bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching Large Classes with Clickers: Results from a Teaching Experiment in Comparative Politics
Authors: Velasco Marcela , Çavdar Gamze
Published: October 2013

Instant-response technologies, or clickers, are student response devices that help address some of the challenges involved in teaching large classes, namely student motivation and engagement with the material. This article evaluates a diverse set of teaching and learning strategies enabled by clicker technology and their impact on student learning. We highlight five aspects of teaching that are enhanced by the use of clickers, describe an experiment comparing student performance in traditional and clicker lectures, and report results of a survey of student perception about the effects of this technology on motivation, learning, and engagement. We argue that while the use of clickers is time-consuming for the instructor and presents a steep learning curve, clickers improve teaching effectiveness in large classes and hold promise for increasing student learning.
2013 APSA Africa Workshop: Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Stinson Andrew
Published: October 2013

The sixth annual APSA Africa Workshop was conducted in partnership with the Institute for Governance and Development (IGD) in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, from July 1 to 12. The event is part of a multiyear initiative to support political science research and teaching in Sub-Saharan Africa through a series of residential political science workshops at African universities and research institutions. Funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the Africa Workshops program is a major component of APSA's efforts to engage with political science communities outside the United States and support research networks linking US scholars with their colleagues overseas.
Misconceptions and Realities of the 2011 Tunisian Election
Authors: Hababou Moez , Amrouche Nawel
Published: October 2013

In response to the 2011 Tunisian elections and the uncertainty surrounding Tunisia's future, we offer an empirical explanation of the election's results using socioeconomic and demographic variables. We aggregate many political analyses to describe the main parties and give insights into their strengths and weaknesses. We also examine common misconceptions advanced during the elections. Finally, we include a proposed electoral map that could be used by politicians to plan their future political strategies.
109th Annual Meeting, Chicago, Aug. 29–Sept. 1, 2013
Authors: West Lauren
Published: October 2013

The American Political Science Association returned to its roots for the 2013 Annual Meeting and Exhibition. In 1904, the association held its first Annual Meeting at Northwestern University and the University of Chicago. While the meeting attendance in 1904 was a modest gathering with a dozen presentations, the 2013 APSA Annual Meeting brought together more than 6,000 political scientists from all over the world for a variety of programmatic, networking, and social events. Some 800 panels were offered. From August 29 to September 1, scholars gathered in historic Chicago to explore an exciting program focused on the themePower and Persuasion. The 2013 Annual Meeting Program Chairs Catherine Boone, now at London School of Economics and Political Science, and Archon Fung, Harvard University, framed the meeting around the theme statement: “To help societies meet the needs for political interactions of increasing complexity and scale, political scientists need to understand better the uses and abuses of both persuasion and power in varying contexts and scales. This year's theme encouraged scholars to consider the politics of persuasion and power, along with their many intersections.”
The Conditionality of Hypothetical Imperatives
Authors: Siyar Jamsheed
Published: October 2013

Kant famously distinguishes between the categorical imperative (CI) – the fundamental principle of morality – and hypothetical imperatives (HIs), which are instrumental norms. On the standard reading, Kant subscribes to the ‘disjunctive reading’ of HIs, which takes HIs to be consistency requirements that bind agents in exactly the same way whether or not agents are subject to CI and whether or not they conform their choices to CI. I argue that this reading cannot be squared with Kant's account of an agent's disposition, in particular his claim that cognition of CI is a necessary condition of willing a maxim. I further argue that Kant could not accept an account of HIs as consistency requirements. Finally, I outline Kant's conception of HIs as non-disjunctive requirements that arise when and only when agents will permissible ends. This account can help recapture Kant's conception of the unity of rational norms.
Histological characteristics of the vertebral intercentra ofMetoposaurus diagnosticus(Temnospondyli) from the Upper Triassic of Krasiejów (Upper Silesia, Poland)
Authors: Konietzko-Meier D. , Bodzioch A. , Sander P. M.
Published: October 2013

Osteohistological characteristics of the large temnospondyl amphibianMetoposaurus diagnosticusfrom the Upper Triassic of Poland (Krasiejów locality) were determined using vertebral intercentra thin-sections from different regions and growth stages. The intercentra showed a trabecular structure in both the endochondral and periosteal domains. Endochondral ossification developed first, and the primary bone occurs near the periphery with a higher degree of remodelling in the centre. Periosteal bone deposition begins later; first on the ventral side, continuing laterally and finally onto the dorsal side. Periosteal growth rate was initially very rapid, and then subsequently decreased in rate. In all sections, numerous remains of calcified cartilage are visible, which may indicate a juvenile, paedomorphic or plesiomorphic character. The four histologic ontogenetic stages (HOS) of sampled vertebrae were determined based on growth marks. Most of the sampled bones belong to juvenile individuals (HOS 1 to 3), apart from one atlas and the largest anterior dorsal intercentrum, which represent the oldest described stage (HOS 4). Sharpey's fibres are preserved in ventro-lateral cortical regions, around parapophyses and on the posterior side of the neural arch.
Gender Differences in Predictors of Self-Reported Physical Aggression: Exploring Theoretically Relevant Dimensions Among Adolescents From Santiago, Chile
Authors: Fries Lauren , Grogan-Kaylor Andrew , Bares Cristina B. , Han Yoonsun , Delva Jorge
Published: October 2013

