bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic volume attributes from time-frequency analysis
Authors: Kazmi Hussain Syed , Alam Aftab , Khan Maryam Mahsal
Published: December 2014

A seismic event can be characterized by three sets of attributes: (1) Wavelet attributes identify the event signal in a short time window. (2) Geometric attributes provide the event's spatial dip, azimuth, and curvatures. (3) Similarity or dissimilarity attributes measure the event's semblance or (1-semblance) with neighboring events along the geometry. Similarity and dissimilarity also are used to track horizons, faults, and channels. The resolution and fidelity of all attributes depend on spectra of both the seismic signal and noise that vary in time and space. Popular time-domain methods for attribute estimation are limited by their inability to filter frequency-dependent noise and adapt to changes in signal spectrum. The result is low resolution in narrow-band zones and poor fidelity in areas of low signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). Furthermore, time-domain tracking methods fail when signal shape or geometry changes rapidly in time and space. An alternative is to add the frequency dimension to time. It offers the flexibility to limit attribute estimation in the time-space-varying high-S/N frequency bands. The method is based on a recent patent for continuous amplitude and phase spectra (CAPS) transform, which provides high-fidelity and high-resolution estimates of the amplitude and phase spectra of a windowed signal. Furthermore, it adds an orthogonal set of uniformly sampled frequency dimensions at each time point. The orthogonal property and high-frequency resolution of Fourier coefficients allow time-frequency domain processing of all attributes. Geometry resolution can be improved by using phase difference to compute time delay, suppress noise by filtering in the frequency domain, and handle time-space variability by adapting the signal shape and geometry statistics to spectral change. Time-frequency processing improves resolution and continuity of geometric features through suppression of band-limited noise and dip-selective interfering events. Frequency-domain filtering of similarity or dissimilarity enables robust tracking of horizons and faults and mapping of channels. The sensitivity of geometry attributes that can detect geologic features in real data can be investigated. Attributes obtained using existing time-domain techniques can be compared with those derived from CAPS. The proposed attributes achieve higher resolution and better signal-to-noise ratio and continuity. Finally, applications of CAPS to robustly track horizons and faults and to map channels in three dimensions with minimum seeding and editing improve the interpreter's productivity.
KEGS Foundation awards 20 scholarships to Canadian students
Authors: Roth Jerry , Reford Stephen
Published: December 2014

The directors of the KEGS Foundation are pleased to announce the awarding of a near-record 20 scholarships totaling more than $16,000 to 14 undergraduate and six graduate students in geophysics at 11 Canadian universities for the 2014–2015 academic year. The amount of each scholarship ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on the recipient's merit and need and the available foundation funds.
Parallel DNA polymerase chain reaction: Synthesis of two different PCR products from a DNA template
Authors: Bhardwaj Vikash , Sharma Kulbhushan
Published: December 2014

Conventionally, in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR), oligonucleotide primers bind to the template DNA in an antiparallel complementary way and the template DNA is amplified as it is. Here we describe an approach in which the first primer binds in a parallel complementary orientation to the single-stranded DNA, leading to synthesis in a parallel direction. Further reactions happened in a conventional way leading to the synthesis of PCR product having polarity opposite to the template used. This is the first study showing that synthesis of DNA can happen also in a parallel direction. We report that from a single-stranded DNA template, two different but related PCR products can be synthesized.
Dynamics of Ebola epidemics in West Africa 2014
Authors: Evans Robin J. , Mammadov Musa
Published: December 2014

This paper investigates the dynamics of Ebola virus transmission in West Africa during 2014. The reproduction numbers for the total period of epidemic and for different consequent time intervals are estimated based on a simple linear model. It contains one major parameter - the average infectious period that defines the dynamics of epidemics.

Numerical implementations are carried out on data collected from three countries Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia as well as the total data collected worldwide. Predictions are provided by considering different scenarios involving the average times of infectiousness for the next few months and the end of the current epidemic is estimated according to each scenario.
Mythological Names and dróttkvætt Formulae II: Base-Word-Determinant Indexing
Authors: Frog -
Published: December 2014

This article explores patterns of language use in oral poetry within a variety of semantic formula. Such a formula may vary its surface texture in relation to phonic demands of the metrical environment in which it is realised. This is the second part of a four-part series based on metrically entangled kennings in Old Norse dróttkvætt poetry as primary material. Old Norse kennings present a semantic formula of a particular type which is valuable as an example owing to the extremes of textural variation that it enables. The first part in this series introduced the approach to kennings as semantic formulae and included an illustrative case study on kennings meaning ‘battle’ realising the last three metrical positions of a dróttkvætt line. This demonstrated that lexical variation in realising these formulae varied according to functional equivalence across semantic categories. The present case study advances this discussion through the examination of the metrical entanglement of the lexicon in realising the semantic formula. On the one hand, it presents evidence of the associative indexing of lexical items realising a battle-kenning of this particular metric-structural type: certain kenning base-words exhibit a preferred semantic category of determinant. On the other hand, it also presents evidence of the associative indexing of lexical items that are used for realising the metrically required rhyme in a position in the line that is outside of the semantic formula: certain kenning base-words exhibit co-occurrence with a particular rhyme-word.
Verse Forms as Bearers of Semantic Values
Authors: Dobrzyńska Teresa
Published: December 2014

