bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"-Et, ô ces voix d’enfants chantant dans la coupole!" Dimension symbolique de l’architecture et Mises en scène contemporaines du Parsifal de Richard Wagner
Authors: Vincent Delphine
Published: February 2014

Parsifal repr?sente un dilemme entre la sensualit? et l?aspiration ? la
puret?, que Wagner a notamment synth?tis? visuellement dans ses indications
de d?cors. De nos jours, de nombreux metteurs en sc?ne refusent ce message
de renoncement ? la sensualit?. Cet article analyse trois spectacles
contemporains (Hans Hollmann, Harry Kupfer, Nikolaus Lehnhoff) sous l?angle
de la dimension architecturale, afin de d?terminer les liens entre les
partis pris des metteurs en sc?ne quant aux d?cors et le message donn? ?
l?oeuvre, ainsi que le rapport aux didascalies wagn?riennes.
Crossroads of demography
Authors: Devedzic Mirjana
Published: February 2014

This paper is dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the Stanovnistvo
(Population) journal, launched by the Center for demographic research in
Belgrade in 1963. The anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on
developments and trends in demography as a discipline, thus the paper points
out certain specifics of these developments. The specifics discussed mirror
the author's choice, which was guided primarily by the criterion of
interestingness, but also by the intention to make a survey. Hence points
about the development of demography are backed by insights made by a number
of other demographers. The major source of references were papers and
speeches given on similar occasions - anniversaries of journals,
anniversaries of associations of demographers, as well as special issues of
journals dedicated to theory and methodology. Certain points are also made
based on other sources of reference. The major part of the paper is related
to transformations of demography, which has started as a predominantly formal
discipline and has developed into a social and interdisciplinary field.
Topical and methodological expansion of demography induces mixed reactions
among demographers. Ones welcome its diversification, whereas others see such
changes as signs of abandoning the essence of demography. This makes it
harder and harder to define the area of demographic research. Changes in
demography are mostly studied from the standpoint of polarized dimensions:
quantitative-qualitative, macro-micro, and, in the context of
diversification, formal demography vs. population studies. Another important
segment of development trends in demography is that of improving its
vocabulary, which is affected by other fields related to demography.
Terminological changes are also related to the specification of certain
branches and subfields of demography. For instance, anthropological and
spatial demography have roots in earlier development phases of demography.
Still, these terms have become popular at a later stage, only when the
methodological and cognitive capacities of the corresponding research
approaches have increased. The paper also indicates that demographers do not
find new inspiration only outside of the core demographic problems. As an
example, man fertility is briefly discussed as an increasingly popular topic
in literature during the last decade. Finally, attractive presentation of
demographic content is found to be very important for visibility and
applicability of demography, which is illustrated by interpreting some of the
most frequently videos related to demography on YouTube. The paper concludes
that different paths that open during the development of demography are not
incompatible, that they represent demographers' diverse choices, and that
they all contribute to strengthening the field.
Dealing with interethnic conflicts by civil society in Serbia: Activities and discourse
Authors: Nikolic-Ristanovic Vesna , Saciri Bejan
Published: February 2014

This paper aims to present a cross-section of the results of the research
?Fostering victim-oriented dialogue in a multiethnic society?, conducted by
the Victimology Society of Serbia during the first and the beginning of the
second year of the implementation of the project ?ALTERNATIVE - Developing
alternative understandings of security and justice through restorative
justice approaches in intercultural settings within democratic societies.?
The research focuses on inter-ethnic conflicts that occurred from the 1990s
onwards among the civil society organizations in Serbia. The results relating
to the activities of these organizations as well as to the discourse,
specifically the way they speak in public about inter-ethnic conflicts, are
presented. Special attention is paid to identifying activities that have
elements of restorative justice, as well as to an assessment of the potential
that existing restorative activities have for solving problems in
inter-ethnic relations, and building peace and security for the citizens of
Serbia in general, particularly for those living in the multinational regions
near borders with other countries of the former Yugoslavia.
Roma and non-Roma conflicts in the light of power relationships
Authors: Gábor Héra
Published: February 2014

The article summarises the findings of the first phase of an action research
study focusing on how restorative justice approaches and practices can
support conflict resolution within an intercultural context. The author will
describe the relationship between the Roma and non-Roma residents in a
Hungarian village. Consideration will be given to the ?ordering groups? of
the local community and will discuss some of their conflicts. It will be
argued that these ordering groups may influence inter-ethnic relationships
and impact how Roma and non-Roma members of the community may live
harmoniously together.
Gender implications of illiteracy: Dimension of illiteracy and it’s victims
Authors: Suleic Marijana
Published: February 2014

