bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DC current induced metal-insulator transition in epitaxial Sm0.6Nd0.4NiO3/LaAlO3 thin film
Authors: Huang Haoliang , Luo Zhenlin , Yang Yuanjun , Yun Yu , Yang Mengmeng , Meng Dechao , Wang Haibo , Hu Sixia , Bao Jun , Lu Yalin , Gao Chen
Published: May 2014

The metal-insulator transition (MIT) in strong correlated electron materials can be induced by external perturbation in forms of thermal, electrical, optical, or magnetic fields. We report on the DC current induced MIT in epitaxial Sm0.6Nd0.4NiO3 (SNNO) thin film deposited by pulsed laser deposition on (001)-LaAlO3 substrate. It was found that the MIT in SNNO film not only can be triggered by thermal, but also can be induced by DC current. The TMI of SNNO film decreases from 282 K to 200 K with the DC current density increasing from 0.003 × 109 A•m−2 to 4.9 × 109 A•m−2. Based on the resistivity curves measured at different temperatures, the MIT phase diagram has been successfully constructed.
Ex situ elaborated proximity mesoscopic structures for ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling spectroscopy
Authors: Stolyarov V. S. , Cren T. , Debontridder F. , Brun C. , Veshchunov I. S. , Skryabina O. V. , Rusanov A. Yu. , Roditchev D.
Published: May 2014

We apply ultrahigh vacuum Scanning Tunneling Spectroscopy (STS) at ultra-low temperature to study proximity phenomena in metallic Cu in contact with superconducting Nb. In order to solve the problem of Cu-surface contamination, Cu(50 nm)/Nb(100 nm) structures are grown by respecting the inverted order of layers on SiO2/Si substrate. Once transferred into vacuum, the samples are cleaved at the structure-substrate interface. As a result, a contamination-free Cu-surface is exposed in vacuum. It enables high-resolution STS of superconducting correlations induced by proximity from the underlying superconducting Nb layer. By applying magnetic field, we generate unusual proximity-induced superconducting vortices and map them with a high spatial and energy resolution. The suggested method opens a way to access local electronic properties of complex electronic mesoscopic devices by performing ex situ STS under ultrahigh vacuum.
Polarity-inverted ScAlN film growth by ion beam irradiation and application to overtone acoustic wave (000-1)/(0001) film resonators
Authors: Suzuki Masashi , Yanagitani Takahiko , Odagawa Hiroyuki
Published: May 2014

Polarity inversion in wurtzite film is generally achieved by the epitaxial growth on a specific under-layer. We demonstrate polarity inversion of c-axis oriented ScAlN films by substrate ion beam irradiation without using buffer layer. Substrate ion beam irradiation was induced by either sputtering a small amount of oxide (as a negative ion source) onto the cathode or by applying a RF bias to the substrate. Polarity of the films was determined by a press test and nonlinear dielectric measurement. Second overtone thickness extensional mode acoustic resonance and suppression of fundamental mode resonance, indicating complete polarity inversion, were clearly observed in bilayer highly oriented (000-1)/(0001) ScAlN film.
Tunneling effects in the kinetics of helium and hydrogen isotopes desorption from single-walled carbon nanotube bundles
Authors: Danilchenko B. A. , Yaskovets I. I. , Uvarova I. Y. , Dolbin A. V. , Esel'son V. B. , Basnukaeva R. M. , Vinnikov N. A.
Published: May 2014

The kinetics of desorption both helium isotopes and molecules of hydrogen and deuterium from open-ended or γ-irradiated single-walled carbon nanotube bundles was investigated in temperature range of 10–300 K. The gases desorption rates obey the Arrhenius law at high temperatures, deviate from it with temperature reduction and become constant at low temperatures. These results indicate the quantum nature of gas outflow from carbon nanotube bundles. We had deduced the crossover temperature below which the quantum corrections to the effective activation energy of desorption become significant. This temperature follows linear dependence against the inverse mass of gas molecule and is consistent with theoretical prediction.
Ignition probability of polymer-bonded explosives accounting for multiple sources of material stochasticity
Authors: Kim S. , Barua A. , Horie Y. , Zhou M.
Published: May 2014

Accounting for the combined effect of multiple sources of stochasticity in material attributes, we develop an approach that computationally predicts the probability of ignition of polymer-bonded explosives (PBXs) under impact loading. The probabilistic nature of the specific ignition processes is assumed to arise from two sources of stochasticity. The first source involves random variations in material microstructural morphology; the second source involves random fluctuations in grain-binder interfacial bonding strength. The effect of the first source of stochasticity is analyzed with multiple sets of statistically similar microstructures and constant interfacial bonding strength. Subsequently, each of the microstructures in the multiple sets is assigned multiple instantiations of randomly varying grain-binder interfacial strengths to analyze the effect of the second source of stochasticity. Critical hotspot size-temperature states reaching the threshold for ignition are calculated through finite element simulations that explicitly account for microstructure and bulk and interfacial dissipation to quantify the time to criticality (tc) of individual samples, allowing the probability distribution of the time to criticality that results from each source of stochastic variation for a material to be analyzed. Two probability superposition models are considered to combine the effects of the multiple sources of stochasticity. The first is a parallel and series combination model, and the second is a nested probability function model. Results show that the nested Weibull distribution provides an accurate description of the combined ignition probability. The approach developed here represents a general framework for analyzing the stochasticity in the material behavior that arises out of multiple types of uncertainty associated with the structure, design, synthesis and processing of materials.
Reconciling macro- with nano- carrier mobility measurements in organic photovoltaic blends
Authors: Omar Yamila M. , Maragliano Carlo , Chiesa Matteo , Al Ghaferi Amal , Stefancich Marco
Published: May 2014