Verse forms may be employed as bearers of semantic values. The present paper intends to show the richness of this resource in literary texts. The semantic values of particular verse structures are interpreted here in terms of the semiotic categories introduced by C. S. Peirce: as symptoms, symbols, or iconic signs. The basis for this kind of reflection is earlier systematic study of various verse forms and their linguistic morphology conducted by a group of Polish and Slavic researchers (as part of the Comparative Slavic Metrics programme).The semantic value can be attributed to the fact that verse forms function as filters of various linguistic units. It is why the metrical organisation of a text determines its stylistic characteristics. A verse form may be employed and interpreted in many different ways; for instance, to represent the social status of the speaker or to differentiate between various literary genres. Many metrical forms perform an iconic function. Some semantic values are derived from the intertextual relationships of a poem. Verse structure may also be seen as a kind of author’s signature. It may also be employed to perform axiological functions.
Team Scaffolds: How Mesolevel Structures Enable Role-Based Coordination in Temporary Groups
Authors: Valentine Melissa A. , Edmondson Amy C.
Published: December 2014

This paper shows how mesolevel structures support effective coordination in temporary groups. Prior research on coordination in temporary groups describes how roles encode individual responsibilities so that coordination between relative strangers is possible. We extend this research by introducing key tenets from team effectiveness research to theorize when role-based coordination might be more or less effective. We develop these ideas in a multimethod study of a hospital emergency department (ED) redesign. Before the redesign, people coordinated in ad hoc groupings, which provided flexibility because any nurse could work with any doctor, but these groupings were limited in effectiveness because people were not accountable to each other for progress, did not have shared understanding of their work, and faced interpersonal risks when reaching out to other roles. The redesign introduced new mesolevel structures that bounded a set of roles (rather than a set of specific individuals, as in a team) and gave them collective responsibility for a whole task. We conceptualized the mesolevel structures as team scaffolds and found that they embodied the logic of both role and team structures. The team scaffolds enabled small-group interactions to take the form of an actual team process with team-level prioritizing, updating, and helping, based on newfound accountability, overlapping representations of work, and belonging—despite the lack of stable team composition. Quantitative data revealed changes to the coordination patterns in the ED (captured through a two-mode network) after the team scaffolds were implemented and showed a 40% improvement in patient throughput time.
Caregiver Strain and Sensory Features in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Kirby Anne V. , White Tamira J. , Baranek Grace T.
Published: December 2014

Caring for children with disabilities contributes to increased levels of parent stress or caregiver strain. However, the potential relationship of sensory features to strain among caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities (DD) is unknown. Sensory features include overreactions, underreactions, and unusual interests in sensations, which may negatively impact family functioning. This descriptive study confirmed three caregiver strain types (i.e., objective, subjective internalized, subjective externalized) and explored differences among ASD (n  =  71) and DD (n  =  36) groups, with the ASD group reporting higher levels. Furthermore, this study explored the contribution of sensory features to caregiver strain, finding differential contributions to strain in the ASD group and covariate contributions (i.e., child cognition, mother's education) in the DD group.
Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Down Syndrome: Effects of the Dopamine Receptor D4 Gene
Authors: Mason Gina Marie , Spanó Goffredina , Edgin Jamie
Published: December 2014

This study examined individual differences in ADHD symptoms and executive function (EF) in children with Down syndrome (DS) in relation to the dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) gene, a gene often linked to ADHD in people without DS. Participants included 68 individuals with DS (7-21 years), assessed through laboratory tasks, caregiver reports, and experimenter ratings. Saliva samples were collected from the DS group and 66 children without DS to compare DRD4 allele distribution, showing no difference between the groups. When the sample with DS was stratified for ethnicity (n  =  32), the DRD4 7-repeat allele significantly related to parent and experimenter ratings, but not to laboratory assessments. These results suggest that nontrisomy genetic factors may contribute to individual differences in ADHD symptoms in persons with DS.
Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Attenuates Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction-Induced Renal Interstitial Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Wang Yanqiu , Wang Bowen , Du Feng , Su Xuesong , Sun Guangping , Zhou Guangyu , Bian Xiaohui , Liu Na
Published: December 2014

The severity of tubulointerstitial fibrosis is regarded as an important determinant of renal prognosis. Therapeutic strategies targeting tubulointerstitial fibrosis have been considered to have potential in the treatment of chronic kidney disease. This study aims to evaluate the protective effects of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a green tea polyphenol, against renal interstitial fibrosis in mice. EGCG was administrated intraperitoneally for 14 days in a mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). The results of our histological examination showed that EGCG alleviated glomerular and tubular injury and attenuated renal interstitial fibrosis in UUO mice. Furthermore, the inflammatory responses induced by UUO were inhibited, as represented by decreased macrophage infiltration and inflammatory cytokine production. Additionally, the expression of type I and III collagen in the kidney were reduced by EGCG, which indicated an inhibition of extracellular matrix accumulation. EGCG also caused an up-regulation in α-smooth muscle actin expression and a down-regulation in E-cadherin expression, indicating the inhibition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. These changes were found to be in parallel with the decreased level of TGF-β1 and phosphorylated Smad. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that EGCG could attenuate renal interstitial fibrosis in UUO mice, and this renoprotective effect might be associated with its effects of inflammatory responses alleviation and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway inhibition.
Diversifying clearcuts with green-tree retention and woody debris structures: conservation of mammals across forest ecological zones
Authors: Sullivan Thomas , Sullivan Druscilla
Published: December 2014

