bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation, Structural Characterization, and Thermal Analysis of Nitrogen‐rich Energetic Ionic Salts based on 4‐Amino‐3‐hydrazino‐5‐mercapto‐1, 2,4‐triazole
Authors: Ting Wu Jin , Guo Zhang Jian , Yin Xin , Lai Zhang Tong
Published: September 2014

Two heterocyclic‐based energetic ionic salts were synthesized from 4‐amino‐3‐hydrazino‐5‐mercapto‐1, 2,4‐triazole (1), which was used as proton bases reacting with nitric or perchloric acid. They were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In addition, their combustion heats were measured by oxygen bomb calorimetry and their heats of formation were predicted based on the combustion heats data. The non‐isothermal kinetics parameters were calculated by Kissinger's method and Ozawa‐Doyle's method, respectively. The critical temperature of thermal explosion and the thermodynamic parameters were also obtained by DSC results. The energetic properties and thermal analyses confirmed that the two salts maybe have potential application in the field of energetic materials.
Non‐innocent Redox Behavior of Amidinato Ligands: Spectroscopic Evidence for Amidinyl Complexes
Authors: Ehret Fabian , Bubrin Martina , Záliš Stanislav , Kaim Wolfgang
Published: September 2014

The compounds [RuII(bmaa–)(bpy)2](PF6) [1(PF6)], [RuII(bmaa–)(Cym)Cl] (2), and [RuII(bmaa–)(Cym)(py)](PF6) [3(PF6)] [bmaa– = N,N′‐bis(4‐methoxyphenyl)acetamidinato, bpy = 2,2'‐bipyridine, Cym = p‐cymene, py = pyridine] were studied spectroelectrochemically (EPR, UV/Vis) to reveal metal‐centered oxidation for 1+ but bmaa–‐based oxidation to yield amidinyl ligands in 2+ and 32+.
Tb2Al3Ge3, a New Partly Disordered Structure Type with Al3 Triangles
Authors: Gladyshevskii Roman , Lutsyshyn Yuriy , Černý Radovan , Cenzual Karin
Published: September 2014

Using X‐ray diffraction it was established that the actual composition of the ternary compound reported as “TbAl2Ge” is close to Tb2Al3Ge3 (refined Tb2Al3.039(1)Ge3). Differential thermal analysis showed that the compound exists in a narrow temperature range from 618 to 748 °C. The crystal structure was determined from X‐ray powder and single‐crystal diffraction data. An initial model was constructed from CaAl2Si2‐ and AlB2‐ (or LiBaSi‐) type slabs. A more detailed investigation revealed that, instead of LiBaSi‐type slabs (where the small atoms form planar nets), the structure contains ScAuSi‐type slabs (corrugated nets), where 1/6 of the Tb atoms have been removed in an ordered way, leading to a rhombohedral superlattice. The final structure represents a new structure type: Pearson symbol hR234–41.06, space group R$\bar{3}$c, a = 7.2432(3), c = 87.998(8) Å. Part of the Al atoms in the Tb‐deficient ScAuSi‐type slabs occupy a site that forms Al3 triangles. The structure of Tb2Al3Ge3 is thus closely related to the rhombohedral ErNi3Al9 and orthorhombic Y2Co3Ga9 structure types, which contain one‐atom thick Er2Al3 (Y2Ga3) layers formed by rare‐earth metal atoms and Al3 (Ga3) triangles. Compounds isotypic with Tb2Al3Ge3 were found in the systems Y‐Al‐Ge and Gd‐Al‐Ge.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Rutile‐type ScTa2O5N
Authors: Cosgun Sevilay , Rohloff Martin , Göbel Caren , Gernert Ulrich , Fischer Anna , Lerch Martin
Published: September 2014

A new phase in the system Sc‐Ta‐O‐N was synthesized by reaction of an amorphous oxide precursor with a gaseous NH3/O2 mixture at 800 °C. Crystal structure determination was performed using X‐ray powder data. ScTa2O5N crystallizes in the tetragonal space group P42/mnm (rutile‐type structure) and exhibits a brilliant yellow color (optical bandgap: 2.67 eV), making it a promising material for photocatalytical water splitting. Further investigation methods (SEM, TEM, and N2‐physisorption) were applied for more detailed characterization of the new phase. Unfortunately, the new compound could not be prepared as pure phase. So far a phase purity of ca. 90 % was the best result.
New Injury Severity Score Is a Better Predictor of Mortality for Blunt Trauma Patients Than the Injury Severity Score
Authors: Eid Hani O. , Abu‐Zidan Fikri M.
Published: September 2014

Background

Trauma‐related mortality depends on injury severity. Several trauma scores are used to evaluate injury severity. We compared the Injury Severity Score (ISS) and the New Injury Severity Score (NISS) in terms of predicting mortality among hospitalized blunt trauma patients.

Methods

The data of Al‐Ain Hospital Trauma Registry were prospectively collected over 3 years. Data of blunt trauma patients were then analyzed retrospectively. Univariate analysis was used to compare patients who died with those who survived. Sex, age, mechanism of injury, heart rate, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and Glasgow Coma Score (GSC) on arrival at the hospital, ISS, and NISS were studied. Significant factors were then entered into a direct likelihood ratio logistic regression model.