Conductive atomic force microscopy (CAFM) is a valuable tool for electrical characterization of organic photovoltaics. However, the quantitative interpretation of the data is complicated by an apparent disagreement between the carrier mobilities calculated by CAFM and those determined by macroscopic measurements, with no apparent physical explanation for the discrepancy. In the present work, the space charge limited current model (specifically Mott-Gurney law) and its assumptions are assessed, and a physical model reconciling this discrepancy is proposed. Its applicability on the tip-sample system used in CAFM measurements is discussed, by accounting for the high electric fields arising around the tip of the CAFM probe and affecting carrier mobility. Charge carrier mobility is calculated from current-voltage curves obtained from conductive atomic force microscopy spectroscopy scans done on Poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl): 95% PC70BM ([6,6]-Phenyl-C71-butyric acid methyl ester)/5% PC60BM ([6,6]-Phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester) samples for different concentration ratios of donor and acceptor. We show that charge carrier mobilities obtained with this model are in satisfactory agreement with macroscopic measurements available in literature.
Resolving the mystery of transport within internal transport barriers
Authors: Staebler G. M. , Kinsey J. E. , Belli E. A. , Candy J. , Waltz R. E. , Greenfield C. M. , Lao L. L. , Smith S. P. , Grierson B. A. , Chrystal C.
Published: May 2014

The Trapped Gyro-Landau Fluid (TGLF) quasi-linear model [G. M. Staebler, et al., Phys. Plasmas 12, 102508 (2005)], which is calibrated to nonlinear gyrokinetic turbulence simulations, is now able to predict the electron density, electron and ion temperatures, and ion toroidal rotation simultaneously for internal transport barrier (ITB) discharges. This is a strong validation of gyrokinetic theory of ITBs, requiring multiple instabilities responsible for transport in different channels at different scales. The mystery of transport inside the ITB is that momentum and particle transport is far above the predicted neoclassical levels in apparent contradiction with the expectation from the theory of suppression of turbulence by E×B velocity shear. The success of TGLF in predicting ITB transport is due to the inclusion of ion gyro-radius scale modes that become dominant at high E×B velocity shear and to improvements to TGLF that allow momentum transport from gyrokinetic turbulence to be faithfully modeled.
Improved transmittance in metal-dielectric metamaterials using diffraction grating
Authors: Sreekanth K. V. , De Luca A. , Strangi G.
Published: May 2014

In this Letter, we experimentally demonstrate the possibility to obtain an improved transmittance from metal-dielectric multilayer metamaterials at optical frequencies. In order to achieve this goal, a properly designed one-dimensional silver diffraction grating has been fabricated on top of two different multilayer structures such as Au/Al2O3 and Au/SiO2. It has been observed that the improved transmittance at various resonant wavelength bands is possible from the metal-dielectric metamaterials when it is coupled with a properly designed metallic diffraction grating. The obtained results can be expected to find variety of potential applications including high-efficiency solar cells.
At the heart of cognition, communication, and language
Authors: Tay Dennis
Published: May 2014

Cognitive, communicative, and linguistic forces have been theorized to inhere in all metaphor use in real world contexts, with Steen (2011) describing these forces as constitutive and interacting ‘dimensions’ of metaphor. This paper proposes that cognition, communication, and language should be seen not just as crucial dimensions of individual metaphoric utterances, but also of their circumstances and contexts of use. In other words, purposive real world discourse activities impose various demands of a cognitive, communicative, and linguistic nature on speakers, and these shape the characteristics of metaphors used in definitive ways. I characterize the discourse activity of psychotherapy along the three dimensions, and show how the strategic use and management of metaphors in psychotherapy is, and ought to be, determined by interacting cognitive, communicative, and linguistic considerations. From this, I suggest that the effectiveness of therapeutic metaphors can be evaluated in terms of their “discourse career” (Steen, 2011, p. 54) over a series of therapy sessions. I conclude by highlighting the value of psychotherapy to metaphor study, and of metaphor study to psychotherapeutic practice.
Strong pseudoprimes to the first eight prime bases
Authors: Jiang Yupeng , Deng Yingpu
Published: May 2014

Define

ψ
m

\psi _m

to be the smallest strong pseudoprime to the first

m
m

prime bases. The exact value of

ψ
m

\psi _m

is known for

1
≤
m
≤
8

1\le m \le 8

. Z. Zhang has found a 19-decimal-digit number

Q

11

=
3825

12305

65464

13051

Q_{11}=3825\,12305\,65464\,13051

which is a strong pseudoprime to the first 11 prime bases and he conjectured that

ψ
9

=

ψ

10

=

ψ

11

=

Q

11

.

\psi _9=\psi _{10}=\psi _{11}=Q_{11}.

We tabulate all the strong pseudoprimes

n
≤

Q

11

n\le Q_{11}

to the first eight prime bases, and prove Zhang’s conjecture.
Reply to Efford on ‘Integrating resource selection information with spatial capture–recapture’
Authors: Royle J. Andrew , Chandler Richard B. , Sun Catherine C. , Fuller Angela K.
Published: May 2014

We proposed (Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 2013, 4) a model for combining telemetry data with spatial capture–recapture (SCR) data that was vigorously criticized by Efford (Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 2014, 000, 000). Efford's main claim was that our encounter probability model was incorrect, and therefore our R code and simulation results were wrong.

