bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the effective parameters in the Atomic Force Microscope–based dynamic manipulation of rough micro/nanoparticles by using the Sobol sensitivity analysis method
Authors: Korayem M H , Taheri M , Ghasemi M , Badkoobehhezavh H
Published: November 2015

Due to the substantial complexities of atomic force microscope (AFM)-based dynamic manipulation models, these models require the identification of many parameters and inputs with varying levels of sensitivity. Various sensitivity analysis (SA) methods can be used to achieve such a goal. The Sobol method is one of the famous SA approaches based on variance, which is widely used today in various study and scientific fields. The dynamic models for the manipulation of micro/nanoparticles, which have been investigated in previous works by means of the SA methods, have involved spherical nanoparticles with smooth surfaces. Since different micro/nanoparticles have a variety of geometries and since surface roughness plays a significant role in the contact of these particles with different surfaces, in this paper, the sensitivity of the AFM-based dynamic manipulation model of rough micro/nanorods has been analyzed. By considering more diverse geometrical conditions for the target micro/nanoparticle, including a cylindrical geometry and rough surfaces, many geometrical parameters enter the model. Therefore, in this study, simulations have been performed by the Sobol SA approach in order to determine the sensitivity of the input manipulation parameters to the critical output values of manipulation, for the two groups of AFM and environmental parameters. Based on the results obtained from these simulations, cantilever thickness constitutes the most sensitive parameter in the manipulation of rough cylindrical micro/nanoparticles. By analyzing the sensitivities of environmental parameters, it was found that the parameter of surface roughness in the range of 0–0.04 is highly sensitive for rough cylindrical micro/nanoparticles.
Application of the superconducting fault current limiter strategy to improve the fault ride-through capability of a doubly-fed induction generator–based wind energy conversion system
Authors: Sitharthan R , Geethanjali M
Published: November 2015

The enormous demand for electricity is partially satisfied by the increased penetration of wind power generation resources. This necessitates a wind energy conversion system (WECS) to remain connected to the grid in order to maintain power system stability during grid faults. This paper proposes a superconducting fault current limiter control strategy to improve the fault ride-through (FRT) capability of a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG)-based WECS during grid faults. The outstanding aspect of the proposed technique is that it reduces the fault current level at the stator side and suppresses the rotor inrush current during incidents of grid faults. Consequently, the oscillation in the DC-link voltage and the electromagnetic torque of the WECS are reduced to a minimum permissible limit. Therefore, the proposed strategy improves the FRT capability of the WECS. Thus, the WECS remains connected to the grid and contributes necessary power system stability during and after the grid faults. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is studied through a time domain simulation carried out in a MATLAB/Simulink environment.
Managing a Policy Experiment
Authors: Johns Tracy L.
Published: November 2015

The unique nature of recreational marijuana policy makes for a compelling study in the policy adoption and implementation process. As a local control state, Colorado cities, municipalities, and counties may choose whether or not to adopt marijuana legalization policies in their jurisdictions and how to do so. This research is based on survey and panel data from Colorado local officials regarding issues of adoption and implementation in their jurisdictions. Overall, the initial findings show that the decision regarding adoption was a result of a combination of policy determinants (both cultural and economic) and policy diffusion (from prior policies on medical marijuana). Factors related to public opinion, economics, and prior policy on medical marijuana affected both the decision to permit and the decision to prohibit. Policy diffusion also appears important in early implementation, as cities use the existing medical marijuana policies to shape recreational marijuana policies.
The logic of economic development: a definition and model for investment
Authors: Feldman Maryann , Hadjimichael Theodora , Lanahan Lauren , Kemeny Tom
Published: November 2015

Despite significant public resources devoted to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, there is little agreement about how to measure outcomes toward achieving the larger objectives of economic development. This paper starts by defining economic development and then considers the role of government, arguing that public policy should focus on building capacities that are beyond the ability of the market to provide. This shifts the debate toward a neutral role of government as a builder of capacities that enable economic agents, individuals, firms, or communities to realize their potential.
Institutions, smart specialisation dynamics and policy
Authors: Grillitsch Markus
Published: November 2015

Smart specialisation features prominently in the European regional policy context. This paper discusses how the configuration of the regional institutional framework affects smart specialisation dynamics and policy. It elaborates why and how institutional diversity and integration promote entrepreneurial discovery processes, spillovers and agglomeration effects, and thereby structural change in regions. Policy challenges arising from the regional institutional framework are identified, discussed and related to well-researched system failures of regional innovation systems.
The Modified Apnea Test During Brain Death Determination
Authors: Ahlawat Aditi , Carandang Raphael , Heard Stephen O. , Muehlschlegel Susanne
Published: November 2015

Introduction:

Conventional apnea testing in patients with severe hypoxemia or hemodynamic instability with removal from the ventilator support is unsafe. We describe an alternative approach to apnea testing, which may be used in patients with hypoxia unable to undergo conventional apnea testing.