In the society we live in today, when human rights are spoken about, the
notions of female identity and of female human rights often occupy a large
space in the various theoretical debates. One of the reasons for the
continued prevalence of such notions is the unequal position of women in the
context of gender politics. When we take into account the different contexts
in which women live, such as distance from the center, a marginalized
position in some cases and a very bad image of education, taking
responsibility for building a stable identity becomes one of the most
important questions. According to UNESCO reports in 2007, every fourth woman
suffers from the consequences of illiteracy, which are more significant in
rural areas (UNESCO, 2007). Education still does not have an important place
in debates in political circles in spite of efforts invested. The situation
becomes more complicated when the lack of gender senstivity in educational
policy and stereotypes about female roles in society are added to the
existing state of inequality of availability of education, particularly the
differences between rural and urban areas. In such circumstances, literacy
and education are the most important components of building a stable
identity, which includes willingness of women to accept responsibility for
different roles that society imposes.
Thermo-plastic finite element analysis for metal honeycomb structure
Authors: Ji Zhanling , Li Yunhua , Li Yunze
Published: February 2014

This paper deals with thermal-plastic analysis for the metal honeycomb
structure. The heat transfer equation and thermal elastoplastic constitutive
equation of a multilayer panel are established and studied numerically using
ANSYS software. The paper elucidates that only the outer skin produces easily
plastic deformation, and the outer skin still exists some residual stress and
residual deformation after cooling. The dynamic evolution of plastic
deformation and material performance degradation under high energy thermal
load are revealed.
Moisture transport through non-porous hydrophilic membranes used in protective clothing
Authors: Zhu Fang-Long , Zhou Yu , He Jian-Xin
Published: February 2014

The three-step upright cup method was employed to determine the total
moisture transfer resistance and the two air layer resistances on both sides
of the membrane. The effective moisture diffusion coefficient in air layer
between the membrane and water surface was determined by the regressive
method, and the effective moisture diffusion coefficient of membrane was
calculated. Experiments were conducted on a non-porous hydrophilic
thermoplastic polyester elastomer membrane. The moisture transfer process
through the membrane was modeled by using the solution-diffusion model. The
effects of membrane microstructure on membrane permeation were analyzed based
on the solution-diffusion model and experimental data. The results show that
the effective diffusion coefficient can be used to evaluate the mass transfer
process through the non-porous hydrophilic thermoplastic polyester elastomer
membrane.
Application of hybrid microwave thermal extraction techniques for mulberry root bark
Authors: Wang Cheng-Chi , Yau Her-Terng
Published: February 2014

The main focus of this paper is the extraction of compounds from the mulberry
root bark using a hybrid microwave thermal process. The shearing mechanism
and an integrated circulation system, which increases the rate of contact
between the solvent and extractive, are studied. The results are analyzed by
the Taguchi method and verified by high performance liquid chromatography.
Furthermore, the optimal operating parameters of the extraction of mulberry
root bark are discussed. The results show that hybrid microwave thermal
extraction can successfully extract the active ingredients from mulberry root
bark. This is a reliable basis for further researches.
Interception efficiency of particle laden flow over a finite flat plate in potential flow regimes
Authors: Xie Mingliang , He Qing , Wang Wenxi
Published: February 2014

The direct interception efficiency of particles from potential flows past
flat plate is obtained based on the Zhukovsky conversion. The efficiency
predictions depend on filter solidity, length of the flat plate, orientation
of the cross-section relative to the incoming flow, and particle diameter.
The expressions demonstrate that the efficiency for flat plate generally
increase with increasing particles, decreasing the orientation of the
cross-section relative to the incoming flow.
Numerical simulation on typical parts erosion of the oil pressure pipeline
Authors: Wu Huanhuan , Liang Xiaoyu , Deng Zhiqiang
Published: February 2014

Unscheduled shut-downs of oil pipeline caused by erosion have great negative
influence on production efficiency of enterprises. In this article, a
computational fluid dynamics software is applied to simulate flow in bend and
sudden expansion pipe to analyze erosion distribution of inner wall under
different conditions.
Heat transfer analysis of insulation materials with flexible multilayers
Authors: Chen Jin-Jing , Guo Zheng , Yu Wei-Dong
Published: February 2014

A new flexible multilayer thermal insulation material is presented for
applications at harsh environment as high as 433 K or as low as 123 K. A heat
transfer model is established and solved to study heat transfer through the
material, including radiation, solid heat transfer and gas heat transfer.
Comparison between the experimental results and the theoretical prediction
shows that the model is feasible to be applied in engineering. The
temperature distribution of samples with 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 layers,
respectively, the radiation, solid and gas heat transfer of a sample with 10
layers are analyzed at harsh conditions (123 K and 433 K) and the normal
condition as well. The theoretical thermal analysis provides an active
instruction to an optimal design of such protective materials.
Particle-like beads and daughter jet cascades in electrospinning
Authors: Li Haibin , Kong Haiyan , He Ji-Huan
Published: February 2014

Nanofibers with high surface-to-volume ratio are of significant applications.
This paper proposes a novel method for fabrication of particle-like beaded
nanofibers and their daughter nanofibers, which are ejected from the surface
of charged jets. Polyvinyl alcohol/ash solution is used in the
electrospinning process.
A heat dissipating model for water cooling garments
Authors: Yang Kai , Jiao Ming-Li , Liu Zhe , Zhang Wei-Yuan
Published: February 2014

A water cooling garment is a functional clothing used to dissipate human
body?s redundant energy in extravehicular environment or other hot
environment. Its heat dissipating property greatly affects body?s heat
balance. In this paper, a heat dissipating model for the water cooling
garment is established and verified experimentally using the experimental
thermal-manikin.
Experimental research on heat transfer in a coupled heat exchanger
Authors: Liu Yin , Ma Jing , Zhou Guang-Hui , Guan Ren-Bo
Published: February 2014

