bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cutting Pattern Recognition Method for Shearers Based on Improved Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition and a Probabilistic Neural Network
Authors: Xu Jing , Wang Zhongbin , Tan Chao , Si Lei , Liu Xinhua
Published: November 2015

In order to guarantee the stable operation of shearers and promote construction of an automatic coal mining working face, an online cutting pattern recognition method with high accuracy and speed based on Improved Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (IEEMD) and Probabilistic Neural Network (PNN) is proposed. An industrial microphone is installed on the shearer and the cutting sound is collected as the recognition criterion to overcome the disadvantages of giant size, contact measurement and low identification rate of traditional detectors. To avoid end-point effects and get rid of undesirable intrinsic mode function (IMF) components in the initial signal, IEEMD is conducted on the sound. The end-point continuation based on the practical storage data is performed first to overcome the end-point effect. Next the average correlation coefficient, which is calculated by the correlation of the first IMF with others, is introduced to select essential IMFs. Then the energy and standard deviation of the reminder IMFs are extracted as features and PNN is applied to classify the cutting patterns. Finally, a simulation example, with an accuracy of 92.67%, and an industrial application prove the efficiency and correctness of the proposed method.
THE EFFECT OF GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE AND COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: A CASE STUDY OF THE CEMENT INDUSTRY
Authors: KHAKSAR Ehsan , ABBASNEJAD Tayyebeh , ESMAEILI Ahmad , TAMOŠAITIENĖ Jolanta
Published: November 2015

Nowadays, sustainable development has been introduced and integrated into production and operation management field through the concept of the green supply chain. Green regulations and principles have gained the interest of managers and practitioners in selecting innovative practices for suppliers and organisations. Accordingly, the present study aims to evaluate the relationship between a green supplier, green innovation, environmental performance, and competitive advantage in the cement industry, which is an important industry for Iran. This study is descriptive in nature and conducted based on correlation and structural equation modelling. Managers and experts of cement companies in Fars Province are selected as samples for the study. A questionnaire and Smart-PLS software were used as research tools. The results of data analysis show that there is a positive and significant relationship between a green supplier, green innovations and environmental performance of an organisation, while there is a negative yet significant relationship between a green supplier, green innovations and environmental performance of an organisation. There is also a significant positive relationship between green innovation and environmental performance on one hand, and environmental performance and competitive advantage on the other.
Fatigue in Ankylosing Spondylitis and Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: Analysis from a Longitudinal Observation Cohort
Authors: Bedaiwi Mohamed , Sari Ismail , Thavaneswaran Arane , Ayearst Renise , Haroon Nigil , Inman Robert D.
Published: November 2015

Objective.

In this study, we aimed to address the prevalence of fatigue, its associated factors, and the effect of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) on this subgroup of patients in a large axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) cohort.

Methods.

The study included 681 patients [ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and nonradiographic axSpA (nr-axSpA)]. The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the Bath AS Disease Activity Index question 1 (BASDAI Q1) indices were used for fatigue assessment. Severe fatigue was defined as an FSS ≥ 4 or a BASDAI Q1 ≥ 5. Disease activity, function, and quality of life (QoL) measures were recorded. Patients who had been treated with TNFi were identified, and baseline and followup data were analyzed.

Results.

Of the cohort, 67.3% had severe fatigue, and the prevalence was similar between AS (67.2%) and nr-axSpA (68.2%). Severely fatigued patients tended to have higher disease activity scores, increased acute-phase proteins, and decreased QoL measures. TNFi therapy was associated with improvement in disease activity, and although this treatment led to significantly decreased fatigue scores, this reduction was not optimal in the majority of patients with 80% continuing to have severe fatigue according to their posttreatment scores. Health Assessment Questionnaire, mean scores of BASDAI Q5 and Q6, and BASDAI enthesitis were independent predictors of fatigue severity.

Conclusion.

Fatigue is a common symptom in axSpA, and the burden of fatigue among patients with nr-axSpA is similar to that seen in AS. While biologics are effective in improving disease activity, their effect on fatigue is more limited. In axSpA, fatigue remains unresponsive to TNFi in nearly 80% of patients.
La Révolution française aurait-elle contribué à avancer l’âge à la puberté des filles ?
Authors: Rollet Catherine
Published: October 2015

Dans cet article fondé sur l’analyse de plusieurs corpus de rapports médicaux et administratifs, sont explorés les discours produits sur l’âge à la puberté des filles avant et après la Révolution française. Les représentations ont changé : l’anomalie du retard des règles à la campagne fait place à la critique de la précocité. Les réponses sur l’évolution de l’âge à la puberté (permanence ou changement) sont diverses et l’accent est de plus en plus mis sur le rôle des causes « morales », renvoyant à une visée populationniste, au détriment de facteurs comme l’alimentation ou le travail physique.
Rentrer comme des bêtes
Authors: Zaoui Pierre
Published: October 2015

Résumé Courtes réflexions zoologiques sur le homing et autres bizarreries animales
L’Europe-frontière et le « défi migratoire »
Authors: Balibar Étienne
Published: October 2015

Résumé Repenser l’idée de frontière pour refonder d’urgence nos politiques migratoires.
Effectiveness of a Case-Based Computer Program on Students’ Ethical Decision Making
Authors: Park Eun-Jun , Park Mihyun
Published: October 2015

Background:

The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of a case-based computer program, using an integrative ethical decision-making model, on the ethical decision-making competency of nursing students in South Korea.

