bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis de la estructura factorial del Stai-T en una muestra de deportistas brasileros.
Authors: Bartholomeu Daniel , Maria Montiel José , Machado Afonso Antonio , Marín Rueda Fabián Javier
Published: November 2014

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar la estructura interna del State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-T) en una muestra de deportistas de Brasil. Participaron 179 sujetos que practicaban cinco deportes diferentes, con edades entre 14 y 58 años (M=21,04; DT=4,21). El inventario evalúa la ansiedad como estado y como rasgo, pero en este estudio fue utilizada apenas la escala referente a los rasgos, compuesta por 20 ítems dispuestos en una escala Likert de cuatro puntos. Los resultados del análisis factorial confirmatorio indicaron que los ítems no se ajustaron adecuadamente al modelo originalmente establecido por el instrumento y, considerando ese resultado, se optó por realizar un análisis factorial exploratorio, el cual mostró la existencia de dos factores que explicaron el 33% de la variancia. Esos factores fueron denominados de ansiedad presente y ansiedad ausente, con coeficientes de precisión con valores de 0,82 y 0,72 respectivamente.
How Should Cartels React to Entry Triggered by Demand Growth?
Authors: Correia-da-Silva João , Pinho Joana , Vasconcelos Hélder
Published: November 2014

We study the sustainability of collusion with optimal penal codes in markets where demand growth triggers the entry of a new firm. In contrast to grim trigger strategies, optimal penal codes make collusion easier to sustain before entry than after. This conclusion is robust to changes in the number of entrants and to the consideration of price-setting instead of quantity-setting. A comparison is given between different reactions of the incumbents to entry in terms of sustainability of collusion, incumbents’ profits, entrant’s profits, consumer surplus and social welfare. One of our findings is that the incumbent firms may prefer competition to collusion.
Comparing HbA1c, fasting and 2-h plasma glucose for screening for abnormal glucose regulation in patients undergoing coronary angiography
Authors: Wang Jun-Sing , Lee I-Te , Lee Wen-Jane , Lin Shih-Yi , Fu Chia-Po , Lee Wen-Lieng , Liang Kae-Woei , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng
Published: November 2014

We aimed to investigate the prevalence of undiagnosed abnormal glucose regulation (AGR, including diabetes and prediabetes) in patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) by using both glycated hemoglobin (HbA

Eligible patients were adults without known diabetes who were admitted for CAG. Patients’ glucose regulation status was defined by conducting HbA

A total of 689 subjects were included. According to OGTT, the prevalence rates of diabetes and prediabetes were 19.9% and 41.7%, respectively. The corresponding values were 28.0% and 60.4%, respectively, when HbA

Using HbA
Synthesis of bio-active titanium oxide coatings stimulated by electron-beam plasma
Authors: Vasilieva Tatiana , Sokolov Igor , Sigarev Andrey , Tun Win Aung
Published: November 2014

Advantages of the electron-beam plasma (EBP) for production of bioactive titanium oxide coatings were experimentally studied. The coatings were synthesized in EBP of oxygen on the surface of plane titanium substrates. A number of analytical techniques were used to characterize morphology, chemical composition, and structure of the synthesized titanium oxide. The analysis showed the titanium oxide (IV) in the rutile form to predominate in the coatings composition.

The samples with plasmachemically synthesized TiO2-coatings were more hydrophilic than untreated titanium. The effect was stable during two weeks and then the degradation of the wettability began. The EBP-stimulated TiO2 synthesis improved the hydroxyapatite formation on the surface of plane titanium substrates. The EBP-stimulated TiO2 synthesis is promising technique to produce bioactive coatings on the surface of titanium medical dental and bone implants.

The computer simulation of plasma-surface interaction was carried out to predict the plasma composition, to find the spatial distribution of the sample temperature, and to calculate the flows of the chemically active plasma particles bombarding the tube wall. The flows of atomic and singlet oxygen were found to be the most intensive and, therefore, these particles are likely to be responsible for the formation of the biocompatible TiO2-coaings.
Nonthermal plasma modification of polypropylene fibres for cementitious composites
Authors: Morávek Tomáš , Fialová Monika , Kopkáně Daniel , Ráheľ Jozef , Sťahel Pavel , Černák Mirko
Published: November 2014

The plasma treatment of polypropylene fibres used as concrete admixtures for improving its mechanical properties is the focus of this research paper. A plasma treatment was conducted in a low-temperature plasma environment at atmospheric pressure in a DCSBD (Diffuse Coplanar Surface Barrier Discharge). The degree of hydrophilicity caused by the plasma treatment was determined by measuring the rate of penetration of water into the porous media, commonly referred to as the Washburn method. The influence of the addition of PP (polypropylene) fibres to the concrete matrix was investigated using a three point bending test which determined the flexural strength of concrete samples. Our experiments demostrate that plasma improves both the wettability of PP fibres and its adhesion to the concrete matrix. The tests of flexural strength show, that even a short plasma treatment (5 s) can have a significant impact on the mechanical properties of fibre-reinforced concrete composite.
Degradation of AB25 dye in liquid medium by atmospheric pressure non-thermal plasma and plasma combination with photocatalyst TiO2
Authors: Ghodbane Houria , Hamdaoui Oualid , Vandamme Jeroen , Van Durme Jim , Vanraes Patrick , Leys Christophe , Nikiforov Anton Y.
Published: November 2014

