bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An intervention crossing two types of action planning with mental simulation for the promotion of physical activity among adolescents
Authors: Koka Andre
Published: April 2016

Background:Four of every five adolescents do not meet the current physical activity (PA) recommendations. Therefore, there is a need for effective interventions that promote PA behavior among adolescents.

Objective:The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an integrated theory-based intervention to promote leisure-time PA (LTPA) among adolescents over a 1-month follow-up period.

Methods: Following the completion of self-reported LTPA at baseline, 316 adolescents aged 14–16 years were randomized into one of six conditions based on a 2 (outcome mental simulation: present vs. absent)×3 (action planning: standard vs. reasoning vs. absent) factorial design. The LTPA was measured again 1 month later.

Results: The intervention did not change adolescents’ self-reported LTPA over a 1-month follow-up period. Participants receiving either of the intervention manipulation or combination of these intervention manipulations did not demonstrate significantly higher levels of LTPA compared with partcipants who did not receive intervention manipulations. This might be due to several reasons such as complexity of the target behavior, lack of booster sessions within the follow-up period, or seasonality issues.

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that such an integrated intervention may not yet be ready for implementation in promoting LTPA behavior among adolescents.
Prevalence and risk factors for traumatic dental injuries in adolescent children attending special needs schools in India: a comparative study
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Dixit Garima
Published: April 2016

Background:

Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are a serious dental health problem affecting adolescents and needs special attention.

Objective:

To determine and compare the prevalence of TDIs in children attending special needs schools and normal school children and identify the risk factors for its occurrence.

Methods:

The study included 150 special needs school children and 300 normal school children in the 12–15 year age group. A questionnaire was prepared that collected information on socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents like age, sex, and details of the injury-event. The clinical examination was carried out using American Dental Association (ADA) type 3 technique following universal precautions.

Results:

The children attending special needs schools showed higher prevalence of TDIs than normal school children. Maxillary central incisors were the most commonly affected teeth. A majority of them showed injuries restricted to enamel fracture only and the most common cause for injury was “falling over”. Logistic regression analysis showed that there was a significantly higher tendency for special needs children, boys, children with an overjet more than 3 mm, and inadequate lip closure to develop injuries.

Conclusion:

TDIs were more prevalent in children attending special needs schools. An overjet more than 3 mm emerged as the strongest risk predictor. Effective policies need to be drafted to treat the injuries and correct the malocclusion.
Adolescents’ knowledge and opinions about smoking: a qualitative study from the Jhaukhel-Duwakot Health Demographic Surveillance Site, Bhaktapur District, Nepal
Authors: Povlsen Lene , Aryal Umesh Raj , Petzold Max , Krettek Alexandra
Published: April 2016

Background:

The use of tobacco products among adolescents in Southeast Asia represents a major public health burden. Two out of ten adolescents attending school are tobacco users and several factors influence them to initiate tobacco use. Most studies related to tobacco use are quantitative, whereas qualitative studies exploring adolescents’ smoking behavior and their views, knowledge and experiences are scarce.

Objective:

To gain a deep understanding of Nepalese adolescents’ knowledge and opinions about smoking and reasons for smoking initiation.

Subjects:

Adolescents from four secondary schools in the Bhaktapur district, Nepal.

Methods:

Eight focus-group discussions were conducted with 71 adolescents aged 13–16 years and from grades 8–10. Data were analyzed using manifest qualitative content analysis.

Results:

The participants knew that smoking represents health risks as well as socio-economic risks, but few described the addictive nature of tobacco and health risks related to passive smoking. Most participants related smoking initiation to the smoking behavior of peers and family members, but easy accessibility to cigarettes, ineffective rules and regulations, and exposure to passive smoking also created environments for smoking. Some expressed confidence to resist peer pressure and refuse to start smoking, but also expressed the need for prevention strategies in schools and for governmental initiatives, such as more strict implementation of tobacco control and regulations to prevent and reduce smoking.

Conclusion:

Curbing the tobacco epidemic in Nepal requires healthy public policies and multifaceted interventions to address the knowledge gap on health consequences associated with smoking among adolescents, teachers and parents/adults.
Utility of salivary enzyme immunoassays for measuring estradiol and testosterone in adolescents: a pilot study
Authors: Amatoury Mazen , Lee Jennifer W. , Maguire Ann M. , Ambler Geoffrey R. , Steinbeck Katharine S.
Published: April 2016

Aim:

We investigated the utility of enzyme immunoassay kits for measuring low levels of salivary estradiol and testosterone in adolescents and objectively assessed prevalence of blood contamination.

Methods:

Endocrine patients provided plasma and saliva for estradiol (females) or testosterone (males) assay. Saliva samples were also tested with a blood contamination kit.

Results:

Picomolar levels of salivary estradiol in females failed to show any significant correlation with plasma values (r=0.20, p=0.37). The nanomolar levels of salivary testosterone in males showed a strong correlation (r=0.78, p<0.001). A significant number of saliva samples had blood contamination. After exclusion, correlations remained non-significant for estradiol, but strengthened for testosterone (r=0.88, p<0.001).