Methods:

Case Report. A 42-year-old man had a severe traumatic brain injury resulting in diffuse cerebral edema and subarachnoid hemorrhage with herniation. His presentation was complicated by hypoxic respiratory failure from pulmonary contusions and hemorrhagic shock. On hospital day 2, the patient lost brain stem reflexes. Brain death testing with conventional apnea testing was attempted but aborted due to hypoxia.

Results:

A modified apnea test was applied, which had been approved by appropriate hospital committees including critical care operations, ethics, and the brain death protocol council. Minute ventilation was gradually decreased by ≥50% to attain a PaCo2 level ≥20 mm Hg above baseline. The ventilation mode was then switched from volume control to continuous positive airway pressure while observing the patient for signs of respiration for a duration of 60 seconds.

Conclusion:

The modified apnea test does not require circuit disconnection and can be successfully applied to determine brain death without compromising safety in high-risk patients having severe hypoxia.
Do Incentive Programs Cause Growth? The Case of the Oklahoma Quality Jobs Program and Community-Level Economic Growth
Authors: Whitacre Brian E. , Shideler David , Williams Randi
Published: November 2015

The academic literature on economic development incentive programs has generated mixed results, though most studies conclude that incentives do not lead to economic growth. Oklahoma has received high praise for its innovative Quality Jobs program, because it provides cash payments (not tax incentives) and emphasizes jobs with high wages and benefits. However, few evaluations of the program’s success in growing the state’s economy have been made. This study employs multivariate regression and mixed-pair analysis techniques and concludes that the economic growth between 1990 and 2005 was not statistically different between Oklahoma communities with businesses participating in the Quality Jobs program and those that were not participating. There was, however, a statistical difference in median household income growth when Oklahoma communities with participating businesses were compared with similar Kansas communities.
The nature of delusion: psychologically explicable? psychologically inexplicable? philosophically explicable? Part 2
Authors: Cutting J , Musalek M
Published: November 2015

The first part of this article dealt with the extant formulations of delusion, psychiatric and psychological, suggestions which, respectively, regard delusion as psychologically inexplicable or explicable. All this was subjected to critique. This second part puts forward informed philosophical thesis whereby delusion can be explained within the philosophical movement known as phenomenology and, in particular, Max Scheler’s version of this.
Forcing mechanisms of orbital-scale changes in winter rainfall over northwestern China during the Holocene
Authors: Zhang Xiaojian , Jin Liya , Huang Wei , Chen Fahu
Published: November 2015

The moisture history in arid central Asia (ACA) differs from that in the Asian monsoon region during the Holocene. Much less is known about causes of Holocene moisture changes in ACA than Asian monsoon precipitation changes, hampering our understanding of their spatiotemporal differences. In this study, orbital-scale evolution of winter rainfall in northwestern China (a part of the core zone in ACA) during the Holocene and possible driving mechanisms are investigated using results from a long-term transient simulation performed by an atmosphere–ocean–sea-ice coupled general circulation model, the Kiel Climate Model, forced by orbital variations. Our results reveal a persistent wetting trend in northwestern China in winter throughout the Holocene, which is in response to winter insolation at mid-northern latitudes. Winter insolation can influence the rainfall via three ways. First, increasing latitudinal gradient of the incoming solar insolation at mid-latitudes strengthens the westerly intensity. Second, the evaporation is enhanced because of insolation-induced winter temperature rising, resulting in an increase in the air humidity. Intensified westerly winds and the increased water vapour together are conductive to enhance moisture transport towards northwestern China and thus increase winter precipitation in this area. Third, the increasing trend of winter insolation weakens the East Asian winter monsoon, which is favourable for the formation of rainfall via crippling the Siberian High that is beneficial for atmospheric lifting motion.
A Conceptual Critique of the Cultural Cognition Thesis
Authors: van der Linden Sander
Published: November 2015

I offer a critique of the cultural cognition thesis. I argue that cultural cognition is not a theory about culture or cognition per se; rather, it is a thesis that aims to explain why specific American groups with opposing political views disagree over a select number of contemporary science issues. I highlight that cultural cognition can be characterized as a “strange loop” as it frequently defines its core theoretical properties (e.g., group, culture, political ideology) in terms of one another. The approach also overgeneralizes specific findings from social psychology and underappreciates the many audiences that comprise the general “public”.
Inflammatory and Epigenetic Pathways for Perinatal Depression
Authors: Garfield Lindsey , Mathews Herbert L. , Janusek Linda Witek
Published: November 2015