Method:

This study used a pre- and posttest comparison design. Students in the intervention group used a computer program for case analysis assignments, whereas students in the standard group used a traditional paper assignment for case analysis.

Result:

The findings showed that using the case-based computer program as a complementary tool for the ethics courses offered at the university enhanced students’ ethical preparedness and satisfaction with the course.

Conclusion:

On the basis of the findings, it is recommended that nurse educators use a case-based computer program as a complementary self-study tool in ethics courses to supplement student learning without an increase in course hours, particularly in terms of analyzing ethics cases with dilemma scenarios and exercising ethical decision making. [J Nurs Educ.2015;54(11):633–640.]
Building a Community of Scholars: One Cohort’s Experience in an Online and Distance Education Doctor of Philosophy Program
Authors: Myers Lynnea H. , Jeffery Alvin D. , Nimmagadda Heather , Werthman Jennifer Ann , Jordan Kasey
Published: October 2015

Background:

Online and distance education is becoming increasingly common in higher education. As students explore graduate programs, they are often overwhelmed with the variety of program delivery options available. For graduate students pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), a particular concern relates to building a community of scholars and how to do so through an online and distance learning program.

Method:

Through a review of literature and personal stories, this article will highlight innovative strategies utilized by a cohort of PhD students related to online and distance learning and developing a community of scholars.

Results:

PhD students developed a community of scholars using innovative strategies to communicate and collaborate.

Conclusion:

Building a community of scholars is possible through online and distance education using simple forms of technology to connect and collaborate. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(11):650–654.]
Adapting and Integrating Photovoice in a Baccalaureate Community Course to Enhance Clinical Experiential Learning
Authors: Gallagher Martina R. , Stevens Christine A.
Published: October 2015

Background:

The adaptation and incorporation of photovoice—a qualitative research method—into the Community Health Nursing clinical course to foster students’ clinical reasoning in a community setting is presented.

Method:

Photovoice was used as a teaching strategy in the windshield survey and key informant interview activities that are part of the community health clinical experience. Students were provided with disposable cameras and were instructed to take photographs of the community.

Results:

Students shared the photographs with faculty and community members and explored ways of developing sustainable community-based interventions that promote and protect health.

Conclusion:

Photovoice can be used as a teaching strategy tool in any clinical course to foster experiential learning. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(11):659–662.]
Revivification of the Hard Alloys by Shock Waves
Authors: Didyk R.P. , Cherkashchenko O.M.
Published: October 2015

The purpose. To work out an efficient technology and develop production of supersolid metal-ceramic powders and tools of high quality from processed raw materials.Methods. To stimulate the processes of defect formation and destruction of tungsten containing alloys under conditions of the effect of high pressure gradients and loading rate revivified by shock waves of different intensity.Results. This is the first time explosion energy has been applied to grind hard alloys in cylindrical capsules compared to the traditional methods of recycling. The material obtained in the capsules of impact compression was exposed to finely dispersed structure refinement in drum-type grinding mills with duration 20 times as short as that for the current grinding technology which allowed decreasing energy consumption for grinding process by 7.75 megawatt for one aggregate onlyScientific novelty. Shock waves generated by detonation of condensed explosives have been originally used as tools to stimulate the processes of defect formation of cemented carbide alloys at different scale level. Conditions of preserving the shocked product in axial symmetry facilities has been developed and provided.Practical implications. The use of shock waves in the technology of hard alloy revivification is the only possible method of processing large-size solids with significant reduction of energy consumption and quality-assured production.
Studies in Effect of Nano Aluminium Trihydroxide Concentration on Flame Retardant Properties of Ethylene Propylene Diene Rubber
Authors: Abitha V.K. , Rane Ajay Vasudeo , Uday Rane , Samarth Nikesh , Rane Amit Vasudeo , Kamble Vinayak
Published: October 2015

The science and technology of synthetic polymers has undergone explosive growth in the last few decades and the number of different polymeric materials in our built environment increases almost daily. All organic polymers burn and thus entail some measure of fire hazard in some situations. With increasing awareness of the nation’s fire problem it has become evident that the problems associated with flammability of polymeric materials must be attacked and solved. With the large number of polymers in commercial use. Problems of flammability and fire retardation are complex and multifaceted properties have to be developed, or existing polymers must be modified by addition of fire-retardant compounds. EPDM Rubber has many attractive properties such as low shrinkage, ease of cure and processing, excellent moisture, solvent and chemical resistance, good mechanical and electrical properties, as well as ease of modification to optimize the properties. However flammability is a major limitation in area requiring high flame resistance. Aluminum trihydroxide (ATH) due to its flame retardancy property is widely used as non reinforcing filler in wires and cable compound along with silica and carbon black. In this study carbon black is fully replaced by nano ATH to make environment friendly rubber products. However, the dispersion of nano particles in rubber is remarkably poor and hence techniques like melt mixing, solution mixing and master batching of nano ATH with EVA (Ethylene- vinyl acetate) are used to improve the dispersion of nano ATH particles in EPDM elastomers. In the current study we have used melt mixing for improving the dispersion of nano ATH and excellent results were obtained with optimum loading of nano ATH.
Virtual Training System with Physical Viscoelastic Model and Blood Flow Simulation Based on a Range-Based SPH Method
Authors: Bao Yi Dong , Wu Dong Mei
Published: October 2015