In fact, our encounter probability model is correct under the Poisson point process model that we used as a basis for our integrated model. On the other hand, the basis for Efford's claims clearly rest on the assumption of an alternative model which, while possibly useful, is distinct from that analysed in Royle et al. (Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 2013, 4).

A key point of Royle et al. (Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 2013, 4) was that active resource selection induces heterogeneity in encounter probability which, if unaccounted for, should bias estimates of population size or density. The models of Royle et al. (Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 2013, 4) and Efford (Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 2014, 000, 000) merely amount to alternative models of resource selection, and hence varying amounts of heterogeneity in encounter probability.
The evaluation of secretion volume and immunoglobulin A and G concentrations in sow colostrum from anterior to posterior teats
Authors: Ogawa Shohei , Tsukahara Takamitsu , Tsuruta Takeshi , Nishibayashi Ryoichiro , Okutani Mie , Nakatani Masako , Higashide Kaya , Iida Shiori , Nakanishi Nobuo , Ushida Kazunari , Inoue Ryo
Published: May 2014

Among domestic animals, teat order is only observed in the pig. In order to achieve the healthy growth and weaning of piglets, it is important to elucidate if volume of colostrum secretion and immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgG concentrations differ among the teats of a sow. Nine sows were used to evaluate the difference in colostrum secretion volume (CSV) and four of these sows were assessed for IgA and IgG concentrations from each teat. Samples were collected five times during 21 h following parturition. Teats were assigned anatomical locations of teat (1 to 7) from anterior to posterior. The CSV of anterior (locations 1 and 2) and middle teats (locations 3–5) was significantly higher than those of posterior teats (locations 6 and 7) throughout the experiment except for 18 h post‐parturition (P < 0.05). The CSV of the teats at location 1 was significantly higher at most collection times than those at locations 6 and 7. A positive correlation of CSV was observed with IgA and IgG concentrations from 12 h and 6 h post‐parturition, respectively (P < 0.05). The results suggest that anterior teats secrete greater volumes of colostrum and that these tend to contain higher IgA and IgG than posteriors teats.
Bovine growth hormone gene polymorphism affects stress response in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Tachi Noriko , Tanaka Sigefumi , Ardiyanti Astrid , Katoh Kazuo , Sato Shusuke
Published: May 2014

We investigate the associations between growth hormone (GH) gene polymorphism and behavioral and physiological responses to stressors and learning ability in Japanese Black cattle. Flight distance test was conducted in the first experiment. Steers with haplotype C of GH gene polymorphism avoided human approaches at a significantly greater distance than ones without haplotype C (C: 1.9 ± 0.9, non‐C: 1.0 ± 0.2 m, P < 0.05). An open‐field test was conducted in the second experiment. Behavioral responses did not differ significantly between steers with and without haplotype C. Increases of heart rates to dropping of iron pipes was significantly higher in steers with haplotype C (C:161.7 ± 21.8, non‐C:130.7 ± 31.3%, P < 0.05). Despite basal serum concentrations not being different between steers with and without haplotype C, serum cortisol in blood sampling immediately after severe confinement in a race tended to be higher in steers with haplotype C (P = 0.1). The maze test was conducted as the third experiment. There was no difference in performance in the maze test between steers with and without haplotype C. It is concluded that genetic polymorphism of GH may affect stress responses through GH concentration in steers.
Effects of dietary supplementation of lipid‐encapsulated zinc oxide on colibacillosis, growth and intestinal morphology in weaned piglets challenged with enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli
Authors: Kwon Chang‐Hoon , Lee Chul Young , Han Seung‐ Jae , Kim Sung‐Jae , Park Byung‐Chul , Jang Insurk , Han Jeong‐Hee
Published: May 2014

This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of lipid‐encapsulated (coated) zinc oxideZnOon post‐weaning diarrhea (colibacillosis) in weaned piglets challenged with enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC). Thirty‐two 35‐day‐old weaned piglets were orally challenged with 3 × 1010colony forming units ofETEC K88 while eight piglets received no challenge (control). Each eight challenged piglets received a diet containing 100 ppmZnO(lowZnO), 2500 ppmZnO(highZnO) or 100 ppm of lipid (10%)‐coatedZnO(coatedZnO) for 7 days; control pigs received the lowZnOdiet. Daily gain, goblet cell density in the villi of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum, and villus height in the jejunum and ileum, which decreased due to the challenge, were equally greater in the coatedZnOand highZnOgroups versus lowZnOgroup. Fecal consistency score, serum interleukin‐8 concentration, subjective score of fecalE. colishedding, and digestapHin the stomach, jejunum and ileum, which increased due to the challenge, were equally low in the coatedZnOand highZnOgroups versus lowZnO. Results suggest that a low level of coatedZnOmight well substitute for a pharmacological level of nativeZnOin dietary supplementation to alleviate colibacillosis of weaned piglets.
Prospective observational cohort study of the association between thromboelastometry, coagulation and platelet parameters and bleeding in patients with haematological malignancies‐ The ATHENA study
Authors: Estcourt Lise J. , Stanworth Simon J. , Harrison Paul , Powter Gillian , McClure Marianne , Murphy Michael F. , Mumford Andrew D.
Published: May 2014

