy goal. This effect disappears when the forecasts are kept private. In a supplementary experiment, we document that the effect is conscious, consistent with a strategic justification mechanism.

Data Availability: Contact the authors.
Diagnostic reliability of the cervical vertebral maturation method and standing height in the identification of the mandibular growth spurt
Authors: Perinetti Giuseppe , Contardo Luca , Castaldo Attilio , McNamara James A. , Franchi Lorenzo
Published: November 2015

Objective: 

To evaluate the capability of both cervical vertebral maturation (CVM) stages 3 and 4 (CS3-4 interval) and the peak in standing height to identify the mandibular growth spurt throughout diagnostic reliability analysis.

Materials and Methods: 

A previous longitudinal data set derived from 24 untreated growing subjects (15 females and nine males,) detailed elsewhere were reanalyzed. Mandibular growth was defined as annual increments in Condylion (Co)–Gnathion (Gn) (total mandibular length) and Co–Gonion Intersection (Goi) (ramus height) and their arithmetic mean (mean mandibular growth [mMG]). Subsequently, individual annual increments in standing height, Co-Gn, Co-Goi, and mMG were arranged according to annual age intervals, with the first and last intervals defined as 7–8 years and 15–16 years, respectively. An analysis was performed to establish the diagnostic reliability of the CS3-4 interval or the peak in standing height in the identification of the maximum individual increments of each Co-Gn, Co-Goi, and mMG measurement at each annual age interval.

Results: 

CS3-4 and standing height peak show similar but variable accuracy across annual age intervals, registering values between 0.61 (standing height peak, Co-Gn) and 0.95 (standing height peak and CS3-4, mMG). Generally, satisfactory diagnostic reliability was seen when the mandibular growth spurt was identified on the basis of the Co-Goi and mMG increments.

Conclusions: 

Both CVM interval CS3-4 and peak in standing height may be used in routine clinical practice to enhance efficiency of treatments requiring identification of the mandibular growth spurt.
Analysis of Network Exit Functions for Various Urban Grid Network Configurations
Authors: Ortigosa Javier , Menendez Monica , Gayah Vikash V.
Published: November 2015

Macroscopic networkwide traffic models have been used to study aggregate traffic behavior on urban networks and to design traffic control strategies. However, less attention has been given to their application in the study of street network design. This paper uses the network exit function (NEF) to analyze traffic performance on an abstract grid network of various street configurations. The NEF is an aggregate relationship between trip completion rate and the number of vehicles circulating in a network. Street configuration is a topic of interest in many cities, especially in the United States, where city planners are considering street network conversions. Three configurations are addressed here: two-way streets, two-way streets with prohibited left turns (TWL), and one-way streets. This work builds on previous studies by incorporating more realistic traffic dynamics with microsimulation software (VISSIM) with dynamic traffic assignment enabled to emulate better the behavior of real drivers. This work finds that NEFs of two-way networks generally are smaller than those of TWL and one-way networks because of reduced capacity at intersections. Comparison of TWL and one-way networks is more nuanced, as traffic performance on these networks depends on route choice. If vehicles are always routed through the path with the shortest travel time, TWL networks offer NEFs with higher trip completion rates; however, if vehicles spread themselves across multiple alternatives, one-way networks provide better results. TWL networks offer a better trade-off between distance traveled and capacity at intersections, and one-way networks offer more shortest-path routing choices between origin–destination pairs.
Empirical Study of Scooter–Vehicle Mixed Traffic Propagation on Urban Arterials
Authors: Lan Chien-Lun , Chang Gang-Len
Published: November 2015

Despite the popularity of scooters as a primary transportation mode in many developing countries, design guidelines and software for arterial signals for accommodating heavy scooter–vehicle mixed flows are not yet available. Because of insufficient research on the fundamental properties of such mixed flow, traffic professionals often must apply existing signal models or simulation programs, developed mainly for nonscooter traffic flows, to intersections plagued by scooters’ complex lane-changing and filtering maneuvers. This study conducts field observations of the complex interactions between scooters and vehicle flows from discharging during the green phase to the formation of stop queues at the downstream intersection. By using statistical analysis results, the study develops a series of formulations to describe the behavior of mixed traffic flows, including estimation of discharging rates, lane choice decision, speed evolution, propagation to join stop queues, and the filtering process of scooters. The study uses field data to evaluate the collective results of the calibrated models for two key signal design parameters: discharging rates for scooters and passenger cars in various mixed flow rates and the time-varying, cumulative queue length at the intersection stop line. Empirical comparison results confirm the promising properties of the developed models, which can serve as the basis for design control plans for arterials with heavy scooter–vehicle mixed flows.
Vehicle Dynamics Model for Estimating Typical Vehicle Accelerations
Authors: Fadhloun Karim , Rakha Hesham , Loulizi Amara , Abdelkefi Abdessattar
Published: November 2015