Conclusion:

The salivary estradiol enzyme immunoassay is not clinically informative at low levels. Users should interpret clinical saliva with caution due to potential blood contamination. Our data supports the utility of the salivary testosterone enzyme immunoassay for monitoring adolescent boys on hormone developmental therapy.
Serum ischemia-modified albumin levels in adolescent smokers
Authors: Battal Fatih , Tekin Mustafa , Aylanç Hakan , Yıldırım Şule , Türkön Hakan , Binnetoğlu Fatih Köksal , Kaymaz Nazan , Topaloğlu Naci
Published: April 2016

Background:

It is known that the biochemical marker linked to tissue ischemia, ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), is related to oxidative stress. Cigarette smoking is a situation with increased oxidative stress causing cell damage and it is thought that many of the negative effects linked to smoking may occur after the biological material in the body is exposed to oxidative damage. This study aimed to identify variability in serum IMA levels in adolescents who smoke.

Methods:

This case-control study comprised 60 adolescents without any chronic disease. The smoking group was 30 adolescents between the ages of 14 and 17 years who smoked, while the control group was 30 healthy adolescents who did not smoke. Blood samples were collected from all subjects and serum IMA levels and serum nicotine metabolites were determined.

Results:

The serum IMA levels in the adolescents who smoked were 0.452±0.094 absorbance unit (ABSU), while the control group had ASBU levels of 0.427±0.054. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of serum IMA levels (p=0.210). There was a significant difference between the control and smoking groups in terms of serum nicotine metabolite levels (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

Among adolescents who smoke, serum IMA levels may not be a good marker for oxidative stress.
Mixing of Shear Thinning Fluids in Cylindrical Tanks: Effect of the Impeller Blade Design and Operating Conditions
Authors: Ameur Houari
Published: April 2016

The 3D flow fields and power consumption within a cylindrical vessel stirred by a rotating turbine are numerically studied. Simulations are performed to determine the impact of changes in operating parameters on the mixing characteristics. Investigations are focused on effects of the impeller blade curvature, shaft speed and impeller rotational direction. The fluid simulated has a shear thinning behavior. Designing the blade in retreat shape seems very promising in term of power consumption since a reduction of Np is obtained with increasing blade curvature. In the positive rotational direction, the retreat bladed impeller yields highly radial flows with less power consumption than the straight bladed impeller. The 45° retreat blade gave an increase in the radial velocity by 39 %, compared with the straight blade. But, a better axial circulation is obtained with the straight blade. The comparison between the positive rotational direction (+w) and the negative rotational direction (–w) cases revealed that, a reduced mixing time can be obtained with a retreat bladed impeller operating in the negative rotational direction (–w), but with further power consumption.
Singer torus in irreducible representations of GL(n,q)
Authors: Zalesski Alexandre E.
Published: April 2016

Let G = PGL(n,q) be the projective general linear group of degree n over a finite field of q elements. Let T be a Singer torus of G, that is, a maximal torus of G of order
|T| = (qn
-1)/(q-1). Let χ be an irreducible character of G. We prove that
the trivial character 1
T
of T occurs as a constituent of the restriction of χ to T unless χ(1) < |T|. This answers a question raised by Pablo Spiga.
Conjugacy distinguished subgroups
Authors: Ribes Luis , Zalesskii Pavel A.
Published: April 2016

Let 𝒞 be a nonempty
class of finite groups closed under taking subgroups, homomorphic
images and extensions. A subgroup H of an abstract residually
𝒞 group R is said to be conjugacy 𝒞-distinguished
if whenever y ∈ R, then y has a conjugate in H if and only
if the same holds for the images of y and H in every quotient
group R/N ∈ 𝒞 of R. We prove that in a group having a normal
free subgroup Φ such that R/Φ is in 𝒞, every finitely generated subgroup is conjugacy
𝒞-distinguished. We also prove that finitely generated
subgroups of limit groups, of Lyndon groups and certain one-relator groups are conjugacy distinguished (𝒞 here is the
class of all finite groups).
Non-commutative lattice problems
Authors: Myasnikov Alexei , Nikolaev Andrey , Ushakov Alexander
Published: April 2016

We consider several subgroup-related algorithmic questions in groups, modeled after the classic computational lattice problems, and study their computational complexity. We find polynomial time solutions to problems like finding a subgroup element closest to a given group element, or finding a shortest nontrivial element of a subgroup in the case of nilpotent groups, and a large class of surface groups and Coxeter groups. We also provide polynomial time algorithm to compute geodesics in given generators of a subgroup of a free group.
Prosolvability criteria and
properties of the prosolvable radical via Sylow sequences
Authors: Herfort Wolfgang , Levy Dan
Published: April 2016

We extend a finite group solvability criterion of J. G. Thompson, based on
his classification of finite minimal simple groups, to a prosolvability
criterion. Moreover, we generalize to the profinite setting subsequent
developments of Thompson's criterion by G. Kaplan and the second author,
which recast it in terms of properties of sequences of Sylow subgroups and
their products. This generalization also encompasses a possible
characterization of the prosolvable radical whose scope of validity is still
open even for finite groups. We prove that if this characterization is valid
for finite groups, then it carries through to profinite groups.
Sliceable groups and towers of fields
Authors: Böge Sigrid , Jarden Moshe , Lubotzky Alexander
Published: April 2016

Let l be a prime number, K a finite extension of ℚ
l
,
and D a finite-dimensional central division algebra over
K.
We prove that the profinite group