Results

Of 2,573 patients in the registry, 2,115 (82.2 %) suffered blunt trauma at a mean (SD) age of 32 (15.3) years. Among them, 1,838 (87 %) were male. Main mechanisms of injury were road traffic collision (vehicle occupants) (32.8 %) and falling from a height (22.4 %). Fifty patients (2.4 %) died. Univariate analysis showed that GCS and SBP at hospital arrival, ISS, NISS, and mechanism of injury significantly affected mortality. Logistic regression model showed that mortality was significantly increased by low GCS (p < 0.0001), high NISS (p < 0.0001), and low SBP (p = 0.006) at hospital arrival.

Conclusions

Mortality of blunt trauma in the UAE is significantly affected by high NISS, low GCS, and hypotension. NISS is better than ISS for predicting mortality of blunt trauma patients and may replace it.
Triple‐Step Laparoscopic Incisional Hernia Repair: Midline Suture Closure Supported by Dorsal Component Separation and Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh Reinforcement
Authors: Strey Christoph W.
Published: September 2014

Incisional hernias remain a surgical challenge when balancing surgical morbidity, functional restoration, and risk of recurrence. Laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) placement reduces postoperative wound infections and allows fast patient recovery. Yet, current IPOM techniques do not achieve closure of the midline hernia gap, thereby increasing the risk of persistent mesh bulging with poor abdominal wall function. We propose a novel triple‐step hernia repair technique that includes tension‐free midline reconstruction. It is achieved through laparoscopic dorsal component separation and laparoscopic suture closure of the midline with a 1.0 polydioxanone suture sling. Combining dorsal abdominal wall component separation, a midline closure with adequate suture strength, and IPOM reinforcement merges the benefits of open and laparoscopic hernia repair. This triple‐step technique allows static and functional laparoscopic abdominal wall reconstruction.
Colonic complications following human bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Hernández-Magro Paulino Martínez , Esparza Juan Pablo Peña Ruiz , Sáenz Eduardo Villanueva , Ramírez José Luis Rocha , Morales Enrique Gómez , Hermagnus Isaac Felemovicius
Published: September 2014

Background Human bone marrow transplantation (BMT) becomes an accepted treatment of leukemia, aplastic anemia, immunodeficiency syndromes, and hematologic malignancies. Colorectal surgeons must know how to determine and manage the main colonic complications.

Objective To review the clinical features, clinical and pathological staging of graft vs host disease (GVHD), and treatment of patients suffering with colonic complications of human bone marrow transplantation.

Patients and methods We have reviewed the records of all patients that received an allogeneic bone marrow transplant and were evaluated at our Colon and Rectal Surgery department due to gastrointestinal symptoms, between January 2007 and January 2012. The study was carried out in patients who developed colonic complications, all of them with clinical, histopathological or laboratory diagnosis.

Results The study group was constituted by 77 patients, 43 male and 34 female patients. We identified colonic complications in 30 patients (38.9%); five patients developed intestinal toxicity due to pretransplant chemotherapy (6.4%); graft vs. host disease was present in 16 patients (20%); 13 patients (16.8%) developed acute colonic GVHD, and 3 (3.8%) chronic GVHD. Infection was identified in 9 patients (11.6%).

Conclusions The three principal colonic complications are the chemotherapy toxicity, GVHD, and superinfection; the onset of symptoms could help to suspect the type of complication (0–20 day chemotherapy toxicity, 20 and more GVHD), and infection could appear in any time of transplantation.
Bursting water balloons
Authors: Lund Hugh M. , Dalziel Stuart B.
Published: September 2014

The impact and rupture of a water-filled latex balloon on a flat, rigid surface is investigated using high-speed photography. Three distinct stages of the flow are observed, for which physical explanations are given. As the balloon lands and deforms, waves are formed on the balloon’s surface for which the restoring force is tension in the latex. These waves are shown to closely obey linear potential theory for constant surface tension. Should the balloon rupture, a crack forms, from which the membrane retracts. Spray is simultaneously ejected from the water’s surface, a consequence of a shear instability in the wake behind the retracting membrane. At later times, a larger-scale growth of the interfacial amplitude is observed, for which the generation mechanism is momentum in the water due to the preburst waves. However, it is argued that this is also a manifestation of the same mechanism that drives Richtmyer–Meshkov instability (RMI). Further, it is shown experimentally that this growth of the interface may also occur when there is no density difference across the balloon, a situation that does not arise for the standard RMI. An analytical model is then derived to predict the interfacial growth for such an interface, and is shown to predict the asymptotic growth rate of the interface accurately.
Interlayer Coupling Effect on Buckling Modes of Spherical Bilayers
Authors: Sato M. , Konishi Y. , Park S.-J.
Published: September 2014

This study examined the critical buckling characteristics of hydrostatically pressurized double-walled complete spherical shells. An analytical model based on small deflection thin shell theory is presented; the equations are solved in conjunction with variational principles. Axisymmetric and inextensional assumptions are not initially used in the exact formulation. This approach therefore avoids any discussion about the validity of the solution and allows the model to be extended to cover more generic nonaxisymmetric cases with relative ease. The analytical results are presented using illustrative buckling modes. Based on the developed formulation, only axisymmetric eigenmodes were found to occur despite the inclusion of the effect of interactions between outer and inner shells. Critical modes that are symmetric or antisymmetric about the equator may be determined depending on the combination of the stiffness connecting the outer and inner shells and the radius-to-wall thickness ratios.
Prospective Evaluation of Factors Predicting Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms Among Korean Americans
Authors: Kim Sun S , Fang Hua , McKee Sherry A. , Ziedonis Douglas
Published: September 2014

Introduction:This study examined factors predicting nicotine withdrawal symptoms following quitting among Korean American smokers who were receiving counseling and nicotine replacement therapy.