Developing mathematical models for accurate estimation of the longitudinal acceleration behavior of drivers and vehicles is an important challenge in traffic engineering. The modeling of vehicle acceleration is complex because of its dependence on vehicle type and human driving behavior. Existing acceleration dynamics models have tied typical acceleration (the maximum acceleration that drivers would use in a free-flow condition) to maximum acceleration models that are descriptive of the maximum acceleration capability of the vehicle. Although this approach generally results in a better fitting of field data that are understandable and predictable, the proposed models do not take into account differing driving behaviors. The research presented in this paper develops a model that overcomes this limitation by explicitly incorporating driver behavior in the mathematical expression of a dynamics-based acceleration model. The proposed model has a flexible shape that allows it to incorporate driver variations. Furthermore, the model is demonstrated to be superior to similar models because it predicts more accurate acceleration levels in all domains.
The positive correlation between trunk, leg, and shoulder strength and linear bat velocity at different ball locations during the baseball swing in adult baseball hitters
Authors: Chu Yungchien , Keenan Karen , Allison Katelyn , Lephart Scott , Sell Timothy
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: Strength of body segments and bat velocity during the baseball swing have been described as positively related, but the relative importance of each body segment's strength and the effect of ball location in the strike zone have not been examined.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the correlation between the strength of different body segments along the kinetic chain and bat velocity with the ball placed at different locations within the strike zone, and to determine which segment's strength best predicts bat velocity.

METHODS: Nineteen adult baseball hitters were assessed for bat velocity at five ball locations and tested for isokinetic trunk, shoulder, and knee strength. Strength variables significantly correlated to bat velocity were used in backward stepping linear regression.

RESULTS: Trunk rotation strength was significantly correlated to bat velocity for all ball locations. Knee strength was significant for all locations except for high inside. Shoulder strength was significant only with the ball outside. Based on regression analysis, trunk rotation strength was the only significant predictor.

CONCLUSIONS: Significant correlations between chosen strength variables and bat velocity were identified. Only trunk rotation strength was a significant predictor of bat velocity. Baseball hitters seeking greater bat velocity may benefit from targeting trunk rotation strength.
Dynamics of changes in power output, heart rate, and disorders of acid-base balance during interval training in mountain cyclists
Authors: Hebisz Paulina , Hebisz Rafal , Zatoń Marek , Borkowski Jacek
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: While interval training is considered an effective modality for improving physical performance, it is still unclear how to monitor and determine optimal training load.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to identify differences in power, heart rate, and acid-base balance in response to a single interval training session in cyclists.

METHODS: The research involved 21 mountain cyclists experienced and inexperienced with interval training. The interval training test consisted of several sets (4-6, until exhaustion) of maximal intensity exercise on a cycle-ergometer. Each set comprised four 30-s repetitions interspersed with 90-s recovery periods. Peak power, work output, heart rate, hydrogen and lactate ion concentrations were measured.

RESULTS: The cyclists experienced with interval training performed significantly more (p< 0.01) sets than inexperienced cyclists (5.6 ± 1.0 vs. 4.5 ± 0.8 sets, respectively). Power and work output decreased in the last completed set only in the inexperienced group (660.5 ± 53.6 vs. 659.9 ± 71.3 W and 666.6 ± 63.3 vs. 633.7 ± 86.8 W in the first and last sets for the experienced and inexperienced cyclists, respectively). The experienced group showed a decrease in hydrogen ion accumulation in the fourth set; in the inexperienced group this occurred in the second set. The experienced group showed lower heart-rate recovery times after the last set.

CONCLUSIONS: Cyclists experienced with interval training could perform more repeated bouts of exercise with a disrupted acid-base balance at a similar performance level than inexperienced cyclists.
Ultrasonography for the assessment of the structural properties of the Achilles tendon in asymptomatic individuals: An intra-rater reproducibility study
Authors: Intziegianni Konstantina , Cassel Michael , König Niklas , Müller Steffen , Fröhlich Katja , Mayer Frank
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: Reproducible measurements of tendon structural properties are a prerequisite for accurate diagnosis of tendon disorders and for determination of their mechanical properties. Despite the widely used application of Ultrasonography (US) in musculoskeletal assessment, its operator dependency and lack of standardization influences the consistency of the measurement.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the intra-rater reproducibility of a standardized US method assessing the structural properties of the Achilles tendon (AT).