We tested the hypotheses (H) that on newly clearcut-harvested sites, (H1) abundance and species diversity of the forest-floor small mammal community, and (H2) abundance, reproduction, and recruitment of red-backed voles ( Vigors), would increase with higher levels of structural retention via green-tree retention (GTR) and woody debris (dispersed and constructed into windrows). Study areas were located in three forest ecological zones in southern British Columbia, Canada. For H1, mean total abundance did generally increase with the gradient of retained habitat structure. Mean species richness and diversity were similar among treatment sites but did show an increasing gradient with structural compexity. For H2, mean abundance, reproduction, and recruitment of were higher in GTR and windrow sites than those without retained structures. There was a positive relationship between mean abundance of and total volume of woody debris across treatments. This study is the first investigation of the responses of forest-floor small mammals to an increasing gradient of retained habitat structure via GTR and woody debris on clearcuts. Our assessment of a combination of these two interventions suggested a potentially strong additive effect that could be cautiously extrapolated across three forest ecological zones. With the advent of low levels of GTR on clearcuts, woody debris structures should help provide some habitat to conserve forest mammals on harvest openings.Myodes gapperiM. gapperiM.Â gapperi
Flow cytometry for rapid detection of Salmonella spp. in seed sprouts
Authors: Bisha Bledar , Brehm-Stecher Byron F.
Published: December 2014

Seed sprouts (alfalfa, mung bean, radish, etc.) have been implicated in several recent national and international outbreaks of salmonellosis. Conditions used for sprouting are also conducive to the growth of Salmonella. As a result, this pathogen can quickly grow to very high cell densities during sprouting without any detectable organoleptic impact. Seed sprouts typically also support heavy growth (~108 CFU g−1) of a heterogeneous microbiota consisting of various bacterial, yeast, and mold species, often dominated by non-pathogenic members of the family Enterobacteriaceae. This heavy background may present challenges to the detection of Salmonella, especially if this pathogen is present in relatively low numbers. We combined DNA-based fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with flow cytometry (FCM) for the rapid molecular detection of Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium in artificially contaminated alfalfa and other seed sprouts. Components of the assay included a set of cooperatively binding probes, a chemical blocking treatment intended to reduce non-specific background, and sample concentration via tangential flow filtration (TFF). We were able to detect S. Typhimurium in sprout wash at levels as low as 103 CFU ml−1 sprout wash (104 CFU g−1 sprouts) against high microbial backgrounds (~108 CFU g−1 sprouts). Hybridization times were typically 30 min, with additional washing, but we ultimately found that S. Typhimurium could be readily detected using hybridization times as short as 2 min, without a wash step. These results clearly demonstrate the potential of combined DNA-FISH and FCM for rapid detection of Salmonella in this challenging food matrix and provide industry with a useful tool for compliance with sprout production standards proposed in the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
Coordinate measurement uncertainty: Models and standards
Authors: Płowucha Wojciech , Jakubiec Władysław
Published: December 2014

The paper presents the
measurement models for the evaluation of measurement uncertainty included in
ISO 15530-3. Critical remarks to
ISO 15530-3:2011 are
given. A model for an analytical method developed by the
authors is presented. Finally,
a numerical example for the simplified version of the method is
given.
Caveolin‐1 deficiency induces a MEK‐ERK1/2‐Snail‐1‐dependent epithelial–mesenchymal transition and fibrosis during peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Strippoli Raffaele , Loureiro Jesús , Moreno Vanessa , Benedicto Ignacio , Pérez Lozano María Luisa , Barreiro Olga , Pellinen Teijo , Minguet Susana , Foronda Miguel , Osteso Maria Teresa , Calvo Enrique , Vázquez Jesús , López Cabrera Manuel , del Pozo Miguel Angel
Published: December 2014

