bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Miruga Vidusagam: Theatre of the body, ritual and land
Authors: Pillai Swarnavel Eswaran
Published: October 2013

This article engages with Miruga Vidusagam, a seminal play by Tamil theatre director Murugu Bhoopathy, to explore his authorship, and its focus on the human body and traditional rituals in its reinventions of myths to address contemporary issues. Murugu Bhoopathy’s play undergird the human body as a dynamic space to frame the trajectory of history from ancient rituals to contemporary culture, and foreground the movement of the actors and the various objects of the ritual, like the lamp, sieve, basket, mortar and pestle, to paint the many shades of oppression experienced by women, clowns, animals, landless farmers, refugees, workers, employees and children. The focus of this article is on Bhoopathy’s rural-experimental theatre, where the human body, land and rituals get intricately linked and metamorphosize into each other for the representation of the voice of the people on the fringes in Tamil Nadu.
A Cross-Cultural Investigation of New Product Strategies for Technological and Design Innovations
Authors: Griffith David A. , Rubera Gaia
Published: October 2013

Although design and technological innovations are conceptually distinct and require significantly different resource investments by the firm, little is known about how differing strategies employed in relation to these new products influence changes in market share across national cultures. In this study, the authors provide insights into how technological and design product innovations and product portfolio breadth strategies influence changes in market share within 26 technological and 12 design innovations across 17 firms operating in eight European countries. The results indicate that the positive effect of design innovation on changes in market share strengthens as individualism and indulgence increase, whereas the positive relationship between technological innovations and market share is weakened as uncertainty avoidance and indulgence increase. In addition, the positive relationship between design product portfolio breadth strategies and changes in market share is strengthened as individualism and indulgence increase but is weakened as uncertainty avoidance increases, whereas the positive relationship between technological product portfolio breadth and changes in market share is strengthened as individualism increases. The authors discuss the theoretical and managerial implications of the findings.
Do You Receive a Lighter Prison Sentence Because You Are a Woman or a White? An Economic Analysis of the Federal Criminal Sentencing Guidelines
Authors: Sorensen Todd Andrew , Sarnikar Surpriya , Oaxaca Ronald L.
Published: October 2013

Using data obtained from the United States Sentencing Commission’s records, we examine the extent to which the Federal Criminal Sentencing Guidelines curbed judicial sentencing preferences based on gender, race, and ethnicity. Our structural utility maximization model of judicial sentencing and a new generalized nonlinear decomposition methodology allow us to conduct a counterfactual exercise examining the impact of the guidelines on sentences during our period of study. Our results indicate that under the guidelines, and after controlling for circumstances such as the severity of the offense and past criminal history, judicial preferences strongly favor women while also disadvantaging Black men. In most of our estimates, we find that in the absence of the guidelines, judicial preferences would have increased the unexplained gap. Our findings stand up to a wide variety of robustness checks.
Influence of Heating Conditions on the Oxidation Behavior of Fe-36Ni Invar Alloy
Authors: Yu Y. C. , Chen W. Q. , Zheng H. G.
Published: October 2013

The oxidation of Fe-36Ni invar alloy at 1273–1473 K in 15%CO2-(0, 3, 5, 6)%O2-N2 atmosphere and the effect of the grain structure on the compressed cracks were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and a microcomputer control universal material testing machine. The results showed that the oxygen content and the oxidation temperature had an obvious influence on the morphology of the external scales, which changed into only two-layer structures from three stratified structures when the oxygen content was 0% or the oxidation temperature was below or equal 1423 K. However, the subscales still consisted of a typical structure of the intergranular subscale and the intragranular subscale with different oxygen contents or oxidation temperatures. The growth rate of the scales did not depend on the partial pressure of oxygen when oxygen existed. The oxidation temperature had an obvious influence on the growth rate of the scales, the growth rate of the scales was slower below or equal 1423 K and faster over 1423 K. A linear relationship existed between the thickness of the scales and the square root of oxidation time, moreover, the estimated activation energy for the growth of the external scale, the intragranular scale and the intergranular scale were 165, 159 and 131 kJ/mol, respectively. The higher apparent activation energy corresponded to the thinner scale at each oxidation temperature. In addition, the compressed cracks were hard to propagate and grow in the specimen with equiaxed grain structures, which would result in the narrower and shallower compressed cracks and the better surface quality during the compressed process after oxidation.
Effect of Aminoethoxyvinylglycine and Methyl Jasmonate on Individual Phenolics and Post-harvest Fruit Quality of Three Different Japanese Plums (Prunus
salicina Lindell)
Authors: Ozturk Burhan , Kucuker Emine , Karaman Sedat , Yıldız Kenan , Kılıc Kemal
Published: October 2013