Depression during the perinatal period is common and can have adverse consequences for women and their children. Yet, the biobehavioral mechanisms underlying perinatal depression are not known. Adverse early life experiences increase the risk for adult depression. One potential mechanism by which this increased risk occurs is epigenetic embedding of inflammatory pathways. The purpose of this article is to propose a conceptual model that explicates the linkage between early life adversity and the risk for maternal depression. The model posits that early life adversity embeds a proinflammatory epigenetic signature (altered DNA methylation) that predisposes vulnerable women to depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period. As proposed, women with a history of early life adversity are more likely to exhibit higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines and lower levels of oxytocin in response to the demands of pregnancy and new motherhood, both of which are associated with the risk for perinatal depression. The model is designed to guide investigations into the biobehavioral basis for perinatal depression, with emphasis upon the impact of early life adversity. Testing this model will provide a better understanding of maternal depressive risk and improve identification of vulnerable women who would benefit from targeted interventions that can reduce the impact of perinatal depression on maternal–infant health.
‘…because there’s nobody who can just sit that long’
Authors: Stylianou Michalis , Kulinna Pamela Hodges , Naiman Tyler
Published: November 2015

Classroom teachers are increasingly called upon to help increase pupils’ physical activity (PA). Grounded in Guskey’s model of teacher change, this study was part of an intervention that provided classroom teachers with training for implementing classroom-based PA (CBPA). The study examined teachers’ attempts to implement CBPA and focused on their self-reported practices (number of CBPAs implemented and management routines used) as well as their perceptions of this process. Participants ( N = 13) were teachers from a U.S. primary school. Data collection included self-reported number of CBPAs implemented (in the year prior to, and the year of, the intervention), self-assessment of management routines used, semi-structured interviews, self-reflection cards, and field notes from classroom observations. Descriptive statistics were calculated and group mean comparison tests were performed for the number of CBPAs implemented and the use of management routines. Qualitative data analysis involved constant comparison and analytic induction techniques, along with several trustworthiness techniques. Teachers implemented a significantly greater number of CBPAs on most days during the study compared to the year before ( M = 2.55, SD = 1.36, Cohen’s d = 1.88) and indicated a high level of consistency relative to the use of management strategies taught. Four themes were generated from the qualitative data: (a) positive teacher perceptions of CBPA; (b) perceived positive pupil outcomes and responses; (c) common management routines and common challenges; and (d) teacher support and valuable feedback for the intervention. Findings suggest that sustained professional development can provide classroom teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to regularly implement CBPAs. Also, findings indicate the usefulness of Guskey’s model of teacher change in studying classroom teachers’ involvement in PA promotion programmes and provide valuable insights that can inform similar future projects.
The public good in English private school governance
Authors: Boyask Ruth
Published: November 2015

There exist some rare private schools that attempt to mitigate the anti-democratic qualities of the private schooling sector in England. This article reports on a study of private schools that aim to promote equality and participation through some aspects of their operations. It considers to what extent the governance structures within the schools support their aspirations and what this means for the public good more generally. English private schools are accountable to the state under The Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 (hereafter Independent School Standards, 2014), corporate law and the majority are accountable under the Charities Act, which requires them to demonstrate public benefit. The schools reported here have a commitment to the public good that extends beyond these limited accountabilities, demonstrating the weaknesses of the public good as it is presently defined by the state and also advancing understanding on the extent to which the schools can be regarded as Fraser’s (1990) counterpublics.
Biological Tools to Study the Effects of Environmental Contaminants at the Feto–Maternal Interface
Authors: Mannelli Chiara , Ietta Francesca , Avanzati Anna Maria , Skarzynski Dariusz , Paulesu Luana
Published: November 2015

The identification of reproductive toxicants is a major scientific challenge for human health. Prenatal life is the most vulnerable and important time span of human development. For obvious ethical reasons, in vivo models cannot be used in human pregnancy, and animal models do not perfectly reflect human physiology. This review describes the in vitro test models representative of the human feto–maternal interface and the effects of environmental chemicals with estrogen-like activity, mainly bisphenol A and para-nonylphenol, with a particular emphasis on the effects at low, nontoxic doses similar to concentrations commonly detected in the population.
Chromosome Damage Caused by Accidental Chronic Whole-Body Gamma Radiation Exposure in Thailand
Authors: Ulsh B. A. , Dolling J. , Lavoie J. , Mitchel R. E. J. , Boreham D. R.
Published: November 2015

In February 2000, a radiation incident involving a medical 60Co source occurred in a metal scrapyard in Thailand. Several individuals were suspected to have received chronic or fractionated exposures ranging from a few mGy to a several Gy. Using fluorescence in situ hybridization to paint chromosomes, we determined the frequencies of chromosome aberrations in peripheral blood lymphocytes of 13 people who entered the scrapyard, 3 people who involved in recovering the source, and 9 nearby residents. Aberration frequencies greater than controls were observed in 13 of the donors at 3 months postexposure. The predominant form of aberration observed was simple, complete, symmetrical translocations. An approximate 50% decrease in these aberrations and in total color junctions was observed in 7 donors resampled at 16 months postexposure. Although high, acute exposures are known to have detrimental effects, the biological consequences of chronic, low dose-rate radiation exposures are unclear. Thirteen of the donors had elevated aberration frequencies, and 6 also had symptoms of acute radiation syndrome. If there are any long-term health consequences of this incident, it will most likely occur among this group of individuals. The consequences for the remaining donors, who presumably received lower total doses delivered at lower dose rates, are less clear.
An Exploration of the Psychosocial Characteristics of High Achieving Students and Identified Gifted Students
Authors: Ritchotte Jennifer A. , Suhr Diana , Alfurayh Naif F. , Graefe Amy K.
Published: November 2015