Research findings remain unclear on whether different factors predict aggression for adolescent men and women. Given that aggression research is rarely conducted with Latin American populations, the current study used multiple imputation and linear regression to assess gender differences in levels and predictors of self-reported physical aggression among a community sample of young (ages 11 through 17 years) men ( n = 504) and women ( n = 471) from Santiago, Chile. Results revealed that adolescent women reported engaging in higher levels of physical aggression than men. The variables found to be significantly associated with higher levels of reported aggression—younger age, less family involvement, less parental control, less positive relationships with caregivers, having more friends who act out and use substances, having fewer friends committed to learning, presence of dating violence, and more exposure to neighborhood crime—were not moderated by gender, implying that similar factors are related to aggression in adolescent men and women from Chile. Implications for prevention and intervention efforts to address high-risk adolescents and reduce aggression among Chilean youth are discussed.
The chemical bond in external electric fields: Energies, geometries, and vibrational Stark shifts of diatomic molecules
Authors: Sowlati-Hashjin Shahin , Matta Chérif F.
Published: October 2013

It is shown that the response of molecular properties of diatomics such as the total energy, the bond length, and the vibrational Stark shift to an external homogenous electric field (EF) can be predicted from field-free observable properties such as the equilibrium bond length, the bond dissociation energy, the polarizability and dipole moment functions, and the vibrational frequency. Delley [J. Mol. Struct.: THEOCHEM 434, 229 (1998)] suggested to approximate the potential energy surface under an EF by a Morse function augmented with a EF term proportional to the internuclear separation. In this work, this term is replaced by the expression of the field-induced energy change which yields a field-perturbed Morse potential that tends to a constant asymptotic limit when the EF term itself become proportional to the sum of the polarizabilities of the separated atoms. The model is validated by comparison with direct calculations on nine diatomics, five homo-nuclear (H2, N2, O2, F2, and Cl2) and four hetero-nuclear (HF, HCl, CO, and NO), covering a range and combinations of dipole moments and polarizabilities. Calculations were conducted at the quadratic configuration interaction with single and double excitations (QCISD) and density functional theory (DFT)-B3LYP levels of theory using the 6-311++G(3df,2pd) basis set. All results agree closely at the two levels of theory except for the Stark effect of NO which is not correctly predicted by QCISD calculations as further calculations, including at the coupled cluster with single and double excitation (CCSD) level of theory, demonstrate.
Proton transfer in oxidized adenosine self-aggregates
Authors: Capobianco Amedeo , Caruso Tonino , Celentano Maurizio , La Rocca Mario Vincenzo , Peluso Andrea
Published: October 2013

The UV-vis and the IR spectra of derivativized adenosine in dichloromethane have been recorded during potentiostatic oxidation at an optically transparent thin layer electrode. Oxidized adenosine shows a broad Zundel like absorption extending from 2800 up to 3600 cm−1, indicating that a proton transfer process is occurring. Theoretical computations predict that proton transfer is indeed favored in oxidized 1:1 self-association complexes and allow to assign all the observed transient spectroscopic signals.
Sedimentation of a two-dimensional colloidal mixture exhibiting liquid-liquid and gas-liquid phase separation: A dynamical density functional theory study
Authors: Malijevský Alexandr , Archer Andrew J.
Published: October 2013

We present dynamical density functional theory results for the time evolution of the density distribution of a sedimenting model two-dimensional binary mixture of colloids. The interplay between the bulk phase behaviour of the mixture, its interfacial properties at the confining walls, and the gravitational field gives rise to a rich variety of equilibrium and non-equilibrium morphologies. In the fluid state, the system exhibits both liquid-liquid and gas-liquid phase separation. As the system sediments, the phase separation significantly affects the dynamics and we explore situations where the final state is a coexistence of up to three different phases. Solving the dynamical equations in two-dimensions, we find that in certain situations the final density profiles of the two species have a symmetry that is different from that of the external potentials, which is perhaps surprising, given the statistical mechanics origin of the theory. The paper concludes with a discussion on this.
Wave dispersion tailoring in an elastic waveguide by phononic crystals
Authors: Sik Ma Pyung , Eui Kwon Young , Young Kim Yoon
Published: October 2013

Waveguides may inevitably excite undesired modes and induce dispersion-related distortion. This is true when an elastic homogeneous waveguide is used to carry a pulse of which the center frequency is above its cutoff frequency. We show that these problems can be avoided if a properly-tailored phononic crystal (PC) structure is inserted inside a waveguide. In engineering the PC, we open the band gap of the undesired wave mode and make the dispersion curve of the desired wave branch straight in a target frequency band. Numerical simulations and ultrasonic experiments using the engineered PC confirmed the validity of the proposed approach.
Investigation of Fluid Transients in Centrifugal Pump Integrated System With MultiChannel Pressure Vessel
Authors: Wan Wuyi , Huang Wenrui
Published: October 2013