A physical mesh-less soft tissue cutting model with the viscoelastic creep characteristics has been proposed in this paper. The model is composed of filled spheres which are connected by Kelvin structure, so as to realize the cutting with viscoelastic creep characteristics. Then, it is further compared with the mass spring model in order to verify the effectiveness of the model. Secondly, a range-based Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method with variable smoothing length is proposed, in order to simulate the blood flow simulation effect in the virtual surgery training system. Finally, the two are combined to be applied to the kidney soft tissue cutting experiment in surgery trainings. Experiments show there is a significant improvement on the cutting and simulation effect in terms of the viscoelasticity of the soft tissue cutting and the pressure and viscous force of blood flow.
Dip Coated Magnesium-Substituted Hydroxyapatite Coatings on Magnesium Alloy for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Bao Quan He , Sun Chao , Zhang Chen , Zhang Jie Qing
Published: October 2015

Magnesium-substituted hydroxyapatite coatings have been deposited on magnesium alloy for biomedical applications by sol–gel technology. The Ca(10−x)Mgx(PO4)6(OH)2coatings obtained, with magnesium contents up to x = 1.5, show dense and compact and with visible cracks. The results of Hydrogen (H2) evolution testing in Hank’s solution show that magnesium-substituted hydroxyapatite coatings can improve the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy.
The Controllable Growth of Stereo Reticular Hydroxyapatite Structure on Femtosecond Lasers Micro-Patterned Titanium Surface
Authors: Huang Chuang , Wang Hong Shui , Liu Hai Long , Liang Chun Yong , Li Bao Fa , Li Bao E , Li Chang Yi , Liu Shi Min
Published: October 2015

The controllable deposition of hydroxyapatite (HA) on femtosecond lasers micro-patterned Titanium (Ti) plates was studied in simulated body fluid (SBF). Energy Dispersive Spectrometer analysis and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis show that the hydroxyapatite deposites on the pattened titanium surface in 1.5 SBF and SEM studies show three growth modes of HA (homogeneous hydroxyapatite layer, needle-like structure, and plate-like structure) deposited at different spots of the Ti plate surface. This stereo reticular structure of hydroxyapatite could be regarded as promising candidate material for metal implantation.
A Review of Synthesis Methods, Properties and Use of Hydroxyapatite as a Substitute of Bone
Authors: Shavandi Amin , Bekhit Alaa El-Din A. , Sun Zhi Fa , Ali Azam
Published: October 2015

In recent years, a significant achievement has been made in developing biomaterials, in particular the design of bioceramics, from natural sources for various biomedical applications. In this review, we discuss the fundamentals of structure, function and characteristics of human bone, its calcium and phosphate composition, role and importance of bioceramics for bone repairing or regeneration. This review also outlines various isolation techniques and the application of novel marine-derived hydroxyapatite (HA) and tri-calcium phosphate (TCP) for biocomposites engineering, and their potentials for bone substitute and bone regeneration.
Nanostructured Composite FeOF-FeF3 as Anode Material for Li-Ion Battery: The Original Method of Pulsed High-Voltage Discharge
Authors: Opra Denis P. , Gnedenkov Sergey V. , Sokolov Alexander A. , Kuryavyi Valery G. , Ustinov Alexander Yu. , Kaidalova Taisiya A. , Sinebryukhov Sergey L.
Published: October 2015

The prospects of an original method of pulsed high-voltage discharge in synthesis of nanostructured FeOF–FeF3 composite anode for Li-ion battery has been demonstrated. Scanning electron microscopy investigation shows as-synthesized FeOF–FeF3 consists of nanocrystallites ranging in sizes from 10 to 300 nm. Galvanostatic discharge–charge cycling of the Li/FeOF–FeF3 half-cell at current density of 10 mA g–1 in the range from 3.0 to 0.005 V yields 210 mAh g–1 after 10 cycles. The electrochemical reaction mechanism within the Li/FeOF–FeF3 has been investigated by the cyclic voltammetry method.
Evaluation of Electrochemical Properties of the PEO-Coatings Treated with Hydrophobic Agent Solution on Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Egorkin Vladimir , Vyaliy Igor , Sinebryukhov Sergey , Gnedenkov Sergey
Published: October 2015

The developed methods of formation and results of the study of the hydrophobic layers on aluminum alloy, previously subjected to plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) and additional treatment (either in ethanol solution or under UV-radiation in the presence of ozone plasma) with subsequent deposition of the hydrophobic agent (methoxy-{3-[(2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8-pentadecafluoroctyl) oxy] propyl}-silane solution in decane) have been described. It was found, that the formed composite layers possess a hydrophobicity (contact angle higher 157o) and high anticorrosion properties (the impedance modulus, |Z|f=0.01Hz, ranges from 9.2·109 to 4.0·1010 Оhm·cm2 depending on the treatment procedure).
Electrochemical and Mechanical Properties of the PVDF/PEO-Coatings on Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Egorkin Vladimir , Vyaliy Igor , Opra Denis , Sinebryukhov Sergey , Gnedenkov Sergey
Published: October 2015

