bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Temperature and Pressure Dependencies of Propagation Characteris-tics for Premixed Laminar Ethanol-Air Flames
Authors: Liao S. Y. , Zhong D. L. , Yang C. , Pan X. B. , Yuan C. , Cheng Q.
Published: April 2014

Laminar burning velocity is strongly dependent on mixture characteristics, e.g. initial temperature, pressure and equivalence ratio. In this work, spherically expanding laminar premixed flames, freely propagating from a spark ignition source in initially quiescent ethanol-air mixtures, have been imaged and then the laminar burning velocities were obtained at initial temperatures of 358 K to 500K, pressure of 0.1 to 0.2 MPa and equivalence ratio of 0.7 to 1.4. The measured re-sults and literature data on ethanol laminar burning velocities were accumulated, to analyze the effects of initial tempera-ture and pressure on the propagation characteristics of laminar ethanol-air flames. A correlation in the form of ul=ulo(Tu/Tu0)αT (Pu/Pu0)βP , and validated over much wide temperature, pressure and equivalence ratio ranges. The global activation temperatures were determined in terms of the laminar burning mass flux for ethanol-air flames. And the Zel’dovich numbers were estimated as well. The dependencies of global activation temperature and Zel’dovich number on initial mixture pressure, temperature and equivalence ratio were explored. Additionally, an alterna-tive correlation of laminar burning velocities, from the view of theoretical arguments, was proposed on the basis of the de-termined ethanol-air laminar mass burning flux. Good agreements were obtained in its comparison with the literature data.
Flexural Capacity of Locally Buckled Steel I-Beams Under Moment Gradient
Authors: Mohebkhah Amin , Chegeni Behrouz
Published: April 2014

Lateral-torsional buckling (LTB) and flange local buckling (FLB) are treated as two independent phenomena in
AISC-LRFD 360-10 in which the flexural capacity of locally buckled beams is determined as the minimum value obtained
for the limit states of LTB and FLB. A 3-D nonlinear finite-element model using ABAQUS is developed in this research
to investigate the interactive flexural capacity of steel I-beams with compact web under moment gradient. It was
found that the AISC approach is adequate for beams with compact or noncompact sections, however, too conservative for
beams with slender flanges representing a considerable interaction between LTB and FLB limit states.
Parent Status and Generativity within the Context of Race
Authors: Newton Nicky J. , Baltys Izora H.
Published: April 2014

Generativity, or providing for the next generation (Erikson, 1950), is usually associated with midlife, and related to parenting. However, the extent to which grandparenting or non-parenting are associated with generativity, especially within the context of race, is less well known. The current study uses narrative data from the Foley Longitudinal Study of Adulthood (FLSA; N = 150) to examine the relationship between generativity and parent status–parents, grandparents, as well as non-parents–in midlife African Americans and Whites. Responses to questions concerning future plans in Life Story narratives were coded for four subtypes of generative expression: general generativity, productive generativity, generative caring, and generative need to be needed; these subtypes of generativity were associated with parent status in different ways for middle-aged men and women of each race group. The findings highlight the importance of context, providing a glimpse of expressions of generativity at the intersection of parent status and race.
Fandom and Psychological Enhancement: Effects of Sport Team Identification and Imagined Interaction on Self-Esteem and Management of Social Behaviors
Authors: Keaton Shaughan A. , Gearhart Christopher C. , Honeycutt James M.
Published: April 2014

Imagined interactions (IIs) as used by sport team fans were examined in conjunction with sport team identification (STI) and with behavioral outcomes and psychological effects. Sport team fans more strongly influenced by family in the STI process utilize IIs for catharsis, conflict linkage, relational maintenance, and rehearsal. Furthermore, sport team fans affected by media popularity employ IIs for catharsis, and sport team fans swayed by geography make use of IIs for relational maintenance. Sport team fans predisposed toward using IIs for catharsis, conflict linkage, and relational maintenance report higher self-esteem. Identified sport team fans who use catharsis, conflict linkage, and relational maintenance report a greater inclination to commit negative social behaviors as a result of team performance. Conversely, those who use IIs for rehearsal have a decreased tendency to commit undesirable social behaviors. II functions partially mediate the direct association between STI factors and outcomes, whereby more negative behaviors and positive psychological effects such as self-esteem represent the outcomes.
Effects of Central Vision, Peripheral Vision, and Haptic Inputs on Complex Verbal and Spatial Tasks
Authors: Dulin David , Serrière Coline , Bartolomeo Paolo , Bachoud-Levi Anne-Catherine , Chokron Sylvie
Published: April 2014