The heat exchanger is a devise used for transferring thermal energy between
two or more different temperatures. The widespreadly used heat exchanger can
only achieve heat exchange between two substances. In this paper, a coupled
heat exchanger is proposed, which includes a finned heat exchanger and a
double pipe heat exchanger, for multiple heat exchange simultaneously. An
experiment is conducted, showing that the average heating capacity increases
more than 35%, and the average heating efficiency increases more than 55%,
compared with the ordinary air-source heat pump.
PVA-based nanographene film by electrospinning
Authors: Pang Jing , Kong Haiyan , He Ji-Huan
Published: February 2014

Two-dimensional polyvinyl alcohol based graphene films with the thickness of
less than 20 nm were fabricated directly by using polyvinyl alcohol/graphite
solution or polyvinyl alcohol/ash solution by electrospinning. It was found
that ash particles are good candidate for substitution of graphite particles
to fabricate nanographene films. The relationship between the thickness and
width of the film is elucidated, and the periodic morphology of the film is
explained.
Numerical study of one-dimensional Stefan problem with periodic boundary conditions
Authors: Qu Liang-Hui , Ling Feng , Xing Lin
Published: February 2014

A finite difference approach to a one-dimensional Stefan problem with
periodic boundary conditions is studied. The evolution of the moving boundary
and the temperature field are simulated numerically, and the effects of the
Stefan number and the periodical boundary condition on the temperature
distribution and the evolution of the moving boundary are analyzed.
Experimental investigation on optimal temperature lift of an inverter heat pump system
Authors: Wang Fang , Fan Xiao-Wei , Zheng Hui-Fan , Xu Di , Zhang Xian-Ping
Published: February 2014

The temperature lift directly influences the efficiency of the heat pump,
meanwhile, the coefficient of performance and the heat sink temperature lift
of heat pump systems are mutually exclusive parameters, i.e., the higher
temperature lift leads to the lower coefficient of performance while the
lower temperature lift leads to the higher coefficient of performance. To
deal with the dilemma, a primary theoretical analysis is performed, and a
case study of an inverter water source heat pump is carried out, which is
operated under the conditions of compressor frequency of 15-85 Hz and heat
sink flow rate of 120/160/180/200 kg/h, respectively. The relationships among
the temperature lift, coefficient of performance and compressor power
consumption are analyzed, The results show that the optimal temperature lift
mainly depends on the inlet temperature of heat sink, and has little to do
with the compressor frequency and water flow rate, which are of significance
for the optimal operation of heat pump systems.
New multi-soliton solutions for generalized Burgers-Huxley equation
Authors: Liu Jun , Luo Hong-Ying , Mu Gui , Dai Zhengde , Liu Xi
Published: February 2014

The double exp-function method is used to obtain a two-soliton solution of
the generalized Burgers-Huxley equation. The wave has two different
velocities and two different frequencies.
Neuronal representation of fabric texture for thermal microenvironment
Authors: Liu Yuqing , Jiang Xiaofeng , Zhang Xiaoxia , Wang Guohe , Zhang Zhongwei , Chen Kemin
Published: February 2014

Fabric, our second skin with moisture and thermal capacity for skin
temperature regulation, can arouse feelings of pleasant and discomfort. To
examine the neurocognitive ability and emotion of fabric tactile perception
under different local temperatures, we used functional magnetic resonance
imaging with the same denim fabric stimuli and forearm contact area, and
found a functional dissociation: the affective regions was more involved
during warm condition, the discriminative regions were more involved during
neutral condition and the basis regions were significance during cool
condition. The higher local skin temperature environment can result in the
improvement of sensitivity and discriminability by dorsal pathway (spatial)
and ventral pathway (frequency) for fabric perception. Our results help to
explain how the brain uses internal models to interpret external fabric
tactile stimuli with micro environmental changing.
Numerical investigation of blade dynamic characteristics in an axial flow pump
Authors: Zhang Desheng , Pan Dazhi , Xu Yan , Shao Peipei , Wang Guotao
Published: February 2014

The unsteady numerical simulation of fluid field and structural transient
dynamic analysis of axial flow pump were carried out at three operating
conditions based on fluid-structure interaction method. Numerical results
show that the maximum equivalent stress of impeller occurs at the joint
region of the impeller blade root and the hub, and the maximum deformation of
impeller occurs at the tips of blade leading edges. The frequency-domain of
the maximum equivalent stress and outlet pressure fluctuation of impeller are
mainly affected by the impeller blade passing frequency.
Hot deformation behavior of TC18 titanium alloy
Authors: Jia Bao-Hua , Song Wei-Dong , Tang Hui-Ping , Ning Jian-Guo
Published: February 2014