The paper presents the results of the study of electrochemical and mechanical properties of PVDF/PEO-coatings formed on magnesium alloy MA8 by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) and subsequent application of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) on the PEO-layer. The oxide coatings were formed using a 300 Hz bipolar signal with duty cycle (D) 0.50. The analysis of electrochemical data has showed a decrease of corrosion currents by 3 orders of magnitude (down to 6.0·10-9 А·сm-2) and an increase of the polarization resistance by 3 orders of magnitude (up to 5.3·106 Оhm·сm2) for the coatings formed by triple dipping (x3) of the PEO-layers into PVDF solution. Evaluation of the tribological properties of the (x3) PVDF/PEO-coatings has showed a significant increase of the wear resistance (the number of abrasion cycles resulting in complete destruction of the coating increased in 25 times) as compared to the base PEO-layer.
Morphological Features and Electrochemical Properties of the Hydrophobized Sealed PEO-Coatings on Al Alloy
Authors: Egorkin Vladimir , Vyaliy Igor , Minaev Alexander , Sinebryukhov Sergey , Gnedenkov Sergey
Published: October 2015

The developed methods of formation and results of the study of the hydrophobic layers on aluminum alloy, previously subjected to plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO), boiling in bidistilled water, and additional treatment (either in ethanol solution or under UV-radiation in the presence of ozone plasma) with subsequent deposition of the hydrophobic agent (methoxy-{3-[(2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8-pentadecafluoroctyl) oxy] propyl}-silane solution in decane) have been described. It was found, that the formed composite layers possess hydrophobicity (contact angle higher 155o) and high anticorrosion properties (the impedance modulus (|Z|f = 0.01 Hz) ranges from 1.5·108 to 1.7·108 Оhm·cm2 depending on treatment procedure).
Composite Calcium Phosphate Coatings on Mg Alloy for Medicine
Authors: Gnedenkov Sergey V. , Sinebryukhov Sergey L. , Puz' Artyom М. , Mashtalyar Dmitry V. , Plekhova Natalya G.
Published: October 2015

The high-tech method of creating anticorrosion calcium phosphate coating on the magnesium alloy MA8 (MgMnCe) has been developed. As was demonstrated by the volumetry method the sealing of the layer formed on the surface of Mg alloy using plasma electrolytic oxidation by superdispersed polytetrafluoroethylene substantially reduced the rate of the corrosion process. Here, the surface of the calcium phosphate layer containing hydroxyapatite (Ca/P = 1.61) remains biologically active. Studies of architectonics of the surface of innate immune cells have been performed in vitro.
EuFeO3/TiO2/Ti Composites: Formation, Composition, Magnetic and Luminescent Properties
Authors: Rudnev V.S. , Steblevskaya N.I. , Kilin K.N. , Medkov M.A. , Tkachenko I.A. , Belobeletskaya M.V. , Adigamova M.V. , Lukiyanchuk I.V. , Nedozorov P.M.
Published: October 2015

Layered oxide coatings containing europium ferrite multiferroic have been synthesized on titanium plates through plasma electrolytic oxidation and extraction pyrolysis. The composites have weak ferromagnetic properties: the coercive force attains 45–78 Oe in the temperature range 3–340 K. Their luminescence properties are typical of inorganic materials with europium ions.
Fabrication of Electrochemical Sensors Based on Nanostructured Titanium Dioxide Formed through Anodic Oxidation
Authors: Kondrikov Nikolai B. , Lapina Antonina S. , Stepanov Ilya V. , Marinina Galina I. , Korochentsev Vladimir V. , Kuryavyi Valery G.
Published: October 2015

The nanotubular titanium dioxide structures were prepared using anodic oxidation. The structural features of surface have been investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) techniques. These nanotubular titanium dioxide structures can be used as a sensor in potentiometric indication components of different types of chemical reactions.
Influence of a Poling Procedure on Dynamics of Ferroelectric Domains in Thin PbZr0.3Ti0.7O3 Film at Low Temperatures
Authors: Andreeva Natalia V. , Filimonov Alexey V. , Vakulenko Alexander F. , Vakhrushev Sergey B.
Published: October 2015

An experimental study of low temperature domain dynamics could provide information on a mechanism of domain wall motion at low temperatures in thin ferroelectric films. For this purpose we use a piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) technique and investigate the 1800 ferroelectric domains growth in the temperature range 5 K – 295 K. Domains were created by applying a dc voltage pulses between an atomic force microscopy (AFM) tip and a bottom electrode of a thin epitaxial PbZr0.3Ti0.7O3 film. Two different types of tips were used, a semiconducting tip with dopant conductivity and a tip with metallic coating to clarify an influence of poling procedure on the domain dynamics. Created domains were then visualized and their in-plane sizes were measured with out-of-plane PFM. Dependences of lateral domain size on the duration and amplitude of dc voltage pulse were obtained. Received experimental dependences were then fitted with logarithmic function with good accuracy. This circumstance indicates on the thermally activated mechanism of domain growth and formation. Temperature dynamics of the 1800 ferroelectric domains growth does not depend on the AFM tip used in a poling procedure what allows us to conclude that the voltage transfer to the ferroelectric film does not significantly depend on the tip-film local contact properties.
Specific Heat of Square Spin Ice in Finite Point Ising-Like Dipoles Model
Authors: Shevchenko Yuriy , Kapitan Vitalii , Nefedev Konstantin V.
Published: October 2015