In this research, effects of aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) applied 2 weeks ahead of estimated harvest date on fruit color, firmness and individual phenolic compounds of three plum varieties wereinvestigated during the cold storage. Fruits of “BlackAmber”, “Black Beauty” and “Fortune” were kept at 0 ± 0.5°C temperature and 90 ± 5% relative humidity for 4 weeks. During the storage, decreases in L*, chroma and hue angle values were observed. AVG treatments differed significantly (p < 0.05) by control and MeJA treatment. In all plum varieties, AVG treatment resulted in significant increases in flesh firmness at the end of storage. MeJA increased significantly the firmness of “Black Beauty” and “Fortune” fruit at the end of storage. Chlorogenic acid was detected as major phenolic compound in plum varieties. AVG treatment to “Black Amber” fruit increased the contents of chlorogenic and p-coumaric acid during storage, whereas it reduced chlorogenic and p-coumaric acid content in “Fortune” fruit. MeJA treatment led to not only increase the contents of rutin, ferulic acid and naringenin in the fruits of “Black Beauty” and “Fortune” varieties during the storage but also significantly increase the kaempferol content in “Black Amber” and “Black Beauty” fruits. While AVG treatment compared to control significantly decreased the contents of chlorogenic acid, quercetin and naringenin in “Black Amber” fruits at the end of cold storage, it increased content of p-coumaric acid. At the end of storage, AVG and MeJA treatments reduced significantly the content of ferulic acid in “Black Beauty” fruits. In addition, MeJA treatment significantly increased chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid and kaempferol contents in “Fortune” fruits.
Measuring Benchmark Damages in Antitrust Litigation
Authors: McCrary Justin , Rubinfeld Daniel L.
Published: October 2013

We compare the two dominant approaches to estimation of benchmark damages in antitrust litigation, the forecasting approach and the dummy variable approach. We give conditions under which the two approaches are equivalent and present the results of a small simulation study.
Nano-engineered optical fibers and applications
Authors: Tandon Pushkar , Li Ming-Jun , Bookbinder Dana C. , Logunov Stephan L. , Fewkes Edward J.
Published: October 2013

The paper reviews optical fibers with nano-engineered features and methods to fabricate them. These optical fibers have nano-engineered regions comprising of randomly distributed voids which provide unique properties for designing next generation of fibers. Discussion of impact of void morphology on fiber optical properties is presented, along with the methods to control the void characteristics. Use of nano-engineered fibers for different applications (ultra-low bend loss single mode fiber, quasi-single mode bend loss fiber, endless single-mode fiber, light diffusing fibers) is discussed and the unique optical attributes of the fibers in these applications is highlighted.
Adiponectin and metformin additively attenuate IL1β-induced malignant potential of colon cancer
Authors: Moon Hyun-Seuk , Mantzoros Christos S
Published: October 2013

Both adiponectin (AD) and metformin (Met) have been proposed to downregulate cell proliferation of colon cancer cells, but whether their effect might be additive has not been studied to date. Genetic studies in humans have suggested an important role for interleukin 1β (IL1β) in cancer pathogenesis. Direct evidence that IL1β contributes to the development of colon cancer has not yet been fully confirmed and no previous studies have evaluated how IL1β may interact with AD and/or Met to regulate malignant potential and intracellular signaling pathways in human and mouse colon cancer cells. We conductedin vitrostudies using human (LoVo) and mouse (MCA38) colon cancer cell lines to evaluate whether AD and Met alone or in combination may antagonize IL1β-regulated malignant potential in human and mouse colon cancer cell lines. IL1β increased malignant potential and regulated the expression of tumor suppressor (p53) and cell cycle regulatory genes (p21, p27, and cyclin E2) in human and mouse colon cancer cell lines. These effects were reversed by co-administration of AD and/or Met and were additively altered by AD and Met in combination in a STAT3- and AMPK/LKB1-dependent manner. We also observed using fluorescence activated cell sorter analysis that IL1β-regulated cell cycle progression is altered by AD and Met alone or in combination. Our novel mechanistic studies provide evidence for an important role for IL1β in colon cancer and suggest that AD and/or Met might be useful agents in the management or chemoprevention of IL1β-induced colon carcinogenesis.
Bedtime and Sleep Duration in Relation to Depressive Symptoms among Japanese Workers
Authors: Sakamoto Nobuaki , Nanri Akiko , Kochi Takeshi , Tsuruoka Hiroko , Pham Ngoc Minh , Kabe Isamu , Matsuda Shinya , Mizoue Tetsuya
Published: October 2013

Bedtime and Sleep Duration in Relation to Depressive Symptoms among Japanese Workers: Nobuaki SAKAMOTO, et al. Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine—

Objectives

While bedtime may influence circadian rhythms, potentially leading to depression, epidemiological data on this issue are limited. We cross‐sectionally investigated the association between bedtime and depressive symptoms in Japanese workers, taking sleep duration into consideration.

Methods

The participants were 1,197 workers who participated in a health survey during a periodic checkup and had no history of psychiatric disease. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES‐D) scale. Usual bedtime and wake time were inquired about using a self‐administered questionnaire, and sleep duration was calculated based on the difference between these two values. Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio of depressive symptoms for bedtime or sleep duration categories.

Results

Short sleep duration (<6 hours) was significantly associated with an increased prevalence of depressive symptoms. Late bedtime was also significantly associated with an increased prevalence of depressive symptoms (CES‐D score of ≥19); the multivariable‐adjusted odds ratio of depressive symptoms for a bedtime of 1:00 or later versus 23:00 to 23:59 was 1.90 (95% confidence interval, 1.16−3.12). After additional adjustment for sleep duration, however, the association was largely attenuated (odds ratio, 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.66−2.06).