The aim of the present study is to investigate how quite specific sensory inputs (visual inputs from central or peripheral regions of the retina and haptic inputs) relate to complex cognitive performance. We compare individuals with severe peripheral visual field loss, Braille reader with central scotomata (SDB group), print readers with central scotomata, and normally sighted people on visual reading and spatial imagery tasks. Experiment 1 showed that the SDB subjects were significantly less accurate than the other groups on reading visual print letters, words, digits, and 4-digit numbers aloud. In experiment 2, SDB subjects also performed worse than the other subjects on imagery tasks that required indicating spatial characteristics of orally presented print letters, rotated capital letters, print words, and number shapes. Experiment 3 revealed that the SDB group improved their performance when instructed to draw the outlines of imagined stimuli shapes haptically. The findings suggest that visual memory needs perceptual practice to be maintained and that haptic inputs can be used to improve verbal and spatial imagery skills in visually impaired individuals.
The Impact of State and Trait Anxiety on Performance in an Eyewitness Source Monitoring Task
Authors: Kania Kristina , Krackow Elisa
Published: April 2014

The current study examined the effects of combinations of state and trait anxiety on a source monitoring eyewitness memory task. Sixty-nine participants either received an anxious mood induction to induce high state anxiety or a neutral mood induction and also responded to a questionnaire that assessed anxiety. Participants were divided into 4 groups (high state, high trait; high state, low trait; low trait, high state; low trait, low state) based on their assigned induction condition and their responses to the anxiety questionnaire. All participants then received a source monitoring task in which they watched a forensically relevant video and received misinformation about the contents of the video via reading a questionnaire. After filler tasks and a positive mood induction which ensured that the anxiety wore off, all participants completed a source monitoring task. Participants who received the anxious mood induction responded more accurately to the source monitoring questions, particularly those about the video. Trait anxiety enhanced this effect somewhat. There were no significant differences in the tendency to incorporate misinformation presented in the questionnaire into memory, but some types of source misattributions were more likely in participants with high trait anxiety.
Creative Contribution of Individuals in Groups: Effects of Goal Orientation and Participative Safety
Authors: Choi Jin Nam , Sung Sun Young , Cho Theresa S.
Published: April 2014

We proposed a construct of creative contribution, which expands the existing focus on creative performance as an isolated individual effort for generating creative ideas. Creative contribution comprises 3 components: the generation of creative ideas by an individual in a group, helping
the creative performance of other group members, and stimulating the creative energy of other group members. A multilevel analysis of data from 37 teams consisting of 147 individuals showed that creative contribution was increased by learning goal orientation and decreased by performance goal
orientation. A significant 3-way interaction indicated that participative safety attenuated the negative effect of performance goal orientation on creative contribution, particularly when learning goal orientation was low. The significance of multilevel dynamics between individual dispositions
and social context in shaping the creative contribution of group members is highlighted in this study.
The Impact of Organizational Identification on the Relationship Between Procedural Justice and Employee Work Outcomes
Authors: Ma Bing , Liu Shanshi , Liu Donglai
Published: April 2014

Drawing on a sample of 212 supervisor-subordinate dyads from 3 branches of an air transportation group in the People's Republic of China, we examined the mediating effect of organizational identification on the relationship between perceived procedural justice and work outcomes, including
extrarole behavior and turnover intention. Results showed that organizational identification fully mediated the relationship between procedural justice and extrarole behavior as well as that between procedural justice and turnover intention. Implications for future research and limitations
of the present findings are discussed.
Career Outcome of Employees: The Mediating Effect of Mentoring
Authors: Gong Rueywei , Chen Shih-Ying , Yang Min-Lang
Published: April 2014