Methods:The sample comprised 90 Korean American smokers selected from a two-arm randomised controlled trial of a smoking cessation intervention (culturally adapted versus treatment as usual). Nicotine withdrawal symptoms were assessed weekly for the first four weeks from the target quit day, using the Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Scale (MNWS). Only those who participated in two or more weekly assessments of the symptoms were included.

Results:Among the nine withdrawal symptoms listed in the MNWS, craving and disturbed sleep decreased over time whereas the remaining symptoms had no significant effect of time. Women or individuals who perceived greater risks of quitting smoking reported more withdrawal symptoms after controlling for abstinence status. Although withdrawal symptoms did not change, on average, with time, the rates of change varied randomly across individuals. Women reported more withdrawal symptoms in the first week after quitting and showed a higher rate of decline of the symptoms over time than men.

Conclusions:Korean American smokers who are women or who perceive greater risks of quitting smoking may require more intensive treatment to effectively deal with post-quit withdrawal symptoms.
Landau fluid closures with nonlinear large-scale finite Larmor radius corrections for collisionless plasmas
Authors: Sulem P. L. , Passot T.
Published: September 2014

With the aim to develop a tool for simulating turbulence in collisionless magnetized plasmas, fluid models retaining low-frequency kinetic effects such as Landau damping and finite Larmor radius (FLR) corrections are discussed. It turns out that, in the absence of ion-cyclotron resonance, the dispersion and damping of kinetic Alfvén waves at scales as small as a fraction of the ion Larmor radius are accurately reproduced when using fluid estimates of the non-gyrotropic moments, at leading-order within a large-scale asymptotics. Differently, evaluations based on the low-frequency linear kinetic theory are necessary in regimes of large temperature anisotropies, and in particular in the presence of the mirror instability. Combining both descriptions leads to a new Landau fluid model retaining large-scale FLR nonlinearities, while reproducing the linear dynamics of low-frequency modes at the sub-ionic scales.
On the genetic background of the Rbbl bn Hfʿm grave inscription at Qaryat al-Fāw
Authors: Al-Jallad Ahmad
Published: September 2014

It is widely believed that the Rbbl bn Hfʿm grave inscription found at Qaryat al-Fāw is the earliest example of Old Arabic. The ten-line inscription – written in the Sabaic script – attests the common Arabic definite article, ʾl, plus several other non-Sabaic linguistic features. I argue that the definite article is not a suitable diagnostic of genetic affiliation, and other features, such as mimation, the conjunction ʿdky, and more, should also be given consideration. Through a close linguistic examination based on the principle of shared morphological innovations, I demonstrate that none of the morphological innovations which characterize Arabic are attested in this inscription. As such, its language is probably not a descendant of proto-Arabic. Our results further suggest that the ʾl- article, which has previously been used as a marker of Arabic, was simply one of many definite article forms which spread to Arabic, and other Semitic languages of Arabia, through areal diffusion.
DOMAIN EXTENSIONS OF THE ERLANG LOSS FUNCTION: THEIR SCALABILITY AND ITS APPLICATIONS TO COOPERATIVE GAMES
Authors: Karsten Frank , Slikker Marco , van Houtum Geert-Jan
Published: September 2014

We prove that several extensions of the classic Erlang loss function to non-integral numbers of servers are scalable: the blocking probability as described by the extension decreases when the offered load and the number of servers s are increased with the same relative amount, even when scaling up from integral s to non-integral s. We use this to prove that when several Erlang loss systems pool their resources for efficiency, various corresponding cooperative games have a non-empty core.
Precise Indoor Positioning and Attitude Determination using Terrestrial Ranging Signals
Authors: Jiang Wei , Li Yong , Rizos Chris
Published: September 2014

This paper presents the results of a new multipath mitigating antenna “V-Ray” for use with terrestrial ranging signals in severe multipath indoor environments. The V-Ray antenna – as used in the Locata positioning system – forms tight beams that provide line-of-sight range measurements as well as azimuth measurements. To take advantage of these two types of measurements a new navigation algorithm – Position and Attitude Modelling System (PAMS) – is proposed for processing carrier phase and azimuth measurements via an unscented Kalman filter. The PAMS can output the complete navigation parameters of position, velocity, acceleration and attitude simultaneously. The indoor test was conducted in a metal warehouse and the results confirmed that the horizontal positioning solutions had an accuracy of better than four centimetres and an orientation accuracy of better than 1°.
The Changing Ethics of Climate Change
Authors: Mittler Daniel
Published: September 2014

Many in the environmental movement have argued in recent years that in order to speed up climate actions we should take the ethics out of the climate change debate. Focusing on the moral obligation to act or on the effects of climate change on the most vulnerable was often judged to render the discourse too “heavy,” “negative,” or “difficult.” Many also deemed it unnecessary. After all, renewable energies, better designed cities that allow for reduced car use, and power plant regulations that lead to cleaner local air—to take just three examples—all have real and substantial benefits unrelated to the fact that they are “the right thing to do” in the face of climate change. They create jobs, reduce health problems and costs, and make society fitter.
Mineralogy and formation of evaporite deposits from the Lewis Cliff ice tongue, Antarctica
Authors: Liu Tingting , Bish David L. , Socki Richard A. , Harvey Ralph P. , Tonui Eric
Published: September 2014