A pressure vessel is installed to prevent transient vacuum and overpressure in centrifugal pump integrated system. In order to study the transient response of the pressure vessel with multichannels and improve design approach, an integrated system with two centrifugal pumps and a pressure vessel is presented. Based on the water hammer method of characteristics (MOC), the integrated numerical model and program are established by combining pumps, valves and pressure vessels in the integrated systems. Transient pressure process and gas volume variation are simulated for the pressure vessel. The Oscillation amplitude and frequency are obtained, and then the extreme hydraulic transient pressures are analyzed and compared. An optimal design method is provided to determine the safe and economic mass (SEM) of gas (nitrogen) and corresponding optimal safe and economic volume (SEV) of pressure vessel.
Transient Characteristics of a Closed-Loop Pipe System During Pump Stopping Periods
Authors: Wu Dazhuan , Wu Peng , Yang Shuai , Wang Leqin
Published: October 2013

In order to study the transient characteristics of a closed-loop pipe system with room temperature water, experiments were carried out based on different pump stopping periods from rate rotational speed to zero. Various stopping periods were realized by changing the rotational inertia of the rotors, controlling the frequency of the motor and braking the shaft. Experimental results of different operating schemes were compared, and transient flow rate of the pipe system and transient characteristics of the pump were analyzed. The influences of the kinetic energy of the loop fluid and pump rotors to the stopping periods were summarized. Results show that rapid change of the pump operating conditions occurs during the stopping period and transient flow rate of the pipe system and characteristics of the pump depend largely on the way of stopping. The kinetic energy stored in the pump can drive the impeller keeping rotating for more time after the motor is shutdown. Due to the kinetic energy stored in the loop pipe, the flow rate does not reach zero immediately after the rotational speed reaches zero. The inertia of pump rotor and fluid inertia affect the impact of fluid flow and the duration of the loop during pump stopping period.
Introducing the Theory of Bonds for Stewart Gough Platforms With Self-Motions1
Authors: Nawratil Georg
Published: October 2013

We transfer the basic idea of bonds, introduced by Hegedüs, Schicho, and Schröcker for overconstrained closed chains with rotational joints, to the theory of self-motions of parallel manipulators of Stewart Gough (SG) type. Moreover, we present some basic facts and results on bonds and demonstrate the potential of this theory on the basis of several examples. As a by-product we give a geometric characterization of all SG platforms with a pure translational self-motion and of all spherical three-degrees of freedom (DOF) RPR manipulators with self-motions.
Metastasio’s Old Testament Dramas: Biblical Stories in Eighteenth Century Oratorio
Authors: Dowling Long Siobhan
Published: October 2013

Pietro Metastasio’s five Old Testament oratorio libretti—based on the dramatic stories of Cain and Abel, Joseph, Judith, Joash, and Abraham and Isaac—reveal the influence of the Counter-Reformation, of seventeenth-century French literary criticism, and of eighteenth-century biblical interpretation. Reflecting a traditional christological interpretation, all five shed light on the emotional lives of their protagonists, while providing moral instruction for the edification of eighteenth-century Catholic audiences. I conclude with a brief discussion of the oratorio Abramo ed Isacco by Josef Mysliveček, based on a Metastasian libretto Isacco, figura del Redentore (1740), and illustrate by way of musical examples the reception of Genesis 22 in music.
ADE SUBALGEBRAS OF THE TRIPLET VERTEX ALGEBRA $\mathcal{W}(p)$: A-SERIES
Authors: ADAMOVIĆ DRAŽEN , LIN XIANZU , MILAS ANTUN
Published: October 2013

Motivated by [On the triplet vertex algebra [Formula: see text], Adv. Math.217 (2008) 2664–2699], for every finite subgroup Γ ⊂ PSL(2, ℂ) we investigate the fixed point subalgebra [Formula: see text] of the triplet vertex [Formula: see text], of central charge [Formula: see text], p ≥ 2. This part deals with the A-series in the ADE classification of finite subgroups of PSL(2, ℂ). First, we prove the C2-cofiniteness of the Am-fixed subalgebra [Formula: see text]. Then we construct a family of [Formula: see text]-modules, which are expected to form a complete set of irreducible representations. As a strong support to our conjecture, we prove modular invariance of (generalized) characters of the relevant (logarithmic) modules. Further evidence is provided by calculations in Zhu's algebra for m = 2. We also present a rigorous proof of the fact that the full automorphism group of [Formula: see text] is PSL(2, ℂ).
REFLEXIVITY AND INNOVATION: CONFLICTING COUNTERPARTS?
Authors: JAIN ANIL K. , HALLENSLEBEN TOBIAS , MANGER DANIELA
Published: October 2013

The paper discusses the relationship between learning, innovation and (institutional) reflexivity. It is often held that reflexivity is a crucial factor for learning and innovation processes. However, a rather formalistic approach to reflexivity is predominant. We propose to overcome this limitation and to develop a more meaningful concept of reflexivity which "reflects" the contingent, relational, dynamic and complex character of organizational environments and reality. Based on this broadened understanding it appears that reflexivity is imminently a dialectic category and, under specific circumstances, it can also inhibit innovation. This is especially the case when reflexive tools are abused to push performance only. In order to illustrate our concept and hypotheses we added two case studies which highlight the conflicting counterparts of reflexivity and innovation and pointed us to important cultural "success factors".
Payment for Environmental Services: Hypotheses and Evidence
Authors: Alston Lee J. , Andersson Krister , Smith Steven M.
Published: October 2013