Mentoring is a crucial aspect of personal learning and is an effective approach for forwarding career development. In this study we examined the mediating effect of mentoring systems on the relationship between personal learning and career outcome of employees in Taiwanese companies.
Using a survey conducted with 246 employees, we analyzed the effect of personal learning on career outcome. The results showed that employees' personal learning and mentoring had a significant positive effect on their career development. Further analysis demonstrated that mentoring mediated
the effect between personal learning and career outcome. In conclusion, mentoring mechanisms can have a sustained influence on personal learning and career outcome.
The feasibility of Cassia fistula gum with polyaluminium chloride for the decolorization of reactive dyeing wastewater
Authors: Perng Yuan , Bui Manh
Published: April 2014

In order to find a new environmental-friendly coagulant that can partially
replace conventional polyaluminium chloride (PAC) which was shown to be toxic
to aquatic environment, gum extracted from seeds of Cassia fistula Linn. (CF)
was investigated in decolorization of reactive dyes Blue 19 (RB19) and Black
5 (RB5) using jar-test experiments. The optimal results showed that crude CF
gum (at pH 10, initial dye concentrations (IDC) of 100 and 50 mg L-1, gum
dosages 200 and 300 mg L-1, reaction time 30 and 45 min, and agitation speed
60 rpm) did not achieve high degrees of decolorization in RB5 and RB19 (55.7
and 62.0 %, respectively) as compared with PAC coagulant (97.2 and 94.4 %,
respectively) at the same IDC and reaction time. Whereas when CF gum was used
in combination with PAC, decolorization efficiencies of both dyes reached
over 92 % at 40 % volume fraction of gum. These results indicated the
potential of using CF gum as a ?green? coagulant or as a contributing factor
to color removal of textile wastewater.
Modification of natural clinoptilolite for the nitrate removal from water media
Authors: Pavlovic Jelena , Milenkovic Jelena , Rajic Nevenka
Published: April 2014

The natural zeolitic tuff from the Zlatokop mine (Vranjska Banja deposit) has
been investigated as a starting material for obtaining a low cost adsorbent
for the removal of nitrate from water media. The tuff riched with zeolite -
clinoptilolite was modified by simple procedures by several oxides:
iron(III), manganese(IV) and magnesium in order to make clinoptilolite
surface accessible for binding the nitrate ions. The obtained oxide-modified
zeolite samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy
dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM/EDS), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD),
infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and by measurement of specific surface area. The
effects of the adsorbent dosage (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 g), temperature (25,
35 and 45 ?C) and initial nitrate concentration (C0= 100, 200 and 300 mg
dm-3) on the binding efficiency were also studied. For all adsorbents the
efficiency increases with temperature. The type of oxides effects the
adsorption mechanism and Fe(III) oxide modified zeolite exhibits the best
binding ability. For this adsorbent the adsorption kinetics was studied and
found that it is best represented by the pseudo-second-order model.
Adaptive-network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) modelbased prediction of the surface ozone concentration
Authors: Savic Marija , Mihajlovic Ivan , Arsic Milica , Zivkovic Zivan
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the results of the tropospheric ozone concentration
modeling as the dependence on volatile organic compounds - VOCs (Benzene,
Toluene, m,p-Xylene, o-Xylene, Ethylbenzene); nonorganic compounds - NOx (NO,
NO2, NOx, CO, H2S, SO2 and PM10) in the ambient air in parallel with the
meteorological parameters: temperature, solar radiation, relative humidity,
wind speed and direction. Modeling is based on measured results obtained
during the year 2009. The measurements were performed at the measuring
station located within an agricultural area, in vicinity of city of Zrenjanin
(Serbian Banat, Serbia). Statistical analysis of obtained data, based on
bivariate correlation analysis indicated that accurate modeling cannot be
performed using linear statistics approach. Also, considering that almost all
input variables have wide range of relative change (ratio of variance
compared to range), nonlinear statistic analysis method based on only one
rule describing the behavior of input variable, most certainly wouldn?t
present accurate enough results. From that reason, modeling approach was
based on Adaptive-Network-Based Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS). Model
obtained using ANFIS methodology resulted with high accuracy, with prediction
potential of above 80%, considering that obtained determination coefficient
for the final model was R2=0.802.
Sorption of different phenol derivatives on functionalized macroporous nanocomposite of poly (glycidyl methacrylate-co-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) and acid modified bentonite
Authors: Marinovic Sanja , Milutinovic-Nikolic Aleksandra , Nastasovic Aleksandra , Zunic Marija , Vukovic Zorica , Antonovic Dusan , Jovanovic Dusan
Published: April 2014