The mineralogy of evaporites from the Lewis Cliff ice tongue (LCIT), Antarctica, and their mineral stabilities and transformation behaviours under different temperature and relative humidity (RH) conditions have been evaluated to elucidate formation mechanism(s). A variety of sodium (Na)-rich evaporite minerals were documented using RH-controlled powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods including Na-sulfates (mirabilite and thenardite), Na-carbonate/bicarbonates (nahcolite, occasional trona and natron) and Na-borates (qilianshanite and borax). Mirabilite begins to dehydrate to thenardite, and natron to trona and natrite when exposed to room temperature, even when maintained at RH values similar to those measured at the LCIT (50–70%). The boron-mineral qilianshanite was discovered for the first time in Antarctica within the evaporite mounds. The mirabilite-rich mounds are deduced to have formed via a freezing/sublimation process that occurred in glacial or subglacial bodies of water supplied by glacial tills containing microbially oxidized sulfate ions. The needle-like nahcolite crystals growing on the exteriors of the mounds suggest a dissolution/precipitation process involving atmospheric CO2 and water. The co-existence of nahcolite and boron-bearing minerals indicates the presence of a Na+-, HCO3-- and boron-bearing alkaline brine, which produces qilianshanite as a secondary mineral by reaction of nahcolite and borax in atmospheric CO2 and H2O.
Analysis of the Doppler frequency feature of aero deception active-passive-jamming
Authors: HONGXUN WANG , HONGWEI WANG , XING WANG , CHAO WANG
Published: September 2014

Active-Passive-Jamming (APJ) is formed by a chaff decoy reflecting jamming signals from an aircraft's active-ECM jammer. The effectiveness of APJ depends on many factors, one of which is the jamming signal's frequency feature. In this paper, we discuss and analyse APJ's frequency feature in a typical given offense-defense scenario for the case where the ECM jammer adopted is velocity gate pull off (VGPO), which is a kind of deception jamming technique. Our results show that the APJ's frequency feature depends not only on the jamming techniques of the jammer, but also on the Native Doppler Frequency (NDF), which is related to the relative positions, distances, angles and velocities of the jammer, radar and chaff decoy. We also carried out simulations, and the results show that the APJ mode can be useful for jamming an enemy radar.
Dynamic analysis and numerical simulation of a discrete model of a bistable system
Authors: YANG DINGXIN , HU ZHENG
Published: September 2014

Numerical simulation is the generally used method for studying stochastic resonance (SR), which is a kind of non-linear phenomenon that usually occurs in non-linear bistable systems. It has been found that the input signal needs to be over-sampled during the numerical simulation of SR. In this paper we provide an explanation of this phenomenon based on a stability analysis of the bistable system. We begin by studying the stability of a discrete model of a bistable system in numerical simulations. We then give a theoretical derivation of the stability conditions for the simulation model with different parameters, and carry out numerical experiments to show that the results coincide with the predictions of the theory. We explain why the input signal needs to be over-sampled in the simulation and provides guidelines for the choice of system parameters for the bistable system and the sampling time step in the numerical simulation of SR. Finally, we present the results of simulations showing an example of SR occurring in a bistable system and an example of weak periodic signal detection when it is processed by a bistable system.
The design of an IMC-PID controller based on MEOTF and its application to non-square processes with time delay
Authors: JIN QIBING , CAO LITING , HE KUN , WANG KEWEN , JIANG BEIYAN
Published: September 2014

It is difficult to design a controller directly for non-square multi-variable systems with time delay. In the current paper, we propose a new design method for an Internal Model Control PID controller based on a modified effective open-loop transfer function (MEOTF) for non-square processes with time delay. The MEOTF method is used to decompose the complex non-square process into several equivalent independent single-input/single-output processes. Using the Taylor Particle Swarm Optimisation (Taylor-PSO) model reduction method, the MEOTF of the non-square process is approximated by a reduced order form. The reduced form of the MEOTF is then used to design the Internal Model Control PID controller, which is then used for the original non-square process. To improve the robust stability, a first-order filter is added in the feedback loop. Finally, we present simulation results showing the validity and reliability of this method. In particular, our method has a strong anti-interference characteristic and retains its good control performance in the presence of model perturbation and interference.
Optimised assignment of airport gate configurations using an immune genetic algorithm
Authors: WANG LI , ZHU QI-LIN , XU XIAO-FANG
Published: September 2014

The function of airport gate assignment is to assign appropriate gates for arrival and departure flights and to ensure the flights are on schedule. A key task of airport ground operations is assigning the airport gate with high efficiency and a reasonable arrangement. In this paper we establish an optimised model based on the characteristics of both the flights (the flight type, flight down time and the number of passengers) and the airport gates (the ease of access of the airport gate). We give a representation of the solution space and a direct graph model of the airport gate configuration based on dynamic scheduling parallel machines. We design a method for solving the airport gate configuration based on an immune genetic algorithm. The simulation results show the effectiveness of this model and algorithm.
Bayesian theory based software reliability demonstration test method for safety critical software
Authors: WU YUMEI , YANG RISHENG , LI HAIFENG , LU MINYA
Published: September 2014