The use of payment for environmental services (PES) is not a new type of contract, but PES programs have become more in vogue because of the potential for sequestering carbon by paying to prevent deforestation and degradation of forestlands. We provide a framework utilizing transaction costs to hypothesize which services are more likely to be provided effectively. We then interpret the literature on PES programs to see the extent to which transaction costs vary as predicted across the type of service and to assess the performance of PES programs. As predicted, we find that transaction costs are the least for club goods like water and greatest for pure public goods like carbon reduction. Actual performance is difficult to measure and varies across the examples. More work and experimentation are needed to gain a better outlook on what elements support effective delivery of environmental services.
Development of Medium-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Materials and Single Cells in Estonia
Authors: Lust Enn , Nurk Gunnar , Möller Priit , Kivi Indrek , Kanarbik Rait , Tamm Kadi , Heinsaar Alar
Published: October 2013

Estonian solid oxide fuel cell program started in 2001. Solid oxide fuel cell single cells based on Ni-Ce0.9Gd0.1O2-δ or Ni-Zr0.92Y0.08O2-δ supporting anodes, bi-layered Zr0.92Y0.08O2-δ | Ce0.9Gd0.1O2-δ or Zr0.9Sc0.1O2-δ | Ce0.9Gd0.1O2-δ electrolytes and micro-meso-porous La0.6Sr0.4CoO3-δ, Gd0.6Sr0.4CoO3-δ or Pr0.6Sr0.4CoO3-δ cathodes prepared from nano/microporous powders at different sintering temperatures and pore former additions in the raw cathode and anode pastes have been studied. Different physical (XRD, high-temperature XRD under electrochemical working conditions, FIB-SEM, AFM, and BET) and electrochemical (cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance) methods have been applied. Influence of the anode and cathode porosity, depending on the electrode preparation methods, and also of the bi-layered electrolyte properties (chemical composition, thickness, etc.) on the power density of the single cells has been shown and discussed. During last two years the synchrotron radiation based X-ray absorption spectroscopy under electrochemical polarization, gas feeding and temperature cycling conditions has been applied for analysis of anode surface composition.
Modeling and Simulation the Influence of Solid Carbon Formation on SOFC Performance and Degradation
Authors: Yurkiv Vitaliy , Latz Arnulf , Bessler Wolfgang G.
Published: October 2013

An elementary kinetic model is established to represent the coupled behavior of (electro)-chemistry, transport and degradation processes in the porous Ni/YSZ anode of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC). The model is applied to support the development and evaluation of solid carbon formation mechanisms at Ni/YSZ anodes. The simulations of cells operated on partially reformed hydrocarbons show that performance and degradation are influenced significantly by the operation temperature and applied potential. Specifically, at OCV and high temperature (1023 K), a surface carbon layer is formed which covers Ni surface and Ni three-phase boundary, blocking heterogeneous and charge-transfer reactions. However, at lower temperature (923 K) carbon growth mainly proceeds inside of anode porous phase leading to significant diffusion polarization. Literature experimental data is used for validation of the model.
Kinetics of Internal Methane Steam Reforming in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Its Influence on Cell Performance– Coupling Experiments and Modeling
Authors: Fan Liyuan , Pourquie Mathieu , Thattai Aditya , Verkooijen Adrian , Aravind P
Published: October 2013

Mathematical modeling tools are useful for predicting the safe operation limits and efficiencies of SOFCs. For a particular SOFC design, variations in internal methane reforming kinetic parameters is expected to affect local gas compositions, local Nernst voltages, current densities and temperature profiles and in turn the safe operation limits and efficiency. However, it is observed that methane reforming kinetic data widely used in SOFC CFD models are often determined from measurements on nickel catalysts taken under experimental conditions not close enough to SOFC operation conditions causing significant inaccuracies in model calculation results. For this reason, kinetic properties of the methane steam reforming reaction in complete fuel cells with Ni–GDC (Gd0.1Ce0.9O2) anodes were experimentally evaluated. SOFCs with different anodes made of different materials may perform differently due to the different reforming kinetics and the different thermal properties.
DFT Investigations on Sintering Behavior of Gadolinia-Doped Ceria with Lithium Oxide Additives
Authors: Yu Lian , Han Minfang
Published: October 2013

A full dense Gadolinia-Doped Ceria (GDC) electrolyte with fine grains fabricated at low temperature is significant both to the performance optimization and cost effective of intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFC). Calculated by density functional theory (DFT), it's found that the Li+ doped CeO2 crystal cell can reduce the oxygen vacancy formation energy about 0.2 eV and therefore promote the system ionic conductivity, when a Ce4O8 cell absence of one oxygen ion, the cubic crystal system is converted to the monoclinic system and so the CeO2 crystal cell become unstable. Furthermore, lithium oxide easily formed a thin layer on the surface of cerium oxides, which could help the CeO2 unit to rearrange and transport.
NURBS-Based Isogeometric Analysis of Beams and Plates Using High Order Shear Deformation Theory
Authors: Li Xinkang , Zhang Jifa , Zheng Yao
Published: October 2013