Macroporous nanocomposite of poly (glycidyl methacrylate-co-ethylene glycol
dimethacrylate) and acid modified bentonite was prepared by radical
suspension copolymerization. Nanocomposite was functionalized with diethylene
triamine (deta), by ring-opening reaction of the pendant epoxy groups.
Functionalization was performed in order to enable phenol derivatives
sorption. This new, not sufficiently investigated material, with developed
porous structure was denoted CP-SA-deta. In this study, the influence of
temperature on 4-nitrophenol (4NP) sorption on CP-SA-deta was investigated.
The chemisorption was estimated as dominant process since activation energy
of sorption of 4NP of 54.8 kJ mol-1 was obtained. After determining the
optimal sorption conditions for 4NP, the sorption of 2-nitrophenol (2NP) and
2-chloro 4-nitrophenol (2Cl4NP) on CP-SA-deta was investigated with respect
to pH, initial concentration and contact time. The 2NP sorption was seldom
tested, while according to our knowledge, the 2Cl4NP sorption was not
investigated. The isotherm data were best fitted with Langmuir model, while
the sorption dynamics obeyed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model for all
derivatives.
Preliminary organic geochemical study of lignite from the Smederevsko Pomoravlje field (Kostolac basin, Serbia): Reconstruction of geological evolution and potential for rational utilization
Authors: Djokovic Natasa , Mitrovic Danica , Zivotic Dragana , Spanic Darko , Troskot-Corbic Tamara , Cvetkovic Olga , Stojanovic Ksenija
Published: April 2014

The paper is aimed to determine the origin and geological evolution of
lignites from Smederevsko Pomoravlje field (Kostolac Basin, Serbia). Possible
rational utilization of coal is also considered. For this purpose numerous
organic geochemical analyses have been applied to representative lignite
samples. Obtained results showed that coal from the Smederevsko Pomoravlje
field is typical humic coal. Peat-forming vegetation is dominated by
gymnosperm plants. Coal forming plants belonged to the gymnosperm families
Taxodiaceae, Cupressaceae, Phyllocladaceae and Pinaceae. Other precursors of
organic matter (OM) were microbial biomass, ferns and angiosperms. It is
established that peatification was performed in neutral to slightly acidic,
fresh water environment under anoxic to suboxic redox conditions. Maturity of
OM is low in the phase of intense diagenetic processes. Biomarker
compositions and values of corresponding parameters revealed that Smederevsko
Pomoravlje field, Drmno field (Kostolac Basin) and ?A? field (Kovin deposit)
represent a part of the unique lignite basin. Results of this study suggest
possible rational utilization of the Smederevsko Pomoravlje lignites in
thermal power plants. This is particularly related to samples from coal seam
I. Significant amount of gas could be generated from lignites at higher
maturities. Eight samples meet basic assumptions for effective gasification.
Chemical constituents and biological activities against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) of the essential oil from Citrus wilsonii leaves
Authors: Chen Hai , Yang Kai , You Chun , Du Shu , Cai Qian , He Qing , Geng Zhu , Deng Zhi
Published: April 2014

The essential oil obtained from Citrus wilsonii Tanaka leaves with
hydrodistillation was investigated by GC and GC-MS. The main components of
the essential oil were identified to be citronellol (16.94%), nerol acetate
(10.35%), ?-terpinen (9.85%), citronellal (9.36%) and ?-pinene (6.72%). Among
them, the four active constituents, predicted with a bioactivity-test, were
isolated and identified as citronellol, ?-terpinene, nerol (neryl) acetate
and ?-pinene. It was found that the essential oil of C. wilsonii leaves and
isolated compounds possessed fumigant and contact toxicity against Tribolium
castaneum adults. The essential oil and ?-terpinen showed strong fumigant
toxicity against T. castaneum (LC50 = 8.18 and 4.09 mg L-1). Repellency of
the crude oil and active compounds was also determined. Citronellol, neryl
acetate and ?-pinene were strongly repellent (100%, 86% and 92%,
respectively, at 78.63 nL cm-2, after 2 h treatment) against T. castaneum.
The essential oil and citronellol exhibited the same level of repellency
compared with the positive control, DEET. The results indicate that the
essential oil of C. wilsonii leaves and its active compounds had the
potential to be developed as natural fumigants, insecticides and repellents
for control of T. castaneum.
Dizziness and Loss of Balance in Individuals With Diabetes: Relative Contribution of Vestibular Versus Somatosensory Dysfunction
Authors: Walley Megan , Anderson Elizabeth , Pippen Mary Walch , Maitland Gerry
Published: April 2014