In the model of finite number (up to 24) of point Ising-like magnetic dipoles with magnetostatic interaction on square 2D lattice within the framework of statistical physics, with using Gibbs formalism and by the means of Metropolis algorithm the heating dependence of temperature has been evaluated. The temperature dependence of the heat capacity on finite number of point dipoles has the finite value of maximum. Together with increase of the system in size the heating peak grows and moves to the area with higher temperature. The obtained results are useful in experimental verification of statistical models, as well as in development and testing of approximate calculation methods of systems with great number of particles.
Composition, Structure, and Catalytic Activity of SiO2+TiO2/Ti and MnOx+SiO2+TiO2/Ti Composites Formed by Combination of the Methods of Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation, Impregnation and Annealing
Authors: Vasilyeva Marina S. , Rudnev V.S. , Ustinov Alexander Yu.
Published: October 2015

New data on the structure of silicon-containing oxide layers SiO2+TiO2 on titanium formed by the method of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) as well as on the structure and catalytic activity in CO oxidation of MnOx+SiO2+TiO2/Ti composites formed on their basis using impregnation and annealing methods have been obtained. It has been demonstrated that silicon and titanium are rather homogeneously distributed over the SiO2+TiO2 coating bulk. The coating outer part is silicon-enriched titanium-depleted. The MnOx+SiO2+TiO2/Ti composites catalyze the CO conversion at temperatures above 100°C. Nanowhiskers consisting predominantly of manganese oxides have been found on the surface of the MnOx+SiO2+TiO2/Ti composites.
Sensitive Coatings for Luminescence Detection of Cu(II) in Solutions
Authors: Mironenko Alexander Y. , Sergeev Alexander A. , Nazirov Alexander E. , Leonov Andrei A. , Bratskaya Svetlana Y. , Voznesenskiy Sergey S.
Published: October 2015

Here we present a simple technique for copper (II) detection in aqueous solutions by luminescent dye doped polymeric film. In this study the photoluminescent dye lumocupferon was first embedded in thin films of polysaccharide chitosan. The sensor response is forming by quenching the dye luminescence. This technique can offer a rapid detection of Cu2+ with a dynamic range up to 350 μM.
Spectral Characteristics of Secondary Radiation Cisplatin for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Lukуanenko Ksenya Sergeevna , Apanasevich Vladimir Iosifovich , Lagureva Aleksandra Viktorovna , Polkovnikova Alina Sergeevna , Lukyanov Pavel Aleksandrovich , Kustov Vladimir Nikolaevich
Published: October 2015

Gamma spectrums were measured during X-ray transmission through solutions such as sodium chloride solution with increasing quintuple concentration of NaCl and cisplatin with increasing quintuple concentration of platinum. It was shown that the number of photons with an energy of 511 keV is 29.6% more in cisplatin solution with increasing quintuple concentration of platinum (5*cisplatin) than sodium chloride solution increasing quintuple concentration of NaCl. The result allows us to consider cisplatin as a possible radiomodificator for radiation therapy.
Creation of Electrical Spin Injectors for Silicon Spintronics: Achievements and Prospects
Authors: Plusnin Nikolay
Published: October 2015

Literature data on the effective electrical injectors of electron spin for silicon spintronics and stages of the investigation of corresponding magnetic tunnel contacts are reviewed up to 2015 year and a consideration of the current state of the research is given. Different structures for the spin injection, materials and possible applications in silicon spintronics are considered and also possible future research directions are outlined.
Growth, Photosynthesis and Pollen Performance in Saline Water Treated Olive Plants under High Temperature
Authors: Koubouris Georgios , Tzortzakis Nikolaos , Kourgialas Nektarios , Darioti Marina , Metzidakis Ioannis
Published: October 2015

Olive cultivation in hot arid areas is hindered by the scarcity of irrigation water. The exploitation of saline water has been proposed as a solution to partially cover plant water demands. This paper presents the effects of salinity [0, 60 and 120 mM sodium chloride (NaCl)] on physiological and reproductive functions of cultivars Koroneiki and Amphissis in a closed hydroponic system. Shoot growth was markedly reduced in high salinity dose in Amphissis (−81%) and Koroneiki (−75%). The photosynthetic rate was significantly reduced at 120 mM NaCl for both cultivars, as well as chlorophyll and carotenoids content (43% and 44%, respectively). The Na+ content in all plant parts increased in both salinity doses especially in Amphissis while K concentration decreased for both cultivars. Inflorescences in Amphissis were severely damaged due to salinity. Consequently, pollen sampling and in vitro germination study was only feasible for Koroneiki. Indeed, Koroneiki pollen germination was reduced at 60 mM NaCl (−42%) and at 120 mM NaCl (−88%). Pollen tube length was also reduced by 15% and 28% for the middle and high salinity dose, respectively. The results of the present study indicate that Amphissis is more sensitive in high salinity doses compared to Koroneiki and that reproductive functions are severely affected by salinity.
Awakening – Transformation, agency and virtue from three contemporary philosophical inspirations: Bhaskar, Segal and Slote
Authors: Schreiber Dudley
Published: October 2015