Isogeometric analysis (IGA) based on nonuniform rational B-splines (NURBS) is developed for static analysis of beams and plates using the third-order shear deformation theory (TSDT). TSDT requires C1-continuity of generalized displacements; quadratic, cubic, and quartic NURBS basis functions are utilized to satisfy this requirement. Due to the noninterpolatory nature of NURBS basis functions, a penalty method is presented to enforce the essential boundary conditions. A series of numerical examples of thick and thin beams and plates with different boundary conditions are presented. Results are compared with analytical solutions and other numerical methods. First-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) is also employed and compared with TSDT in the stress analysis. The effects of aspect ratios and boundary conditions are discussed as well.
Studies on Ion-Exchange Properties of Polyaniline Zr(IV) Tungstoiodophosphate Nanocomposite Ion Exchanger
Authors: Mispa K. Jacinth , Subramaniam P. , Murugesan R.
Published: October 2013

Organic-inorganic hybrid materials prepared by sol-gel approach have attracted a great deal of attention in material science. Organic polymeric part of the composite provides mechanical and chemical stability whereas the inorganic part supports the ion-exchange behaviour and thermal stability and also increases the electrical conductivity. Such modified composite materials can be applied as an electrochemically switchable ion exchanger for water treatment, especially water softening. Polyaniline zirconium(IV) tungstoiodophosphate nanocomposite ion exchanger is prepared by sol-gel method. Polyaniline zirconium(IV) tungstoiodophosphate nanocomposite ion exchanger is synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform-infrared spectra, ultraviolet-visible spectra, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, ion exchange, conductivity, and antimicrobial studies. A mechanism for the formation of the polyaniline zirconium(IV) tungstoiodophosphate nanocomposite ion exchanger was discussed. The route reported here may be used for the preparation of other nanocomposite ion exchangers.
Hybrid Projection Algorithm for Two Countable Families of Hemirelatively Nonexpansive Mappings and Applications
Authors: Wang Zi-Ming , Kumam Poom
Published: October 2013

Two countable families of hemirelatively nonexpansive mappings are considered based on a hybrid projection algorithm. Strong convergence theorems of iterative sequences are obtained in an uniformly convex and uniformly smooth Banach space. As applications, convex feasibility problems, equilibrium problems, variational inequality problems, and zeros of maximal monotone operators are studied.
A Study on Evaluation of Apoptosis and Expression of Bcl-2-Related Marker in Wound Healing of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Bhan Surya , Mitra Rahul , Arya A. K. , Pandey H. P. , Tripathi K.
Published: October 2013

Uncontrolled blood sugar is a major cause of vascular complications and delayed wound healing in diabetes mellitus. During wound healing process, normally, apoptosis is responsible for events such as removal of inflammatory cells and evolution of granulation tissue into scar which occur during the late phase of wound healing. Early apoptosis can lead to abnormal wound healing by removing granulation tissue including fibroblast, endothelial cell, and small vessels. To determine the role of apoptosis in association with hyperglycemia in diabetic wound healing, apoptosis-related intracellular marker such as expression of Bcl-2 protein by immunohistochemistry and normal histology has been studied. Histological findings show higher level of apoptosis and diminished granulation tissue formation in diabetic rats wounds along with minimal expression of Bcl-2 in diabetic rats wounds when compared with nondiabetic rats wounds. It can be concluded from this study that elevated blood sugar level may be associated with increased apoptosis and the least expression of Bcl-2 protein which might cause deregulation of the wound healing processes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
Recovery of Missing Samples with Sparse Approximations
Authors: Salomon Benjamin G.
Published: October 2013

In most missing samples problems, the signals are assumed to be bandlimited. That is, the signals are assumed to be sparsely approximated by a known subset of the discrete Fourier transform basis vectors. We discuss the recovery of missing samples when the signals can be sparsely approximated by an unknown subset of certain unitary basis vectors. We propose the use of the orthogonal matching pursuit to recover missing samples by sparse approximations.
Acute Dilatation, Ischemia, and Necrosis of Stomach without Perforation
Authors: Sahoo Manash Ranjan , Kumar Anil T. , Jaiswal Sunil , Bhujabal Siba Narayan
Published: October 2013

Acute gastric dilatation can have multiple etiologies which may lead to ischemia of the stomach. Without proper timely diagnosis and treatment, potentially fatal events such as gastric perforation, haemorrhage, and other serious complications can occur. Here we present a 36-year-old man who came to the casualty with pain abdomen and distension for 2 days. Clinically, abdomen was asymmetrically distended more in the left hypochondrium and epigastrium region. Straight X-ray abdomen showed opacified left hypochondrium with nonspecific gaseous distension of bowel. Exploratory laparotomy revealed dilated stomach with patchy gangrene over lesser curvature and fundic area. About 4 litres of brownish fluid along with semisolid undigested food particles was sucked out (mainly undigested pieces of meat). Limited resection of gangrenous areas and primary repair were done along with feeding jejunostomy. Necrosis of the stomach was confirmed on histopathology. The patient recovered well and was discharged on the tenth postoperative day.
Smetanabatrus kinabalu (Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae: Batrisitae), a new genus and new species from Sabah, Borneo
Authors: YIN ZI-WEI , LI LI-ZHEN
Published: October 2013