In this work, degradation of the anthraquinonic dye Acid Blue 25 by non-thermal plasma at atmospheric pressure with and without photocatalyst is investigated. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is used as a photocatalyst. The dye degradation by plasma in the presence of TiO2 is investigated as a function of TiO2 concentration, dye concentration and pH. The degradation rate is higher in acidic solutions with pH of 2 to 4.3, especially at pH 2, and decreases to 0.38 mg L-1 min-1 with the increase of pH from 2 to 5.65. A similar effect is observed in basic media, where a higher degradation rate is found at pH = 10.3. The degradation rate increases in the presence of TiO2 compared to the discharge without photocatalysis. The results show that the degradation of the dye increases in the presence of TiO2 until the catalyst load reaches
0.5 g L-1 after which the suppression of AB25 degradation is observed. The results indicate that the tested advanced oxidation processes are very effective for the degradation of AB25 in aqueous solutions.
“Bare” or “Gloved” Hands: A Study on the Production of Safe Food
Authors: Brizio Ana Paula Dutra Resem , Prentice Carlos
Published: November 2014

There is no documented evidence proving that the meat products produced by “gloved” hands are safer than those produced by “bare” hands. Thus, this paper proposes to conduct a microbiological investigation to assess cross-contamination between handlers and poultry products in three distinct processing situations: without the use of gloves (bare hands), with the use of reusable gloves and using disposable gloves. The microbiological results showed that the use of hands protected by disposable gloves was significantly better (p < 0.05) compared to the use of bare hands and hands containing reusable gloves. Thus, the adoption of disposable gloves combined with good manufacturing practices training seems to be the most reliable alternative to reduce handler–food contamination during the preparation of poultry products.
Metastable metal imidazolates: development of targeted syntheses by combining experimental and theoretical investigations of the formation mechanisms
Authors: Schröder Christian A. , Saha Sanjib , Huber Klaus , Leoni Stefano , Wiebcke Michael
Published: November 2014

In this report, we summarize our experimental and theoretical investigations in the zinc(II) imidazolate, [Zn(im)2], and zinc(II) 4,5-dichloroimidazolate, [Zn(dcim)2], systems that have been published previously. This comprises a study on the thermodynamic stabilities of the two densest phases with coi and zni framework structures in the [Zn(im)2] system including the discovery and characterization of a new [Zn(im)2·0.5py]-neb phase (py = pyridine), a study on the mechanism of formation of the [Zn(im)2]-zni phase as well as a study on the discovery and characterization of a new [Zn(dcim)2]-SOD phase. In addition, we present as yet unpublished work. This concerns the discovery and characterization of a new [Zn(im)2·0.5mor]-neb phase (mor = morpholine) and investigations of the mechanisms of crystallization of [Zn(im)2·0.5py]-neb and [Zn(im)2·0.5mor]-neb as well as an evalutation of time-resolved SAXS/WAXS data recorded in-situ during the formation of [Zn(im)2]-zni.
A Pécsi Egyetemtörténeti Gyűjtemény képadatbázisa (eKéPEK)
Authors: Dezső Krisztina , Schmelczer-Pohánka Éva
Published: November 2014

A pécsi egyetemtörténeti relikviák gyűjtésének története nem új keletű a Pécsi Tudományegyetemen, 2010 nyarától pedig hivatalosan is az Egyetemi Könyvtár feladatköre. A könyvtár Történeti Gyűjtemények Osztályának részét képező Pécsi Egyetemtörténeti Gyűjteményben az alábbi gyűjteménytestek különíthetők el dokumentumtípusok szerint: a dokumentumgyűjtemény, a történeti tárgyak gyűjteménye és a fotógyűjtemény. Egyik legfontosabb feladatunknak tekintjük az állományok egyes darabjainak mind részletesebb feldolgozását, tárgyszavazását, azaz a visszakereshetőség szavatolását és a kutatásokra való alkalmassá tételét. Ekképpen online adatbázisokban, katalógusokban tárjuk fel ezek vonatkozó adatait. Jelen tanulmányunkban a fotógyűjtemény használatához elengedhetetlenül szükséges online adatbázis bemutatását tűztük ki célul. 
Fotó: Pécsi Egyetemtörténeti Gyűjtemény
Equilibrium-Based Movement Endpoints Elicited from Primary Motor Cortex Using Repetitive Microstimulation
Authors: Van Acker Gustaf M. , Amundsen Sommer L. , Messamore William G. , Zhang Hongyu Y. , Luchies Carl W. , Cheney Paul D.
Published: November 2014