Previous studies have shown that total platelet count (TPC) inadequately predicts bleeding in thrombocytopenic patients with haematological malignancies. This prospective cohort study evaluated whether rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), coagulation or other platelet parameters were more strongly associated with bleeding than TPC. Adults treated at two UK haematology centres for haematological malignancy were enrolled if they had thrombocytopenia (TPC ≤ 50 × 109/l) at beginning of, or during treatment (International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number 81226121). TPC and bleeding symptoms were recorded daily for up to 30 d or until platelet count recovery, hospital discharge or death. Blood samples were tested thrice weekly using ROTEM, Platelet Function Analyser (PFA)‐100®, coagulation and platelet cytometry assays. Bleeding symptoms and TPC from 49/50 enrolled participants who completed the study were recorded on 754/760 study days. Mean platelet volume and PFA‐100® closure times were frequently inestimatable because of thrombocytopenia. TPC, absolute immature platelet number (AIPN) and ROTEM maximum clot firmness were significantly associated with bleeding on the day after blood sampling. Only AIPN was associated with bleeding after adjustment of test results for TPC (Odds Ratio 0·52, 95% confidence interval 0·28–0·97; P = 0·038). In a predictive model, AIPN was superior to TPC for predicting bleeding. This study indicates that AIPN may be more clinically useful than TPC at predicting bleeding.
“Apparently I've Got Low Self‐Esteem”: Schoolgirls' Perspectives On a School‐Based Public Health Intervention
Authors: Kvist Lindholm Sofia , Zetterqvist Nelson Karin
Published: May 2014

This article focuses on a psycho‐educational programme, DISA, currently practised in the Swedish schools to prevent girls from developing depressive symptoms. We draw on group interviews with schoolgirls to explore how they describe DISA and how an understanding of the programme is constructed through their arguments. We demonstrate how the girls' version of DISA highlights a contradiction in the intervention that is traceable to the theoretical underpinnings of the programme and the mix of traditions — treatment and prevention — that constitute the intervention. We discuss problematic aspects of DISA and outline implications for policy practice.
Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Omani Children
Authors: Al‐Sinani Siham , Sharef Sharef W. , Al‐Naamani Khalid , Al‐Sharji Hyatt
Published: May 2014

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the most common chronic bacterial infection in humans. Its prevalence in Omani adults and children is not known.

Objective

To report histology‐based H. pylori infection prevalence in Omani children.

Methods

A retrospective study of biopsy proven H. pylori infection in children over a 3 year period in a single center. Age, gender, indication for endoscopy, history of recurrent abdominal pain, and anemia were compared between H. pylori‐positive and negative children.

Results

Of 143 patients who underwent endoscopy, gastric biopsies were available on 112. The overall prevalence of biopsy proven H. pylori infection was 25%. The prevalence in children with recurrent abdominal pain was 30% compared to 22% in children who underwent endoscopy for other indications (p = .382). The prevalence increased from 7% in children aged <5 years, to 33% in those aged between 5 and 10 years (p = .010). There was no significant difference in the prevalence between the 5–10 years age group (33%) and older age group (29%) (p = .814). There was no significant difference in gender or anemia between the two groups.

Conclusions

This study represents the first reported study on the prevalence of biopsy proven H. pylori infection in Omani children. H. pylori infection prevalence is 25%, is lower than regional and many Arab countries. The prevalence appears to increase till age of 5 years. There was no significant association between H. pylori and recurrent abdominal pain, gender, or anemia.
Inhibition of acidic sphingomyelinase reduces established hepatic fibrosis in mice
Authors: Quillin Ralph C. , Wilson Gregory C. , Nojima Hiroyuki , Freeman Christopher M. , Wang Jiang , Schuster Rebecca M. , Blanchard John A. , Edwards Michael J. , Gandhi Chandrashekhar R. , Gulbins Erich , Lentsch Alex B.
Published: May 2014

Aim

Liver fibrosis occurs as a result of several chronic liver diseases and leads to portal hypertension, cirrhosis and liver failure, often requiring liver transplantation. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are known to contribute to liver fibrosis, but currently there are no effective therapies for the treatment of established liver fibrosis. Activation of the acidic sphingomyelinase (ASM) has been shown to be involved in HSC activation. In the present study we investigated whether treatment with the ASM inhibitor, amitriptyline (TCA), could prevent and/or reverse fibrosis induced in mice by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4).

Methods

Mice were treated with CCl4 for 8 weeks to induce fibrosis. Concurrently, mice received drinking water with or without 180 mg/L TCA.

Results

Mice receiving TCA in the water had decreased hepatic collagen deposition and reduced liver mRNA expression of the fibrogenic mediators, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase‐1, collagen and tumor necrosis factor‐α. TCA treatment also reduced HSC activation determined by α‐smooth muscle actin staining. In a separate set of experiments, mice were treated with CCl4 for 5 weeks prior to treatment with TCA, to test whether TCA had any effect on established fibrosis. Remarkably, in mice with established fibrosis, treatment with TCA significantly reduced collagen deposition, HSC activation, and prevented portal hypertension and improved hepatic architecture. Treatment of isolated HSC in vitro with TCA completely inhibited TGF‐β1‐induced collagen expression and platelet‐derived growth factor‐β‐β‐induced proliferation.