A new genus and new species of the pselaphine tribe Batrisini, Smetanabatrus kinabalu gen. et sp. n., is described from Sabah, East Malaysia. Both sexes of the new species have securiform maxillary palpi, with the male exhibiting extreme abdominal modification. Illustrations of the habitus and major diagnostic features, as well as a discussion on the taxonomic placement of the new taxon is provided. A key to genera of the Batrisini from Borneo is provided.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia disease progression is accelerated by APRIL-TACI interaction in the TCL1 transgenic mouse model
Authors: Lascano Valeria , Guadagnoli Marco , Schot Jan G. , Luijks Dieuwertje M. , Guikema Jeroen E. J. , Cameron Katherine , Hahne Michael , Pals Steven , Slinger Erik , Kipps Thomas J. , van Oers Marinus H. J. , Eldering Eric , Medema Jan Paul , Kater Arnon P.
Published: October 2013

Key Points

APRIL significantly accelerates CLL onset in TCL1-Tg mice. APRIL-mediated prosurvival effects in leukemic cells depend on TACI and not BCMA ligation.
Ubiquitin ligase A20 regulates p53 protein in human colon epithelial cells
Authors: Liu Jing , Yang Shaobo , Wang Zhiqiang , Chen Xiao , Zhang Ziqi
Published: October 2013

Background

Intestinal polyps may further develop into colon cancer; the pathogenesis is not clear. The p53 gene is an important anti-cancer gene in the body, which is suppressed in cancer. The ubiquitin E3 ligase A20 (A20) plays a role in regulating the activities of epithelial cells. This study was designed to investigate the role of the colon polyp epithelium-derived A20 in the pathogenesis of colon cancer.

Results

Eighty-eight colon cancer patients and 136 colon polyp patients were recruited into this study. Human colon cancer tissue, the epithelium of adenomas polyp and hyperplastic polyp showed high levels of A20, which had a positive correlation with the cancerous tendency of colon polyps. The levels of A20 were much higher in the adenomas and hyperplastic polyps than that in the inflammatory polyps; the latter showed less cancerous tendency. A20 bound p53 to form complexes in colon cancer tissue and colon polyps. Over expression of A20 suppresses P53 protein levels in the HEK293 cells.

Conclusions

A20 may play an important role in the cancerous tendency of colon polyposis.
The role of AFB microscopy training in improving the performance of laboratory professionals: analysis of pre and post training evaluation scores
Authors: Reji Pawlos , Aga Getachew , Abebe Gemeda
Published: October 2013

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) remains major cause of morbidity and mortality due to any one of infectious agent worldwide. In low income countries, Ziehl-Neelsen sputum smear microscopy is the only cost-effective tool for diagnosis and monitoring of patients on treatment. In order to have efficient AFB microscopy centers, it is imperative to have continuous refresher training for laboratory professionals and strong External Quality Assessment (EQA) system). However, very little data exists as to the effect of in-service training on performance of laboratory personnel in Ethiopia.

The objective of this study was to investigate the role of AFB microscopy refresher training on the performance of laboratory professionals.

Methods

A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted to appraise theoretical and practical performance of laboratory professionals before and after AFB microscopy training. Theoretical assessment was based on standard questions while practical assessment was based on smear reading of 10 standard slides. Data on eight rounds of a five days training at Adama regional laboratory on AFB microscopy in 2009 was obtained and analyzed using SPSS 16.0 statistical software.

Result

The pre-training mean score of the theoretical knowledge and practical skills were 61.8% and 75.7%, respectively. The post training mean scores were 84.2% and 89.2% for theoretical knowledge and practical skills, respectively. The increase in mean score of both theoretical and practical assessment was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Post training mean score of theoretical knowledge was higher among diploma holders trainees than the BSc degree counter parts (p = 0.001). The mean scores on practice before and after training was dependent on participation in previous AFB microscopy trainings (p < 0.0001). Proportions of trainees with both major and minor errors were found to decrease after they were trained. Trainees who have had previous training were found to commit less errors than those who were not participated in previous training (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Training has improved theoretical and practical performance of laboratory professionals. Pre-placement and continuous training irrespective of lab professionals qualification and service year and sustainable EQA are highly recommended to ensure quality of AFB microscopy service.
Differences in the mutation of the p53 gene in exons 6 and 7 in cervical samples from HIV- and HPV-infected women
Authors: Souza Raquel P , Gimenes Fabrícia , Abreu André LP de , Rocha-Brischiliari Sheila C , Carvalho Maria DB de , Ferreira Érika C , Bonini Marcelo G , Pelloso Sandra M , Consolaro Marcia EL
Published: October 2013

Background

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a serious problem for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected women, increases their risk of cervical lesions and cancer. In cervical carcinogenesis, mutations in the p53 gene occur most frequently within exons 5–8. To our knowledge, no previous studies have analyzed mutations in exons 5–8 of the p53 gene in HIV- and HPV-infected women. In our study, we verified these mutations in women with and without cervical abnormalities.