The original software reliability demonstration test (SRDT) does not take adequate account of prior knowledge or the prior distribution, which can lead to an expensive use of many resources. In the current paper, we propose a new improved Bayesian based SRDT method. We begin by constructing a framework for the SRDT scheme, then we use decreasing functions to construct the prior distribution density functions for both discrete and continuous safety-critical software, and then present schemes for both discrete and continuous Bayesian software demonstration functions (which we call DBSDF and CBSDF, respectively). We have carried out a set of experiments comparing our new schemes with the classic demonstration testing scheme on several published data sets. The results reveal that the DBSDF and CBSDF schemes are both more efficient and more applicable, and this is especially the case for safety-critical software with high reliability requirements.
Conceptualizing the Impact of Special Events on Community Health Service Levels: An Operational Analysis
Authors: Lund Adam , Turris Sheila A. , Bowles Ron
Published: September 2014

Mass gatherings (MG) impact their host and surrounding communities and with inadequate planning, may impair baseline emergency health services. Mass gatherings do not occur in a vacuum; they have both consumptive and disruptive effects that extend beyond the event itself. Mass gatherings occur in real geographic locations that include not only the event site, but also the surrounding neighborhoods and communities. In addition, the impact of small, medium, or large special events may be felt for days, or even months, prior to and following the actual events. Current MG reports tend to focus on the events themselves during published event dates and may underestimate the full impact of a given MG on its host community.

In order to account for, and mitigate, the full effects of MGs on community health services, researchers would benefit from a common model of community impact. Using an operations lens, two concepts are presented, the “vortex” and the “ripple,” as metaphors and a theoretical model for exploring the broader impact of MGs on host communities. Special events and MGs impact host communities by drawing upon resources (vortex) and by disrupting normal, baseline services (ripple). These effects are felt with diminishing impact as one moves geographically further from the event center, and can be felt before, during, and after the event dates. Well executed medical and safety plans for events with appropriate, comprehensive risk assessments and stakeholder engagement have the best chance of ameliorating the potential negative impact of MGs on communities.

LundA,TurrisSA,BowlesR.Conceptualizing the impact of special events on community health service levels: an operational analysis.Prehosp Disaster Med.2014;29(5):1-7.
Emergency Medical Support for a Manned Stratospheric Balloon Test Program
Authors: Blue Rebecca S. , Norton Sean C. , Law Jennifer , Pattarini James M. , Antonsen Erik L. , Garbino Alejandro , Clark Jonathan B. , Turney Matthew W.
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Red Bull Stratos was a commercial program that brought a test parachutist, protected by a full-pressure suit, in a stratospheric balloon with pressurized capsule to over 127,582 ft (38,969 m), from which he free fell and subsequently parachuted to the ground. Given that the major risks to the parachutist included ebullism, negative Gz (toe-to-head) acceleration exposure from an uncontrolled flat spin, and trauma, a comprehensive plan was developed to recover the parachutist under nominal conditions and to respond to any medical contingencies that might have arisen. In this report, the project medical team describes the experience of providing emergency medical support and crew recovery for the manned balloon flights of the program.

Methods

The phases of flight, associated risks, and available resources were systematically evaluated.

Results

Six distinct phases of flight from an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) standpoint were identified. A Medical Support Plan was developed to address the risks associated with each phase, encompassing personnel, equipment, procedures, and communications.

Discussion

Despite geographical, communications, and resource limitations, the medical team was able to implement the Medical Support Plan, enabling multiple successful manned balloon flights to 71,615 ft (21,828 m), 97,221 ft (29,610 m), and 127,582 ft (38,969 m). The experience allowed refinement of the EMS and crew recovery procedures for each successive flight and could be applied to other high altitude or commercial space ventures.

BlueRS, NortonSC, LawJ, PattariniJM, AntonsenEL, GarbinoA, ClarkJB, TurneyMW. Emergency medical support for a manned stratospheric balloon test program. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2014;29(5):1-6.
Prevalence and association of female weight status and dietary habits with sociodemographic factors: a cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khalaf Atika , Westergren Albert , Berggren Vanja , Ekblom Örjan , Al-Hazzaa Hazzaa M
Published: September 2014

Objective

Research about the prevalence of underweight and overweight/obesity in the Saudi Arabian female population is limited. The aim of the present study was to examine the dietary habits and the prevalence of underweight and overweight/obesity and associated factors among female university students.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

A university centre for female students in south-western Saudi Arabia.

Subjects

The study involved 663 randomly selected female university students who self-reported their physical activities, nutritional habits and socio-economic factors. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with the students’ BMI, dietary variables, underweight and overweight/obesity.

Results

The majority of the university females were normal weight (56·9 %), but a high prevalence of underweight (19·2 %) and overweight/obesity (23·8 %) occurred. Social factors significantly associated with BMI were the presence of obese parents and siblings as well as physical activity levels, marital status, number of sisters, father’s level of education and more frequent intake of French fries/potato chips (>3 times/week). Several variables were found to correlate with dietary habits, underweight and overweight/obesity. Of special interest is the association between the number of siblings and the participants’ BMI and dietary intake in both negative and positive ways.

Conclusions

The findings of this research have implications for health promotion and prevention of malnutrition among college-aged females. Health-care providers and policy makers need to involve the whole family when promoting females’ physical activity. The study serves as an evidence-based background for planning and implementation of interventions targeting improvement of highly educated populations’ nutritional habits.
Shorter lunch breaks lead secondary-school students to make less healthy dietary choices: multilevel analysis of cross-sectional national survey data
Authors: Townsend Nicholas
Published: September 2014

Objective

At the time of the study a number of schools within Wales had shortened the amount of time they allow for lunch break. The study investigated the association between length of lunch break and the dietary choices of students in secondary schools.