For some, ‘transformation’ is the new non-reductive and non-normative ‘development’, attracting attention from interdisciplinary array, but of particular theoretical and practical interest to Spirituality scholars. In philosophical context, transformation theory has suffered greatly from ’agency-structure’ dualism and suspension of ontology in body-mind dualism and rationalist virtue controversy. Drawing on the work of Bhaskar, Segal and Slote, a renegotiated and more meaningful sense of transformation emerges from their cumulative analytical and conceptual enrichment. In the complexity of possible relations between self, self-concept and society, lies the traditionally neglected transformative middle of sui-generis human depth. In redress, arguably, Bhaskar’s meta-philosophy accommodates Segal’s experiential depth analysis and Slote’s understanding of empathy and receptivity as valuable insights for ’awakening’ to transformative process.
Reflecting on Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness from a positive psychological perspective
Authors: Scheffler Eben
Published: October 2015

In its quest for a non-medical, pro-health approach to psychotherapy, positive psychology surprisingly focuses on concepts that are biblical and specifically present in the teaching of Jesus of Nazareth. In this paper,(1) the teaching of Jesus in the synoptic tradition on forgiveness will be compared to recent positive psychological approaches (e.g. McCullough & Witvliet); attention will be paid to the (2) contexts of forgiveness (interpersonal and/or political); (3) the (philosophical) positive or negative judgement on forgiveness as a positive notion (e.g. the Buddhist concept of karma, [e.g. Arendt, Deridda, Wolterstorff]); (4) the (perceived) positive role of forgiveness in psychotherapy; (5) the ‘techniques’ or method of forgiveness when the latter seems difficult; and (6) the relation between forgiveness and religion or spirituality.
Untying the knots of thinking: Wittgenstein and the role of philosophy in Christian faith
Authors: Santrac Aleksandar S.
Published: October 2015

This article deals with Ludwig Wittgenstein’s philosophy and how it can be properly applied in Christian theology. It provides useful tools for methodology in Christian thinking. According to Wittgenstein, philosophy deals primarily with critical examination, clarification and evaluation of the language we use. Wittgenstein’s ideas − including the concept of mystery beyond linguistic forms, the idea of language game and its possible evolution, the impossibility of the ultimate truth and the concrete application of language − have the potential to play a very significant methodological role in every form of theological doctrinal expression.Wittgenstein en die rol van die filosofie in die Christelike geloof. Hierdie artikel handel oor Ludwig Wittgenstein se filosofie en hoe dit behoorlik toegepas kan word in die Christelike teologie. Dit bied nuttige gereedskap vir metodologie in Christelike denke. Volgens Wittgenstein, handel filosofie hoofsaaklik oor die kritiese ondersoek, verduideliking en evaluering van die taal wat ons gebruik. Wittgenstein se idees − insluitend die konsep van misterie buite taalkundige vorms, die idee van taalspel en die moontlike evolusie, die onmoontlikheid van die uiteindelike waarheid en die konkrete toepassing van taal − het die potensiaal om ’n baie belangrike metodologiese rol te speel in elke vorm teologiese leerstellige uitdrukking.
Cancer Bioinformatic Methods to Infer Meaningful Data from Small-Size Cohorts
Authors: Bennani-Baiti Nabila , Bennani-Baiti Idriss M.
Published: November 2015

Whole-genome analyses have uncovered that most cancer-relevant genes cluster into 12 signaling pathways. Knowledge of the signaling pathways and associated gene signatures not only allows us to understand the mechanisms of oncogenesis inherent to specific cancers but also provides us with drug targets, molecular diagnostic and prognosis factors, as well as biomarkers for patient risk stratification and treatment. Publicly available genomic data sets constitute a wealth of gene mining opportunities for hypothesis generation and testing. However, the increasingly recognized genetic and epigenetic inter- and intratumor heterogeneity, combined with the preponderance of small-size cohorts, hamper reliable analysis and discovery. Here, we review two methods that are used to infer meaningful biological events from small-size data sets and discuss some of their applications and limitations.
Discurso URSS: una mirada desde la teoría de la complejidad
Authors: Piloto Rodríguez Javier Alberto , González Martín Olga Rosa , Saladrigas Medina Hilda , León del Río Yohanka
Published: October 2015

Este artículo toma como referente el Paradigma de la Complejidad para desarrollar un nuevo tipo de análisis del discurso. Su método se basa en una concepción sistémica que busca las propiedades emergentes y adaptativas de su composición. Dicho análisis es aplicado a un estudio de caso: el discurso del poder político en la Unión Soviética entre 1985 y 1991, a partir de las temáticas fundamentales desatadas en las reformas realizadas por Mijaíl Gorbachov. La muestra incluye los discursos del líder soviético y otros altos dirigentes, así como trabajos periodísticos de la agencia de noticias Novosti. En total suman 541 materiales. Con ellos se construyeron mapas y gráficos con la ayuda del software VenSim PLE. Así surgió un modelo que permite ver entre aparentes contradicciones discursivas toda una estructura coherente de fondo, la cual enriquece significativamente el estudio de caso y aporta nuevas pistas epistémicas al desarrollo de la teoría.
Influência da sazonalidade em lagoas de estabilização
Authors: D'Alessandro E.B. , Saavedra N.K. , Santiago M. F. , D'Alessandro N.C.O.
Published: October 2015