Conclusions

Late bedtime was associated with increased prevalence of depressive symptoms, but this association could be largely accounted for by short sleep duration. Avoiding a late bedtime and obtaining a sufficient sleep duration may prevent depressive mood among workers.
Characteristics of Particulate Matter Generated while Handling Municipal Household Waste
Authors: Park Donguk , Lee Kyeongmin , Ryu Seunghun , Kim Shinbum , Yoon Chungsik , Ha Kwonchul
Published: October 2013

Characteristics of Particulate Matter Generated while Handling Municipal Household Waste: Donguk PARK, et al. Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Korea—

Objectives

This study was conducted to assess the size characteristics of particulate matter (PM) generated during waste collection and sorting, and to assess the effect of the type of waste‐handling activity on levels of coarse and fine PM.

Methods

A portable aerosol spectrometer calibrated to 1.2 l/min was used to monitor PM generated during four types of waste‐handling activities. The types of PM measured included inhalable particulate matter (IPM), PM10, respirable particulate matter (RPM), PM2.5 and PM1. Twenty‐eight data sets with 3,071 subsets recorded every 6 sec were categorized according to occupational and environmental classifications, including type of waste‐handling activity. An ANOVA was used to compare PM levels characterized by size. Significant variables with p‐values <0.25 were included in a multiple regression model for predicting levels of each PM.

Results

The average levels of PM10 and PM2.5 greatly exceeded the air‐quality levels enforced by the Korean Ministry of the Environment. The highest PM2.5 fine‐particle levels monitored were during waste‐transfer work, while the highest IPM and PM10 coarse‐particle levels monitored were during waste‐sorting work. The type of waste‐collection activity was the only factor that significantly affected both and IPM, accounting for 36% (p=0.0034) and 40% PM2.5 (p=0.0049), respectively, of the observed variations. None of the factors affected PM10 or RPM levels.

Conclusions

Waste‐collection and Waste‐transfer work may be associated with the generation of high levels of fine PM, which can be influenced by environmental conditions such as traffic levels and the type of waste transport vehicle.
Control of Hazardous Processes in Flow: Synthesis of 2-Nitroethanol
Authors: Roberge Dominique M. , Noti Christian , Irle Eberhard , Eyholzer Markus , Rittiner Bruno , Penn Gerhard , Sedelmeier Gottfried , Schenkel Berthold
Published: October 2013

After a short section of safety aspects related to 2-nitroethanol, the paper describes a powerful methodology for developing flow processes based on a proof of concept (1), an optimization and modeling analysis (2), and a long run study in a mini-plant (3). The proof of concept is the initial stage where the solubilities and concentrations are fixed, taking into account the rough kinetics with a mass transfer understanding. It is followed by a complete kinetic analysis including activation energy to model the reaction under various conditions to optimize different targets (yield not being the only driver!). The last section shows the operation of a mini-plant including a microreactor and work-up unit operations. The approach is extremely powerful as it enables the study at laboratory scale of all the features that are usually associated with a pilot plant namely: stability over time on stream, solvent recirculation, model prediction, and robustness.
Patient satisfaction with care in gastrooesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Szarka Nikolett , Nagykáldi Zsolt , Végh Mária , Oberling János
Published: October 2013

Introduction: Besides medical treatment, adequate communication and personal relationships between physicians and patients are the most important determinants of patient satisfaction. Aim: To explore doctor–patient relationships, and factors that may determine patient satisfaction with care. Method: Patients with gastroesophageal reflux (n = 80) were divided into subgroups treated by family doctors or by gastroenterologists. Patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire about communication and patient satisfaction. Results: Significantly more patients visited family doctors than gastroenterologists with health problems (80%; 20%, p < 0.001). Patients were significantly more satisfied with the information they received about the process of care provided by family doctors (95%) compared to that they obtained from gastroenterologists (65%; p = 0.002). Significantly more patients in family practices indicated that their doctors spent enough time with them compared to subspecialists (96.7%; 80% p = 0.032). Conclusions: Patients develop a closer personal relationship and more appropriate communication with family doctors compared to specialists, which can be an important component of successful treatment. Orv. Hetil., 154 (43), 1713–1718.
A Novel Approach to Synthesize Lanthanum Telluride Thermoelectric Thin Films in Ambient Conditions
Authors: Chi Su (Ike) Chih , Farias Stephen L. , Cammarata Robert C.
Published: October 2013