G
=

D
×

/

K
×

${G=D^\times /K^\times }$

is
finitely sliceable, i.e. G has finitely many closed
subgroups H
1,...,Hn
of infinite index such that

G
=

⋃

i
=
1

n

H
i
G

${G=\bigcup _{i=1}^nH_i^G}$

.
Here,

H
i
G

=

{

h
g

∣
h
∈

H
i

,

g
∈
G
}

${H_i^G=\lbrace h^g\mid h\in H_i, \, g\in G\rbrace }$

.
On the other hand, we prove for l ≠ 2 that no open subgroup
of GL2(ℤ
l
) is finitely sliceable and we give an
arithmetic interpretation to this result, based on the
possibility of realizing GL2(ℤ
l
) as a Galois group
over ℚ.
Nevertheless, we prove that G = GL2(ℤ
l
) has an infinite slicing, that is

G
=

⋃

i
=
1

∞

H
i
G

${G=\bigcup _{i=1}^\infty H_i^G}$

,
where each Hi
is a closed subgroup of G of infinite
index and Hi
∩ Hj
has infinite index in both Hi
and
Hj
if i ≠ j.
Thermal Convection Induced by an Infinitesimally Thin and Unstably Stratified Layer
Authors: Hadji Layachi , Shahmurov Rishad , Aljahdaly Noufe H.
Published: April 2016

We examine the linear stability analysis of the equations governing Rayleigh–Bénard convection flows when the basic temperature profile is unstably stratified solely over a thin horizontal slice of the fluid region. We conduct both asymptotic and numerical analyses on three distinct shapes of the basic temperature: (i) a hyperbolic tangent profile, (ii) a piecewise linear profile and (iii) a step-function profile. In the first two cases, the thin unstably stratified layer is centrally located. The presence of stably stratified regions below and above the central layer diminishes the effect of the velocity and thermal boundary layers that form at the plates. This in turn allows for the analysis of the convection process without the constraints of the horizontal boundaries to be simulated in a finite domain. We obtain expressions for the threshold parameters for convection onset as well as flow features as function of the thickness of the unstably stratified layer. In the limit of a vanishingly small thickness, the hyperbolic tangent profile tends to a step-function profile with a heavy top layer overlying a lighter bottom layer. These two layers are separated by an interface where a jump in density occurs. This situation resembles the Rayleigh–Taylor instability of a horizontal interface except that neither is the interface free nor is the buoyancy diffusion absent. The exploration of this case uncovers new instability threshold values and flow patterns. Finally, we discuss some relevant applications.
A Generalization of Onsager’s Reciprocity Relations to Gradient Flows with Nonlinear Mobility
Authors: Mielke Alexander , Renger D. R. Michiel , Peletier Mark A.
Published: April 2016

Onsager’s 1931 “reciprocity relations” result connects microscopic time reversibility with a symmetry property of corresponding macroscopic evolution equations. Among the many consequences is a variational characterization of the macroscopic evolution equation as a gradient-flow, steepest ascent, or maximal entropy production equation. Onsager’s original theorem is limited to close-to-equilibrium situations, with a Gaussian-invariant measure and a linear macroscopic evolution. In this paper, we generalize this result beyond these limitations and show how the microscopic time reversibility leads to natural generalized symmetry conditions, which take the form of generalized gradient flows.
Quality management in IgE-based allergy diagnostics
Authors: Kleine-Tebbe Jörg , Poulsen Lars K. , Hamilton Robert G.
Published: April 2016

Assays for total and allergen-specific (s) IgE are essential serological tests in the diagnostic work-up of immediate type hypersensitivity reactions and atopic diseases. Technical performance characteristics and clinical utility of IgE tests have been published in international guidelines. In the USA and in Europe, IgE tests are mainly performed by accredited medical laboratories and in Germany they are also performed by allergists carrying an OIII-limited license. Both have to perform continuously internal and external quality control measures including proficiency trials twice a year (in Germany). Due to the heterogeneity of the assay’s core allergen reagents, complex extracts and more recently defined allergenic molecules, and heterologous assay calibration, the results of qualitative and quantitative sIgE tests from different diagnostic manufacturers can vary considerably. Proficiency trial results are subsequently grouped according to each assay type. Passing acceptance criteria depend on national rules and regarding quality management. Future challenges include a more valid quantification of sIgE which would allow true comparisons with the international units for total IgE, and the use of harmonized allergen reagents for the most important allergen sources, which have hampered inter-assay comparability in the past.
Results on the deficiencies of some differential-difference polynomials of meromorphic functions
Authors: Zheng Xiu-Min , Xu Hong-Yan
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we study the relation between the deficiencies concerning a meromorphic function f(z), its derivative f′(z) and differential-difference monomials f(z)
m

f(z+c)f′(z), f(z+c)
n

f′(z), f(z)
m

f(z+c). The main results of this paper are listed as follows: Let f(z) be a meromorphic function of finite order satisfying

lim
 
sup

r
→
+
∞

T
(
r
,
 
f
)

T
(
r
,
 

f
′

)