High-frequency, long-duration intracortical microstimulation (HFLD-ICMS) is increasingly being used to deduce how the brain encodes coordinated muscle activity and movement. However, the full movement repertoire that can be elicited from the forelimb representation of primary motor cortex (M1) using this method has not been systematically determined. Our goal was to acquire a comprehensive M1 forelimb representational map of movement endpoints elicited with HFLD-ICMS, using stimulus parameters optimal for evoking stable forelimb spatial endpoints. The data reveal a 3D forelimb movement endpoint workspace that is represented in a patchwork fashion on the 2D M1 cortical surface. Although cortical maps of movement endpoints appear quite disorderly with respect to movement space, we show that the endpoint locations in the workspace evoked with HFLD-ICMS of two adjacent cortical points are closer together than would be expected if the organization were random. Although there were few obvious consistencies in the endpoint maps across the two monkeys tested, one notable exception was endpoints bringing the hand to the mouth, which was located at the boundary between the hand and face representation. Endpoints at the extremes of the monkey's workspace and locations above the head were largely absent. Our movement endpoints are best explained as resulting from coactivation of agonist and antagonist muscles driving the joints toward equilibrium positions determined by the length–tension relationships of the muscles.
Neural Representation of Motion-In-Depth in Area MT
Authors: Sanada Takahisa M. , DeAngelis Gregory C.
Published: November 2014

Neural processing of 2D visual motion has been studied extensively, but relatively little is known about how visual cortical neurons represent visual motion trajectories that include a component toward or away from the observer (motion in depth). Psychophysical studies have demonstrated that humans perceive motion in depth based on both changes in binocular disparity over time (CD cue) and interocular velocity differences (IOVD cue). However, evidence for neurons that represent motion in depth has been limited, especially in primates, and it is unknown whether such neurons make use of CD or IOVD cues. We show that approximately one-half of neurons in macaque area MT are selective for the direction of motion in depth, and that this selectivity is driven primarily by IOVD cues, with a small contribution from the CD cue. Our results establish that area MT, a central hub of the primate visual motion processing system, contains a 3D representation of visual motion.
Learning To Minimize Efforts versus Maximizing Rewards: Computational Principles and Neural Correlates
Authors: Skvortsova Vasilisa , Palminteri Stefano , Pessiglione Mathias
Published: November 2014

The mechanisms of reward maximization have been extensively studied at both the computational and neural levels. By contrast, little is known about how the brain learns to choose the options that minimize action cost. In principle, the brain could have evolved a general mechanism that applies the same learning rule to the different dimensions of choice options. To test this hypothesis, we scanned healthy human volunteers while they performed a probabilistic instrumental learning task that varied in both the physical effort and the monetary outcome associated with choice options. Behavioral data showed that the same computational rule, using prediction errors to update expectations, could account for both reward maximization and effort minimization. However, these learning-related variables were encoded in partially dissociable brain areas. In line with previous findings, the ventromedial prefrontal cortex was found to positively represent expected and actual rewards, regardless of effort. A separate network, encompassing the anterior insula, the dorsal anterior cingulate, and the posterior parietal cortex, correlated positively with expected and actual efforts. These findings suggest that the same computational rule is applied by distinct brain systems, depending on the choice dimension—cost or benefit—that has to be learned.
Auditory Hair Cell-Specific Deletion of p27Kip1in Postnatal Mice Promotes Cell-Autonomous Generation of New Hair Cells and Normal Hearing
Authors: Walters Bradley J. , Liu Zhiyong , Crabtree Mark , Coak Emily , Cox Brandon C. , Zuo Jian
Published: November 2014

Hearing in mammals relies upon the transduction of sound by hair cells (HCs) in the organ of Corti within the cochlea of the inner ear. Sensorineural hearing loss is a widespread and permanent disability due largely to a lack of HC regeneration in mammals. Recent studies suggest that targeting the retinoblastoma (Rb)/E2F pathway can elicit proliferation of auditory HCs. However, previous attempts to induce HC proliferation in this manner have resulted in abnormal cochlear morphology, HC death, and hearing loss. Here we show that cochlear HCs readily proliferate and survive following neonatal, HC-specific, conditional knock-out of p27Kip1(p27CKO), a tumor suppressor upstream of Rb. Indeed, HC-specific p27CKO results in proliferation of these cells without the upregulation of the supporting cell or progenitor cell proteins, Prox1 or Sox2, suggesting that they remain HCs. Furthermore, p27CKO leads to a significant addition of postnatally derived HCs that express characteristic synaptic and stereociliary markers and survive to adulthood, although a portion of the newly derived inner HCs exhibit cytocauds and lack VGlut3 expression. Despite this, p27CKO mice exhibit normal hearing as measured by evoked auditory brainstem responses, which suggests that the newly generated HCs may contribute to, or at least do not greatly detract from, function. These results show that p27Kip1actively maintains HC quiescence in postnatal mice, and suggest that inhibition of p27Kip1in residual HCs represents a potential strategy for cell-autonomous auditory HC regeneration.
In VivoIdentification of Eugenol-Responsive and Muscone-Responsive Mouse Odorant Receptors
Authors: McClintock Timothy S. , Adipietro Kaylin , Titlow William B. , Breheny Patrick , Walz Andreas , Mombaerts Peter , Matsunami Hiroaki
Published: November 2014