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a form of renal replacement therapy whose repeated use can alter dialytic function through induction of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibrosis, eventually leading to PD discontinuation. The peritoneum from Cav1−/− mice showed increased EMT, thickness, and fibrosis. Exposure of Cav1−/− mice to PD fluids further increased peritoneal membrane thickness, altered permeability, and increased the number of FSP‐1/cytokeratin‐positive cells invading the sub‐mesothelial stroma. High‐throughput quantitative proteomics revealed increased abundance of collagens, FN, and laminin, as well as proteins related to TGF‐β activity in matrices derived from Cav1−/− cells. Lack of Cav1 was associated with hyperactivation of a MEK‐ERK1/2‐Snail‐1 pathway that regulated the Smad2‐3/Smad1‐5‐8 balance. Pharmacological blockade of MEK rescued E‐cadherin and ZO‐1 inter‐cellular junction localization, reduced fibrosis, and restored peritoneal function in Cav1−/− mice. Moreover, treatment of human PD‐patient‐derived MCs with drugs increasing Cav1 levels, as well as ectopic Cav1 expression, induced re‐acquisition of epithelial features. This study demonstrates a pivotal role of Cav1 in the balance of epithelial versus mesenchymal state and suggests targets for the prevention of fibrosis during PD.
Investigating the zoonotic origin of the West African Ebola epidemic
Authors: Marí Saéz Almudena , Weiss Sabrina , Nowak Kathrin , Lapeyre Vincent , Zimmermann Fee , Düx Ariane , Kühl Hjalmar S , Kaba Moussa , Regnaut Sebastien , Merkel Kevin , Sachse Andreas , Thiesen Ulla , Villányi Lili , Boesch Christophe , Dabrowski Piotr W , Radonić Aleksandar , Nitsche Andreas , Leendertz Siv Aina J , Petterson Stefan , Becker Stephan , Krähling Verena , Couacy‐Hymann Emmanuel , Akoua‐Koffi Chantal , Weber Natalie , Schaade Lars , Fahr Jakob , Borchert Matthias , Gogarten Jan F , Calvignac‐Spencer Sébastien , Leendertz Fabian H
Published: December 2014

The severe Ebola virus disease epidemic occurring in West Africa stems from a single zoonotic transmission event to a 2‐year‐old boy in Meliandou, Guinea. We investigated the zoonotic origins of the epidemic using wildlife surveys, interviews, and molecular analyses of bat and environmental samples. We found no evidence for a concurrent outbreak in larger wildlife. Exposure to fruit bats is common in the region, but the index case may have been infected by playing in a hollow tree housing a colony of insectivorous free‐tailed bats (Mops condylurus). Bats in this family have previously been discussed as potential sources for Ebola virus outbreaks, and experimental data have shown that this species can survive experimental infection. These analyses expand the range of possible Ebola virus sources to include insectivorous bats and reiterate the importance of broader sampling efforts for understanding Ebola virus ecology.
Prostatic hyperplasia in acromegaly, a myth or reality: a case–control study
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Yadav Ram Niwas , Gupta Prakamya , Gaspar Balan Louis , Kakkar Nandita , Verma Alka , Parthan Girish , Bhansali Anil , Mukherjee K K , Korbonits Márta , Dutta Pinaki
Published: December 2014

Context

Disorders of the prostate gland are more prevalent in patients with acromegaly. GH–insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) axis plays an additive role in prostatic growth and development.

Objective

To correlate the structural and histopathological changes of the prostate and prostatic symptoms with GH/IGF1 in patients with acromegaly.

Design

Case–control study, from January 2012 to November 2013.

Setting

Tertiary referral centre university hospital in Northern India.

Patients

Fifty-three men with acromegaly and 50 healthy men matched for age and BMI.

Main outcome measures

International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, dimensions of the prostate on trans-rectal ultrasonography, parameters on uroflowmetry, and immunopositivity with anti-IGF1 antibody in prostatic tissue biopsies.

Results

Despite low serum testosterone levels (8.9 nmol/l vs 14.3 nmol/l, acromegaly vs control), patients with acromegaly had marginally higher IPSS, PSA levels, and grades of enlarged prostate and obstructive features on uroflowmetry compared with controls. Dimensions of the prostate on ultrasonography were also significantly higher in patients. These changes were present irrespective of age, current gonadal status, and disease activity. Evidence of prostatic hyperplasia on biopsy was seen in six of 14 patients (42.8%) who underwent prostatic biopsy while it was absent in the controls. Immunohistochemistry with anti-IGF1 antibody showed moderate positivity in all the 14 patients who underwent biopsy with benign prostatic hyperplasia, compared with mild positivity in 21% of controls. Similarly, 14 control patients with prostatic malignancies showed variable positivity, four patients had strong, two each had mild and moderate positivity, while six were negative.

Conclusions

In patients with acromegaly, there is a higher frequency of structural changes in the prostate, along with greater prostatic volume and obstructive features, compared with healthy controls, irrespective of age, gonadal status, and disease activity.
Alanyl-glutamine improves pancreatic β-cell function following ex vivo inflammatory challenge
Authors: Cruzat Vinicius Fernandes , Keane Kevin Noel , Scheinpflug Anita Lavarda , Cordeiro Robson , Soares Mario J , Newsholme Philip
Published: December 2014