Conclusion

The data suggest that ASM is a critical signaling component in HSC for the development of liver fibrosis and represents an important therapeutic target.
Nanostructured Tin Oxide as a Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrate for the Detection of Nitroaromatic Compounds
Authors: Vijayarangamuthu Kalimuthu , Rath Shyama
Published: May 2014

Sensing of low concentrations of two nitroaromatic compounds, 1,2‐dinitrotoluene and 2‐nitrophenol, is presented. The sensing mechanism is based on surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) using nanostructured tin oxide as the SERS‐active substrate. The SnOx nanostructures are synthesized by a simple solgel method and doped with Ag and Au. The Raman signal of a low concentration of the analyte, otherwise extremely weak, becomes significant when the analytes are attached to these substrates. Doping of SnOx nanopowders with Ag and Au leads to a further increase in the Raman intensities. This study demonstrates the scope of ceramic–metal nanocomposites as convenient solid‐state SERS sensors for low‐level detection.
Audit Quality Effects of an Individual Audit Engagement Partner Signature Mandate
Authors: Blay Allen D. , Notbohm Matthew , Schelleman Caren , Valencia Adrian
Published: May 2014

The European Union recently mandated that audit engagement partners sign their name to the audit opinion. However, there is little evidence demonstrating whether such a mandate had any influence on audit quality. We examine the audit quality effects of a partner signature mandate by comparing multiple measures of audit quality in years after adoption of an audit partner signature mandate in the Netherlands, a country with no tradition of partner signatures, to the audit quality in years prior to adoption, as well as to the United Kingdom, a country with a similar legal and accounting environment, but which did not adopt partner‐level signatures at the same time. We detect no substantial change in audit quality using multiple measures and sample selection criteria. Although a null result cannot demonstrate that no effect exists, power tests suggest the lack of an economically significant effect. Our results support the arguments of practitioners who believe that mandatory partner signatures will not influence audit quality.
The spatial selection of heterogeneous quality: An approach using different demand elasticities
Authors: Chen Ching‐mu , Zeng Dao‐Zhi
Published: May 2014

This paper incorporates heterogeneous demand elasticities and the quality/skill complementarity of production in a footloose capital model in order to explain the spatial selection of firms with differentiated quality. We find that when trade becomes freer, high‐quality firms agglomerate in the region that accommodates more high‐skilled labor, whereas low‐quality firms move to the region that hosts more low‐skilled labor. If trade freeness is high, the spatial separation of high‐ and low‐quality firms occurs. This paper also points out the positive effect of integration on welfare owing to the specialization of product quality.
Bayesian Nash equilibrium in “linear” Cournot models with private information about costs
Authors: Hurkens Sjaak
Published: May 2014

Calculating closed‐form solutions of general Cournot models where firms have private information about costs is very cumbersome. Most authors therefore consider linear demands and constant marginal costs. However, within this framework, the non‐negativity constraint on prices (and quantities) has not been properly dealt with and the correct calculation of all Bayesian Nash equilibria is more complicated than expected. Moreover, multiple symmetric and interior Bayesian equilibria may exist for an open set of parameters. The reason for this is that linear inverse demand is not really linear, since there is a kink at zero price: rather than .
Experts, conflicts of interest, and reputation for ability
Authors: Pavesi Filippo , Scotti Massimo
Published: May 2014

We analyze a model of cheap talk in which an expert who faces a conflict of interest with a decision maker is concerned about establishing a reputation for having accurate information. In this environment, an increase in reputation above a certain threshold always makes truthful revelation more difficult to achieve, since experts with greater reputation can more easily sway the beliefs of decision makers in a desired direction. Thus, higher levels of reputation exacerbate the incentives of biased experts to misreport their private information. Decision makers may therefore be better off consulting less reputable experts when conflicts are more pronounced.
Occupational Downgrading and Wages of New Member States Immigrants to Ireland
Authors: Voitchovsky Sarah
Published: May 2014

This paper explores the importance of occupational downgrading in explaining the pay gap of New Member States (NMS) immigrants to Ireland by taking advantage of two data sources, the Census and the Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC). The study identifies biases in the coverage of NMS immigrants in SILC that dampen their estimated earnings disadvantage. Corrections to population weights are suggested. These adjustments have a significant impact on results, increasing both the size of the wage penalty of NMS immigrants and the extent to which the pay gap can be explained by occupational downgrading. A replication of published results for the UK reveals similar patterns of penalties for NMS workers in both countries. Factors that may explain the concentration of NMS workers in low-skill/low-wage occupations are discussed.
Extramedullary Spinal Cysts in Dogs
Authors: Lowrie Mark L. , Platt Simon R. , Garosi Laurent S.
Published: May 2014

Objective

To (1) synthesize the terminology used to classify extramedullary spinal cysts in dogs to clarify some of the commonly reported misconceptions, and (2) propose a classification scheme to limit confusion with terminology.

Study design

Literature review.

Methods

An online bibliographic search was performed in January 2013 for articles relating to extramedullary spinal cysts in dogs using PubMed (http://www.pubmed.gov/) and Google Scholar (http://scholar.google.com/) databases. Only peer‐reviewed clinical literature describing cystic lesions pertaining to the spinal cord and associated structures was included.