Isothermal compression tests of TC18 titanium alloy at the deformation
temperatures ranging from 25?C to 800?C and strain rate ranging from 10-4
to 10-2 s-1 were conducted by using a WDW-300 electronic universal testing
machine. The hot deformation behavior of TC18 was characterized based on an
analysis of the true stress-true strain curves of TC18 titanium alloy. The
curves show that the flow stress increases with increasing the strain rate
and decreases with increasing the temperature, and the strain rate play an
important role in the flow stress when increasing the temperatures. By
taking the effect of strain into account, an improved constitutive
relationship was proposed based on the Arrhenius equation. By comparison
with the experimental results, the model prediction agreed well with the
experimental data, which demonstrated the established constitutive
relationship was reliable and can be used to predict the hot deformation
behavior of TC18 titanium alloy.
Nozzle design in a fiber spinning process for a maximal pressure gradient
Authors: Yang Zhanping , Zhang Li , Chen Rouxi , He Ji-Huan , Cao Jian-Hua , Song Minfeng
Published: February 2014

The thickness of a spinneret is always a geometrical constraint in nozzle
design. The geometrical form of a nozzle has a significant effect on the
subsequent spinning characteristics. This paper gives an optimal condition
for maximal pressure gradient through the nozzle.
Pressure distribution on spinning spinnerets
Authors: Zhang Li , Yang Zhanping , Chen Rouxi , He Ji-Huan , Cao Jian-Hua , Song Minfeng , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2014

A two-dimensional model is used to study the pressure distribution in a
chamber of a spinneret system. Darcy?s law is adopted for determining the
inlet and outlet velocities of the flow. The pressure distribution on the
spinneret plate is obtained, and the dead zone, where no nozzle exists, can
be optimally determined.
The Taylor-expansion method of moments for the particle system with bimodal distribution
Authors: Liu Yan-Hua , Gu Hao
Published: February 2014

This paper derives the multipoint Taylor expansion method of moments for the
bimodal particle system. The collision effects are modeled by the internal
and external coagulation terms. Simple theory and numerical tests are
performed to prove the effect of the current model.
Fractal approach to heat transfer in silkworm cocoon hierarchy
Authors: Fei Dong-Dong , Liu Fu-Juan , Cui Qiu-Na , He Ji-Huan
Published: February 2014

Silkworm cocoon has a complex hierarchic structure with discontinuity. In
this paper, heat transfer through the silkworm cocoon is studied using
fractal theory. The fractal approach has been successfully applied to explain
the fascinating phenomenon of cocoon survival under extreme temperature
environment. A better understanding of heat transfer mechanisms for the
cocoon could be beneficial to the design of biomimetic clothes for special
applications.
Feasibility of quarantine procedures for bison (Bison bison) calves from Yellowstone National Park for conservation of brucellosis-free bison
Authors: Ryan Clarke P. , Frey Rebecca K. , Rhyan Jack C. , McCollum Matt P. , Nol Pauline , Aune Keith
Published: February 2014

Objective—To determine the feasibility of qualifying individuals or groups of Yellowstone National Park bison as free from brucellosis.

Design—Cohort study.

Sample—Serum, blood, and various samples from live bison and tissues taken at necropsy from 214 bison over 7 years.

Procedures—Blood was collected from bison every 30 to 45 days for serologic tests and microbiological culture of blood for Brucella abortus. Seropositive bison were euthanized until all remaining bison had 2 consecutive negative test results. Half the seronegative bison were randomly euthanized, and tissues were collected for bacteriologic culture. The remaining seronegative bison were bred, and blood was tested at least twice per year. Cow-calf pairs were sampled immediately after calving and 6 months after calving for evidence of B abortus.

Results—Post-enrollment serial testing for B abortus antibodies revealed no bison that seroconverted after 205 days (first cohort) and 180 days (second cohort). During initial serial testing, 85% of bison seroconverted within 120 days after removal from the infected population. Brucella abortus was not cultured from any euthanized seronegative bison (0/88). After parturition, no cows or calves had a positive test result for B abortus antibodies, nor was B abortus cultured from any samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested it is feasible to qualify brucellosis-free bison from an infected herd following quarantine procedures as published in the USDA APHIS brucellosis eradication uniform methods and rules. Latent infection was not detected in this sample of bison when applying the USDA APHIS quarantine protocol.
Use of statewide emergency department surveillance data to assess incidence of animal bite injuries among humans in North Carolina
Authors: Rhea Sarah K. , Weber David J. , Poole Charles , Waller Anna E. , Ising Amy I. , Williams Carl
Published: February 2014

Objective—To determine incidence of animal bite injuries among humans in North Carolina by use of statewide emergency department visit data; to evaluate incidence rates on the basis of age, sex, urbanicity, biting species, and month for selected species; and to characterize bite-related emergency department visits.

Design—Retrospective cohort and cross-sectional study.

Sample—Records of 38,971 incident animal bite–related emergency department visits in North Carolina from 2008 to 2010.

Procedures—Emergency department visits were selected for inclusion by means of external-cause-of-injury codes assigned with an international coding system and keyword searches of chief complaint and triage notes. Rates were calculated with denominators obtained from census data. Cross-sectional analysis of incident emergency department visits was performed.