<
+
∞
,

$$\mathop {\lim \,{\rm sup}}\limits_{r \to + \infty } {{T(r,\,f)} \over {T(r,\,f')}}{\rm{ < }} + \infty ,$$

and c be a non-zero complex constant, then δ(∞, f(z)
m

f(z+c)f′(z))≥δ(∞, f′) and δ(∞,f(z+c)
n

f′(z))≥ δ(∞, f′). We also investigate the value distribution of some differential-difference polynomials taking small function a(z) with respect to f(z).
Existence of a common solution for a system of nonlinear integral equations via fixed point methods inb-metric spaces
Authors: Yamaod Oratai , Sintunavarat Wutiphol , Je Cho Yeol
Published: April 2016

In this paper we introduce a property and use this property to prove some common fixed point theorems inb-metric space. We also give some fixed point results onb-metric spaces endowed with an arbitrary binary relation which can be regarded as consequences of our main results. As applications, we applying our result to prove the existence of a common solution for the following system of integral equations:x (t) = ∫abK1 (t,r,x(r)) dr,x (t) = ∫abK2 (t,r,x(r)) dr,     $$\matrix {x (t) = \int \limits_a^b {{K_1}} (t, r, x(r))dr, & & x(t) = \int \limits_a^b {{K_2}}(t, r, x(r))dr,} $$

wherea, b∈ ℝ witha<b, x∈C[a, b] (the set of continuous real functions defined on [a, b] ⊆ ℝ) andK1,K2: [a, b] × [a, b] × ℝ → ℝ are given mappings. Finally, an example is also given in order to illustrate the effectiveness of such result.
End-regular and End-orthodox generalized lexicographic products of bipartite graphs
Authors: Gu Rui , Hou Hailong
Published: April 2016

A graphXis said to be End-regular (End-orthodox) if its endomorphism monoidEnd(X) is a regular (orthodox) semigroup. In this paper, we determine the End-regular and the End-orthodox generalized lexicographic products of bipartite graphs.
Improved Part-Based Segmentation of Voxel
Shapes by Skeleton Cut Spaces
Authors: Feng Cong , Jalba Andrei C. , Telea Alexandru C.
Published: April 2016

We present a refined method for part-based segmentation of voxel shapes by constructing partitioning
cuts from every voxel of the shape’s medial surface. Our cuts have several desirable properties –
smoothness, tightness, and orientation with respect to the shape’s local symmetry axis, making it a good
segmentation tool.We analyze the space of all cuts created for a given shape and detect cuts which are good
segment borders. We present a detailed analysis of the parameter space of our method, which yields good
preset values for all its parameters. Our method is robust to noise, pose invariant, independent on the shape
geometry and genus, and is simple to implement.We demonstrate our method for both automatic and interactive
segmentation on a wide selection of 3D shapes.
Defining and computing Hausdorff distances
between distributions on the real line and on
the circle: link between optimal transport and
morphological dilations
Authors: Bloch Isabelle , Atif Jamal
Published: April 2016

Comparing probability or possibility distributions is important in many fields of information processing
under uncertainty. In this paper we address the question of defining and computing Hausdorff distances
between distributions in a general sense. We propose several dilations of distributions, and exhibit
some links between Lévy-Prokhorov distances and dilation-based distances. In particular, mathematical morphology
provides an elegant way to deal with periodic distributions. The case of possibility distributions is
addressed using fuzzy mathematical morphology. As an illustration, the proposed approaches are applied to
the comparison of spatial relations between objects in an image or a video sequence, when these relations
are represented as distributions.
Statistical attribute filtering to detect faint
extended astronomical sources
Authors: Teeninga Paul , Moschini Ugo , Trager Scott C. , Wilkinson Michael H.F.
Published: April 2016

In astronomy, sky surveys contain a large number of light-emitting sources, often with intensities
close to the noise level. Automatic extraction of astronomical objects is therefore needed. SExtractor is
a widely used program for automated source extraction and cataloguing, but it is not optimal with faint extended
sources. Using SExtractor as a reference, the paper describes an improvement of a previous method
proposed by the authors. It is a Max-Tree-based method for extraction of faint extended sources without using
a stronger image smoothing. The Max-Tree structure is a hierarchical representation of an image, in which attributes
can be computed in every node. Object detection is performed on the nodes of the tree and it relies on
the distribution of a statistic calculated using the power attribute, compared to the expected distribution in
case of noise. Statistical tests are presented, a comparison with the object extraction of SExtractor is shown
and results are discussed.
Expanding on the Structural Diversity of Flavone- Derived RutheniumII(ƞ6-arene) Anticancer Agents
Authors: Kubanik Mario , Tu Jason K. Y. , Söhnel Tilo , Hejl Michaela , Jakupec Michael A. , Kandioller Wolfgang , Keppler Bernhard K. , Hartinger Christian G.
Published: April 2016