High achieving students or “bright children” are often denied access to gifted services because they do not meet “gifted” criteria. Although psychosocial factors play an integral role in academic success, and can be useful in providing a clearer picture of student need, they are seldom considered in the decision to identify a student for gifted services. This study compared identified gifted students and non-identified high achieving students on their self-perceptions of several psychosocial factors to provide additional evidence that gifted services, depending on the framework and content of these services, may be appropriate for non-identified high achieving students as well. Results indicated that non-identified high achieving students’ psychosocial self-perceptions, as measured by the School Attitude Assessment Survey–Revised (SAAS-R) Subscales, were comparable with the identified gifted students, suggesting that the high achieving students could have benefited from the gifted services their school offered.
The Interlanguage Speech Intelligibility Benefit as Bias Toward Native-Language Phonology
Authors: Wang Hongyan , van Heuven Vincent J.
Published: November 2015

Two hypotheses have been advanced in the recent literature with respect to the so-called Interlanguage Speech Intelligibility Benefit (ISIB): a nonnative speaker will be better understood by a another nonnative listener than a native speaker of the target language will be (a) only when the nonnatives share the same native language (matched interlanguage) or (b) even when the nonnatives have different mother tongues (non-matched interlanguage). Based on a survey of published experimental materials, the present article will demonstrate that both the restricted (a) and the generalized (b) hypotheses are false when the ISIB effect is evaluated in terms of absolute intelligibility scores. We will then propose a simple way to compute a relative measure for the ISIB (R-ISIB), which we claim is a more insightful way of evaluating the interlanguage benefit, and test the hypotheses in relative (R-ISIB) terms on the same literature data. We then find that our R-ISIB measure only supports the more restricted hypothesis (a) while rejecting the more general hypothesis (b). This finding shows that the native language shared by the interactants biases the listener toward interpreting sounds in terms of the phonology of the shared mother tongue.
Subjective Organization Calculator for Free Recall
Authors: Senkova Olesya , Otani Hajime
Published: November 2015

The free recall measure has an advantage over other memory measures because the free recall measure can provide organization measures, which can reveal the strategies participants used to maximize recall. For instance, even when a study list does not show a clear organizational scheme, recall outputs are often far from random, evidenced by participants recalling the same two or more items together repeatedly across multiple test trials. Unfortunately, computing organizational measures is laborious. The present article introduces a calculator to compute subjective organization (SO) measures. The calculator is based on a popular platform accessible to most researchers and is designed to compute commonly used SO measures for each participant.
Hypnotically Induced Out-of-Body Experience
Authors: Tressoldi Patrizio E. , Pederzoli Luciano , Caini Patrizio , Ferrini Alessandro , Melloni Simone , Prati Elena , Richeldi Diana , Richeldi Florentina , Trabucco Alice
Published: November 2015

The possibility to induce real out-of-body experiences (OBEs) using hypnotic inductions, with the opportunity to interview participants during their experience, permits to investigate in depth the characteristics of different aspects of this particular state of consciousness from a first-person point of view. In this article, six selected participants report the description of another “body” we named “subtle body,” identified as an intermediate entity between the physical body (Pb) and their “Self” or “I-identity” that was named “psychic body,” and their relationships and characteristics. The “subtle body” was described as a sort of white silvered cloud surrounding the Pb, with a particular enlargement of its hands and feet that could move quickly like flying from one place to another even if less easily than the “psychic body,” and a vague sense of attrition was perceived when passing through walls. Similar to the “psychic body,” the “subtle” one too could move forward and backward in time even if they did not seem perceiving the sense of time. The “subtle body” was referred to be connected with the physical one by a sort of white brilliant link sometimes described like a silvered string more or less visible, whereas no visible links were identified between the “subtle body” and the “psychic” one. These reports were compared with similar descriptions deriving from the Vedanta philosophy and Theosophical tradition.
A new fireworm (Amphinomidae) from the Cretaceous of Lebanon identified from three-dimensionally preserved myoanatomy
Authors: Parry Luke A. , Wilson Paul , Sykes Dan , Edgecombe Gregory D. , Vinther Jakob
Published: November 2015

Background

Rollinschaeta myoplena gen. et sp. nov is described from the Late Cretaceous (Cenomanian) Konservat-Lagerstätten of Hakel and Hjoula, Lebanon. The myoanatomy of the fossils is preserved in exceptional detail in three dimensions as calcium phosphate, allowing the musculature of the body wall, gut and parapodia to be reconstructed in detail.