Results

From 1962 to 2013, 42 articles were identified; 25 (95 dogs) reported meningeal cysts, 10 (24 dogs) described 60 extradural cysts, 3 reports (18 dogs) described discal cysts or acute compressive hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusions (HNPE). Spinal cysts were categorized by location based on cross‐sectional imaging as meningeal or extradural non‐meningeal. Sub‐classification was then performed based on surgical findings and pathology. Meningeal cysts included arachnoid diverticulae and Tarlov (perineural) cysts. Extradural non‐meningeal cysts included intraspinal cysts of the vertebral joints, ligaments and discs. Discal cysts also fit this category and have been reported extensively in humans but appear rare in dogs.

Conclusions

Extramedullary spinal cysts should be first classified according to location with a sub‐classification according to pathologic and surgical findings. Previous canine cases of discal cysts appear to represent a different disease entity and the term acute compressive HNPE is therefore preferred.
Rheological Properties of Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) Juice Concentrates
Authors: Swami Hulle Nishant R. , Patruni Kiran , Rao P. Srinivasa
Published: May 2014

Flow characteristics of aloe vera juice concentrates (1.5–5.5°Brix) were determined over a range of temperatures (15–55C) by using coaxial cylinder geometry. Aloe vera juice exhibited non‐Newtonian fluid behavior which was well described by power law model. Functional groups were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicating the presence of O‐acetyl and shifting of –CH bonds. Effect of test temperatures at different shear rates on viscosity was evaluated using Arrhenius‐type equation and the activation energy values were evaluated which ranged between 12.148 and 53.073 kJ/mol. Effect of concentration was evaluated using power type and exponential type equations. An expression for combined effect of temperature and concentration was developed. Small amplitude oscillation sweep measurement was also carried out and the frequency sweep test exhibited viscoelastic nature of juice.

Practical Applications

Aloe vera is commercially very important crop and is being used in food, medicines and cosmetics. Rheological properties are important parameters and are used to assess the functional and structural properties of food products. In this study, the flow and deformation characteristics of aloe vera juice concentrates were evaluated as a function of temperature and concentration. An expression for the combined effect of concentration and temperature on the viscosity was evaluated. Oscillatory sweep experiments can be used to assess the viscoelastic properties, which are useful to develop the products of desired functionalities. The changes in functional groups due to concentration can be assessed using FTIR spectroscopy analysis.
Mazes and Maps: Can Young Children Find Their Way?
Authors: Jirout Jamie J. , Newcombe Nora S.
Published: May 2014

Games provide important informal learning activities for young children, and spatial game play (e.g., puzzles and blocks) has been found to relate to the development of spatial skills. This study investigates 4‐ and 5‐year‐old children's use of scaled and unscaled maps when solving mazes, asking whether an important aspect of spatial learning—the ability to use scaled representations—is related to children's play with scaled maps. Results show that almost all children used the maps to solve the mazes at least occasionally, and use them consistently across maze difficulty and different types of maps. Map use and more accurate spatial scaling were associated with better maze performance. We suggest that maze activities including scaled maps might provide an opportunity for developing children's spatial scaling through play, and discuss future research directions.
Comparative Safety of Periablation Anticoagulation Strategies for Atrial Fibrillation: Data from a Large Multicenter Study
Authors: ARSHAD AYSHA , JOHNSON CHRISTOPHER K. , MITTAL SUNEET , BUCH ERIC , HAMAM ISMAIL , TRAN THANH , SHAW RICHARD E. , MUSAT DAN , PREMINGER MARK , SICHROVSKY TINA , HERWEG BENGT , SHIVKUMAR KALYANAM , HUMMEL JOHN , STEINBERG JONATHAN S.
Published: May 2014

Background

There are a variety of periprocedural anticoagulation strategies for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, including the use of dabigatran. It is unclear which strategy is superior.

Objective

To compare the safety and efficacy of anticoagulation with uninterrupted warfarin, dabigatran, and warfarin with heparin bridging in patients undergoing ablation of AF at four experienced centers.

Methods and Results

In this retrospective analysis, 882 patients (mean age: 61 ± 11 years) underwent ablation of AF using uninterrupted warfarin (n = 276), dabigatran (n = 374), or warfarin with heparin bridging (n = 232) for periprocedural anticoagulation. The rate of total complications was 23/276 (8.3%) in the uninterrupted warfarin group, 30/374 (8.0%) in the dabigatran group, and 29/232 (12.5%) in the bridged group (P = 0.15). Major complications were more frequent in the uninterrupted warfarin group 12/276 (4.3%) compared with 3/374 (0.8%) in dabigatran and 6/232 (2.6%) in the bridged group (P = 0.01). The most common major complication was the need for transfusion or occurrence of major bleeding. Minor complications did not differ among the three groups. On multivariate analysis, female gender (odds ratio [OR] 1.93, confidence interval [CI] 1.16–3.19, P = 0.011), bridging heparin (OR 2.13, CI 1.100–3.941, P = 0.016), use of triple antithrombotic therapy (OR 1.77, CI 1.05–2.98, P = 0.033), and prior myocardial infarction (OR 2.40, CI 1.01–5.67, P = 0.046) independently predicted total complications.