3-Hydroxyflavones belong to the naturally occurring class of flavonoids and have been extensively studied with regard to medicinal application. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that these compounds act as bioactive chelates to the ruthenium(II)–arene moiety. Such organometallic complexes have shown promising anticancer activity against tumor cells via a multitargeting mode of action, interacting with DNA and inhibiting topoisomerase IIα. In this paper, we present the synthesis and characterization of an extended series of 3-hydroxyflavone ligands and their corresponding ruthenium-p-cymene complexes to study the impact of substitution pattern as well as of electron-withdrawing and –donating substituents at the flavonol-phenyl group. The ligands and complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, ESI-MS, 1D as well as 2D NMR spectroscopy. The structures of four Ru(η6-p-cymene) complexes were determined in solid state by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and the impact of the substitution pattern with regard to in vitro anticancer activity in human cancer cell lines is discussed. Structural differences, calculated octanol-water partition coefficients (clogP) of the flavonols and aqueous solubility were used to rationalize the finding that chlorido[3-(oxo-κO)-2-(3,5- dimethoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-onato-κO](η6-p-cymene)ruthenium(II) 2b exhibits the highest cytotoxicity with IC50 values in the low μM range in all tested cell lines.
ATP-binding peptide-hydrogel composite synthesized by molecular imprinting on beads
Authors: Takata Ayana , Usui Kenji , Matsui Jun
Published: April 2016

Molecular imprinting has been recognized as a useful technique to produce synthetic mimics of functional proteins, such as antibodies and enzymes. However, only a few studies have examined peptides as starting materials for synthesizing molecularly imprinted polymers in spite of the expectation that peptides would be suitable materials for realizing water-compatibility and proteinlike functions. In this study, molecular imprinting was performed using a vinyl-end-capped on-beads-peptide as functional monomer to produce an on-beads-peptide hydrogel composite selective for ATP; the on-beadspeptide peptide, of which sequence was designed to possess both an adenine-recognition site and phosphate recognition site, was co-polymerized with NIPAM and BIS in the presence of ATP as a template species. The resultant ATP-imprinted composite showed 14-times higher affinity and an enhanced selectivity towards ATP, suggesting that the peptide conformation, i.e. a mutual orientation of the two binding sites, was pre-organized and immobilized in a manner where the ATP binding is more favored.
Molecular imprinted photonic crystal for sensing of biomolecules
Authors: Chen Wei , Meng Zihui , Xue Min , Shea Kenneth J
Published: April 2016

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are highly cross-linked polymers with high binding capacity and selectivity to the target molecules. MIPs become increasingly important because of the potential applications in drug delivery, purification and separation. In spite of the tremendous progress that has been made in the molecular imprinting field, many challenges remain to be addressed, especially in transforming the binding event into a detectable optical signal. The combination of photonic crystal and molecular imprinting technique is becoming a popular research idea. Compared to the conventional MIPs, the molecularly imprinted photonic crystal sensors (MIPCB) have the advantage of directly convert the molecule recognition process into optical signal. This review comprehensively summarizes various MIPCB, including the principle of molecular imprinted photonic crystal sensors, recent development, some challenges and effective strategies for MIPCB.
Stabilized sensing of heparin in whole blood using the ‘gate effect’ of heparin-imprinted polymer grafted onto an electrode
Authors: Yoshimi Yasuo , Inaba Ryo , Ogawa Takaya , Yoshino Waka , Inoue Masaru , Kuwana Katsuyuki
Published: April 2016

A real-time heparin monitor is required to optimize the dosage of heparin and its antidote, protamine sulfate, during extracorporeal circulation procedures. The gate effect of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) is a potential tool for the rapid and selective sensing of heparin. We here present a method to stabilize the measurement of heparin concentration in whole blood using an MIP-grafted electrode. An initiator of radical polymerization, the diethyldithiocarbamicbenzyl group, was introduced onto the surface of an indium-tin oxide (ITO) electrode. Heparin sodium, methacryloxethyltrimethoxysilane, and acrylamide were dissolved in water, and methylenebisacrylamide was dissolved in dimethylformamide. A mixture of the two solutions was introduced into the 50 μm gap between the surfaces of a quartz crystal plate and the treated ITO electrode. Ultraviolet light was irradiated onto the surface of the ITO to graft the copolymer of the monomers, then the ITO was washed with a 1 M sodium chloride aqueous solution to remove the heparin template and obtain the MIP-grafted electrode. Cyclic voltammetry was performed with the MIP-grafted electrode in physiological saline or bovine whole blood containing 0-8 units/ mL heparin and 5 mM ferrocyanide as a redox marker, and the relationship between the current intensity and the heparin concentration was analyzed. The current intensity decreased as the heparin concentration in either saline or whole blood increased, and the sensitivity of the electrode to heparin in blood was approximately 52% of its sensitivity to heparin in saline. The grafted-electrode was washed with a protease-containing detergent (Sterizyme® S, Maruishi Pharmaceutical) between measurements in blood. The heparin-sensitivity of the washed electrode in blood was 77% of that in saline. No sensitivity to chondroitin sulfate C was observed but sensitivity to low molecular weight heparin was demonstrated. We thus conclude that selective and stable sensing of heparin can be achieved using an electrode grafted with heparinimprinted polymer.
Structural and electrical properties of chromium substituted nickel ferrite by conventional ceramic method
Authors: Jahan Nusrat , Chowdhury Faruque-uz-Zaman , Zakaria A.K.M
Published: April 2016