Results

The major muscle groups of polychaetes can be identified in Rollinschaeta, including longitudinal muscle bands, circular muscles, oblique muscles, the parapodial muscle complex and the gut musculature, with a resolution sufficient to preserve individual fibres. To allow meaningful comparison with the phosphatized fossil specimens, extant polychaetes were stained with iodine and visualised using microCT. Rollinschaeta myoplena possesses two pairs of dorsal longitudinal muscles, dorsal and ventral circular muscles and a single pair of ventral longitudinal muscles. While six longitudinal muscle bands are known from other polychaete groups, their presence in combination with circular muscles is unique to Amphinomidae, allowing these fossils to be diagnosed to family level based solely on their myoanatomy. The elongate, rectilinear body and equally sized, laterally projecting parapodia of Rollinschaeta are found only within Amphinominae, demonstrating that the Cretaceous species is derived amongst Amphinomida.

Conclusion

The uniquely preserved myoanatomy of Rollinschaeta has allowed diagnosis of a fossil annelid to subfamily level using microCT as a comparative tool for exploring myoanatomy in fossil and extant polychaetes. Our results demonstrate that fossilized muscles can provide systematically informative anatomical detail and that they should be studied when preserved.
Split equality fixed point problem for quasi-pseudo-contractive mappings with applications
Authors: Chang Shih-sen , Wang Lin , Qin Li-Juan
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we consider a split equality fixed point problem for quasi-pseudo-contractive mappings which includes split feasibility problem, split equality problem, split fixed point problem etc., as special cases. A unified framework for the study of this kind of problems and operators is provided. The results presented in the paper extend and improve many recent results.
Upfront Genotyping of DPYD*2A to Individualize Fluoropyrimidine Therapy: A Safety and Cost Analysis
Authors: Deenen Maarten J. , Meulendijks Didier , Cats Annemieke , Sechterberger Marjolein K. , Severens Johan L. , Boot Henk , Smits Paul H. , Rosing Hilde , Mandigers Caroline M.P.W. , Soesan Marcel , Beijnen Jos H. , Schellens Jan H.M.
Published: November 2015

Purpose

Fluoropyrimidines are frequently prescribed anticancer drugs. A polymorphism in the fluoropyrimidine metabolizing enzyme dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD; ie, DPYD*2A) is strongly associated with fluoropyrimidine-induced severe and life-threatening toxicity. This study determined the feasibility, safety, and cost of DPYD*2A genotype–guided dosing.

Patients and Methods

Patients intended to be treated with fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy were prospectively genotyped for DPYD*2A before start of therapy. Variant allele carriers received an initial dose reduction of ≥ 50% followed by dose titration based on tolerance. Toxicity was the primary end point and was compared with historical controls (ie, DPYD*2A variant allele carriers receiving standard dose described in literature) and with DPYD*2A wild-type patients treated with the standard dose in this study. Secondary end points included a model-based cost analysis, as well as pharmacokinetic and DPD enzyme activity analyses.

Results

A total of 2,038 patients were prospectively screened for DPYD*2A, of whom 22 (1.1%) were heterozygous polymorphic. DPYD*2A variant allele carriers were treated with a median dose-intensity of 48% (range, 17% to 91%). The risk of grade ≥ 3 toxicity was thereby significantly reduced from 73% (95% CI, 58% to 85%) in historical controls (n = 48) to 28% (95% CI, 10% to 53%) by genotype-guided dosing (P < .001); drug-induced death was reduced from 10% to 0%. Adequate treatment of genotype-guided dosing was further demonstrated by a similar incidence of grade ≥ 3 toxicity compared with wild-type patients receiving the standard dose (23%; P = .64) and by similar systemic fluorouracil (active drug) exposure. Furthermore, average total treatment cost per patient was lower for screening (€2,772 [$3,767]) than for nonscreening (€2,817 [$3,828]), outweighing screening costs.

Conclusion

DPYD*2A is strongly associated with fluoropyrimidine-induced severe and life-threatening toxicity. DPYD*2A genotype–guided dosing results in adequate systemic drug exposure and significantly improves safety of fluoropyrimidine therapy for the individual patient. On a population level, upfront genotyping seemed cost saving.
The Critical Place of Reading in Writing Transfer (and Beyond)
Authors: Lockhart Tara , Soliday Mary
Published: November 2015

This article details findings from a research study on learning transfer, in which most students reported transferring reading processes and explicitly linked their successes in writing to their successes in reading. Reading offered a pathway through their university learning experiences, improving self-efficacy and engagement.
Next generation limb development and evolution: old questions, new perspectives
Authors: Zuniga Aimée
Published: November 2015