Findings

The study included 160 women, divided into three groups: (1) 83 HPV- and HIV-infected women (HIV group); (2) 37 HPV-infected/HIV-uninfected (control group); and (3) 40 normal cytology/DNA-HPV negative/HIV-uninfected women (negative control p53 reactions). HPV-DNA was detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and genotyping by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Using primers for exons 5–8, the mutation of the p53 gene was verified by PCR-single strand conformational polymorphism. The total mutation of the p53 gene in exons 5–8 was not significantly associated with the HIV and control groups. The mutations in exon 7 were the highest in the HIV group (43.8%) and in exon 6 in the control group (57.2%) (p = 0.0793) suggesting a tendency toward differential mutation in exon 7 in the HIV group.

Conclusions

Our study provides preliminary evidence that the mutation in exon 7 might be an important differentiating factor for cervical carcinogenesis in HIV-infected women. This aspect deserves an additional cross-sectional and longitudinal study using a larger sample size with a higher number of High-grade squamous intraephitelial lesion (HSIL) to observe the evolution of cervical lesions.
Low phylogeographic structure of Rhinella arunco (Anura: Bufonidae), an endemic amphibian from the Chilean Mediterranean hotspot
Authors: Vásquez Dayana , Correa Claudio , Pastenes Luis , Palma R Eduardo , Méndez Marco A
Published: October 2013

Background

The Mediterranean zone of central Chile (30° to 38°S) is one of the 25 diversity hotspots in the world. However, there are few phylogeographic studies which identify the factors that have influenced population diversification in the fauna of this area. In this study, we investigated the phylogeographic structure ofRhinella arunco, an anuran endemic to Mediterranean Chile, using 160 individuals from 23 localities representative of its entire distribution (32° to 38°S).

Results

The haplotype network revealed four haplogroups, three of which overlap geographically and only one of which has an exclusive geographic distribution. An analysis of molecular variance indicated that neither watershed limits nor the main rivers in the current distribution of this species have been important geographic barriers against the dispersion of individuals. Finally, the Geneland analysis showed three population units, one of which concurs with one of the haplogroups found in the haplotype network. Together, these analyses indicated a low level of phylogeographic structure for this species. On the other hand, the highest levels of intrapopulational genetic variation were concentrated in the central part of the distribution (33° to 34°S), which may indicate an effect of Pleistocene glaciations on the genetic diversity of the populations in the extreme south of its range.

Conclusions

The low phylogeographic structure observed inR. aruncois a rarely documented pattern for amphibians and contrasts with the phylogeographic studies of other vertebrates which inhabit the same zone. This result may be attributed to a series of attributes of bufonids, related mainly to water retention and their reproductive biology, which have allowed them to disperse and colonize an enormous variety of environments.
Growth profile of Carboxydothermus hydrogenoformans on pyruvate
Authors: Haddad Mathieu , Cimpoia Ruxandra , Zhao Ya , Guiot Serge R
Published: October 2013

Carboxydothermus hydrogenoformans is a thermophilic anaerobic strain most widely known for its ability to produce hydrogen (H2) when grown on carbon monoxide (CO). Although relatively well studied, growth characterization on pyruvate has never been assessed. The present work fully characterizes growth of the bacterium on pyruvate as a sole carbon source. C. hydrogenoformans demonstrated a growth rate of 0.03 h-1, with pyruvate consumption ranging between 0.21 and 0.48 mol · g-1 volatile suspended solid · d-1. A lag phase was also observed when switching from pyruvate to CO. When grown simultaneously on pyruvate and CO, pyruvate consumption was initiated upon CO depletion. This was attributed to pyruvate oxidation inhibition by CO, and not to a diauxic phenomenom. The strain also showed homoacetogenic activity.
Race is not a factor in overall survival in patients with triple negative breast cancer: a retrospective review
Authors: Starlard-Davenport Athena , Glover-Collins Katherine , Mahkoul Issam , Hutchins Laura , Westbrook Kent , Korourian Soheila , Enoch Kimberly , Preston Michael , Jackson Shakia N , Klimberg V Suzanne , Henry-Tillman Ronda
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study was to determine if race is a factor on overall survival when stage at diagnosis is compared. In this study, a total of 93 women with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) were evaluated for survival outcomes after diagnosis between the year 2000 through 2010. Thirty-five patients (38%) were African American (AA), and 58 patients (62%) were Caucasian. Overall survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared between groups using the log-rank test. Student’s t-test was used to calculate differences in cancer recurrence and mortality rates by stage and race. Cox proportional hazards ratios were used to determine the association of patient and variables with clinical outcome. Of women diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer, the overall survival rates for AAs was 100% compared to Caucasians at 94% (95% CI, 0.003 to 19; P = 0.5). For women with stage 2 breast cancer, overall survival for AA women was 85% and for Caucasian women was 86% (HR = 0.8; 95% CI, 0.3 to 2.6; P = 0.73). For advanced stages (stage 3 and 4), survival for AA women were 78% and 40% for Caucasian women (HR = 0.6; 95% CI 0.2 to 1.98; P = 0.43). Rates of recurrence and mortality were not significantly different between AA and Caucasian TNBC patients. After controlling for patient variables, race was not significantly associated with OS (HR = 1.24; 95% CI, 0.32 to 5.08; P = 0.74) when comparing AA to Caucasian patients. Our study suggests that race does not have an effect on overall survival in African American and Caucasian women diagnosed with TNBC in Arkansas.
Window-controlled CMP crosscorrelation analysis for surface waves in laterally heterogeneous media
Authors: Ikeda Tatsunori , Tsuji Takeshi , Matsuoka Toshifumi
Published: October 2013