Design

Student-level data, collected through anonymised questionnaires, included reported dietary choices and correlates of these; data on school approaches to food were collected through postal surveys. Multilevel analysis was used to study the independent association between lunch-break length and student dietary choice.

Setting

Data were collected from secondary schools in Wales that were part of the 2005/2006 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study.

Subjects

The final sample for analysis included data from 6693 students aged 11–16 years and 289 teachers from sixty-four secondary schools in Wales.

Results

Once controlling for many individual-level and school-level factors, the length of time allowed for lunch across the range for schools included in the study (minimum =25 min, maximum =62·5 min) was associated with higher odds of students eating fruit for lunch (2·20; 95 % CI 1·18, 4·11) and fruit and vegetables on a daily basis (2·15; 95 % CI 1·33, 3·47) but lower odds of eating unhealthy foods on a daily basis (0·44; 95 % CI 0·24, 0·80).

Conclusions

Shorter lunch breaks are associated with less healthy dietary choices by students. Schools should consider the impact that lunch-break length has on student dietary choice as well as on other behaviours. Policy makers should work with schools in encouraging them to maintain lunch breaks of a length that allow pupils to make healthy choices.
The criminalisation of symbols of the past: expression, law and memory
Authors: Fijalkowski Agata
Published: September 2014

This paper examines the criminalisation of symbols of the past. It considers the 2011 judgment of the Polish Constitutional Tribunal. In this compact and well-ordered decision, the Tribunal, with reference to key European examples, assessed critically the constitutionality of criminal law provisions that prohibit the dissemination and public use of symbols of the past pertaining to fascist, Communist or other totalitarian content. Its ruling, which found amendments to the law in Poland that tightened up restrictions on the use of totalitarian symbols to be unconstitutional, is considered within three important contexts: first, the broad European context, where the concept of totalitarian crimes has become subject to EU human rights legislation relating to the freedom of expression; second, the context of post-dictatorial Europe, where specific states have addressed the use of totalitarian symbols in their respective criminal laws; and finally, the context of transitional justice, where criminalising symbols of the past has become a central and permanent feature in European narratives about justice. Significantly, these cases reveal the temporal element of transitional justice. The paper discusses the two case-studies most relevant to Poland, namely those in Germany and Hungary. Reference is also made to the Baltic States, which, together with Poland, have made a concerted effort to bring the notion of totalitarian crimes and histories to the attention of Europe. The paper concurs with the contention that cases concerning the use of symbols provide an excellent illustration of where memory and law intersect. Using historical, comparative and contextual methodologies the paper demonstrates the legal and philosophical complexities of criminal uses of symbolism, the political realities, and the key dimension of transitional justice and its relationship to expression, law and memory.
Rights and constituent power in the global constitution
Authors: Thornhill Chris
Published: September 2014

Using an approach derived from sociological functionalism, this paper proposes a distinctive reconstruction both of the history of constitutionalism and of the changing form of constitutional law in global society. It argues that constitutional norms form adaptive principles for stabilising the inclusionary legal and political functions of society. Classical patterns of legal/political inclusion tended to rely on democratic forms of will formation (constituent power). Contemporary patterns of legal/political inclusion rely, in contrast, on rights. The shift in emphasis from constituent power to rights forms the constitutional foundation for the emerging global political system.
Physical Illness and Suicide Risk in Rural Residents of Contemporary China
Authors: Jia Cun-Xian , Wang Lin-Lin , Xu Ai-Qiang , Dai Ai-Ying , Qin Ping
Published: September 2014

Background: Physical illness is linked with an increased risk of suicide; however, evidence from China is limited. Aims: To assess the influence of physical illness on risk of suicide among rural residents of China, and to examine the differences in the characteristics of people completing suicide with physical illness from those without physical illness. Method: In all, 200 suicide cases and 200 control subjects, 1:1 pair-matched on sex and age, were included from 25 townships of three randomly selected counties in Shandong Province, China. One informant for each suicide or control subject was interviewed to collect data on the physical health condition and psychological and sociodemographic status. Results: The prevalence of physical illness in suicide cases (63.0%) was significantly higher than that in paired controls (41.0%; χ2 = 19.39, p < .001). Compared with suicide cases without physical illness, people who were physically ill and completed suicide were generally older, less educated, had lower family income, and reported a mental disorder less often. Physical illness denoted a significant risk factor for suicide with an associated odds ratio of 3.23 (95% CI: 1.85–5.62) after adjusted for important covariates. The elevated risk of suicide increased progressively with the number of comorbid illnesses. Cancer, stroke, and a group of illnesses comprising dementia, hemiplegia, and encephalatrophy had a particularly strong effect among the commonly reported diagnoses in this study population. Conclusion: Physical illness is an important risk factor for suicide in rural residents of China. Efforts for suicide prevention are needed and should be integrated with national strategies of health care in rural China.
Unequivocal identification of intracellular aluminium adjuvant in a monocytic THP-1 cell line
Authors: Mold Matthew , Eriksson Håkan , Siesjö Peter , Darabi Anna , Shardlow Emma , Exley Christopher
Published: September 2014