The molecular analysis of limb bud development in vertebrates continues to fuel our understanding of the gene regulatory networks that orchestrate the patterning, proliferation and differentiation of embryonic progenitor cells. In recent years, systems biology approaches have moved our understanding of the molecular control of limb organogenesis to the next level by incorporating next generation ‘omics’ approaches, analyses of chromatin architecture, enhancer-promoter interactions and gene network simulations based on quantitative datasets into experimental analyses. This Review focuses on the insights these studies have given into the gene regulatory networks that govern limb development and into the fin-to-limb transition and digit reductions that occurred during the evolutionary diversification of tetrapod limbs.
Filtering Walls Мade of Sintered Metal Gauzes for Built-in Filters of Aviation Hydraulic Systems
Authors: Новиков  , Novikov Yu. , Спиридонов  , Spiridonov V. , Большаков  , Bolshakov Vadim
Published: November 2015

Results of theoretical and experimental researches related to cold deformation degree influence when rolling on strength

and hydraulic characteristics of metal gauzes used for production of built-in filters’ filtering walls have been presented.

An analytical dependence of gauze’s permeation coefficient on the gauze’s reduction ratio and relative lengthening when

rolling has been received based on ideal porous body’s capillary model. Theoretical research results have been compared

with the experimental data obtained at filtration of compressed air and mineral oil through samples of gauzes with various

degree of cold deformation. Experimental dependences of gauzes’ relative lengthening and strength limit on their cold

deformation degree have been presented. Results of visual researches of deformed gauzes’ surface condition have been

presented. A dependence of contact spots’ square at gauzes’ surfaces on reduction ratio has been received. The analysis of

contact spots’ influence on hydraulic characteristics of the multilayered mesh material used for filtering walls production

has been carried out. Results of experimental studies of gauzes’ hydraulic characteristics have been processed in the form

of dimensionless dependence of hydraulic resistance coefficient on filtered environment stream’s Reynolds number.
Properties, Morphology and Bioproduction of Bacterial Cellulose Using Static Fermentation
Authors: Roushdy M. M.
Published: November 2015

Overview: Cellulose is the world’s major polymer of economic importance. It is the main component of wood and cotton. Cotton and wood are the major sources for most of cellulose products i.e. textiles, paper and construction compounds.
Aim of Study: The work is aimed to study the probability of underutilized Hestrin-Schramm (HS) medium for the production and optimization of bacterial cellulose (BC) by Gluconacetobacter xylinus RO-7 and to study the properties of the resulted BC polymer.
Methods and Results: Experiments were designed to enhance the bacterial cellulose yields along with environmental growth factors. Production of bacterial cellulose using static fermentation process was studied in HS medium at 30°C in 250 Erlenmeyer flasks by using Gluconacetobacter xylinus RO-7 isolated from local pickles markets. Results revealed that Gluconacetobacter xylinus RO-7 produced a bacterial cellulose yield of 18 gm/L. Several factors were test to increase the productivity of BC. Cellulose fibrils were subjected to thermal gravimetric, X-ray diffraction, FTIR analysis. Morphological characters of cellulose fibrils were also observed using Scanning electron microscopy.
Conclusion: Microbial cellulose has many applications as scientific and biomedical endeavors. Therefore it is concluded to use the biological methods for the production of BC.
Involving stakeholders in programme theory specification: discussion of a systematic, consensus-based approach
Authors: van Urk Felix , Grant Sean , Bonell Chris
Published: November 2015

The use of explicit programme theory to guide evaluation is widely recommended. However, practitioners and other partnering stakeholders often initiate programmes based on implicit theories, leaving researchers to explicate them before commencing evaluation. The current study aimed to apply a systematic method to undertake this process. We integrated a Delphi process into a larger effort to engage stakeholders in the elucidation of a logic model for the Studio School model of education. This study demonstrates that evaluators and service providers can jointly specify – and come to consensus regarding – intervention programme theories after these have been designed but prior to evaluation.
The spherical nucleic acids mRNA detection paradox
Authors: Mason David , Carolan Gemma , Held Marie , Comenge Joan , Lévy Raphaël
Published: November 2015