Our understanding of mammalian olfactory coding has been impeded by the paucity of information about the odorant receptors (ORs) that respond to a given odorant ligand in awake, freely behaving animals. Identifying the ORs that respondin vivoto a given odorant ligand from among the ∼1100 ORs in mice is intrinsically challenging but critical for our understanding of olfactory coding at the periphery. Here, we report anin vivoassay that is based on a novel gene-targeted mouse strain, S100a5–tauGFP, in which a fluorescent reporter selectively marks olfactory sensory neurons that have been activated recentlyin vivo. Because each olfactory sensory neuron expresses a singleORgene, multiple ORs responding to a given odorant ligand can be identified simultaneously by capturing the population of activated olfactory sensory neurons and using expression profiling methods to screen the repertoire of mouseORgenes. We used thisin vivoassay to re-identify known eugenol- and muscone-responsive mouse ORs. We identified additional ORs responsive to eugenol or muscone. Heterologous expression assays confirmed nine eugenol-responsive ORs (Olfr73, Olfr178, Olfr432, Olfr610, Olfr958, Olfr960, Olfr961, Olfr913, and Olfr1234) and four muscone-responsive ORs (Olfr74, Olfr235, Olfr816, and Olfr1440). We found that the human ortholog of Olfr235 and Olfr1440 responds to macrocyclic ketone and lactone musk odorants but not to polycyclic musk odorants or a macrocyclic diester musk odorant. This novel assay, called the Kentuckyin vivoodorant ligand–receptor assay, should facilitate thein vivoidentification of mouse ORs for a given odorant ligand of interest.
A Blue Cat on the Galactic Railroad
Authors: Roquet Paul
Published: November 2014

In the 1980s, Japanese animation shifted its focus away from the social self and toward cosmic subjectivity, the framing of intensely personal emotions within the larger impersonal expanse of the universe. This essay examines an important moment in this shift: Night on the Galactic Railroad, anime studio Group TAC’s 1985 feature based on the classic Japanese children’s tale by Miyazawa Kenji. The film emphasizes the interpenetration of the microcosmic and macrocosmic through a range of experiments with “limited” animation, sound design, and character design that would in turn influence the imaginary worlds of later anime.
Medication Adherence Among Pediatric Patients With Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Walsh Kathleen E. , Cutrona Sarah L. , Kavanagh Patricia L. , Crosby Lori E. , Malone Chris , Lobner Katie , Bundy David G.
Published: November 2014

OBJECTIVES:

Describe rates of adherence for sickle cell disease (SCD) medications, identify patient and medication characteristics associated with nonadherence, and determine the effect of nonadherence and moderate adherence (defined as taking 60%–80% of doses) on clinical outcomes.

METHODS:

In February 2012 we systematically searched 6 databases for peer-reviewed articles published after 1940. We identified articles evaluating medication adherence among patients <25 years old with SCD. Two authors reviewed each article to determine whether it should be included. Two authors extracted data, including medication studied, adherence measures used, rates of adherence, and barriers to adherence.

RESULTS:

Of 24 articles in the final review, 23 focused on 1 medication type: antibiotic prophylaxis (13 articles), iron chelation (5 articles), or hydroxyurea (5 articles). Adherence rates ranged from 16% to 89%; most reported moderate adherence. Medication factors contributed to adherence. For example, prophylactic antibiotic adherence was better with intramuscular than oral administration. Barriers included fear of side effects, incorrect dosing, and forgetting. Nonadherence was associated with more vaso-occlusive crises and hospitalizations. The limited data available on moderate adherence to iron chelation and hydroxyurea indicates some clinical benefit.

CONCLUSIONS:

Moderate adherence is typical among pediatric patients with SCD. Multicomponent interventions are needed to optimally deliver life-changing medications to these children and should include routine monitoring of adherence, support to prevent mistakes, and education to improve understanding of medication risks and benefits.
Sex-Related Online Behaviors and Adolescents’ Body and Sexual Self-Perceptions
Authors: Doornwaard Suzan M. , Bickham David S. , Rich Michael , Vanwesenbeeck Ine , van den Eijnden Regina J.J.M. , ter Bogt Tom F.M.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

This study investigated: (1) the prevalence and development of 2 receptive (sexually explicit Internet material [SEIM] use and sexual information seeking) and 2 interactive (cybersex and general social networking site [SNS] use) online behaviors in adolescence; (2) whether development of these behaviors predict adolescents’ body and sexual self-perceptions; and (3) whether parental strategies regarding adolescents’ Internet use reduce engagement in sex-related online behaviors.

METHODS:

Four-wave longitudinal data among 1132 seventh- to 10th-grade Dutch adolescents (mean age at wave 1: 13.95 years; 52.7% boys) were collected. Developmental trajectories of sex-related online behaviors were estimated by using latent growth curve modeling. Self-perception outcomes at wave 4 and parental strategies predicting online behaviors were investigated by adding regression paths to growth models.

RESULTS:

Boys occasionally and increasingly used SEIM. Patterns for girls’ SEIM use and boys’ and girls’ sexual information seeking and cybersex were consistently low. SNS use, however, was a common, daily activity for both. Higher initial levels and/or faster increases in sex-related online behaviors generally predicted less physical self-esteem (girls’ SNS use only), more body surveillance, and less satisfaction with sexual experience. Private Internet access and less parental rule setting regarding Internet use predicted greater engagement in sex-related online behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although most sex-related online behaviors are not widespread among youth, adolescents who engage in such behaviors are at increased risk for developing negative body and sexual self-perceptions. Particular attention should be paid to adolescents’ SNS use because this behavior is most popular and may, through its interactive characteristics, elicit more critical self-evaluations. Prevention efforts should focus on parents’ role in reducing risky sex-related online behaviors.
Beneficial effect of continuous positive airway pressure therapy in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
Authors: Magyar Mária Tünde
Published: November 2014