Aluminium-based adjuvants (ABA) are the predominant adjuvants used in human vaccinations. While a consensus is yet to be reached on the aetiology of the biological activities of ABA several studies have identified shape, crystallinity and size as critical factors affecting their adjuvanticity. In spite of recent advances, the fate of ABA following their administration remains unclear. Few if any studies have demonstrated the unequivocal presence of intracellular ABA. Herein we demonstrate for the first time the unequivocal identification of ABA within a monocytic T helper 1 (THP-1) cell line, using lumogallion as a fluorescent molecular probe for aluminium. Use of these new methods revealed that particulate ABA was only found in the cell cytoplasm. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that ABA were contained within vesicle-like structures of approximately 0.5–1 μm in diameter.
Quantification of DNA through a fluorescence biosensor based on click chemistry
Authors: Yue Guiyin , Ye Huazhen , Huang Xijing , Ye Wenmei , Qiu Suyan , Qiu Bin , Lin Zhenyu , Chen Guonan
Published: September 2014

A simple, sensitive and selective fluorescence biosensor for determination of DNA using CuS particles based on click chemistry is reported.
Highly-sensitive and rapid determination of protocatechuic aldehyde based on the electrochemical enhancement of activated silica gel
Authors: Chen Xuerong , Wu Kangbing , Zhou Yikai
Published: September 2014

A highly-sensitive electrochemical method was developed for the determination of protocatechuic aldehyde (PAL) based on the remarkable signal enhancement of activated silica gel.
Determination of newly synthesized lipoic acid–fasudil dimer in rat plasma by LC-MS/MS and its application to pharmacokinetics study
Authors: Hou Waner , Liu Guanghui , Sun Xiuman , Xie Zhiyong , Pi Rongbiao , He Wei , Lin Manna , Liao Qiongfeng
Published: September 2014

The aim of the present work was to develop and validate an LC-MS/MS method with electrospray ionization (ESI) for the quantification of lipoic acid–fasudil dimer (L–F 001), a novel multi-functional neuroprotective drug in rat plasma, using tetrahydropalmatine as an internal standard.
Alkaline earth catalysis for the 100% atom-efficient three component assembly of imidazolidin-2-ones
Authors: Arrowsmith Merle , Shepherd William M. S. , Hill Michael S. , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele
Published: September 2014

A variety of functionalised imidazolidin-2-ones may be synthesised under very mild reaction conditions using non-toxic and cost-effective alkaline earth bis(amide) pre-catalysts in a 100% atom-efficient, intermolecular one-pot assembly from inexpensive alkyne and cumulene reagents.
Gas–liquid interface-mediated room-temperature synthesis of “clean” PdNiP alloy nanoparticle networks with high catalytic activity for ethanol oxidation
Authors: Wang Rongfang , Ma Yuanyuan , Wang Hui , Key Julian , Ji Shan
Published: September 2014

PdNiP alloy nanoparticle networks prepared via a gas–liquid interface reaction had markedly high activity and durability for ethanol oxidation.
A highly versatile convergent/divergent “onion peel” synthetic strategy toward potent multivalent glycodendrimers
Authors: Sharma Rishi , Kottari Naresh , Chabre Yoann M. , Abbassi Leïla , Shiao Tze Chieh , Roy René
Published: September 2014

Both convergent and divergent strategies for the synthesis of “onion peel” glycodendrimers are reported which resulted in one of the best multivalent ligands known against the virulent factor from a bacterial lectin isolated from Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A cytotoxic and cytostatic gold(iii) corrole
Authors: Teo Ruijie D. , Gray Harry B. , Lim Punnajit , Termini John , Domeshek Elena , Gross Zeev
Published: September 2014

The bis-sulfonated Au(iii) corrole (1-Au) was found to be much more cytotoxic and cytostatic than its Ga(iii) analog 1-Ga, which might be attributed to the lower affinity of 1-Au to serum albumin.
Solvation chemical shifts of perylenic antenna molecules from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Özcan Nergiz , Mareš Jiří , Sundholm Dage , Vaara Juha
Published: September 2014

Solvent-induced carbon-13 NMR chemical shifts of nine candidate antenna molecules were analysed using a dynamic solvation model, revealing the distinct features of perimeter and inside nuclear sites.
The impact of biochar on the bioaccessibility of14C-phenanthrene in aged soil
Authors: Ogbonnaya O. U. , Adebisi O. O. , Semple K. T.
Published: September 2014

Biochar as a potential remedial tool to mitigate risk of phenanthrene exposure to biota.
Traceable assigned values in external quality assessment schemes compared to those obtained by alternative procedure: a case study for Cu, Se and Zn in serum
Authors: Patriarca Marina , Weykamp Cas , Arnaud Josiane , Jones Robert L. , Parsons Patrick J. , Taylor Andrew
Published: September 2014

International standards for the recognition of the competence of testing laboratories require that measurement results should be traceable to a conventionally agreed reference.
High precision osmium elemental and isotope measurements of North Atlantic seawater
Authors: Gannoun Abdelmouhcine , Burton Kevin W.
Published: September 2014

This study presents new Os isotope and elemental data of seawater from the North Atlantic Ocean.
Microporous metal–organic layer built from pentanuclear tetrahedral units: gas sorption and magnetism
Authors: Tan Yan-Xi , Zhang Ying , He Yan-Ping , Zheng Yan-Jun
Published: September 2014

A porous layer built by connecting orthorhombic cages with accessible metal centers shows high selectivity for CO2 over CH4.
Protein surface recognition by calixarenes
Authors: Zadmard Reza , Alavijeh Nahid S.
Published: September 2014