Results—By the age of 10, a child in North Carolina had a 1 in 50 risk of dog bite injury requiring an emergency department visit. Incidence rates for dog bites were highest for children ≤ 14 years of age, whereas the incidence rate for cat bites and scratches was highest among individuals > 79 years of age. Lifetime risk of cat bite or scratch injury requiring an emergency department visit was 1 in 60 for the population studied. Rabies postexposure prophylaxis was administered during 1,664 of 38,971 (4.3%) incident visits.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Emergency department visit surveillance data were used to monitor species-specific bite incidence statewide and in various subpopulations. Emergency department surveillance data may be particularly useful to public health veterinarians. Results may inform and renew interest in targeted animal bite prevention efforts.
Proteomics of heavy metal toxicity in plants
Authors: Cvjetko Petra , Zovko Mira , Balen Biljana
Published: February 2014

Plants endure a variety of abiotic and biotic stresses, all of which cause major limitations to production. Among abiotic stressors, heavy metal contamination represents a global environmental problem endangering humans, animals, and plants. Exposure to heavy metals has been documented to induce changes in the expression of plant proteins. Proteins are macromolecules directly responsible for most biological processes in a living cell, while protein function is directly influenced by posttranslational modifications, which cannot be identified through genome studies. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct proteomic studies, which enable the elucidation of the presence and role of proteins under specific environmental conditions. This review attempts to present current knowledge on proteomic techniques developed with an aim to detect the response of plant to heavy metal stress. Significant contributions to a better understanding of the complex mechanisms of plant acclimation to metal stress are also discussed.
Photocatalytic air-cleaning using TiO2 nanoparticles in porous silica substrate
Authors: Šuligoj Andraž , Štangar Urška , Tušar Nataša
Published: February 2014

For air-cleaning, TiO2 photocatalysis represents one of the very efficient advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) that can decompose chemically and microbiologically stable volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, the photocatalytic activity of nanocrystalline TiO2 powders can be significantly suppressed due to TiO2’s poor adsorption characteristics for organic compounds and its relatively low surface area. The present study sought to solve this problem by immobilising nanocrystalline TiO2 in the porous silicate substrate. Two titania sources were used in an aqueous solution form: a suspension from a TiO2 producer in Slovenia, Cinkarna Celje (CC-40) and a TiO2 sol, prepared by a low-temperature synthesis developed at the University of Nova Gorica (TiO2-UNG). Two different types of mesoporous silica were used: SBA-15 with an ordered hexagonal pore arrangement and KIL-2 with disordered inter-particle mesoporosity. The structural characteristics, adsorption properties and photocatalytic activity of catalysts deposited on aluminium plates as thin films were investigated. CC-40 exhibited higher adsorption and photocatalytic activity than TiO2-UNG due to the greater quantity of Ti-OH groups on its surface. The addition of mesoporous silica led to higher adsorption and catalytic activity for both TiO2 sources. SBA-15 was more efficient than KIL-2.
Multivariable PID Decoupling Control Method of Electroslag Remelting Process Based on Improved Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) Algorithm
Authors: Wang Jie-Sheng , Ning Chen-Xu , Yang Yang
Published: February 2014

A mathematical model of electroslag remelting (ESR) process is established based on its technical features and dynamic characteristics. A new multivariable self-tuning proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller tuned optimally by an improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm is proposed to control the two-input/two-output (TITO) ESR process. An adaptive chaotic migration mutation operator is used to tackle the particles trapped in the clustering field in order to enhance the diversity of the particles in the population, prevent premature convergence and improve the search efficiency of PSO algorithm. The simulation results show the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control method. The new method can overcome dynamic working conditions and coupling features of the system in a wide range, and it has strong robustness and adaptability.
Barriers and Motivators for Referral of Patients with Suspected Lynch Syndrome to Cancer Genetic Services: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Tan Yen , Fitzgerald Lisa
Published: February 2014

This article explores the views of general practitioners and specialists on their referral of patients with suspected Lynch syndrome to cancer genetic services. Using a purposive maximum variation sampling strategy, we conducted semi-structured interviews face-to-face with 28 general practitioners and specialists in public or private hospitals and specialist clinics between March and August 2011. General practitioners and specialists were recruited in a major metropolitan area in Australia. Interview transcripts were reviewed by two independent researchers, and thematic analysis was performed using NVivo10 software. The main barriers and motivators identified were: (1) clinician-related (e.g., familiarity with Lynch syndrome and family history knowledge); (2) patient-related (e.g., patients’ interests and personal experience with cancer); and (3) organizational-related (e.g., access to services, guidelines and referral pathway). Referral of patients with suspected Lynch syndrome to cancer genetic services is motivated and hindered by a range of individual, interpersonal and organizational factors. In order to improve the care and quality of life of patients and family with suspected Lynch syndrome, further research is needed to develop supportive tools for clinicians.
Effect of the Cu Source on Optical Properties of CuZnO Films Deposited by Ultrasonic Spraying
Authors: Hsu Chih-Hung , Chen Lung-Chien , Zhang Xiuyu
Published: February 2014