CMP crosscorrelation (CMPCC) analysis of surface waves enhances lateral resolution of surface wave analyses. We found the technique of window-controlled CMPCC analysis, which applies two kinds of spatial windows to further improve the lateral resolution of CMPCC analysis. First, a spatial weighting function given by the number of crosscorrelation pairs is applied to CMPCC gathers. Because the number of crosscorrelation pairs is concentrated near the CMP, the lateral resolution in extracting dispersion curves on CMPs can be improved. Second, crosscorrelation pairs with longer receiver spacing are excluded to further improve lateral resolution. Although removing crosscorrelation pairs generally decreases the accuracy of phase velocity estimations, the required accuracy to estimate phase velocities is maintained by considering the wavenumber resolution defined for given receiver configurations. When applied to a synthetic data set simulating a laterally heterogeneous structure, window-controlled CMPCC analysis improved the retrieval of the lateral variation in local dispersion curves beneath each CMP. We also applied the method to field seismic data across a major fault. The window-controlled CMPCC analysis improved lateral variations of the inverted S-wave velocity structure without degrading the accuracy of S-wave velocity estimations. We discovered that window-controlled CMPCC analysis is effective in improving lateral resolution of dispersion curve estimations with respect to the original CMPCC analysis.
Linked Heritage – ein europäisches Projekt
Authors: Mensing Petra
Published: October 2013

Das Hauptziel des EU-Projektes Linked Heritage1

Linked Heritage – Coordination of standards and technologies for the enrichment of Europeana; Laufzeit: April 2011 bis September 2013; Projekthomepage http://www.linkedheritage.eu/[Zugriff: 13. August 2013].

war die Einspielung von 3 Millionen neuen Datensätzen in die Europeana. Die 38 Projektpartner kamen aus 20 europäischen Ländern plus Israel und Russland. Die Technische Informationsbibliothek (TIB) Hannover stellte für dieses Projekt Metadaten aus dem Kompetenzzentrum für nichttextuelle Materialen sowie aus dem Bereich Forschungsdaten bereit und war an drei der sieben Arbeitspakete2

Für eine Übersicht der Arbeitspakete siehe http://www.linkedheritage.eu/index.php?en/141/work-packages [Zugriff: 13. August 2013]. Die TIB ist an den Arbeitspaketen 4, 6 und 7 beteiligt: Public Private Partnership, Coordination of Content bzw. Dissemination and Training.

beteiligt.
Stress Analysis of Free-Standing Silicon Oxide Films Using Optical Interference
Authors: Rezadad Imen , Boroumand Javaneh , Smith Evan , Figueiredo Pedro , Peale Robert E.
Published: October 2013

We report a method for stress measurement and analysis in silicon oxide thin films using optical interference. Effects of design and fabrication on stress have been studied by fabricating submicron-thick slabs of oxide anchored at one end and extending over a reflective surface. Optical interference occurs between reflections from the surface and the oxide slab, giving rise to light and dark fringes that may be imaged with a microscope. Analysis of the interference pattern at different wavelengths gives the radius of curvature and means of stress mapping. The accuracy exceeds non-interferometric profilometry using optical or confocal microscopes, and it can be more quantitative than scanning electron microscopy. This nondestructive profilometry method can aid the stress optimization of silicon oxide or other transparent thin films to achieve specific mechanical characteristics in MEMS devices.
Do Networking Activities Outside of the Classroom Protect Students Against Being Bullied? A Field Study With Students in Secondary School Settings in Germany
Authors: Blickle Gerhard , Meurs James A. , Schoepe Christine
Published: October 2013

Research has shown that having close relationships with fellow classmates can provide a buffer for students against bullying and the negative outcomes associated with it. But, research has not explicitly examined the potential benefits of social networking behaviorsoutsideof the classroom for those who could be bullied. This study addresses this gap and finds that, although a bullying climate in the classroom increases overall bullying, students high on external networking activities did not experience an increase in the bullying they received when in a classroom with a high bullying climate. However, the same group of students reported the largest degree of received bulling under conditions of a low bullying climate. We discuss the implications of our results and provide directions for future research.
Early Dropout in Men Voluntarily Undergoing Treatment for Intimate Partner Violence in Norway
Authors: Askeland Ingunn Rangul , Heir Trond
Published: October 2013

This study investigated psychotherapy dropout rates and predictors of dropping out of therapy early. We enrolled 1,166 men voluntarily admitted to psychotherapy for violent behavior against a female partner. In total, 315 (23.8%) subjects dropped out of therapy within the first 3 sessions. Dropouts were significantly younger, more likely to have a non-Norwegian ethnic background, less likely to have received previous mental health care, and were more likely to have been treated by a student therapist. Among those treated by a student therapist, unemployment was strongly associated with early dropout. Unadjusted and adjusted results were similar. Clients and therapists may benefit by matching unemployed men with experienced therapists. Finally, the high dropout rates among ethnically non-Norwegian clients points to a need for special treatment approaches for this subgroup.