Polycrystalline Cr substituted Ni ferrites [NiCrxFe2−xO4(0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0)] were synthesized by conventional ceramic method and sintered at 1350 °C in air. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showing sharp peaks confirmed the formation of single phase cubic spinel structure. The lattice parameters of the samples were determined from the XRD data using Nelson-Riley extrapolation technique. They were found to decrease with increasing Cr concentration obeying Vegard’s law. X-ray density, bulk density and porosity were also calculated from the XRD data. The variation of DC resistivity with temperature was measured by two-probe method. The DC resistivity was found to decrease with increasing temperature indicating the semiconducting nature of the samples. Activation energy was calculated from the Arrhenius plot. AC resistivity, dielectric constant and loss tangent were measured in the frequency range of 1 kHz to 120 MHz at room temperature.
Strategic role of nanotechnology for production of bioethanol and biodiesel
Authors: Rai Mahendra , dos Santos Júlio César , Soler Matheus Francisco , Franco Marcelino Paulo Ricardo , Brumano Larissa Pereira , Ingle Avinash P. , Gaikwad Swapnil , Gade Aniket , da Silva Silvio Silvério
Published: April 2016

In spite of the limited sources of fossil fuels, energy demand has been considerably increased since the last century. The problems associated with global warming due to rising atmospheric greenhouse gas levels and scarcity of fossil fuels make it imperative to reduce our heavy dependency on fossil fuels. These reasons forced countries throughout the world to search for new fuel alternatives. Biofuel have gathered considerable attention due to their inherent benefits, like lower greenhouse gas emission, renewability, and sustainability. Commercially, biofuels are produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, and carbohydrates by using transesterification and fermentation. However, biofuel production suffers from high production costs and other technical barriers. Considering the environmental and economic issues, use of nanotechnology seems to be a viable solution. Nanoparticles have a number of interesting properties for the production of second-generation ethanol or transesterification of oils and fats to yield biodiesel. It is advantageous for recovery and reuse of catalysts. The present review discusses the role of nanotechnology in the production of bioethanol and biodiesel. Moreover, applications of nanoparticles for the production of biodiesel and second-generation ethanol with special reference to enzyme immobilization and chemical nano-catalysis have been described.
Optical waveform monitoring based on a free-running mode-locked femtosecond fibre laser and four-wave mixing in a highly nonlinear fibre
Authors: Liu Y. , Zhang J.-G. , Tang D.
Published: April 2016

Optical sampling based on ultrafast optical nonlinearities is a useful technique to monitor the waveforms of ultrashort optical pulses. In this paper, we present a new implementation of optical waveform sampling systems by employing our newly constructed free–running mode–locked fibre laser with a tunable repetition rate and a low timing jitter, an all–optical waveform sampler with a highly nonlinear fibre (HNLF), and our developed computer algorithm for optical waveform display and measurement, respectively. Using a femtosecond fibre laser to generate the highly stable optical sampling pulses and exploiting the four–wave mixing effect in a 100m–long HNLF, we successfully demonstrate the all–optical waveform sampling of a 10GHz optical clock pulse sequence with a pulse width of 1.8 ps and a 80Gbit/s optical data signal, respectively. The experimental results show that waveforms of the tested optical pulse signals are accurately reproduced with a pulse width of 2.0 ps. This corresponds to a temporal resolution of 0.87 ps for optical waveform measurement. Moreover, the optical eye diagram of a 10Gbit/s optical data signal with a 1.8 ps pulse width is also accurately measured by employing our developed optical sampling system.
Data encryption of optical fibre communication using pseudo-random spatial light modulation
Authors: Kowalski M. , Życzkowski M.
Published: April 2016

We propose and study a new technique for securing fibre data communication. The paper presents a method for optical encryption of information transmitted with a traditional fibre link. The encryption method uses a spatial light modulator which converts light pulses representing original data into pseudo-random patterns. A linear combination of light pulses with pseudo-random patterns provides a required encryption performance. The main element of the encryptor is the spatial light modulator which comprises a matrix of cells selectively transmitting or blocking the light beam depending on the pseudo-random configuration of cells. The encrypted information is transmitted through the optical fibre. The decryption process relies on a computational solving of linear program or greedy pursuit. We present a brief description of the method, theoretical analysis and results of numerical simulation. A physical model concept of the method is also presented.
Multimode fibres for micro-endoscopy
Authors: Turtaev Sergey , Leite Ivo T. , Čižmár Tomáš
Published: April 2016

There has been a tremendous effort in modern microscopy towards miniaturisation and fibre-based technology, driven by the need to access hostile or difficult environments in situ and in vivo. Most of these rely on reducing the size of endoscopes based on fibre-optic bundles, and systems incorporating microfabricated lenses. Recently, the use of standard multimode optical fibres for lensless microscopy has become possible mainly due to advances in holographic beam shaping. This article reviews the methods and techniques behind this progress paving theway towards minimally invasive in vivo imaging as well as other applications of multimode waveguides including on-chip integration of optical micro-manipulation and numerous other biophotonics techniques.
Responses of stream benthic macroinvertebrate communities to timber harvesting: Best management practices in a low-gradient watershed in Central Louisiana, USA
Authors: Klimesh Derrick , Gossman Adrienne V. , Xu Y. Jun , Kaller Michael D.
Published: April 2016