Obesity-associated diabetes and concomitant inflammation may compromise pancreatic β-cell integrity and function. l-glutamine and l-alanine are potent insulin secretagogues, with antioxidant and cytoprotective properties. Herein, we studied whether the dipeptide l-alanyl-l-glutamine (Ala-Gln) could exert protective effects via sirtuin 1/HUR (SIRT1/HUR) signalling in β-cells, against detrimental responses following ex vivo stimulation with inflammatory mediators derived from macrophages (IMMs). The macrophages were derived from blood obtained from obese subjects. Macrophages were exposed (or not) to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to generate a pro-inflammatory cytokine cocktail. The cytokine profile was determined following analysis by flow cytometry. Insulin-secreting BRIN–BD11 β-cells were exposed to IMMs and then cultured with or without Ala-Gln for 24 h. Chronic insulin secretion, the l-glutamine–glutathione (GSH) axis, and the level of insulin receptor β (IR-β), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), SIRT1/HUR, CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP) and cytochrome c oxidase IV (COX IV) were evaluated. Concentrations of cytokines, including interleukin 1β (IL1β), IL6, IL10 and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) in the IMMs, were higher following exposure to LPS. Subsequently, when β-cells were exposed to IMMs, chronic insulin secretion, and IR-β and COX IV levels were decreased, but these effects were partially or fully attenuated by the addition of Ala-Gln. The glutamine–GSH axis and HSP70 levels, which were compromised by IMMs, were also restored by Ala-Gln, possibly due to protection of SIRT1/HUR levels, and a reduction of CHOP expression. Using an ex vivo inflammatory approach, we have demonstrated Ala-Gln-dependent β-cell protection mediated by coordinated effects on the glutamine–GSH axis, and the HSP pathway, maintenance of mitochondrial metabolism and stimulus–secretion coupling essential for insulin release.
Environmental variation as a driver of predator‐prey interactions
Authors: Tablado Zulima , Fauchald Per , Mabille Geraldine , Stien Audun , Tveraa Torkild
Published: December 2014

Animals often face the trade‐off of optimizing foraging while limiting predation. In variable and seasonal environments the availability of resources changes spatially and temporally, forcing animals to adapt their spatial foraging patterns over time and, thus, to modify their exposure to predation. Previous research has mostly dealt with the causes and consequences of animal spatial patterns separately, with studies either examining how changes in the environment influence habitat selection, or determining the effects of habitat use on vulnerability to predation. Here we combine these aspects through an examination of how weather conditions affect predation risk by modifying the spatial behavior of the prey. We used reindeer calves (Rangifer tarandus) in Norway to investigate (1) the environmental causes and (2) the survival consequences of habitat use. We further examined how those relationships varied temporally and according to the body mass of calves. We found that deep snow and ice conditions led reindeer to shift from their usually preferred high‐elevation pastures to lowland forested areas. This increase in forest use was associated with lower calf survival, mostly due to elevated lynx (Lynx lynx) predation rates. Golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) and wolverines (Gulo gulo) also preyed on calves but their effect was much smaller and not associated with a specific habitat type. The link between climatic conditions, habitat use, and predation changed over the winter season and depended on the body weights of the calves. The effect of harsh weather conditions on reindeer use of forested habitats was stronger towards the end of the winter, which coincides with more deteriorated body conditions and lower food availability on high‐elevation pastures, and predation probabilities were higher for smaller individuals. Our study demonstrates that environmental variation importantly affects predator‐prey interactions.
Borderline Personality Disorder, Language, and Stigma
Authors: Kling Rachel
Published: December 2014

As many research studies show, a large portion of clinicians in the mental field hold pejorative attitudes toward those with borderline personality disorder. Oftentimes, these attitudes become manifest through the use of stigmatizing language to describe client behavior, such as “manipulative” and “attention seeking.” In this article, combining personal experience with research, I explore how stigmatizing language and attitudes affect the relationship between client and clinician and how such language impacts recovery. I offer for consideration solutions that might be more conducive to recovery and lead to a better working relationship between client and clinician.
Existential Oppression Faced by Individuals Having Psychosis and Schizophrenia
Authors: Prousky Jonathan E.
Published: December 2014

Schizophrenia is really a syndrome manifested by marked changes in the afflicted individual’s functioning, perception, thinking, and behavior. The onset can be sudden or can take many years to reach some critical threshold in which the “illness” becomes so observable forcing some type of action or intervention. It is thought to arise from gene–environmental interactions within the context of a diathesis–stress milieu. An often ignored area of inquiry by biomedical researchers and/or biological psychiatrists involves an exploration of how existential crises relate to symptoms of psychosis and how existential issues arising from the modern treatment of schizophrenia are likely to be involved in causing some (or the majority) of the long-term morbidity associated with the syndrome. I describe some existentially oriented psychological models linking existential crises to symptoms of psychosis and summarize qualitative research demonstrating that the existential needs of many individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia remain disregarded despite aggressive biomedical psychiatric treatment, and, as a result, often lead to existential oppression and ongoing infirmity.
Bayesian Estimation of Genotypes Means, Precision, and Genetic Gain Due to Selection from Routinely Used Barley Trials
Authors: Singh Murari , Al‐Yassin Adnan , Omer Siraj Osman
Published: December 2014

Block designs are normally used in evaluation of crop varieties. The responses or yield data arising from designed trials in a crop variety improvement program are generally analyzed using linear mixed models under the frequentist paradigm. Such analysis ignores information on the genotypic parameters available from previous similar trials. Another approach with a relatively wider inferential framework is Bayesian, which integrates the prior information with the likelihood of current data. While the Bayesian approach has been implemented in numerous situations, stepwise presentation of its application in routine crop variety trials is not available. Illustrated with a dataset from a resolvable incomplete block design, this study provides a working tool for Bayesian analysis based on priors available from a series of crop variety trials. The posterior estimates of predicted values of mean of genotypes and precision, coefficient of variation, heritability, and genetic gain due to selection were obtained. The a posteriori mean of experimental error variance, coefficient of variation, and genotypic variance were lower for the Bayesian than the frequentist approach. The precision of a posteriori means was higher than that of predicted means under the frequentist approach. Accounting for incomplete blocks, rather than ignoring them, using a Bayesian approach showed a large reduction in estimates of error variance components and large increases in heritability and genetic gain. The current a posteriori distributions also serve as updated priors for future analysis. The step‐by‐step procedure presented here is recommended for routine analysis of variety trials.
Yield Response to Crop/Genotype Rotations and Fungicide Use to Manage Fusarium‐related Diseases
Authors: Marburger David A. , Conley Shawn P. , Esker Paul D. , Lauer Joseph G. , Ané Jean‐Michel
Published: December 2014

Corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cropping systems of the Midwest have led to increased selection pressure on diseases caused by Fusarium pathogens. A field experiment was conducted from 2010 to 2012 near Arlington, WI, to identify interactions among disease management practices (crop rotation, host resistance, and fungicide use) that increase corn, soybean, and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yields. For corn grain, significant interactions were primarily driven by crop rotation. Highest corn yields across all 3 yr were observed in the corn–soybean–wheat (CSW) rotation (13.55 Mg ha−1). Corn silage yield was influenced by cultivar rotation, with highest yields displayed by the Fusarium‐susceptible rotations (susceptible followed by susceptible followed by susceptible [SSS] and susceptible followed by susceptible followed by resistant [SSR]). Soybean yields were influenced by interactions involving crop rotation and cultivar rotation. Highest soybean yields were found for crop rotations containing wheat and ranged from 5.1 to 8.4% higher than the corn alternated annually with soybean (CS) rotation. The Fusarium‐resistant (resistant followed by resistant followed by resistant [RRR]) cultivar rotation (4.14 Mg ha−1) yielded 3.0% better than the next highest rotation (SSR). Crop rotation, cultivar selection, and fungicide use were all key drivers for wheat yield. Highest yields on average were observed in the CSW rotation (5.62 Mg ha−1). The Fusarium head blight (FHB)–susceptible cultivar (5.50 Mg ha−1) yielded significantly higher compared to the resistant cultivar (4.89 Mg ha−1), and fungicide use increased yield in the susceptible cultivar 7.2% (5.31 to 5.69 Mg ha−1) but not for the resistant cultivar. Although interactions were not consistent for all three crops, our results suggest growers should begin with combining a high‐yield‐potential cultivar, regardless of its susceptibility or resistance to Fusarium pathogens, in a CSW crop rotation to maximize yield potential when managing Fusarium‐related diseases.
Eberhart and Russel's Bayesian Method in the Selection of Popcorn Cultivars
Authors: Couto Mauricio Farias , Nascimento Moysés , do Amaral Antônio Teixeira , e Silva Fabyano Fonseca , Viana Alexandre Pio , Vivas Marcelo
Published: December 2014

The goal of this work was to estimate stability and adaptability parameters using a Bayesian approach to Eberhart and Russel's method and to assess the efficiency of using an a priori distribution. The information from assessing the popping expansion and grain yield of 16 popcorn genotypes was used in randomized block experiments implemented in five environments in the North and Northeast regions of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Bayesian methodology was implemented using the free software package R with the MCMCregress function of the MCMCpack package. Eberhart and Russel's method using a Bayesian technique was found to be efficient in recommending cultivars to more or less favorable environments. The incorporation of a priori information provided greater accuracy in estimating the stability and adaptability parameters. In the comparison of a priori distributions, the BayesFactor function indicated the informative a priori as the most effective for obtaining reliable estimates.
Increasing Selection Response by Bayesian Modeling of Heterogeneous Environmental Variances
Authors: Edwards Jode W. , Orellana Massiel
Published: December 2014

Heterogeneity of nongenetic variances among genotypes reduces selection response because high‐variance genotypes are more likely to have means in the tail of the distribution and thus more likely to be selected than low‐variance genotypes. The bias towards high‐variance genotypes is difficult to correct in selection programs because nongenetic variances must be estimated for each genotype with small sample size per genotype. We have tested a Bayesian approach to modeling heterogeneous variances among genotypes to test whether the Bayesian approach provides sufficient correction for variance heterogeneity to improve selection response. Data were simulated using a broad range of parameters and analyzed with a heterogeneous‐variance model and homogeneous‐variance model using Bayesian estimation. Selection was performed at intensities of 3.125 and 12.5% on the basis of Bayesian estimates of genotypic values with simulated data. Parameter values for heterogeneity of variances were chosen from previously published analyses of cultivar trials in maize (Zea mays L.) and oat (Avena sativa L.) in Iowa. With four to eight replications (i.e., four to eight environments with one replicate per environment) and intense selection, we estimated that modeling of heterogeneous variances with Bayesian estimation could increase selection response by up to 15%.
Nickel-based catalysts: Dependence of properties on nickel loading and modification with palladium
Authors: Nikolic Vesna , Kamberovic Zeljko , Korac Marija , Andjic Zoran , Mihajlovic Aleksandar , Uljarevic Jelena
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was comparative analysis of catalysts with 5 and 20 wt.
% Ni loading, with and without Pd additive, and it included: determination of
reduction degrees, investigation on microstructure by scanning electron
microscopy and chemical analysis by energy-dispersive spectroscopy. Ni/Al2O3
and Ni-Pd/Al2O3 catalysts supported on ?-Al2O3-based foams were synthesized
by aerosol assisted impregnation. Impregnation of the foams by ultrasonically
aerosolized chlorides was followed by drying at 473 K and hydrogen reduction
at 533 and 633 K. Lower Ni loading resulted in higher reduction degrees. Ni
loading of 20 wt. % enabled relatively uniform coverage of the foam with a
metallic coating. With activity modifier (Pd), nearly complete reduction was
achieved at both temperatures. Reduction degrees reached 99.4 and 98.2 wt. %
at 533 K for 5 and 20 wt. % of Ni, respectively.
High performance of solvothermally prepared VO2(B) as anode for aqueous rechargeable lithium batteries
Authors: Milosevic Sanja , Stojkovic Ivana , Mitric Miodrag , Cvjeticanin Nikola
Published: December 2014