Continuous positive airway pressure therapy is an evidence based therapy of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The effective treatment of obstructive sleep apnea can decrease sympaticotonia and, consequently, blood pressure. Furhtermore, it can improve inflammatory and metabolic parameters resulting in a decreased cardiovascular risk. This article summarizes the positive effects of continuous positive airway pressure therapy on cardiovascular risk factors in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(47), 1855–1859.
Micromechanical experimental investigation of mudstones
Authors: Wang L. , Bornert M. , Chanchole S. , Héripré E. , Yang D.
Published: November 2014

This paper reports on a micromechanical investigation of mudstones using a novel experimental method, based on a combination of environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) and digital image correlation techniques. A specifically designed rig was developed, allowing in situ tests under combined hydric and mechanical loadings in the ESEM chamber. Observations were performed on the scale of the composite microstructure of the involved rocks (i.e. numerous grains of carbonate and quartz embedded in a clay matrix). Preliminary results from a uniaxial compression test on a sample with 5ṡ4% water content are presented. Heterogeneous strain fields that correlate well with the microstructure of mudstones are illustrated, enabling different deformation modes (particularly shear bands and tensile microcracks) and their interactions to be identified.
Centrifuge modelling of energy piles subjected to heating and cooling cycles in clay
Authors: Ng C. W. W. , Shi C. , Gunawan A. , Laloui L.
Published: November 2014

Energy pile foundations can discharge heat into the ground in summer and extract heat from the ground in winter. The cyclic temperature change in piles may induce serviceability problems. At present, the effects of cyclic heating and cooling on the displacement patterns of energy piles are not fully understood. This letter describes a new heating and cooling system developed to control the cyclic temperature in energy piles in a centrifuge. The system is able to control the temperature in an energy pile between 3 and 90°C. Using this system, two tests were carried out to investigate the effects of cyclic heating and cooling between 9 and 38°C on the long-term displacement of an energy pile in lightly overconsolidated (overconsolidation ratio (OCR)  =  1ṡ7) and heavily overconsolidated (OCR  =  4ṡ7) kaolin clay. Under a constant working load, a ratcheting displacement mechanism was observed for both energy piles over five cycles of heating and cooling. The pile in the lightly overconsolidated clay settled continuously but at a reduced rate and the settlement eventually reached 3ṡ8%D (pile diameter). This may be due to a stress reduction caused by plastic contraction of the clay and thermally accelerated creep at the pile–soil interface. In comparison, a relatively smaller settlement of 2ṡ1%D was observed for the pile in heavily overconsolidated clay.
Pyrite cinder as a cost-effective heterogeneous catalyst in heterogeneous Fenton reaction: decomposition of H2O2 and degradation of Acid Red B
Authors: Wu Deli , Liu Yanxia , Duan Dong , Ma Luming
Published: November 2014

Pyrite cinder (PyC) was employed as a heterogeneous Fenton-like catalyst, and its catalytic activity was evaluated in view of the effects of catalyst dosage, pH and leaching metal ions. PyC showed significant reactivity, and the pseudo-first-order kinetic rate constant for decomposition of H2O2 and degradation of Acid Red B (ARB) were 3.4 and 14.89 (10−3 min−1) respectively when pH = 5. When 20 g/L PyC was added into 10 mM H2O2 solution in neutral pH, H2O2 could be completely degraded within 4 h, and more than 90% ARB was removed. Leaching metal ions from PyC were found to have little effect on decomposition of H2O2 or on degradation of ARB. PyC still had high catalytic activity after five successive runs. The decomposition mechanism of H2O2 was analyzed and the Haber–Weiss mechanism was employed in this paper. The electron spin resonance image showed •OH was produced and increased between 3 and 5 min in the PyC catalyzing H2O2 reaction, which demonstrated that PyC had a durable ability to produce •OH.
Stability of alumina, ceria, and silica nanoparticles in municipal wastewater
Authors: Otero-González Lila , Barbero Isabel , Field Jim A. , Shadman Farhang , Sierra-Alvarez Reyes
Published: November 2014

Inorganic oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are used in semiconductor manufacturing operations such as wafer chemical–mechanical planarization (CMP). Understanding the stability of NPs in municipal wastewater is essential for the evaluation of the fate of NPs released to municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This study aimed to evaluate the stability of Al2O3, CeO2, and SiO2 NPs and CMP waste effluents containing these NPs in municipal wastewater. Al2O3 and CeO2 NPs were destabilized by wastewater constituents, as indicated by the formation of large agglomerates. However, the same NPs in the CMP waste slurries showed high stability in wastewater, probably due to additives present in the slurry that modify the surface chemistry of the particles. Likewise, both the commercial SiO2 NPs and the CMP waste slurry containing SiO2 NPs showed substantial stability in wastewater since this NP has a very low point of zero charge, which suggests that this NP could be the hardest one to remove in conventional WWTPs by aggregation–sedimentation. In summary, the results indicate that wastewater may destabilize NPs suspensions, which would facilitate NP removal in WWTPs. However, some chemicals present in real CMP slurries may counterbalance this effect. More research is needed to completely understand the surface chemistry involved.
Effect of Fluoride Gels on Microhardness and Surface Roughness of Bleached Enamel
Authors: China Ana L.P , Souza Nayara M , Gomes Yasmin do S. B. de L , Alexandrino Larissa D , Silva Cecy M
Published: November 2014