O estudo avaliou a influência da sazonalidade na eficiência das lagoas de estabilização de um módulo da ETE de Trindade, durante seis meses, que contém períodos de estiagem e chuvosos. Foram analisadas as seguintes variáveis: vazão, temperatura da água residuária, profundidade, TDH, pH, OD, CND, Cla, PT, PO4-3, NH4+, NO3-, DBO520°C, DQO, SST, SSF, SSV e também variáveis climáticas. Não houve remoção de DQO e SST no período de chuva. A Análise de Componentes Principais (ACP) indicou que existiram agrupações entre o afluente bruto e a lagoa anaeróbia, e entre a lagoa facultativa e a de maturação, ou seja, houve variação espacial.  Indicou também que o afluente bruto em nov/10 e dez/10 formou um grupo separado, isto porque nestes meses sofreu bastante diluição caracterizando-o como se fosse outro ambiente. A influência da sazonalidade fez com que as concentrações de algumas variáveis aumentassem e outras diminuíssem o que influenciou na eficiência das lagoas.
Jacques Polieri: Kinetic Theatre Space
Authors: Prieto López Juan Ignacio
Published: October 2015

Between the First and Second World War the definition of the new type of theater building was one of the main tasks of the European Avantgarde. In its design and theoretical formulation were poets, playwrights, theater directors, architects, painters, actors, engineers… from different countries and art movements. Despite the collaboration of the leading members of the Avant-garde like Marinetti, Moholy-Nagy, Kiesler, El Lissitzky, Gropius… none of these proposals were built because of their radical and utopian characteristics. It was a young French theater director, Jacques Polieri, who became the main compiler and prompter of those proposals in postwar Europe in two issues of the French journal Aujourd´hui, art et architecture. The first of them published in May 1958, under the title “Cinquante ans de recherches dans le spectacle” collected the most important experiences in theory, scenography, technic, and theater architecture in the interwar period. Polieri worked with different architects in several projects for theater buildings, whose main feature was the mobility of all their elements and components, trying to get a dynamic experience during the performance. Those proposals related to Kinetic Art, were published in a second issue of Aujourd´hui, art et architecture entitled “Scénographie Nouvelle” in October 1963.
Turbulence Kinetic Energy budget during the afternoon transition – Part 2: A simple TKE model
Authors: Nilsson E. , Lothon M. , Lohou F. , Pardyjak E. , Hartogensis O. , Darbieu C.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. A simple model for turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) and the TKE budget is presented for sheared convective atmospheric conditions based on observations from the Boundary Layer Late Afternoon and Sunset Turbulence (BLLAST) field campaign. It is based on an idealized mixed-layer approximation and a simplified near-surface TKE budget. In this model, the TKE is dependent on four budget terms (turbulent dissipation rate, buoyancy production, shear production and vertical transport of TKE) and only requires measurements of three input available (near-surface buoyancy flux, boundary layer depth and wind speed at one height in the surface layer). This simple model is shown to reproduce some of the observed variations between the different studied days in terms of near-surface TKE and its decay during the afternoon transition reasonably well. It is subsequently used to systematically study the effects of buoyancy and shear on TKE evolution using idealized constant and time-varying winds during the afternoon transition. From this, we conclude that many different TKE decay rates are possible under time-varying winds and that generalizing the decay with simple scaling laws for near-surface TKE of the form tα may be questionable. The model's errors result from the exclusion of processes such as elevated shear production and horizontal advection. The model also produces an overly rapid decay of shear production with height. However, the most influential budget terms governing near-surface TKE in the observed sheared convective boundary layers are included, while only second order factors are neglected. Comparison between modeled and averaged observed estimates of dissipation rate illustrate that the overall behavior of the model is often quite reasonable. Therefore, we use the model to discuss the low turbulence conditions that form first in the upper parts of the boundary layer during the afternoon transition and are only apparent later near the surface. This occurs as a consequence of the continuous decrease of near-surface buoyancy flux during the afternoon transition. This region of weak afternoon turbulence is hypothesized to be a "pre-residual layer", which is important in determining the onset conditions for the weak sporadic turbulence that occur in the residual layer once near-surface stratification has become stable.
Kinematic and diabatic vertical velocity climatologies from a chemistry climate model
Authors: Hoppe C. M. , Ploeger F. , Konopka P. , Müller R.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. The representation of vertical velocity in chemistry climate models is a key element for the representation of the large scale Brewer–Dobson-Circulation in the stratosphere. Here, we diagnose and compare the kinematic and diabatic vertical velocities in the ECHAM/Messy Atmospheric Chemistry (EMAC) model. The calculation of kinematic vertical velocity is based on the continuity equation, whereas diabatic vertical velocity is computed using diabatic heating rates. Annual and monthly zonal mean climatologies of vertical velocity from a 10 year simulation are provided for both, kinematic and diabatic vertical velocity representations. In general, both vertical velocity patterns show the main features of the stratospheric circulation, namely upwelling at low latitudes and downwelling at high latitudes. The main difference in the vertical velocity pattern is a more uniform structure for diabatic and a noisier structure for kinematic vertical velocity. Diabatic vertical velocities show higher