Forests are the most dominant land-use type in Louisiana, and timber harvesting is the most economically important of the state’s agricultural commodities. Louisiana has developed voluntary best management practices (BMPs) to minimize negative effects of forest operations on stream water quality, but little is known about how aquatic communities inhabiting low-gradient, headwater streams respond to timber harvesting, and if the current BMPs are effective in protecting community structure and function. In 2005, we initiated a multidisciplinary study in the Flat Creek watershed in central Louisiana to discern the effects of timber harvesting activities, with and without BMP implementation, on benthic aquatic macroinvertebrates. During fall 2007, trees were removed adjacent to two headwater streams in the watershed, and benthic macroinvertebrate samples were subsequently collected at seven stream locations seven times between 2006 and 2009. Our objectives were to describe the community structure of benthic macroinvertebrates in low-order, low-gradient streams, how macroinvertebrate communities responded to timber harvest operations, and whether significant changes in community structure were evident under different levels of BMP implementation. The community structure was predominantly generalist taxa including chironomids, sphaeriid bivalves and asellid isopods. Analyses of variance demonstrated significant increases in bivalve abundance and decreases in the abundance of malacostracan and shredding taxa at most of the sampling sites downstream of BMP-implemented harvest locations in the spring. Additionally, significant increases in bivalves were also found at two sites during late summer. Our results suggest that timber harvesting activities, regardless of BMP implementation, had limited shortterm impacts on resident macroinvertebrates in these lowgradient, subtropical streams. Continued monitoring at the study sites will allow us to better understand the longterm effects of timber harvesting in these stream systems, particularly the resilience of stream biota to harvestingrelated stream conditions.
Sensitivity of functionals with respect to observations in variational data assimilation
Authors: Dimet François-Xavier Le , Shutyaev Victor , Parmuzin Eugene
Published: April 2016

The problem of variational data assimilation for a model of ocean thermodynamics is formulated as an optimal control problem to find the boundary heat flux. The sensitivity of functionals of the optimal solution with respect to observations is studied. Computing the gradient of the functionals is reduced to the solution of a non-standard problem which is a coupled system involving direct and adjoint equations with mutually dependent boundary values. Solvability of the non-standard problem is studied based on the Hessian of the original cost function. An algorithm for computing the gradient of the response function related to the mean surface temperature is developed and justified. Numerical examples are presented for the Baltic Sea thermodynamics model.
Algorithm for solving the problem on pollution risk control related to local sources in a region
Authors: Novikov Ivan S.
Published: April 2016

A problem on pollution risk control related to local sources in region is formulated. Algorithm for solving the problem is proposed. The results of numerical experiment on the solution of the studied problem illustrating the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm are presented.
Toll Road or Dumb Pipe? Economic Perspectives on Net Neutrality
Authors: Lüth Hendrik
Published: April 2016

Net neutrality is hotly debated among both scholars and politicians for more than a decade already, but it’s still one of the most prominent topics in telecommunications policy. This paper reviews the recent economic literature on net neutrality following an introductory discussion of relevant features of the market for Internet service provision. In the course of doing so, multiple regulatory regimes are evaluated with respect to their economic impact. Albeit the economic literature highlights some dangers that can evolve from violations of net neutrality, there is little evidence that would justify a rigorous ex-ante regulation.
Forschungsnotiz zum Begriff der Ausdrucksgestalt1
Authors: Loer Thomas
Published: April 2016

Diese Forschungsnotiz entstand ursprünglich im Rahmen einer Arbeit zur Erforschung der eigenlogischen Struktur einer Stadt (Loer 2013), die mich dazu nötigte, mir über den Begriff der Ausdrucksgestalt Klarheit zu verschaffen. Dort ließ ich mich von einer Präzisierung durch Ferdinand Zehentreiter (2006/2008) anregen, ohne die Engführung, die mit dieser Präzisierung einhergeht - und die damit infrage stellt, ob es sich tatsächlich um eine präzisierende oder nicht vielmehr um eine konkurrierende Begrifflichkeit handelt -, einer genaueren Betrachtung zu unterziehen. In der vorliegenden Notiz nun wird - wie die damalige Argumentation von Zehentreiters zugespitztem Verständnis des Begriffs ausgehend - die von Ulrich Oevermann visierte weitere Fassung verteidigt, die Subjektivität noch im scheinbar heterogensten Handeln im Werke erkennt und eine Reduktion von Subjektivität auf das Subjekt als Spontaneitätsinstanz vermeidet. Dabei ist die Bezeichnung des vorliegenden Textes als Forschungsnotiz ernst zu nehmen, würde eine Ausführung der Argumentation doch nicht nur eine umfangreiche Darlegung zum Verständnis von Subjektivität - oder allgemeiner: von Lebenspraxis -, sondern auch eine Entzerrung und zunächst getrennte Verfolgung der Argumentationsstränge erfordern, die gewiss mindestens zu Präzisierungen, möglicherweise zu Korrekturen führen müsste. Zweck dieser Publikation aus der Werkstatt ist es also, frühzeitig Kritik - gleichsam als Wegzehrung - zu erhalten. - „Möglich genug, daß dieser zu unvollkommne, zu übereilte Bau entweder von selbst wieder zusammenstürzt, oder daß auch irgend ein kritischer Verwüster ihn dem Erdboden gleich macht!“ (Engel 1786: 290 {Vier und vierzigster Brief})
Investigation of Engine Oil-cooling Problem during Idle Conditions on Pusher Type Turbo Prop Aircraft
Authors: Premkumar P. S. , Chakravarthy S. Bhaskar , Jayagopal S. , Radhakrishnan P. , Pillai S. Nadaraja , Senthil Kumar C.
Published: April 2016