The effect of bleaching treatments containing added calcium and combined with neutral or acidic fluoride gels on tooth enamel was investigated in vitro through Knoop microhardness (KHN) and surface roughness (SR) measurements. A total of 60 bovine incisors were tested, including 30 for SR measurements and 30 for KHN measurements. The specimens were divided into 12 groups and subjected to a bleaching agent with hydrogen peroxide 35% (Whiteness HP 35% Maxx, FGM) or hydrogen peroxide 35% with calcium (Whiteness HP 35% Blue Calcium, FGM) and a fluoride treatment flugel acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) or flugel neutral fluoride (NF). Control specimens were submitted to bleaching treatments without fluoride. Microhardness tests were performed using a Knoop indentor. Roughness measurements were obtained using a roughness analyzer. Measurements were obtained before and after treatment. The specimens were stored in distilled water at 37 °C between treatments. The results were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Treatments using APF combined with 35% HP caused a decrease in microhardness, while NF combined with HP 35% Ca increased the enamel hardness. Fluoride gels did not alter the SR of the bleached enamel.
Efficiency limits in photovoltaics: Case of single junction solar cells
Authors: Jost Marko , Topic Marko
Published: November 2014

The conversion efficiency of solar energy into electrical energy is the most
important parameter when discussing solar cells, photovoltaic (PV) modules or
PV power plants. So far many papers have been written to address the limiting
efficiency of solar cells, the theoretical maximum conversion efficiency an
ideal solar cell could achieve. However, most of the researches modelled
sun?s spectrum as a blackbody which does not represent a realistic case. In
this paper we have calculated the limiting efficiency as a function of
absorbers band gap at standard test conditions using the solar spectrum
AM1.5. In addition, the other key solar cells performance parameters
(open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current density and fill factor) are
evaluated while the intrinsic losses in the solar cells are also explained
and presented in light of a cell temperature.
Electrochemical decolorization of the reactive orange 16 dye using dimensionally stable Ti/PtOx anode
Authors: Mijin Dusan , Tomic Vuk , Grgur Branimir
Published: November 2014

Electrochemical decolorization of the Reactive Orange 16 was studied using
dimensionally stable Ti/PtOx anode in the chloride containing solution.
Different reaction parameters, agitation speed, applied current, sodium
chloride concentration, and dye concentration was varied and optimum
electrolysis conditions were suggested. The hypohlorous acid was suggested to
be an active species in the electrochemical decolorization. Reaction was also
studied using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, high-pressure liquid chromatography
(HPLC), and total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN) analyses.
Innovating from the Inside: Teacher Influence and the ‘Promisingness’ of Digital Learning Environments
Authors: Cloonan Anne , Hutchison Kirsten , Paatsch Louise
Published: November 2014

In line with global trends, Australian educational policy emphatically recognises the need for contemporary learners to be digitally literate, with provision of ‘one-to-one’ devices to individual learners in schools a major implementation strategy. However, without teacher commitment, the benefits of such investment in one-to-one programs are undermined and the devices themselves are under-utilised. Too often, the focus on hardware is not accompanied by insight into the organisational learning and change required in pedagogical practices. In the knowledge that curriculum and pedagogical renewal rests squarely with teachers and leaders rather than with technological hardware and software per se, this article draws on outcomes/findings from a school/university ethnographic collaboration which closely explored the introduction of a school-funded, one-to-one netbook program in a school excluded from a state-wide initiative. It seeks to make visible the often overlooked work of teachers as members of learning organisations through a narrative of change. The narrative focuses on teacher agency and capacity to mobilise a school community to commit to a vision of; no-blame risk taking; collective professional learning; the power of purpose and passion; leadership in the face of government practice which disempowered teachers and disadvantaged students; and the development of an innovation ‘from the inside’.
Contrasting Visions: Identity, Literacy, and Boundary Work in a Fan Community
Authors: Korobkova Ksenia A. , Black Rebecca W.
Published: November 2014

This article focuses on learning and identity-related practices of young female fans of a popular British boy band called One Direction. Drawing on qualitative inquiry into a fanfiction community formed around the band, analysis highlights (a) the literate work fans engage in, including writing, reading, critiquing, and collaborating on multimodal texts, (b) identity work performed by the fans with respect to what it means to be a true fan, a teen, and an effective writer within this community, and (c) ways in which the literate and identity work weave together to inform participation and identification in the One Direction fanfiction community, creating both links and ruptures between young people's out-of-school and in-school spaces. Analyses center on the ways the fans themselves define their involvement, with a focus on subgroup identities. Interview data highlight the ways fans used linguistic, technological, and social resources to stake out certain identities and to negotiate status within the site. Although power-laden dynamics defined community participation, fans felt ownership over their literacy and identity production practices, often drawing a contrast to school practices. We then discuss the meanings youth make of their fan practices and their contrastive experiences in fan and school spaces, connecting study findings to current debates on the import of pop culture in formal schooling.
Computer-Mediated Communication in Psychology Teaching: Influence of Cultural Background on e-Mail Content and on Appraisal
Authors: Hansen Miriam , Jucks Regina
Published: November 2014