Conclusions

When comparing the use of uninterrupted warfarin, dabigatran, and warfarin with heparin bridging in patients undergoing catheter ablation of AF, dabigatran was not associated with increased risk, major complications were more common in the uninterrupted warfarin group, and after adjustment, warfarin with bridging increased total complications.
BUREAUCRATIC VALUES AND RESILIENCE: AN EXPLORATION OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT ADAPTATION
Authors: STARK ALASTAIR
Published: May 2014

The concept of resilience has gained currency as a motif under which governments have sought to improve their responses to crises. At the heart of this agenda is an understanding that crisis management must be adaptable. Yet crises continue to expose the intransigent nature of central bureaucracies. This article addresses this issue by exploring how bureaucratic values can affect the ability of agents to adapt to the challenges of crises. Data are generated from a series of interviews with crisis managers who operate in a policy chain that connects the European Union to the United Kingdom. The data indicate that two well‐entrenched bureaucratic value‐sets, relating to efficiency and procedural rationality, have profound consequences for the resilience agenda.
An 8‐month exercise intervention alters frontotemporal white matter integrity in overweight children
Authors: Schaeffer David J. , Krafft Cynthia E. , Schwarz Nicolette F. , Chi Lingxi , Rodrigue Amanda L. , Pierce Jordan E. , Allison Jerry D. , Yanasak Nathan E. , Liu Tianming , Davis Catherine L. , McDowell Jennifer E.
Published: May 2014

In childhood, excess adiposity and low fitness are linked to poor academic performance, lower cognitive function, and differences in brain structure. Identifying ways to mitigate obesity‐related alterations is of current clinical importance. This study examined the effects of an 8‐month exercise intervention on the uncinate fasciculus, a white matter fiber tract connecting frontal and temporal lobes. Participants consisted of 18 unfit, overweight 8‐ to 11‐year‐old children (94% Black) who were randomly assigned to either an aerobic exercise (n = 10) or a sedentary control group (n = 8). Before and after the intervention, all subjects participated in a diffusion tensor MRI scan. Tractography was conducted to isolate the uncinate fasciculus. The exercise group showed improved white matter integrity as compared to the control group. These findings are consistent with an emerging literature suggesting beneficial effects of exercise on white matter integrity.
OsABCB14 functions in auxin transport and iron homeostasis in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Xu Yanxia , Zhang Saina , Guo Haipeng , Wang Suikang , Xu Ligen , Li Chuanyou , Qian Qian , Chen Fan , Geisler Markus , Qi Yanhua , Jiang De An
Published: May 2014

Members of the ATP Binding Cassette B/Multidrug‐Resistance/P–glyco‐protein (ABCB/MDR/PGP) subfamily were shown to function primarily in Oryza sativa (rice) auxin transport; however, none of the rice ABCB transporters have been functionally characterized. Here, we describe that a knock‐down of OsABCB14 confers decreased auxin concentrations and polar auxin transport rates, conferring insensitivity to 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4–D) and indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA). OsABCB14 displays enhanced specific auxin influx activity in yeast and protoplasts prepared from rice knock‐down alleles. OsABCB14 is localized at the plasma membrane, pointing to an important directionality under physiological conditions. osabcb14 mutants were surprisingly found to be insensitive to iron deficiency treatment (–Fe). Their Fe concentration is higher and upregulation of Fe deficiency‐responsive genes is lower in osabcb14 mutants than in wild‐type rice (Nipponbare, NIP). Taken together, our results strongly support the role of OsABCB14 as an auxin influx transporter involved in Fe homeostasis. The functional characterization of OsABCB14 provides insights in monocot auxin transport and its relationship to Fe nutrition.
New Competence Creation in Multinational Company Subunits: The Role of International Knowledge
Authors: Cantwell John , Piscitello Lucia
Published: May 2014

It has been demonstrated that more creative innovative activities of subunits of multinational companies (MNCs) rely upon the munificence of local knowledge in the host country. Here, we argue that the strength of international business network connections of a host location influences the potential accessibility of international knowledge and hence tends to widen the domain of new knowledge search that can be successfully undertaken by anMNCsubunit. This in turn increases the likelihood of anMNCsubunit building new areas of competencies, that is, in fields of competencies which are relatively new to theMNC. Specifically, we suggest that the relevant international business network connections are those involving local actors in theMNCsubunit's relevant industry. Moreover, geographical proximity betweenMNCsubunits and their parent company has an inverse U‐shaped relationship with new competence creation by subunits. Using a balanced panel data set on innovative activities conducted abroad by 194 of the world's largest industrial firms from 1975 to 1995, we find support for our expectations.
Isolated secondary CNS relapse in a case of stage I diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Najjar Yana G , Mittal Kriti , Faza Nadeen N , Dushkin Holly , Peereboom David M
Published: May 2014

A 55-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a 10-day history of right arm weakness and numbness. The patient's medical history was notable for lobular carcinoma in situ of the right breast in 2008 and stage I diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the left axilla. The patient had completed treatment with chemotherapy and radiation 2 months prior to presentation. Blood counts, metabolic panel and lumbar puncture were unremarkable. MRI of the brain revealed multiple enhancing masses. The patient was started on dexamethasone, with rapid symptom improvement. A stereotactic brain biopsy revealed CD20 diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The patient was started on high-dose intravenous methotrexate. She has received 11 cycles and has regained near normal function of the right arm. The patient's most recent brain MRI showed near complete resolution of all previously seen abnormal foci of enhancement.
Primary gallbladder lymphoma presenting as a polyp
Authors: Acharya Vikas , Ngai Joyce , Whitelaw Douglas , Motallebzadeh Reza
Published: May 2014