Rare-earth telluride compounds are characterized by their high performance thermoelectric properties that have been applied to the development of functional materials [1]. Recently, May and co-workers reported that nanostructured bulk lanthanum telluride (La3-xTe4, 0 ≤ x ≤ 1/3) by mechanical ball-milling exceeded the figure of merit (ZT) of 1 at high temperatures near 1300K [2-3]. Since the increased thermoelectric efficiency of nanostructured materials is due to the enhancement of phonon scattering introduced by quantum confinement, thin films have also generated significant scientific and technological interest [4-6]. Here, we report on the electrodepostion of lanthanum telluride and lanthanum thin films in ionic liquids in ambient conditions. Surface morphologies varied from needle-like to granular structures and depend on deposition conditions. This novel electrochemical synthesis approach is a simple, inexpensive and laboratory-environment friendly method of synthesizing nanostructured thermoelectric materials.
Thermoelectric transport in topological insulator Bi2Te2Se bulk crystals
Authors: Xu Yang , Cao Helin , Miotkowski Ireneusz , Chen Yong P.
Published: October 2013

Bi2Te2Se (BTS221) bulk crystals were recently discovered as an intrinsic 3D topological insulator. We have synthesized this material, and studied the transport properties of BTS221 from the thermoelectrics perspective. Temperature (T) dependent resistivity measurement indicates surface dominant transports in our sample at low T. We also report Seebeck measurement between 50K to room T.
Carrier Mapping in Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Polymeris Georgios S. , Hatzikraniotis Euripides , Stefanaki Eleni C. , Pavlidou Eleni , Kyratsi Theodora , Paraskevopoulos Konstantinos M. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: October 2013

The application of micro-fourier transform infrared (FTIR) mapping analysis to thermoelectric materials towards identification of doping inhomogeneities is described. Micro-FTIR, in conjunction with fitting, is used as analytical tool for probing carrier content gradients. The plasmon frequency ωP2 was studied as potential effective probe for carrier inhomogeneity and consequently doping differentiation based on its dependence of the carrier concentration. The method was applied to PbTe-, PbSe- and Mg2Si- based thermoelectric materials.
A new thermoelectric concept using large area PN junctions
Authors: Chavez R. , Becker A. , Kessler V. , Engenhorst M. , Petermann N. , Wiggers H. , Schierning G. , Schmechel R.
Published: October 2013

A new thermoelectric concept using large area silicon PN junctions is experimentally demonstrated. In contrast to conventional thermoelectric generators where the n-type and p-type semiconductors are connected electrically in series and thermally in parallel, we demonstrate a large area PN junction made from densified silicon nanoparticles that combines thermally induced charge generation and separation in a space charge region with the conventional Seebeck effect by applying a temperature gradient parallel to the PN junction. In the proposed concept, the electrical contacts are made at the cold side eliminating the need for contacts at the hot side allowing temperature gradients greater than 100K to be applied. The investigated PN junction devices are produced by stacking n-type and p-type nanopowder prior to a densification process. The nanoparticulate nature of the densified PN junction lowers thermal conductivity and increases the intraband traps density which we propose is beneficial for transport across the PN junction thus enhancing the thermoelectric properties. A fundamental working principle of the proposed concept is suggested, along with characterization of power output and output voltages per temperature difference that are close to those one would expect from a conventional thermoelectric generator.
Detailed Theoretical Investigation and Comparison of the Thermal Conductivities of n- and p-type Bi2Te3 Based Alloys
Authors: Yelgel Ö. Ceyda , Srivastava Gyaneshwar P.
Published: October 2013

In this work we present a detailed theoretical investigation of the thermal conductivities of n-type 0.1 wt.% CuBr doped 85% Bi2Te3 - 15% Bi2Se3 and p-type 3 wt% Te doped 20% Bi2Te3 - %80 Sb2Te3 single crystals. The thermal conductivity contributions arising from carriers, electron-hole pairs and phonons are computed rigorously in the temperature range $300\,{\rm{K}}\, \le \,T\, \le \,500\,{\rm{K}}$. In agreement with available experimental measurements we theoretically find that the lowest total thermal conductivity is 3.15 W K−1 m−1 at 380 K for the n-type alloy and 1.145 W K−1 m−1 at 400 K for the p-type alloy. Stronger mass-defect scattering is found to be responsible for the lower thermal conductivity of the p-type alloy throughout the temperature range of the study.
Leaf endophytes and Populus genotype affect severity of damage from the necrotrophic leaf pathogen, Drepanopeziza populi
Authors: Busby Posy E. , Zimmerman Naupaka , Weston David J. , Jawdy Sara S. , Houbraken Jos , Newcombe George
Published: October 2013

Fungal leaf endophytes—nonpathogenic microfungi that live within plant leaves—are ubiquitous in land plants. Leaf endophytes and host plant genotypes may interact to determine plant disease severity. In a greenhouse inoculation experiment, we found that leaf endophyte species and Populus angustifolia genotypes both affected disease outcomes in plants inoculated with the necrotrophic leaf pathogen Drepanopeziza populi. Contrary to many studies showing endophytes conferring defense, all plant genotypes inoculated with the endophyte Penicillium sp. prior to inoculation with the pathogen D. populi were characterized by greater pathogen symptom severity than plants inoculated with the pathogen only. We quantified defense gene expression via qRT–PCR, but found no evidence that increased pathogen damage was related to differential expression of the assayed genes. A second endophyte, Truncatella angustata, which was previously found to reduce symptom severity of the biotrophic pathogen Melampsora in Populus trichocarpa, did not affect symptom severity of the necrotrophic pathogen D. populi or defense gene expression. Overall, our study highlights the variable effects of endophytes on pathogen symptom severity, and illustrates that plant genotypic variation can remain important for disease outcomes even in the presence of endophytes altering disease. Additional work is needed to elucidate the mechanism by which fungal leaf endophytes alter disease in their host plants.
Nitrogen Management for High Population Corn Production in Wide and Narrow Rows
Authors: Crozier Carl R. , Gehl Ronald J. , Hardy David H. , Heiniger Ronnie W.
Published: October 2013