A significant amount of communication between lecturers and students takes place via e-mail. This study provides evidence that two types of cultural cues contained in the e-mail impacts lecturers' linguistic adaptation to, and appraisal of, the student. A total of 186 psychology lecturers from universities in Germany answered a fictitious student's e-mail inquiry and reported their perceptions of the student. The inquiry was manipulated with regard to ethnicity (German, Chinese) and communication style (direct, indirect). Further, the participants answered to one of two versions that differed in the wording. This was done in order to study lexical alignment. In the German ethnicity and direct style conditions, lecturers aligned more of their words to those of the students; in the Chinese ethnicity and indirect style conditions, lecturers' responses were longer and more polite. When ethnicity and style were congruent, fewer negative appraisals were produced.
Laparoscopic treatment of ovarian remnant syndrome in dogs and cats: 7 cases (2010–2013)
Authors: Naiman Jaron H. , Mayhew Philipp D. , Steffey Michele A. , N. Culp William T. , Runge Jeffrey J. , Singh Ameet
Published: November 2014

Objective—To describe the technique and evaluate the outcome of laparoscopic treatment of ovarian remnant syndrome (ORS) in dogs and cats.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—7 client-owned dogs and cats.

Procedures—Medical records of dogs and cats with ORS that were treated laparoscopically at 3 large veterinary teaching hospitals were reviewed. Laparoscopic ovarian remnant resection was performed by means of either a 3-port or single-port technique with the patient in dorsal recumbency. The area caudal to both kidneys was thoroughly inspected for evidence of ovarian tissue by tilting the patient laterally. Any ovarian remnant tissue in these areas was resected with a bipolar vessel sealer.

Results—5 female dogs and 2 female cats that had previously undergone ovariectomy or ovariohysterectomy were included in the study. Six procedures were performed with a standard 3-port technique, and 1 was performed with a single-port technique. Median surgery time was 90 minutes (range, 50 to 150 minutes). No patient required conversion to laparotomy. Six of the 7 patients had complete resolution of clinical signs after surgery. One patient underwent laparotomy 7 weeks after surgery for management of stump pyometra, but no further ovarian tissue was detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Laparoscopic management of ORS in this cohort of dogs and cats was associated with minimal morbidity. Laparoscopic treatment of ORS in dogs and cats may be recommended for appropriately selected patients.
MRI and Histological Features of Neurilemoma at Cauda Equina: A Case Report
Authors: Yadav AK , Feng PY , Chen XC , Feng LJ
Published: November 2014

We present a case of 61years old female, clinical manifestations of this entity, including left lumber continuous pain and discomfort with numbness at left gluteal region for 2 years. Pain had increase since one week with radicular pain in left leg. MRI study was performed with 3.0T unit (siemen) and revealed an oval shape mass behind the L3 vertebra, suggesting differential diagnosis of Neurilemoma or Ependymoma. The patient underwent surgical L3 laminectomy and total excision of the tumor. Pathological report confirmed diagnosis of Neurilemoma.#DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11369 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 47-51
Askin Tumor: A Case Report with Emphasis on Diagnostic Approach
Authors: Pradeep HN , Manjunath YC , Joshi V , Pradeep KCN , Sharath K , Monteiro B
Published: November 2014

Askin tumor is a rare, extremely malignant round cell tumor of the chest wall. The exact incidence is not known due to its rarity. This neoplasm is currently grouped under Ewing’s family of tumors (EFT’s). Metastasis to the sympathetic chain is a unique feature of Askin’s tumor.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11372 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 59-62
Uncommon Location of Common Parasite
Authors: Sherwani P , Tomer S , Pahuja L , Anand R
Published: November 2014

Neurocysticercosis is the most common parasitic infection of the Central Nervous System caused by Taenia solium. Spinal cysticercosis is an uncommon site of cysticercal infestation & intramedullary involvement is even rarer.1 We are reporting a rare case of intramedullary cysticercosis in the cervical region in an 11 year old girl who presented with headache & neck stiffness. CT and MRI of the cervical spine done revealed a cystic lesion with mural nodule (scolex) with cord edema in the cervical region. The child underwent treatment with antihelminthic drugs and showed marked clinico-radiological improvement.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11373 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 63-66
Rare Case of Conjoined Twins: Pictorial Essay
Authors: Sakhi P , Taori A , Patel K , Singh S
Published: November 2014

Conjoint twins are rare, presenting a unique challenge to radiologist and pediatric surgeons. For surgical separations, accurate preoperative imaging is necessary for operative planning prognostic information as well as important for patient counseling. There are different types of anatomical connections. MRI and CT scan give excellent anatomical and bony details like organ position, shared organs and vascular anatomy. We present a pictorial essay on a previously unreported variation of pygopagus twins. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v4i1.11574 Nepalese Journal of Radiology, Vol.4(1) 2014: 76-80
Casual sexual relationships: Identifying definitions for one night stands, booty calls, fuck buddies, and friends with benefits
Authors: Wentland Jocelyn J. , Reissing Elke
Published: November 2014