CuZnO (CZO) films have received considerable attention, owing to their potential applications in semiconductor devices, including gas sensors or solar cells. However, exactly how these films affect the properties of CZO films by using different Cu sources has seldom been investigated. This study demonstrates the feasibility of preparing CZO films by using different Cu sources via a simple ultrasonic spray method, in which copper nitrate and copper acetate were used as copper sources. Optical properties of CZO films prepared by copper nitrate and copper acetate were also investigated, based on transmittance and photoluminescence measurements. Additionally, the composition and the morphology of the films were investigated using the X-ray diffraction analysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The results of this study demonstrate that the CZO films prepared by using copper acetate exhibit better optical properties.
Cytotoxic Oleanane-Type Triterpenoid Saponins from the Rhizomes of Anemone rivularis var. flore-minore
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Wang Minchang , Xu Min , Wang Yi , Tang Haifeng , Sun Xiaoli
Published: February 2014

Phytochemical investigation of the n-BuOH extract of the rhizomes of Anemone rivularis var. flore-minore led to the isolation of five new oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins 1–5, together with five known saponins 6–10. Their structures were determined by the extensive use of 1D and 2D NMR experiments, along with ESIMS analyses and acid hydrolysis. The aglycone of 4 and 5 was determined as 21α-hydroxyoleanolic acid, which was reported in this genus for the first time. The cytotoxicity of these compounds was evaluated against four human cancer cell line, including HL-60 (promyelocytic leukemia), HepG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma), A549 (lung carcinoma) and HeLa (cervical carcinoma). The monodesmosidic saponins 6–8 exhibited cytotoxic activity toward all tested cancer cell lines, with IC50 values in the 7.25–22.38 μM range.
Computational Study of a Heterostructural Model of Type I Collagen and Implementation of an Amino Acid Potential Method Applicable to Large Proteins
Authors: Eifler Jay , Rulis Paul , Tai Rex , Ching Wai-Yim
Published: February 2014

Collagen molecules are the primary structural proteins of many biological systems. Much progress has been made in the study of the structure and function of collagen, but fundamental understanding of its electronic structures at the atomic level is still lacking. We present the results of electronic structure and bonding calculations of a specific model of type I collagen using the density functional theory-based method. Information on density of states (DOS), partial DOS, effective charges, bond order values, and intra- and inter-molecular H-bonding are obtained and discussed. We further devised an amino-acid-based potential method (AAPM) to circumvent the full self-consistent field (SCF) calculation that can be applied to large proteins. The AAPM is validated by comparing the results with the full SCF calculation of the whole type I collagen model with three strands. The calculated effective charges on each atom in the model retained at least 95% accuracy. This technique provides a viable and efficient way to study the electronic structure of large complex biomaterials at the ab initio level.
Visualized and Interacted Life: Personal Analytics and Engagements with Data Doubles
Authors: Ruckenstein Minna
Published: February 2014

A field of personal analytics has emerged around self-monitoring practices, which includes the visualization and interpretation of the data produced. This paper explores personal analytics from the perspective of self-optimization, arguing that the ways in which people confront and engage with visualized personal data are as significant as the technology itself. The paper leans on the concept of the “data double”: the conversion of human bodies and minds into data flows that can be figuratively reassembled for the purposes of personal reflection and interaction. Based on an empirical study focusing on heart-rate variability measurement, the discussion underlines that a distanced theorizing of personal analytics is not sufficient if one wants to capture affective encounters between humans and their data doubles. Research outcomes suggest that these explanations can produce permanence and stability while also profoundly changing ways in which people reflect on themselves, on others and on their daily lives.
An Instrument to Investigate Expectations about and Experiences of the Parent-Child Relationship: The Parent-Child Relationship Schema Scale
Authors: Dixson Marcia , Bermes Emily , Fair Suze
Published: February 2014

This paper explains the reasons for and process of creating and testing for reliability and constructing the validity of the Parent-Child Relationship Schema Scale (PCRSS). The instrument is based on the Model of Relationships Survey (MRS). However, where the MRS is an open-ended survey which takes 20–30 minutes to complete and longer to analyze, the PCRSS is a Likert scale survey which can be completed in less than half the time and offers more sophisticated analysis possibilities as well as new research opportunities. The paper explains the three-stage process used to create the PCRSS and the five tests of reliability and concurrent validity that it “passed”. We also discuss the potential for new areas of research about the parent-child relationship with the PCRSS.
Un nouveau genre de Bombacées, Patinoa
Authors: Cuatrecasas José
Published: February 2014

A new genus, Patinoa, is described in the family Bombacaceae. Having the staminal structure of Matisia, it is characterized by its entire leaves, a tubular calyx, a 5-celled ovary with pluriovular cavities, linear acute stigmas and large baccate fruits with coriaceous epicarp and large seeds covered with thick lanate tomentum. It is represented by two species. The type of the genus, P. almirajo, which is here and there cultivated as a fruit tree (local name «Almirajô»), in the rain forest region of Choco in Colombia, has elongate-ovoid fruits like those of some Theobromas, containing an edible pulp that is a delicacy. The other species, from the State of Amazonas in Brasil, has round fruits ; its local name is « Cupu », and it is described as P. sphaerocarpa.
The Lower Saxony Bank of Health
Authors: Plischke M. , Haarbrandt B. , Rochon M. , Schwartze J. , Tute E. , Bartkiewicz T. , Kleinschmidt T. , Seidel C. , Schüttig H. , Haux R. , Wagner M.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: This article is part of a Focus Theme of Methods of Information in Medicine on Health Record Banking.