Recent trends of planting corn (Zea mays L.) at higher populations and in narrower rows could influence optimum N management. This study investigates the effects of N rates (0–224 kg ha–1 N plus a low rate of uniformly applied starter) and timing (at planting, V5–V7 sidedress) on corn in wide and narrow rows (76–102 cm vs. 38–51 cm) at 13 sites over 3 yr in North Carolina. Early season N uptake, grain yield, and yield components were measured. Delaying N until sidedress increased yields, but there was an interaction effect with row spacing. Yields were greater with narrow rows and sidedress N (11.7 Mg ha–1) than with narrow rows and all N at planting (11.0 Mg ha–1) or with wide rows fertilized at either time (11.0 Mg ha–1), when averaged across N rates. Three ear yield components increased in response to N fertilization, leading to a 35% yield increase. Rows per ear increased from 15.5 to 15.9 ear–1, kernels per row increased from 27 to 32 row–1, and individual kernel mass increased from 226 to 253 mg. Aboveground plant N uptake by the V5 to V7 growth stage was only 9 kg ha–1, with very little additional N uptake in response to higher N rates. Sidedress N application at V5 to V7 maximized the formation of the ear yield components and grain yield for high population corn in narrow rows, but N timing did not affect yield or ear yield components of wide‐row corn.
An Exploration into the Teaching of Cosmopolitan Ideals: The Case of ‘Global Citizenship’
Authors: Watson Sam
Published: October 2013

This article examines why we should continue to teach based upon cosmopolitan ideals, despite the shortfalls of global citizenship as a concept. The author first defines and critically engages with both cosmopolitanism and global citizenship, before identifying where these concepts originate from and tracking their progression throughout time. The article then discusses the different views and values attached to each of these concepts, aiming to distinguish what differences there are between the two. Simultaneously, the author uses examples both from academic literature and his own experiences to date in order to place the theory of these two concepts within the context of modern-day life. Ultimately, however, the author argues to highlight the practical differences which separate cosmopolitan ideals and global citizenship as a concept, concluding that global citizenship fails to take our local context into account, and thus serves as a contradiction to our immediate epistemologies.
Artistic Education and the Possibilities for Citizenship Education
Authors: Enslin Penny , Ramírez-Hurtado Carmen
Published: October 2013

Citizenship education and education in the arts are not usually regarded as related. In this application of normative political theory to the nature and purpose of creative and arts-based education, the authors argue that they share some of their basic features and can complement each other in practice. Distinguishing artistic education from aesthetic education, the authors take Iris Marion Young's defence of communicative democracy as a framework for exploration and critique. This enables the authors to apply Young's reservations about deliberation – understood as rational discourse that leads to the best argument winning – as an appropriate description of interaction between citizens and as a model for learning in citizenship education. Through selected examples, the authors show how Young's notions of greeting, rhetoric, storytelling and gift-giving can foster forms of democratic citizenship, through the arts, which escape the dangers of the neo-liberal forms of citizenship implicated in an economy of exchange.
A Critical Discussion of the Citizenship Curriculum in Taiwan and England: Teachers' Voices on Liberal and Communitarian Constructs
Authors: Hung Cheng-Yu
Published: October 2013

This article compares the development of citizenship education (CE) in Taiwan and England, as well as teachers' perceptions about the liberal and communitarian constructs underpinning the curriculum in both countries. Due to distinct social and political environments, the Taiwanese and English CE curricula demonstrate an interesting contrast. Until 1987, the Taiwanese curriculum grew under an authoritarian regime which had implemented the citizenship curriculum in 1945; in England, however, CE was not added to the school timetable until 2002, after a long debate about the controversial and potential influence of the subject. This article first offers an overview of the development of CE in Taiwan and England. Following this preliminary understanding, interview accounts with 20 CE teachers are included to share insights based on actual practical experience. The English curriculum leans towards a communitarian type of ‘active citizenship’, but teachers in England mention a gap between the theory and practice. In addition, reservations about the existence of the assumed ‘common values' underlying the communitarian construct are dealt with. In contrast, social and political participation is not perceived as a goal that is emphasised in the Taiwanese curriculum. Taiwanese CE sides with the ‘liberal construct’, but is criticised by some in Taiwan for ignoring moral values and character-building. It is also observed that both curricula use a ‘deliberative democracy’ approach to compensate for the shortcomings in curriculum construction. For a comparative study such as this, weaving both cases together demonstrates how each curriculum could derive inspiration from the other.
Effects of sliding velocity on friction: An in vitro study at extremely low sliding velocity approximating orthodontic tooth movement
Authors: Yanase Yumi , Ioi Hideki , Nishioka Masato , Takahashi Ichiro
Published: October 2013

Objective:

To evaluate the effects of sliding velocity on friction, particularly at extremely low sliding velocity approximating orthodontic tooth movement.