We present an unusual case of a 75-year-old woman, with no significant medical history, presenting with ongoing weight loss and change in bowel habit. Her physical examination and initial blood tests were all normal, and, therefore, radiographic imaging was undertaken. Ultrasound and CT of the abdomen confirmed a gallbladder polyp and a laparoscopic cholecystectomy was subsequently performed. Histological analysis confirmed primary gallbladder lymphoma. This case report is the first to present gallbladder lymphoma presenting as a polyp. The authors discuss the incidence, presentation and management of gallbladder lymphoma.
Paraesophageal hiatus hernia in an 8-month-old infant with organoaxial volvulus of the stomach
Authors: Rai Birendra , Ahmed Rabab , Amer Nazia , Sharif Farhana
Published: May 2014

Paraesophageal hiatus hernia is an extremely rare variety of hiatus hernia and it is rarely seen in the paediatric age group. We present an instance of this hernia in which an 8-month-old female infant was admitted with a history of ongoing vomiting and irritability since past 7 days. The subsequent imaging study showed paraesophageal hiatus hernia with twisting of the stomach along its longitudinal axis (organoaxial volvulus). Subsequent surgical repair led to the resolution of symptoms. This kind of volvulus is rare in hiatus hernia and once detected it requires prompt surgical management. Given the asymptomatic presentation of hiatus hernia clinicians need to realise that this can be associated with volvulus of stomach which, if left unrepaired, can lead to severe complications. Thus, prompt consideration is necessary with timely surgical referral to alleviate this rare but important variety of hiatus hernia.
Caffeine, but not bicarbonate, improves 6 min maximal performance in elite rowers
Authors: Christensen Peter M. , Petersen Mads H. , Friis Signe N. , Bangsbo Jens
Published: May 2014

This study examined the ergogenic effects in a 6 min maximal performance test (PT) on 12 elite rowers: 6 open-weight (mean ± SD; 25 ± 1 years, and 92 ± 3 kg) and 6 light-weight (25 ± 3 years, and 73 ± 6 kg), following supplementation with caffeine (CAF), sodium bicarbonate (SB), and the combination of both, in a double-blind randomized placebo (PLA) controlled design. PT was executed on 4 occasions, on separate days within a week, and in a non-fasted state, with standardized training being performed the day before PT. Protocols were as follows: (i) CAF, 3 mg/kg, 45 min prior to PT + calcium as SB-PLA; (ii) SB, 0.3 g/kg, 75 min prior to PT + dextrose as CAF-PLA; (iii) CAF + SB; and (iv) PLA; CAF-PLA + SB-PLA. The total distance in the CAF (1878 ± 97 m) and CAF + SB (1877 ± 97 m) was longer than in the PLA (1865 ± 104 m; P < 0.05) and SB (1860 ± 96 m; P < 0.01). The mean power in CAF (400 ± 58 W) and CAF + SB (400 ± 58 W) was higher than the PLA (393 ± 61 W; P < 0.05) and SB (389 ± 57 W; P < 0.01). In CAF and CAF + SB, power was higher (P < 0.05) relative to PLA in the last half (4–6 min) of PT. Trials with CAF were more effective in light-weight rowers (1.0% ± 0.8% improvement in distance; P < 0.05) than in open-weight rowers (0.3% ± 0.8%; P > 0.05). No difference between interventions was observed for readiness and stomach comfort before PT and perceived exertion during PT. This study demonstrates that caffeine ingestion does improve performance in elite rowing. In contrast sodium bicarbonate does not appear to be ergogenic, but it does not abolish the ergogenic effect of caffeine.
First-principles prediction of a new high pressure polymorph of theBaSi2compound
Authors: Beddiaf Raouf , Djaballah Yassine , Bouderba Hichem , Belgacem-Bouzida Aissa
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we present a study of the structural stability of BaSi2under high pressure based on first-principles calculations using the projector augmented wave method and generalized gradient approximation as implemented in the ABINIT code. The equations of state of three known polymorphs of BaSi2and four candidate structures are calculated along with their structural parameters and their enthalpies of formation. A new polymorph of BaSi2, not yet reported experimentally, is found to be more stable than all the other structures at high pressure and 0 K. It corresponds to the MgZn2-type (h) hexagonal structure with hP12 Pearson symbol (space group: P63/mmc. The stiffness coefficients Bijand elastic properties including bulk modulus B0with its first and second pressure derivative (B′, B′′), Young's modulus (E) and Poisson's ratio (ν) are computed using the stress–strain method.
Traveling wave solution of the Hele–Shaw model of tumor growth with nutrient
Authors: Perthame Benoît , Tang Min , Vauchelet Nicolas
Published: May 2014

Several mathematical models of tumor growth are now commonly used to explain medical observations and predict cancer evolution based on images. These models incorporate mechanical laws for tissue compression combined with rules for nutrients availability which can differ depending on the situation under consideration, in vivo or in vitro. Numerical solutions exhibit, as expected from medical observations, a proliferative rim and a necrotic core. However, their precise profiles are rather complex, both in one and two dimensions.

We study a simple free boundary model formed of a Hele–Shaw equation for the cell number density coupled to a diffusion equation for a nutrient. We can prove that a traveling wave solution exists with a healthy region separated from the progressing tumor by a sharp front (the free boundary) while the transition to the necrotic core is smoother. Remarkable is the pressure distribution which vanishes at the boundary of the proliferative rim with a vanishing derivative at the transition point to the necrotic core.