The VO2 (B) was synthesized via a simple solvothermal route at 160oC in
ethanol. The initial discharge capacity of VO2 (B) anode, in saturated
aqueous solution of LiNO3, was 177 mAh g-1 at a current rate of 50 mA g-1.
After 50 cycles capacity fade was 4%, but from 20th-50th cycle no capacity
drop was observed. The VO2 (B) has shown very good cyclability at current
rate of even 1000 mA g-1 with initial discharge capacity of 92 mAh g-1. The
excellent electrochemical performance of VO2 (B) was attributed to the
stability of micro-nano structures to repeated intercalation /deintercalation
process, very good electronic conductivity as well as the very low charge
transfer resistance in the aqueous electrolyte.
Thermogravimetry studies on ilmenite nitridation
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Krishnamurthy Nagaiyar
Published: December 2014

The present study is based on the possibility of beneficiation of
Indian-ilmenite by carbonitrothermic process. The investigations were carried
out in two parts. In the first part, thermogravimetric-differential
thermogravimetric (TG-DTG) experiments were conducted using cold pressed
pellets of blended mixtures TiO2-C and FeTiO3-C. The TG experiments were
carried out up to 1500?C at the rate of 10?C/min under flowing nitrogen gas.
The formations of TiN in case of TiO2-C mixture and TiN along with Fe in case
of FeTiO3-C mixture were observed. In the second part, the experiments were
conducted using similar pellets, prepared under identical conditions, in a
resistance heating furnace at 1500?C. By simple operations of crushing and
sieving, the products obtained from the ilmenite-carbon mixture were
separated into a fraction enriched in titanium and a fraction depleted in
titanium.
Preparation and properties of Li2O-BaO-Al2O3-SiO2 glass-ceramic materials
Authors: Khater Gamal , Idris Maher
Published: December 2014

The crystallization of some glasses, based on celsian-spodumene
glass-ceramics, was investigated by different techniques including
differential thermal analysis, optical microscope, X-ray diffraction,
indentation, microhardness, bending strengths, water absorption and density
measurement. The batches were melted and then cast into glasses, which were
subjected to heat treatment to induce controlled crystallization. The
resulting crystalline materials were mainly composed of ?-eucryptite solid
solution, ?-spodumene solid solution, hexacelsian and monoclinic celsian,
exhibiting fine grains and uniform texture. It has been found that an
increasing content of celsian phase in the glasses results in increased bulk
crystallization. The obtained glass-ceramic materials are characterized by
high values of hardness ranging between 953 and 1013 kg/mm2, zero water
absorption and bending strengths values ranging between 88 and 126MPa, which
makes them suitable for many applications under aggressive mechanical
conditions.
Updated radio Σ−D relation for galactic supernova remnants
Authors: Pavlovic M.Z. , Dobardzic A. , Vukotic B. , Urosevic D.
Published: December 2014

We present the updated empirical radio surface-brightness-to-diameter (? ? D)
relation for supernova remnants (SNRs) in our Galaxy. Our original
calibration sample of Galactic SNRs with independently determined distances
(Pavlovic et al. 2013, hereafter Paper I) is reconsidered and updated with
data which became available in the past two years. The orthogonal fitting
procedure and probability-density-function-based (PDF) method are applied to
the calibration sample in the log? ? logD plane. Non-standard orthogonal
regression keeps the ??D and D?? relations invariant within estimated
uncertainties. Our previous Monte Carlo simulations verified that the slopes
of the empirical ??D relation should be determined by using the orthogonal
regression, because of its good performances for data sets with severe
scatter. The updated calibration sample contains 65 shell SNRs. 6 new
Galactic SNRs are added to the sample from Paper I, one is omitted and
distances are changed for 10 SNRs. The slope derived is here slightly steeper
(? ? 5.2) than the ??D slope in Paper I (? ? 4.8). The PDF method relies on
data points density maps which can provide more reliable calibrations that
preserve more information contained in the calibration sample. We estimate
distances to five new faint Galactic SNRs discovered for the first time by
Canadian Galactic Plane Survey, and obtained distances of 2.3, 4.0, 1.3, 2.9
and 4.7 kiloparsecs for G108.5+11.0, G128.5+2.6, G149.5+3.2, G150.8+3.8 and
G160.1?1.1, respectively. The updated empirical relation is used to estimate
distances of 160 shell Galactic SNRs and new results change their distance
scales up to 15 per cent, compared to the results from Paper I. The PDF
calculation can provide even few times higher or lower values in comparison
with the orthogonal fit, as it uses a totally different approach. However, on
average, this difference is 32, 24 and 18 per cent for mode, median and mean
distances.
Ultrastructural analysis of the surface of stainless steel endodontic instruments before and after use
Authors: Popovic Jelena , Gasic Jovanka , Zivkovic Slavoljub , Mitic Aleksandar , Nikolic Marija , Barac Radomir
Published: December 2014