Materials and Methods:

Stainless-steel (SS) 0.022-inch preadjusted brackets and 0.016- and 0.016 × 0.022-inch SS wires and superelastic nickel-titanium 0.016 × 0.022-inch wires were used for this test. The wire was secured in a SS preadjusted bracket with an elastomeric module. One end of the wire was pulled upward 1.5 mm at a speed of 5.0 × 10−7, 1.0 × 10−5, 1.0 × 10−4, 1.0 × 10−3, 1.0 × 10−2, and 1.0 × 10−1 mm/s by the micrometer. The measurements were conducted 10 times and averaged. Tukey-Kramer tests were used to compare the mean differences of each testing measurement among the different sliding velocities.

Results:

The frictional forces tended to increase as the sliding velocity decreased. The mean frictional force for 5.0 × 10−7 mm/s sliding velocity (approximating orthodontic tooth movement) was 106.8 cN in 0.016 × 0.022-inch SS wires, almost double the 1.0 × 10−1 mm/s sliding velocity.

Conclusion:

The effects of sliding velocity cannot be ignored when we estimate frictional forces in clinical orthodontics.
Susceptibility of naked oat cultivar seeds to mechanical damage
Authors: Zieliński Andrzej , Ptak Agata , Wójtowicz Tomasz , Moś Maria
Published: October 2013

Mechanical damage to seeds occurring during harvesting and threshing, especially in naked cultivars, is one of the main factors decreasing the size and quality of yield. The objective of this study was to assess the susceptibility of naked oat cultivars to mechanical damage, considering the biometric parameters of seeds determined on the basis of computer image analysis and weight tests. The testing was carried out on eight cultivars harvested between 2008 and 2010 at 15% moisture and threshed at either 1.6 or 2.4 m·s−1 threshing drum speed. A 50% increase in the threshing speed caused an average 19% increase in the frequency and a 29% increase in the area of microdamage to seeds. There was a corresponding 4.1 mm2 change in the microdamage area when using the threshing speed of 1.6 m·s−1, and a 6.1 mm2 change when using the threshing speed of 2.4 m·s−1 was 53% and 68%, respectively, determined by a decreasing seed shape coefficient indicating seed elongation. The greatest resistance to mechanical damage was found on the Bullion cultivar, which was also characterized by the largest total projected area of seeds (7.14 mm2), as well as the greatest seed density (63.8 kg·hL−1) and thousand kernel weight (TKW) (28.2 g).
The comparison of peroxynitrite action on bovine, porcine and human fibrinogens
Authors: Ponczek Michał , Bijak Michał , Saluk Joanna , Kolodziejczyk-Czepas Joanna , Nowak Paweł
Published: October 2013

Subjects of bovine and porcine flocks are sometimes susceptible to death before time of slaughter, and some of those deaths may be due to cardiovascular problems connected with stress. The role of oxidative stress in farm animals is yet unexplored. Human fibrinogen seems to be highly susceptible to nitration. Peroxynitrite produced from superoxide and nitric oxide initiates noticeable changes in the structure of human fibrinogen molecule. The objective of this work is to compare the in vitro interactions of peroxynitrite with human fibrinogen and with fibrinogen from mammals of great economic importance, namely cows and pigs. Using western blots and ELISA we show that porcine fibrinogen is susceptible to tyrosine nitration induced by peroxynitrite whereas, bovine fibrinogen is more resistant. Moreover, porcine fibrinogen polymerization is susceptible to peroxynitrite action, whereas bovine fibrinogen is the least susceptible to inhibition of polymerization caused by peroxynitrite. These observed differences may result from differences in amino acid sequence of fibrinogen chains, mostly including tyrosine content and location in the Aα chain. Protection against toxic effects of peroxynitrite activity in the circulatory system seems to be important in avoiding cardiovascular diseases and may prevent production loss in pig breeding herds.
Prior heat stress induces moderation of diabetic alterations in glycogen metabolism of rats
Authors: Miova Biljana , Dinevska-Kjovkarovska Suzana , Djimrevska Ana , Mitev Slavco
Published: October 2013

Adaptation to one environmental stressor sometimes provides protection against additional, more intensive type of stress, a phenomenon called cross-tolerance. We aimed to estimate theprotection provided by acute heat stress (AHS) over carbohydrate disturbances in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. We investigated changes in activity of some hepatic glycolitic and gluconeogenic enzymes, and concentration of some substrates in control and diabetic animals exposed to AHS (41±0.5°C / 1 h), with 1 h and 24 h recovery at room temperature before sacrifice or induction of streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetes, respectively. AHS with 1 h-recovery before sacrifice resulted in intensive glycogenolysis, directed to endogenous glucose production and further utilization of glucose by peripheral tissues, while 24 h recovery resulted in a slight tendency towards normalization of metabolic disturbances caused by AHS. Experimental diabetes caused a significant decrease of substrates and glycolytic enzymes, but an increase of gluconeogenic enzymes. In diabetic animals previously exposed to AHS we measured a less intensive decrease of liver glycogen and glucose-6-phosphate concentration and hexokinase activity, as well as less intensive increase of liver glucose concentration, glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase activity compared to control diabetic animals that had been maintained at room temperature. Prior AHS provided some protection over diabetes-induced alterations in carbohydrate-related parameters (see graphical apstract), indicating a possible development of cross-tolerance phenomenon between the two stressors, AHS and STZ-diabetes.
Assessment of flora diversity in a minor river valley using ecological indicator values, Geographical Information Systems and Digital Elevation Models
Authors: Czarnecka Bożenna , Chabudziński Łukasz
Published: October 2013