The present review summarizes recently developed calixarene derivatives for protein surface recognition which are able to identify, inhibit, and separate specific proteins.
Manganese ferrite nanoparticle catalyzed tandem and green synthesis of spirooxindoles
Authors: Ghahremanzadeh Ramin , Rashid Zahra , Zarnani Amir-Hassan , Naeimi Hossein
Published: September 2014

PEG-400 as a nontoxic, green and reusable solvent was used for the synthesis of novel spiro-furo-pyridine-indoline-carbonitriles in the presence of a magnetically recoverable nanocatalyst.
Fluorinated silsesquioxane-based photoresist as an ideal high-performance material for ultraviolet nanoimprinting
Authors: Lin Guanghui , Zhang Fang , Zhang Qi , Wei Jie , Guo Jinbao
Published: September 2014

A new kind of fluorinated silsesquioxane-based photoresist has been demonstrated for ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography (UV-NIL), which opens up a way to utilize simple but multi-functional component materials for developing photoresist with superior performance.
Phosphate tricyclic coumarin analogs as steroid sulfatase inhibitors: synthesis and biological activity
Authors: Kozak Witold , Daśko Mateusz , Masłyk Maciej , Pieczykolan Jerzy S. , Gielniewski Bartłomiej , Rachon Janusz , Demkowicz Sebastian
Published: September 2014

In the present work, we report convenient methods for the synthesis and biological evaluation of phosphate tricyclic coumarin derivatives as potential steroid sulfatase inhibitors.
A theoretical study on ionic liquid endohedral C540 fullerene
Authors: García Gregorio , Atilhan Mert , Aparicio Santiago
Published: September 2014

The effect of the confinement of ionic liquid (choline benzoate) cluster inside C540 fullerene has been studied through both molecular dynamic and density functional theory simulations.
Inclusion of 4-pyrrolidinopyridine derivatives in a symmetrical α,α′,δ,δ′-tetramethyl-cucurbit[6]uril and a Ba2+-driven pseudorotaxane with characteristic UV absorption changes
Authors: Yang Bo , Xiao Xin , Zhang Yun-Qian , Zhu Qian-Jiang , Xue Sai-Feng , Tao Zhu , Wei Gang
Published: September 2014

Novel pseudorotaxane have been built from TMeQ[6] and 4-pyrrolidinopyridine derivatives, and the unthreading and rethreading of the TMeQ[6] ring can be reversibly driven by Ba2+/SO42−.
Photo-responsive reversible micelles based on azobenzene-modified poly(carbonate)s via azide–alkyne click chemistry
Authors: Hu Ding , Li Yefei , Niu Yile , Li Ling , He Jingwen , Liu Xiangyu , Xia Xinnian , Lu Yanbing , Xiong Yuanqin , Xu Weijian
Published: September 2014

We provide a convenient method to construct photo-responsive poly(carbonate)s via ring-opening polymerization of cyclic carbonates followed by azide–alkyne click chemistry.
Bragg grating nanostructuring of the TiO2 layer in dye sensitized solar cells: an efficient method to enhance light harvesting
Authors: D'Amico L. , Colonna D. , De Angelis R. , Casalboni M. , De Matteis F. , Di Carlo A. , Prosposito P.
Published: September 2014

The patterned cell shows increased efficiency due to alternative light paths in the TiO2 layer arising from diffraction effects.
Nanoassembly of an amphiphilic cyclodextrin and Zn(ii)-phthalocyanine with the potential for photodynamic therapy of cancer
Authors: Conte Claudia , Scala Angela , Siracusano Gabriel , Leone Nancy , Patanè Salvatore , Ungaro Francesca , Miro Agnese , Sciortino Maria Teresa , Quaglia Fabiana , Mazzaglia Antonino
Published: September 2014

A photosensitising nanoassembly from non-ionic amphiphilic cyclodextrin and highly hydrophobic Zn-pthalocyanine with the capability to sustain the release of photosensitiser and showing photodynamic activity in cancer cells.
Nanodielectric properties of 16-MHDA self-assembled monolayers
Authors: Wang Wenxiu , Piao Hushan , Choi Dongchul , Son Yongkeun
Published: September 2014

A new type of nanodielectric was constructed, using only 16-mercaptohexadecanoic (16-MHDA) self-assembled monolayers.
CoxP compounds: electrochemical conversion/partial recombination reaction and partially disproportionated nanocomposite for Li-ion battery anodes
Authors: Kwon Hyuk-Tae , Kim Jae-Hun , Jeon Ki-Joon , Park Cheol-Min
Published: September 2014

In this report, CoxP binary compounds and their nanocomposites were synthesized using simple solid-state synthetic routes, and their potential as anode materials for Li-ion batteries was investigated.
A CdTe/CdS/ZnS core/shell/shell QDs-based “OFF–ON” fluorescent biosensor for sensitive and specific determination ofl-ascorbic acid
Authors: Huang Shan , Zhu Fawei , Xiao Qi , Su Wei , Sheng Jiarong , Huang Chusheng , Hu Baoqing
Published: September 2014

Herein we report a quantum dots (QDs)-based “OFF–ON” fluorescent biosensor for the sensitive and specific determination ofl-ascorbic acid.
Aluminum-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles with tunable near-infrared absorption/reflectance by a simple solvothermal process
Authors: Zhou Haifeng , Wang Hua , Zheng Kang , Gu Zhen , Wu Zhaofeng , Tian Xingyou
Published: September 2014

Aluminum-doped ZnO nanoparticles with tunable NIR absorption.