Introduction. Although many studies have reported various advantages of
nickel-titanium endodontic instruments, the use of stainless steel endodontic
files still presents a standard in everyday practice. The aim of this study
was to evaluate ultrastructure of the surface of stainless steel endodontic
instruments before and after their use. Material and Methods. Fourteen sets
of non-used stainless steel endodontic reamers and files were included in the
study. Each set of instruments was used one, three or six times in simulated
clinical conditions on extracted maxillary premolars. After their use the
instruments were subjected to cleaning and sterilization procedures.
Ultrastructure of the surface of instruments was observed under scanning
electron microscope (SEM). Surface analysis was performed based on the number
of uses and size of instruments. The following characteristics were analyzed:
defects of instrument flutes, defects of cutting edges and instrument
deformations. Results. SEM analysis showed defects on the surface of non-used
instruments as a result of the manufacturing process. Surface defects,
defects of cutting edges as well as flutes deformations were observed after a
single use and were more often noticed in small sized instruments. After
three uses, flutes deformations were observed in all small sized instruments
and some of the medium size. After six uses all groups of instruments showed
defects of cutting edges. Conclusion. Non-used stainless steel endodontic
instruments showed surface defects created by the manufacturing process.
Defects of cutting edges and flutes can be observed after a single use. To
minimize complications and mistakes during clinical preparation it is
recommended to limit the number of instrument uses.
Bond strength of composite materials after internal teeth bleaching using 30% carbamide peroxide
Authors: Knezevic Natasa , Djeri Aleksandra , Josipovic Renata , Kuzmanovic-Radman Irena , Kojic Zeljka
Published: December 2014

Introduction. Bond between composite materials and bleached teeth depends on
the change of micro-morphological structure of enamel and dentin after the
application of bleaching agent. Bleaching procedure can weaken adhesion of
composite materials to hard tissues, where even just a presence of hydrogen
peroxide may affect their polymerization. The aim of this study was to
determine bond strength of composite materials after internal teeth bleaching
using 30% carbamide peroxide. Material and Methods. The study was conducted
on 20 extracted, endodontically treated human teeth. After internal teeth
bleaching with 30% carbamide peroxide a class V cavity was prepared and
restored with Tetric EvoCeram nanocomposite material. Microleakage was
determined using dye method (silver nitrate) and measured on the incisal and
gingival walls using stereoloupes. Results. Linear dye penetration on the
incisal wall (7.25 ?m) of bleached teeth was greater than on the incisal wall
in non-bleached (control group) teeth (5.75 ?m) but with no statistically
significant difference. Dye penetration on the gingival wall of bleached
teeth (20.00 ?m) was greater than on the gingival wall of the control group
(14.25 ?m). This difference was statistically significant (p<0.05).
Conclusion. Greater microleakage and inferior bond of composite material was
observed in teeth bleached with internal bleaching technique (30% carbamide
peroxide) compared to non-bleached teeth.
The use of piezosurgery for mandibular third molar extraction
Authors: Tanaskovic Nenad , Lucic Miroslav
Published: December 2014

Introduction. Extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is often
accompanied by intraoperative and postoperative complications such as damage
of the inferior alveolar nerve, prolonged difficulty in mouth opening,
alveolitis, pain and swelling in the region of surgery. The aim of this study
was to compare two surgical techniques (standard and piezo) in the extraction
of mandibular third molars and to assess their postoperative complications.
Material and Methods. Study included 16 patients (8 male and 8 female) age 17
to 32 years treated in the period from 2012 to 2014. All patients had both
mandibular molars impacted. One third molar was extracted using classical
technique while the other one using a piezo device. Preoperative preparation
was the same for all patients and included radiological analysis and
verification of teeth by ortopan tomography (OPG) and CT. Patients were
assessed one, seven and 14 days after the procedure. Results. After the
extraction, all patients were followed for postoperative symptoms: pain,
swelling and paresthesia of the inferior alveolar nerve. The results
confirmed advantages of piezosurgery in the removal of impacted mandibular
third molars. Average duration of the intervention was 18 minutes with
standard technique while the duration with piezo technique was 23 minutes.
According to the visual-analog scale (VAS) the average pain in the standard
group was 9 whereas in the piezo group it was 6. Postoperative swelling was
10 mm (pronounced) the first day after the procedure in the standard group
while in the piezo group it was 6 mm (moderate). Conclusion. The use of piezo
technology for the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth is reliable method
which reduces the risk of the most common postoperative complications
following mandibular wisdom teeth removal.