Ellenberg indicator values (EIV) have been widely used to estimate habitat variables from floristic data and to predict vegetation composition based on habitat properties. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Digital Elevation Models (DEM) are valuable tools for studying the relationships between topographic and ecological characters of river systems. A 3-meter resolution DEM was derived for a. 3-km-long break section of the Szum River (SE Poland) from a 1:10,000 topographic map. Data on the diversity and ecological requirements of the local vascular flora were obtained while making floristic charts for 32 sections of the river valley (each 200 m long) and physical and chemical soil measurements; next, the data were translated into EIV. The correlations of the primary and secondary topographic attributes of the valley, species richness, and EIV (adapted for the Polish vascular flora) were assessed for all species recognized in each valley section. The total area and proportion of a flat area, mean slope, slope curvature, solar radiation (SRAD), and topographic wetness index (TWI) are the most important factors influencing local flora richness and diversity. The highest correlations were found for three ecological indicators, namely light, soil moisture, and soil organic content. The DEM seems to be useful in determination of correlations between topographic and ecological attributes along a minor river valley.
An overview of different seed production initiatives in Nepal
Authors: Paudel MN , Pokhrel S , Gadal N , Ferrara G Ortiz , KC D , Joshi P , Humagain R
Published: October 2013

Findings of study related to seed and seed initiatives in seven districts encompassing different classes of seed systems have been explained. Source seed produced by public and private institutions in Nepal is illustrated to make proper analogue as to how seed systems could be made practically functional. SWOT analysis of important seed systems is compared in issues pertaining to seed systems in Nepal. Information received from the seed related stakeholders has been analyzed to draw the inference covering different seed system initiatives in Nepal. On the basis of scientific evidences collected from concerned stakeholders from cross section of study districts on various issues of seed, recommendations have been proposed to make effective seed systems by amalgamation of available seed production initiatives under single funneled seed system that could be implemented to sustain food security and enhanced productivity of crops in general and major food crops in particular in Nepal. Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 3. 2013, Page 1-10 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v3i0.8981
Outreach Research: A liaison between research and extension
Authors: Paudel MN
Published: October 2013

How outreach research has been passed through due course of time in Nepal is put forth. A model of linkages of outreach research in relation to technology dissemination as a liaison between research and extension in the Nepalese context has been shown in a broad perspective. Similarly, how technology is delivered from research station to farmers' fled in a participatory approach involving public-private-partnership through research-extension interphase is mentioned. Also, the relation of outreach research with extension from district to central level is illustrated. There is clear message that why technology generation do not tailor with the demand of client and every concerned institute should dare to accept pros and cons of agro-technology cycle to enhance agriculture and productivity to meet the food security of Nepalese people. This paper explains the limitation and opportunities of agriculture research and development which are not getting priority in a way these should be considered to take pace with present day demand. Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 3. 2013, Page 97-108 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v3i0.9011
Constraint and opportunity of raw jute production : A case study of eastern Terai, Nepal
Authors: Ghimire TB , Thakur NS
Published: October 2013

Area and production of raw jute has decreased, though there is a high demand of raw jute in the country. In order to assess production constraints, a survey was carried out in 2005/06 in Jhapa, Morang and Sunsari districts. The study revealed that unstable or low price of raw jute, unavailability of quality jute seed, limited irrigation water at sowing period, diseases complex (wilt), labor shortage during peak season, weed problem, lack of retting water/retting pond were the main constraints in jute production and processing. The study indicates that the maximum production cost has involved in fiber extraction (16.9%) and weeding (16.33%). Jute productivity ranged from 1788 to 2260 kg per hectare. JRO-524 variety of jute has been widely grown across the region due to its wider adaptability, high yield potential and quality fiber. Jute area has been replaced by sugarcane due to its high yield potential and high profit margin. It is observed that the cost of production of jute is high as compared to other crops in the season. Average cost of production of fiber was estimated to be Rs.1563/quintal. For the promotion of jute cultivation in the eastern Terai, it would be better to provide subsidies on seeds and fertilizer to jute growers as practiced in neighboring countries thereby profit margin becomes high and will encourage growers in producing more raw jute within the country for the fulfillment of raw jute requirement of local jute industries. Cost effective technologies have to be developed in jute production and processing aspects for lowering the production cost and increasing the profit margin. Popular genotypes JRO- 524 which was widely adopted needs to be recommended officially for the general cultivation in this region. Being an eco-friendly crop, promotion is required to adapt climate change effect and maintaining the soil properties in jute growing areas. Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) Vol. 3. 2013, Page 117-122 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajn.v3i0.9013
Domestic Constraints, German Foreign Policy and Post-Conflict Peacebuilding
Authors: Crossley-Frolick Katy A.
Published: October 2013