From the 1950s onwards, our understanding of the formation and intracellular trafficking of membrane vesicles was informed by experiments in which cells were exposed to gold nanoparticles and their uptake and localisation, studied by electron microscopy. In the last decade, building on progress in the synthesis of gold nanoparticles and their controlled functionalisation with a large variety of biomolecules (DNA, peptides, polysaccharides), new applications have been proposed, including the imaging and sensing of intracellular events. Yet, as already demonstrated in the 1950s, uptake of nanoparticles results in confinement within an intracellular vesicle which in principle should preclude sensing of cytosolic events. To study this apparent paradox, we focus on a commercially available nanoparticle probe that detects mRNA through the release of a fluorescently labelled oligonucleotide (unquenching the fluorescence) in the presence of the target mRNA. Using electron, fluorescence and photothermal microscopy, we show that the probes remain in endocytic compartments and that they do not report on mRNA level. We suggest that the validation of any nanoparticle-based probes for intracellular sensing should include a quantitative and thorough demonstration that the probes can reach the cytosolic compartment.
Turkish teachers' opinions of the problems they face in the classroom of students with learning disabilities
Authors: Dadandı İbrahim , Urfalı Dadandı Pakize
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study is to identify problems encountered by Turkish teachers who have students with learning disabilities. Following the qualitative research, data in this study were collected through semi-structured interview. The study was conducted with 10 Turkish teachers who have students with learning disabilities. The data were analyzed using content analysis. In the study, it was found out that Turkish teachers encountered problems in the implementation of individualized education programs for students with learning disabilities in getting those students gain basic language skills, in the interaction process of these students' class and in communicating with their parents. To increase the effectiveness of the implementations, some suggestions such as increasing the special education qualification of teachers through in-service training courses, organizing seminars for parents, and conducting further researches that examines the effectiveness of computer-aided teaching methods in teaching language skills to learning disabled students were proposed.
Experimental research and modeling of selected layers of the trachea based on EBUS
Authors: Ryniewicz Andrzej , Soja Jerzy , Ryniewicz Wojciech , Sładek Krzysztof , Bojko Łukasz
Published: November 2015

This study presents the use of endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) for imaging and dimensional measurements of a trachea. An assessment of shape reproduction accuracy was based on a comparative method using one- and two-later models. It was found that dimensions determined from EBUS scans of digital models are overstated by 1.2–2.9 mm on average. Developed 2-D and 3-D models of tracheal structures facilitate the evaluation of dimensions and thickness distribution for tissue layers.
Platelet volume is associated with the Framingham risk score for cardiovascular disease in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
Authors: Maluf Chams B. , Barreto Sandhi M. , dos Reis Rodrigo C.P. , Vidigal Pedro G.
Published: November 2015

Background:

Platelet volume indices (PVI), an easy and inexpensive surrogate measure of platelet function, have been associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and their risk factors. However, results are conflicting because of the lack of standardized procedures. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship of PVI with the Framingham risk score (FRS).

Methods:

Baseline data (2008–2010) of 3115 participants enrolled in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) were used. PVI measurements were strictly controlled. The cohort was distributed according to risk factors and the general FRS was estimated. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to estimate the association between PVI and FRS.

Results:

Mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW) and platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR) independently correlated (p≤0.01) with FRS after adjustment for confounding variables. One unit increase in MPV, PDW, or P-LCR increased the FRS by 0.59%, 0.40%, and 0.08%, respectively. Diabetics had higher (p≤0.004) MPV, PDW, and P-LCR, and hypertensive individuals had higher (p≤0.045) PDW and P-LCR.

Conclusions:

Increased PVI was independently correlated with higher CVD risk based on the FRS, diabetes, and systolic hypertension. Prospective follow up of this cohort is warranted to confirm that PVI is associated with the development of CVD.
Annelidan rings
Authors: Marks Greg , Mazurek Ryszard
Published: November 2015

We introduce the class of right annelidan rings, defined by the property
that any annihilator right ideal of the ring is comparable with every
right ideal of the ring. This class is a common generalization of the
classes of domains and right uniserial rings. We obtain results on the
structure of right annelidan rings; in particular, we show that all right
annelidan rings are Armendariz. We study the relationships between right
annelidan rings, chain conditions, and 2-primal rings. For the class
of right annelidan rings, we prove a version of the Hopkins–Levitzki
Theorem for principal right ideals. We characterize right annelidan group
algebras, obtaining a classification that is complete if the zero-divisor
problem has a positive solution.
Prokineticins in central and peripheral control of human reproduction
Authors: Traboulsi Wael , Brouillet Sophie , Sergent Frederic , Boufettal Houssine , Samouh Naima , Aboussaouira Touria , Hoffmann Pascale , Feige Jean Jacques , Benharouga Mohamed , Alfaidy Nadia
Published: November 2015

Prokineticin 1 (PROK1) and (PROK2), are two closely related proteins that were identified as the mammalian homologs of their two amphibian homologs, mamba intestinal toxin (MIT-1) and Bv8. PROKs activate two G-protein linked receptors (prokineticin receptor 1 and 2, PROKR1 and PROKR2). Both PROK1 and PROK2 have been found to regulate a stunning array of biological functions. In particular, PROKs stimulate gastrointestinal motility, thus accounting for their family name “prokineticins”. PROK1 acts as a potent angiogenic mitogen, thus earning its other name, endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial factor. In contrast, PROK2 signaling pathway has been shown to be a critical regulator of olfactory bulb morphogenesis and sexual maturation. During the last decade, strong evidences established the key roles of prokineticins in the control of human central and peripheral reproductive processes. PROKs act as main regulators of the physiological functions of the ovary, uterus, placenta, and testis, with marked dysfunctions in various pathological conditions such as recurrent pregnancy loss, and preeclampsia. PROKs have also been associated to the tumor development of some of these organs. In the central system, prokineticins control the migration of GnRH neurons, a key process that controls reproductive functions. Importantly, mutations in PROK2 and PROKR2 are associated to the development of Kallmann syndrome, with direct consequences on the reproductive system. This review describes the finely tuned actions of prokineticins in the control of the central and peripheral reproductive processes. Also, it discusses future research directions for the use of these cytokines as diagnostic markers for several reproductive diseases.
A Genetic Algorithm Based Approach to Provide Solutions for Emergency Aid Stations Location Problem and a Case Study for Pendik/İstanbul
Authors: Tozan Hakan , Donmez Sercan
Published: November 2015