Operational definitions of casual sexual relationships (CSRs; i.e., Friends with Benefits, Booty Call) have not been validated in previous research. In this exploratory study of terminology used to describe various CSRs, participants were provided with definitions for One Night Stand, Booty Call, Fuck Buddy, and Friends with Benefits relationships and asked to identify the corresponding label for each definition. Overall, a majority (i.e., ≥81%) of men (n=341) and women (n=544) accurately identified the corresponding labels. Specifically, a higher proportion of participants with sexual intercourse experience identified the corresponding definition labels, whereas there was no difference in the proportion of those with or without previous casual sex experience. Furthermore, a higher proportion of female participants identified the corresponding labels, possibly reflecting a greater capacity to identify subtle relationship cues conveyed within the definitions. Given the prevalence of CSRs in the current cultural context, it is vital for researchers to ensure that the terminology they use accurately reflects their participants' understanding of the concepts under investigation.
A MultiethnicStreetcar Named Desire:We’ve Had This Date from the Beginning
Authors: Cope Virginia H.
Published: November 2014

ABSTRACT:

Stephen Byrd’s 2012 Broadway production of Tennessee Williams’s A Streetcar Named Desire, with black and Hispanic actors, inspired the typical strong responses from critics, many of whom objected to the casting as historically improbable. Yet it is precisely the predictability of these responses that argues in favour of non-traditional casting. Such casting reveals something new about the play and also about audience assumptions. It forces a confrontation with ideology that is particularly revealing in the case of Streetcar. When director Emily Mann cast African-American and Hispanic actors in the lead roles, she denied theatregoers the opportunity to ride the tracks up one old narrow street and down another to a familiar destination – an interpretation that both scapegoats and romanticizes the South, exposing and concealing the nation’s racial history. Byrd and Mann proved, not only that Streetcar can be successfully produced with a multiethnic cast, but that it demands to be done so.
Microstructural control of Ti-46Al-7Nb-0.7Cr-0.2Ni-0.1Si alloy by heat treatment
Authors: Hasegawa Makoto , Nomura Takuya , Haga Hideki , Dlouhy Ivo , Fukutomi Hiroshi
Published: November 2014

The effects of holding temperature, time and cooling rate on the microstructure of Ti-46Al-7Nb-0.7Cr-0.2Ni-0.1Si (at.%) alloys are studied. Three kinds of segregations are found in the as-cast material. In back scattered electron images these segregations are observed as dark regions formed by the solidification process, bright regions with irregular shaped blocks and imaged regions of lighter contrast formed by the cooling process from β phase to α phase and from α phase to (β + γ) two phase or (α + β + γ) three phase, respectively. Addition of small amounts of Cr, Ni and Si to the Ti-45Al-7Nb alloy shifts the (β + γ) two phase state and (α + γ + β) three phase state to a lower Nb concentration range. While cooling from the α single phase state to the (β + γ) two phase or (α + β + γ) three phase states, sequential type phase transformation occurs. The amounts of Cr, Ni and Si are too small to induce the pearlitic mode of transformation. Therefore, the sequential mode of the ternary alloy containing Nb occurs. The microstructures change depending on the cooling rate from α single phase region. Massive transformation occurs in the range of 300 K s−1 to 50 K s−1. However, the α phase is partially retained at the cooling rate of 300 K s−1. A fully lamellar structure appears at cooling rates lower than 10 K s−1.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti2AlC-reinforced TiAl composites
Authors: Ai Taotao , Liu Fang , Yu Qi , Feng Xiaoming , Zhang Yingtang , Li Wenhu
Published: November 2014

Ti2AlC/TiAl composites were successfully in-situ synthesized by reaction hot pressing using Ti, Al, TiC and CNTs as starting materials. The results indicate that the as-sintered composites mainly consist of Ti2AlC and TiAl phases. The mechanical properties of the 23 wt.% Ti2AlC/TiAl composite exhibit the highest values, with a flexural strength and fracture toughness of 652.5 ± 76.8 MPa and 6.6 ± 0.5 MPa m1/2, respectively. The complex structure coupled with dispersed Ti2AlC micro-particulates is responsible for the enhancement in the strength. Toughening of the composite is mainly attributed to crack deflection, crack bridging, crack branching and pull-out of the Ti2AlC particles, as well as transgranular cracking.
Effect of Nitrogen Levels and Gliricidia Sepium Alley Widths on Rice Based Agroforestry Systems
Authors: Mondal S , Miah MG , Elahi NE , Saleque MA , Rahman A
Published: November 2014

An experiment was conducted at the research farm of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU) during May to September 2008 to investigate the effect of alley widths of Gliricidia sepium and different nitrogen levels on yield of Aus rice (BR24). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. Three alley widths 3.0, 4.5, and 6.0 m and a control, without tree were compared under five N doses 0, 18.75, 37.5, 56.25 and 75 kg ha-1. G. Sepium species gave the highest (20.24 t ha-1) pruned materials from closer alley width (3m). The highest grain yield (3.54 t ha-1) of rice was obtained at 75 kg N from urea and pruned materials (PM) in 4.5 m alley width. The study suggests that G. sepium can contribute to increase rice yield and increase N use efficiency.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/brj.v17i1-2.20898Bangladesh Rice j. 2013, 17(1&2): 26-32