absolute values both in the upwelling branch in the inner tropics and in the downwelling regions in the polar vortices. Further, there is a latitudinal shift of the tropical upwelling branch in boreal summer between the two vertical velocity representations with the tropical upwelling region in the diabatic representation shifted southward compared to the kinematic case. Furthermore, we present mean age of air climatologies from two transport schemes in EMAC using these different vertical velocities. The age of air distributions show a hemispheric difference pattern in the stratosphere with younger air in the Southern Hemisphere and older air in the Northern Hemisphere using the transport scheme with diabatic vertical velocities. Further, the age of air climatology from the transport scheme using diabatic vertical velocities shows younger mean age of air in the inner tropical upwelling branch and older mean age in the extratopical tropopause region.
Self-consistent electrostatic simulations of reforming double layers in the downward current region of the aurora
Authors: Gunell H. , Andersson L. , De Keyser J. , Mann I.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. The plasma on a magnetic field line in the downward current region of the aurora is simulated using a Vlasov model. It is found that an electric field parallel to the magnetic fields is supported by a double layer moving toward higher altitude. The double layer accelerates electrons upward, and these electrons give rise to plasma waves and electron phase-space holes through beam–plasma interaction. The double layer is disrupted when reaching altitudes of 1–2 Earth radii where the Langmuir condition no longer can be satisfied due to the diminishing density of electrons coming up from the ionosphere. During the disruption the potential drop is in part carried by the electron holes. The disruption creates favourable conditions for double layer formation near the ionosphere and double layers form anew in that region. The process repeats itself with a period of approximately 1 min. This period is determined by how far the double layer can reach before being disrupted: a higher disruption altitude corresponds to a longer repetition period. The disruption altitude is, in turn, found to increase with ionospheric density and to decrease with total voltage. The current displays oscillations around a mean value. The period of the oscillations is the same as the recurrence period of the double layer formations. The oscillation amplitude increases with increasing voltage, whereas the mean value of the current is independent of voltage in the 100 to 800 V range covered by our simulations. Instead, the mean value of the current is determined by the electron density at the ionospheric boundary.
Two cases of aerodynamic adjustment of sastrugi
Authors: Amory C. , Naaim-Bouvet F. , Gallée H. , Vignon E.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. In polar regions, sastrugi are a direct manifestation of wind driven snow and form the main surface roughness elements. In turn, sastrugi influence the local wind field and associated aeolian snow mass fluxes. Little attention has been paid to these feedback processes, mainly because of experimental difficulties, and, as a result most polar atmospheric models currently ignore sastrugi. More accurate quantification of the influence of sastrugi remains a major challenge. In the present study, wind profiles and aeolian snow mass fluxes were analyzed jointly on a sastrugi covered snowfield in Antarctica. Neutral stability 10 m air-snow drag coefficients CDN10 were computed from six level wind speed profiles collected in Adélie Land during austral winter 2013. The aeolian snow mass flux in the first meter above the surface of the snow was also measured using a windborne snow acoustic sensor. This paper focuses on two cases during which sastrugi responses to shifts in wind direction were evidenced by variations in snow mass flux and drag coefficients. Using this dataset, it was shown that (i) the timescale of sastrugi aerodynamic adjustment can be as short as 3 h for friction velocities of 1 m s−1 or above and during strong windborne snow conditions, (ii) CDN10 values were in the range of 1.3–1.5 × 103 when the wind was well aligned with the sastrugi and increased to 3 × 103 or higher when the wind only shifted 20–30°, (iii) CDN10 can increase (to 120 %) and the aeolian snow mass flux can decrease (to 80 %) in response to a shift in wind direction, and (iv) knowing CDN10 is not sufficient to estimate the erosion flux that results from drag partitioning at the surface because CDN10 includes the contribution of the sastrugi form drag. These results not only support the existence of feedback mechanisms linking sastrugi, aeolian particle transport and surface drag properties over snow surface but also provide orders of magnitude, although further measurements including continuous accurate descriptions of the sastrugi field are certainly still needed. Such measurements are essential to improve parameterization schemes for aeolian snow transport models.
Modification of the technique of osteotomy for surgical maxillary expansion
Authors: Carlini João Luis , Rieth Cristina , Severo Danielle Del Santo , Asami Kesia Keiko
Published: October 2015

Surgically assisted maxillary expansion is a technique used to correct transverse maxillary deficiency, which is a dentofacial anomaly related to the decrease of the upper arch over the lower arch. It is applied to patients in their late teens and adults due to skeletal maturity, causing obliteration of the intermaxillary suture, which requires orthodontic procedure, associated with surgery. The purpose of this study is to report the clinical case of a patient admitted for surgical maxillary expansion through the modified technique and point out the possible advantages, such as aesthetics maintenence, long-term stability, faster return to orthodontic treatment, and improved bone healing. However, there are some contraindications when the patient presents severe crowding, roots of the canine and lateral incisor are converging and in patients who will undergo to protraction with facial mask.