METHODS: Sixteen asymptomatic participants were positioned prone on an isokinetic dynamometer with the knee extended and ankle at 90° flexion. US was used to assess AT-length, cross-sectional area(CSA), and AT-elongation during isometric plantarflexion contraction. The intra-rater reproducibility was assessed by ICC (2.1), Test-Retest Variability (TRV, %), Bland-Altman analyses (Bias ± LoA [1.96*SD]), and Standard-Error of Measurement (SEM).

RESULTS: Measurements of AT-length demonstrated an ICC of 0.93, TRV of 4.5 ± 3.9%, Bias ± LoA of -2.8 ± 25.0 mm and SEM of 6.6 mm. AT-CSA showed an ICC of 0.79, TRV of 8.7 ± 9.6%, Bias ± LoA of 1.7 ± 19.4 mm2 and SEM of 5.3 mm2. AT-elongation revealed an ICC of 0.92, TRV of 12.9 ± 8.9%, Bias ± LoA of 0.3 ± 5.7 mm and SEM of 1.5 mm.

CONCLUSIONS: The presented methodology allows a reproducible assessment of Achilles tendon structural properties when performed by a single rater.
The effect of foot support on trunk strength assessment using isokinetic dynamometry
Authors: Porto Jaqueline Mello , Marques Nise Ribeiro , Junior Renato Campos Freire , Abreu Daniela Cristina Carvalho de
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: The standardization of trunk-muscle strength assessment is important for clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE: To compare trunk muscle strength and electromyographic(EMG) activation of the trunk and lower limb muscles during testing with and without foot support using an isokinetic dynamometer.

METHODS: Trunk flexion and extension strength was evaluated in 34 young individuals using isometric and isokinetic contractions, with and without foot support. Concomitantly, EMG signals from the trunk and dominant lower limb muscles were recorded.

RESULTS: With foot support, the muscle strength generated during isokinetic and isometric extension contractions was greater than that without foot support (p < 0.001). The use of foot support enhanced the activation of trunk muscles (lumbar iliocostalis and longissimus dorsi) only during isometric extension contractions, whereas increased isokinetic extension contractions were associated with greater medial and lateral gastrocnemius activation.

CONCLUSIONS: Testing trunk extension strength with foot support is recommended because it results in a higher peak moment under isometric conditions, possibly due to greater EMG activation of the trunk muscles. During isokinetic conditions, the use of foot support promoted increased extensor strength without increased EMG activation of the trunk muscles. By contrast, testing of trunk flexion strength may be conducted with or without foot support.
Net energy costs from resistive exercise done on flywheel-based hardware
Authors: Parmar Prashant , Perry Rachel , Martin Jake , Vickers Samantha , Baptista Rachel , Edwards Roman , McArtor Jon , Mitchell Lacey , Caruso John
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND: To limit physiological changes incurred with space flight, exercise hardware should impart sufficient mechanical loads with minimal energy costs.

OBJECTIVE: Assess net energy costs from exercise done on flywheel-based hardware.

METHODS: Subjects (17 men, 19 women) performed the following leg press workouts in a randomized sequence: two sets of concentric-only (CO2) actions, two sets with both concentric and eccentric (CE2) activity, and four sets of concentric-only (CO4) actions. Workouts entailed 8-repetition sets with 90-second rest periods. O2 was measured before, during and after workouts to calculate net energy costs. Total work (TW) was derived from flywheel rotation rates as follows: TW = (1/2)(J)(ω 2) whereby J = rotation inertia and ω = angular velocity. TW and net energy costs were assessed with 2(gender) × 3(workout) ANOVAs with repeated measures for workout.

RESULTS: TW had significant differences by gender (men > women) and workout (CE2, CO4 > CO2). Net energy costs also yielded significant differences by gender (men > women) and workout (CO4 > CE2, CO2).

CONCLUSIONS: For the CE2 workout ∼ 50% of the TW occurred through muscle lengthening. Eccentric actions should be part of workouts done on this hardware, as they impart large mechanical loads with little net energy cost.