The emergency aid station is one of the crucial components of the emergency health service chain providing vital acute medical care. This paper aims to solve a real world case related with the deployment of emergency aid stations in one of the densely populated districts of İstanbul/Turkey in order to determine the minimal number of ambulances needed to maintain complete coverage of all districts and also to obtain maximum population coverage with limited available ambulances. In this context, a new genetic algorithm capable of presenting quick and qualified solutions for a specific set and maximal covering location problems with limitations on service capacity of facilities is proposed.
Gender differences in the correlates of reactive aggression
Authors: Debowska Agata , Mattison Michelle L.A. , Boduszek Daniel
Published: November 2015

The main aim of the present study was to examine the relationships between four psychopathy dimensions (Interpersonal Manipulation, Callous Affect, Erratic Lifestyle, and Antisocial Behaviour) as well as childhood exposure to violence and reactive aggression in men and women. Participants were a sample of working adults (N = 319) recruited from the University of Security in Poznan. Results indicated that reactive aggression among males formed significant associations with Erratic Lifestyle, Interpersonal Manipulation, and childhood exposure to violence. Only one variable, Erratic Lifestyle, was a significant correlate of reactive aggression in females. These findings are discussed in light of theory and previous research findings.
Self-Control Scale AS-36: Construction and validation study
Authors: Nęcka Edward
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a validation study of a new questionnaire of self-control as an individual trait. The questionnaire has two parallel versions, one based on self-reports (AS-36) and another one based on informant reports (AS-36-3). Each version consists of three subscales, called Inhibition (12 items), Switching (12 items), and Goal Monitoring (12 items). Eight samples of participants (N = 935 altogether) took part in the validation study. Both versions obtained satisfactory indices of internal consistency, assessed with Cronbach’s alpha and split-half coefficients. Selfcontrol assessed with this scale proved to be entirely independent of general intelligence. However, AS-36 and AS-36-3 scores tended to correlate with other self-report measures of trait self control, such as Tangney, Baumeister, and Boone’s (2004) self-control scale. We conclude that AS-36 is a valid and reliable tool, suitable for assessment of self-control in both research and diagnostic settings.
Ionic liquids tailored for reaction-based gas sensing on quartz crystal microbalance
Authors: Chang Yi-Pin , Liu Wei-Chun , Tseng Ming-Chung , Chu Yen-Ho
Published: November 2015

Gas sensing technologies are of importance for a variety of industrial, environmental, medical, and even military applications. Many gases, such as man-made or naturally occurring volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can adversely affect human health or cause harm to the environment. Recent advances in “designer solvents” and sensor technologies have facilitated the development of ultrasensitive gas sensing ionic liquids (SILs) based on quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) that can real-time detect and discriminate VOCs. Based on specific chemical reactions at room temperature, thin-coated functionalized ionic liquids on quartz chips are able to capture VOCs chemoselectively with a single-digit parts-per-billion detection limit. The amalgamation of tailor-made functional SILs and QCM results in a new class of qualitative and semiquantitative gas sensing device, which represents a prototype of electronic nose. This review vignettes some conventional gas sensing approaches and collates latest research results in the exploration of SIL-on-QCM chips and gives an account of the state-of-the-art gas sensing technology.
Co-transplantation of autologous OM-MSCs and OM-OECs: a novel approach for spinal cord injury
Authors: Ge Lite , Liu Kai , Liu Zhonghua , Lu Ming
Published: November 2015

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a disastrous injury that leads to motor and sensory dysfunctions in patients. In recent years, co-transplantation has become an increasingly used therapeutic treatment for patients with SCI. Both mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and olfactory-ensheathing cells (OECs) have been adopted to ameliorate SCI, with promising outcomes. Remarkable effects on the rehabilitation of patients with SCI have been achieved using MSCs. Olfactory mucosa (OM) MSCs from human OM are one of the most ideal cell resources for auto-transplantation in clinical application owing to their a high proliferation rate and multipotent capability. In addition, OECs derived from OM have been used to improve functional recovery of SCI and resulted in promising functional recovery in years. Accordingly, co-transplantation of OM-MSCs coupled with OM-OECs has been adopted to improve the recovery of SCI. Here we reviewed the reported applications of OM-MSCs and OM-OECs for SCI treatment and proposed that a novel combined strategy using both autologous OM-MSCs and OM-OECs would achieve a better approach for the treatment of SCI.