Since the end of the Cold War, Germany has assumed a greater profile in addressing global security concerns. This article analyzes the evolution of Germany's approach to peacebuilding in the post Cold War era. It argues that while Germany could play a unique and important role in such missions, it has largely demurred. The muted quality of German leadership in international peacebuilding reveals a foreign policy role identity that remains circumscribed by a culture of restraint (Kultur der Zurückhaltung). From a constructivist perspective, this “culture of restraint” acts as a cognitive map for political leaders and policy makers, privileging a set of norms that guide policy-making. Peacebuilding missions present opportunities for Germany to operationalize the most fundamental tenets undergirding Germany's postwar foreign policy identity: the preference to cooperate with other states through multilateral institutions, the use of economic instruments to obtain foreign policy goals, and support for supranational institutions to address global problems. But such opportunities are not seized due to the absence of political elite consensus, inter-party, and inter-ministerial dissensus, institutional fragmentation and insufficient material support for international peacebuilding endeavors.
An Interview with Alice Schwarzer on Leni Riefenstahl
Authors: Löwisch Henriette
Published: October 2013

Alice Schwarzer’s name is synonymous with the second-wave women’s

movement in West Germany, and when she picks a fight, the odds are a

shouting match will follow. Admired by some, reviled by others, West Germany’s

best-known feminist has often used controversy to amplify the

activist journalism she has pursued since the late 1960s. She is opinionated,

combative, and unpredictable—attributes all reflected in her 1999 essay on

Leni Riefenstahl, which the interview below revisits. Her sympathetic portrayal

of the filmmaker met with criticism, which is certainly consistent with

the affinity toward ambivalence Schwarzer has demonstrated throughout

her career as an author, activist and talk show celebrity.
Photobiomodulation inside the brain: a novel method of applying near-infrared light intracranially and its impact on dopaminergic cell survival in MPTP-treated mice
Authors: Moro Cécile , Massri Nabil El , Torres Napoleon , Ratel David , De Jaeger Xavier , Chabrol Claude , Perraut François , Bourgerette Alain , Berger Michel , Purushothuman Sivaraman , Johnstone Daniel , Stone Jonathan , Mitrofanis John , Benabid Alim-Louis
Published: October 2013

Object

Previous experimental studies have documented the neuroprotection of damaged or diseased cells after applying, from outside the brain, near-infrared light (NIr) to the brain by using external light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or laser devices. In the present study, the authors describe an effective and reliable surgical method of applying to the brain, from inside the brain, NIr to the brain. They developed a novel internal surgical device that delivers the NIr to brain regions very close to target damaged or diseased cells. They suggest that this device will be useful in applying NIr within the large human brain, particularly if the target cells have a very deep location.

Methods

An optical fiber linked to an LED or laser device was surgically implanted into the lateral ventricle of BALB/c mice or Sprague-Dawley rats. The authors explored the feasibility of the internal device, measured the NIr signal through living tissue, looked for evidence of toxicity at doses higher than those required for neuroprotection, and confirmed the neuroprotective effect of NIr on dopaminergic cells in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) in an acute 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) model of Parkinson disease in mice.

Results

The device was stable in freely moving animals, and the NIr filled the cranial cavity. Measurements showed that the NIr intensity declined as distance from the source increased across the brain (65% per mm) but was detectable up to 10 mm away. At neuroprotective (0.16 mW) and much higher (67 mW) intensities, the NIr caused no observable behavioral deficits, nor was there evidence of tissue necrosis at the fiber tip, where radiation was most intense. Finally, the intracranially delivered NIr protected SNc cells against MPTP insult; there were consistently more dopaminergic cells in MPTP-treated mice irradiated with NIr than in those that were not irradiated.

Conclusions

In summary, the authors showed that NIr can be applied intracranially, does not have toxic side effects, and is neuroprotective.
Angiography-negative primary angiitis of the central nervous system in childhood
Authors: Park Michael S. , Marlin Arthur E. , Gaskill Sarah J.
Published: October 2013

Childhood primary angiitis of the CNS is a recently characterized, potentially reversible disease process. A favorable outcome requires early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The histological findings of childhood primary angiitis of the CNS are characterized by a lymphocytic, nongranulomatous vasculitis. This disorder can lead to neurological deficits, seizures, and strokes. Laboratory and radiographic investigation are part of the evaluation, but are often nonspecific. Conventional angiography can fail to show any abnormality, and biopsy may ultimately be required for diagnosis. Although there can be significant rates of morbidity and mortality if untreated, patients who receive appropriate therapy can experience excellent outcomes, and in many cases will demonstrate near-complete or total clinical and radiographic resolution. The case of a previously healthy 13-year-old girl with new-onset generalized tonic-clonic seizures is presented, with a review of the literature.