Aircraft engines need a cooling system to keep the engine oil well within the temperature limits for continuous operation. The aircraft selected for this study is a typical pusher type Light Transport Aircraft (LTA) having twin turbo prop engines mounted at the aft end of the fuselage. Due to the pusher propeller configuration, effective oil cooling is a critical issue, especially during low-speed ground operations like engine idling and also in taxiing and initial climb. However, the possibility of utilizing the inflow induced by the propeller for oil cooling is the subject matter of investigation in this work. The oil cooler duct was designed to accommodate the required mass flow, estimated using the oil cooler performance graph. A series of experiments were carried out with and without oil cooler duct attached to the nacelle, in order to investigate the mass flow induced by the propeller and its adequacy to cool the engine oil. Experimental results show that the oil cooler positioned at roughly 25 % of the propeller radius from the nacelle center line leads to adequate cooling, without incorporating additional means. Furthermore, it is suggested to install a NACA scoop to minimize spillage drag by increasing pressure recovery.
Reliability and Reproducibility of Linear Measurements of Alveolar Ridges Using Cone-beam CT Made by Radiologists and Periodontists
Authors: Safi Yaser , Kadkhodazadeh Mahdi , Esmaeil Nejad Azadeh , Vasegh Zahra , Amid Reza , Khalighi Hamid Reza , Hadian Hoora , Bahemmat Nika
Published: April 2016

Background and aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intra- and inter-examiner reliability and reproducibility of linear measurements on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images made by calibrated radiologists and periodontists. Materials and methods. The alveolar ridge dimensions were measured on selected CBCT images by two calibrated radiologists and two periodontists. Intra- and inter-examiner reliability was evaluated by intra-rater and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results. Intra- and inter-examiners ICCs obtained with the different methods showed almost perfect matches. The results demonstrated high examiner reproducibility for linear parameters of alveolar ridges on CBCT images in presurgical implant site assessments. Conclusion. The alveolar ridge dimensions provided by the radiologists might be useful for the periodontists. The measurements with small differences were related to the experience and skills of the examiner, inclination measurement, selection of the exact level of the alveolar crest and the ability to detect the exact anatomic borders on CBCT images.
Experiential Ecological Investigations as a Vehicle Coupling Teaching & Research in High Schools & Universities
Authors: Didden Craig , Edmunds Peter J.
Published: April 2016

K–12 science programs in the United States are implementing inquiry-based lessons to expose students to the scientific process, and in some states these changes are mandated by regulations. At the same time, university faculty in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines are being encouraged by agencies funding their research to develop outreach activities that typically involve schools. Outreach programs promoting interactions between schools and universities are one means to address this need, and here we describe such a program between a Los Angeles independent school and California State University, Northridge. Our program exploits experiential learning focused on marine biology to engage students in ecological research with application to contemporary environmental issues such as climate change. Moreover, it addresses multiple aspects of the Next Generation Science Standards within a flexible framework that can be adapted to multiple curricular needs. Coral reefs are used as a model system in this program, but the concepts can easily be extended to other coastal marine environments. The program has evolved through three phases: (1) fostering interactions among educational partners, and developing curricula through research that exploits problem-solving skills; (2) completion of scientific activities in the classroom and field; and (3) engaging students in the scientific process through professional conferences and publication. These efforts have led to a self-sustaining program of interactions among schoolchildren, undergraduates, graduate students, K–12 educators, and university faculty that is promoting STEM careers and generating peer-reviewed publications.
Competition for Limiting Resources: Quantitative Reasoning in Evolutionary Ecology
Authors: Jessup Jennifer , Ode Paul J. , Balgopal Meena M.
Published: April 2016

Teachers are charged with increasing students’ scientific literacy, which involves interpreting evidence and making sense of patterns. However, teachers need access to – or must be able to generate – authentic datasets if they are to help their students develop quantitative reasoning skills. We describe an evolutionary ecology lesson focused on resource competition in a parasitic wasp. Students use datasets to generate graphs and test hypotheses on resource competition and fitness.
Turning Everyday Materials into Living Microscope Slides
Authors: Link-Pérez Melanie , Currie Carl James Robert
Published: April 2016

Teachers have reported that students enjoy growing plants but that logistical constraints such as limited space and inadequate lighting make it difficult to incorporate living plants into their classrooms. We present a method that takes familiar materials from the students’ world – trading-card holders – and uses them to make interactive, cost-effective “plant pouches” that can function as living microscope slides. Students grow plants in card holders and are able to observe both the roots and shoots for several weeks, including making observations with a compound or dissecting microscope. The plant pouches require minimal space or resources, and the system is flexible enough to accommodate different types of plants and is amenable to experimentation.
Online Resources for Distinguishing Butterflies from Moths & Other Such Common Animal Comparisons
Authors: Stansfield William D.
Published: April 2016

When biology students are in the field or in the laboratory observing common animals or pictures thereof, we would like them to be able to identify some of the differences between, say, a frog and a toad, or a hare and a rabbit. These differences may be anatomical, physiological, behavioral, reproductive, or developmental. This article suggests a way for students at the high school or higher educational levels to learn how to use the Internet to distinguish between some common or well-known animal pairs (such as butterflies and moths). A starter list of online sources of information is provided for distinguishing between 16 such animal pairs.