Background: Poor communication of health care information between health care providers (HCP) is still a major problem. One recent approach is the concept of Health Record Banking.

Objectives: With this report we want to introduce the Lower Saxony Bank of Health (LSBH) to the international community. The main objective of this paper is to report and explain: 1) why this organization has been founded, 2) which basic principles have been set, 3) which services will be provided, 4) which type of organization has been chosen, and 5) which architectural framework has been selected.

Methods: To report and discuss how we plan to achieve the intended objectives.

Results: The LSBH was founded as an entrepreneurial company, regarding itself as a neutral third-party information broker. The bank does not store medical documents on its central servers but offers a document registry with links to documents stored at participating health care providers. Subject to valid patient consent, the LSBH grants access to these documents to authorized health care providers. To implement our services, we chose the established technical frameworks of the Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) initiative using cross-enterprise document sharing (XDS).

Conclusions: Different approaches to establish health information exchange (HIE) are in early stages and some have failed in the past. Health Record Banking can address major challenges described in the literature about HIE. The future will show if our provider-sponsored business model is sustainable. After reaching a stable network, we intend to add additional HCPs, e.g., care homes or ambulance services, to the network.
Self-assembly of metallosupramolecular rhombi from chiral concave 9,9’-spirobifluorene-derived bis(pyridine) ligands
Authors: Hovorka Rainer , Hytteballe Sophie , Piehler Torsten , Meyer-Eppler Georg , Topić Filip , Rissanen Kari , Engeser Marianne , Lützen Arne
Published: February 2014

Two new 9,9’-spirobifluorene-based bis(4-pyridines) were synthesised in enantiopure and one also in racemic form. These ligands act as concave templates and form metallosupramolecular [(dppp)2M2L2] rhombi with cis-protected [(dppp)Pd]2+ and [(dppp)Pt]2+ ions. The self-assembly process of the racemic ligand preferably occurs in a narcissistic self-recognising manner. Hence, a mixture of all three possible stereoisomers [(dppp)2M2{(R)-L}2](OTf)4, [(dppp)2M2{(S)-L}2](OTf)4, and [(dppp)2M2{(R)-L}{(S)-L}](OTf)4 was obtained in an approximate 1.5:1.5:1 ratio which corresponds to an amplification of the homochiral assemblies by a factor of approximately three as evidenced by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The racemic homochiral assemblies could also be characterised by single crystal X-ray diffraction.
Combining Corticosteroids and Acyclovir in the Management of Varicella Pneumonia: A Prospective Study
Authors: Anwar Shaikh Khurshid , Masoodi Ibrahim , Alfaif Abdulaziz , Hussain Shabnum , Sirwal Irshad A
Published: February 2014

Background

Studies found in the literature which describe the treatment of varicella pneumonia with a combination of acyclovir and corticosteroids tend to be retrospective in nature and limited with regard to the data supplied.

Methods

This prospective study was performed at King Abdul Aziz Specialist Hospital in Taif, Saudi Arabia. The study covered adult patients admitted with a diagnosis of varicella pneumonia over a period of 10 years (January 2003 to December 2012). All patients were treated uniformly according to the predefined protocol with acyclovir and corticosteroids. The clinical characteristics, laboratory investigations, hospital course, any complications and the treatment outcomes were studied.

Results

A total of 32 patients (25 males, mean age 43.5 ±14.5 years) were enrolled into this study; 3 patients (2 patients aged <12 years, 1 patient with advanced cardiac failure) were excluded. Of these 32 patients, 18 (58%) were current smokers, 16 patients (50%) were admitted to the intensive care unit and of these, 14 (87.5%) required mechanical ventilation. The mean duration of intensive care unit stay was 5.59 ±5.37 days. All patients were treated with intravenous acyclovir, corticosteroids and antibiotics were added when indicated. 31 patients improved and were discharged home. There was one death (a 32 year-old female with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus).

Conclusions

Patients with varicella pneumonia are at high risk of respiratory failure. Early implementation of supportive therapy seems to positively influence the recovery rate and outcome. Our study supports treatment using a combination of acyclovir and corticosteroids.
Hdl Redox Activity is Increased in HIV-Infected Men in Association with Macrophage Activation and Non-Calcified Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: Zanni Markella V , Kelesidis Theodoros , Fitzgerald Michael L , Lo Janet , Abbara Suhny , Wai Bryan , Marmarelis Eleni , Hernandez Nicholas J , Yang Otto O , Currier Judith S , Grinspoon Steven K
Published: February 2014

Background

HIV is associated with atherosclerosis and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL). With inflammation, HDL becomes dysfunctional. We previously showed that proinflammatory HDL has high HDL redox activity (HRA). In this study, we compare HRA in HIV-infected versus non-HIV-infected subjects and relate HRA to indices of macrophage activation and cardiovascular disease risk.

Methods

102 HIV-infected subjects and 41 matched non-HIV controls without clinical cardiovascular disease underwent coronary CT angiography (CTA) and testing for immune/inflammatory biomarkers. The effect of purified HDL from each study subject on the oxidation rate of dihydrorhodamine-123 (DOR) was normalized to the DOR of pooled HDL from healthy subjects. The normalized ratio DOR subject/DOR pooled was used as a measure of HRA, with higher HRA suggesting dysfunctional HDL.

Results

HRA was higher in HIV-infected versus non-HIV subjects (1.4 ±0.01 versus 1.3 ±0.01, P=0.03). In multivariate modelling for HRA among all subjects, HIV status remained positively related to HRA ( P=0.02), even after controlling for traditional cardiovascular risk factors, comorbid conditions and immune activation. Among HIV-infected subjects, HRA correlated inversely with HDL (rho=-0.32, P=0.002) and log adiponectin (r=-0.28, P=0.006), and correlated positively with log sCD163 (r=0.24, P=0.02) – a monocyte/macrophage activation marker – and with the percentage of non-calcified coronary atherosclerotic plaque (r=0.29, P=0.03). sCD163 remained significantly associated with HRA in multivariate modelling among HIV-infected subjects ( P=0.03).

Conclusions

These data demonstrate increased HRA among HIV-infected subjects versus matched non-HIV subjects with comparable HDL levels. In HIV-infected subjects, HRA relates to macrophage activation and to non-calcified coronary atherosclerotic plaque, which may be rupture-prone. Further studies are needed in HIV-infected patients to elucidate the interplay between immune activation, HDL function and CVD risk. Clinical trial registration number: NCT 00455793.
A new carpenter ant, Camponotus parabarbatus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from India
Authors: Bharti Himender , Wachkoo Aijaz
Published: February 2014

A new species of carpenter ant, collected in the Shivalik range of Himalaya is described and illustrated based on the worker and gyne castes under the name Camponotus parabarbatus sp. n. Presence of dense, short setae on gena and ventral surface of head resembles it most to Camponotus barbatus Roger, 1863 distributed in Southeast Asia. A regional identification key of Camponotus species is provided from the Shivalik hills of Indian Himalaya.
Les listes de confiance
Authors: Quiviger Pierre-Yves
Published: February 2014

On attribue fréquemment à Sieyès la création des « listes de notabilité » qui ont marqué la période napoléonienne. En partant de la conception du suffrage développée par Sieyès dans ses projets constitutionnels de l’an VIII, on montre que la notion de confiance ne doit pas être confondue avec celle de notabilité. Sieyès permet ainsi de comprendre les phénomènes d’euphémisation propres à la perception contemporaine du suffrage, vu comme désormais universel et dénué de médiation, alors que le phénomène des partis politiques, d’une part, et la persistance d’un décalage entre habitants et votants d’autre part, consacre une pratique du suffrage moins éloignée des projets siéyèsiens qu’on ne pourrait le penser.
Les candidatures officielles
Authors: Schott Stéphane
Published: February 2014

Si la candidature officielle est généralement considérée comme une invention du Second Empire, il s’agit d’une pratique bien plus ancienne qui n’a d’ailleurs pas disparu avec la chute du régime de Napoléon III. Cette étude interroge plus précisément les rapports entre les candidatures officielles qui constituent une limitation de l’objet du droit de suffrage, et les différents types de discours théoriques qui se développent au cours du xix e siècle sur la question du suffrage politique.
La notion de suffrage universel « indirect »
Authors: Daugeron Bruno
Published: February 2014

Malgré un enracinement profond dans le vocabulaire du droit constitutionnel, la notion de suffrage universel indirect, généralement utilisée pour rendre compte du rôle du Sénat, est non seulement loin d’être claire par elle-même mais présente d’importantes difficultés historiques, théoriques et juridiques. Son histoire épouse celle des rapports complexes entretenus entre le suffrage universel et le gouvernement représentatif depuis la Révolution française et ne prend tout son sens que dans une perspective de théorie constitutionnelle. Si elle révèle comment se construisent les justifications constitutionnelles, elle en dit également beaucoup sur la manière dont se forgent et se diffusent les concepts en droit constitutionnel.
The Effect of Simulation-Based Crew Resource Management Training on Measurable Teamwork and Communication Among Interprofessional Teams Caring for Postoperative Patients
Authors: Paull Douglas E. , DeLeeuw Lori D. , Wolk Seth , Paige John T. , Neily Julia , Mills Peter D.
Published: February 2014

Background:

Many adverse events in health care are caused by teamwork and communication breakdown. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of a point-of-care simulation-based team training curriculum on measurable teamwork and communication skills in staff caring for postoperative patients.

Methods:

Twelve facilities involving 334 perioperative surgical staff underwent simulation-based training. Pretest and posttest self-report data included the Self-Efficacy of Teamwork Competencies Scale. Observational data were captured with the Clinical Teamwork Scale.

Results:

Teamwork scores (measured on a five-point Likert scale) improved for all eight survey questions by an average of 18% (3.7 to 4.4,
p
< .05). The observed communication rating (scale of 1 to 10) increased by 16% (5.6 to 6.4,
p
< .05).

Conclusion:

Simulation-based team training for staff caring for perioperative patients is associated with measurable improvements in teamwork and communication.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2013;44(11):516–524.