IN BRIEF

The authors studied patients with diabetes and complaints of dizziness to determine whether peripheral neuropathy or inner ear dysfunction was more likely to disturb balance. Quantitative testing showed that the majority failed to maintain balance in vestibular-related conditions and had normal equilibrium scores in conditions relying on somatosensory input. Vestibular dysfunction should be an immediate consideration in patients with diabetes and complaints of dizziness regardless of the presence of peripheral neuropathy.
Prevalence of deafness and association with coat variations in client-owned ferrets
Authors: Piazza Stéphanie , Abitbol Marie , Gnirs Kirsten , Huynh Minh , Cauzinille Laurent
Published: April 2014

Objective—To evaluate the prevalence of congenital sensorineural deafness (CSD) and its association with phenotypic markers in client-owned ferrets.

Design—Epidemiological study.

Animals—152 healthy European pet ferrets.

Procedures—Brainstem auditory evoked response tests were recorded in ferrets during general anesthesia. Phenotypic markers such as sex, coat color and pattern, coat length (Angora or not), and premature graying trait were assessed.

Results—Overall, 44 of the 152 (29%) ferrets were affected by CSD; 10 (7%) were unilaterally deaf, and 34 (22%) were bilaterally deaf. There was no association between CSD and sex or Angora trait, but a strong association between CSD and white patterned coat or premature graying was identified. All panda, American panda, and blaze ferrets were deaf.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The ferrets in this study had a high prevalence of CSD that was strictly associated with coat color patterns, specifically white markings and premature graying. This seemed to be an emerging congenital defect in pet ferrets because white-marked coats are a popular new coat color. Breeders should have a greater awareness and understanding of this defect to reduce its prevalence for the overall benefit of the species. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2014;244:1047–1052)
Type II error and statistical power in reports of small animal clinical trials
Authors: Giuffrida Michelle A.
Published: April 2014

Objective—To describe reporting of key methodological elements associated with type II error in published reports of small animal randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and to determine the statistical power in a subset of RCTs with negative results.

Design—Descriptive literature survey.

Sample—Reports of parallel-group clinical RCTs published in 11 English-language veterinary journals from 2005 to 2012.

Procedures—Predefined criteria were used to identify trial primary outcomes and classify results as negative or positive. Details of sample size determination and use of confidence intervals in results reporting were recorded. For each 2-group RCT with negative results, the statistical power to detect 25% and 50% relative differences in outcome was calculated.

Results—Of 238 RCTs, 42 (18%) stated a primary outcome, 52 (22%) reported a sample size calculation, and 18 (9%) included a confidence interval around the observed treatment effect. Reports of only 2 (0.8%) RCTs included all 3 elements. Among 103 two-group RCTs with negative results, only 14 (14%) and 40 (39%) were sufficiently powered (β < 0.20) to detect 25% and 50% relative differences in outcome between treatments, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The present survey found that small animal RCTs with negative results were often underpowered to detect moderate-to-large effect sizes between study groups. Information needed for critical appraisal was missing from most reports. The potential for clinicians to base treatment decisions on inappropriate interpretations of RCTs was worrisome. Design and reporting of small animal RCTs must be improved.
QSAR study of the DPPH· radical scavenging activity of coumarin derivatives and xanthine oxidase inhibition by molecular docking
Authors: Razo-Hernández Rodrigo , Pineda-Urbina Kayim , Velazco-Medel Marlene , Villanueva-García Manuel , Sumaya-Martínez M. , Martínez-Martínez Francisco , Gómez-Sandoval Zeferino
Published: April 2014

A Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (QSAR) of coumarins by genetic algorithms employing physicochemical, topological, lipophilic and electronic descriptors was performed. We have used experimental antioxidant activities of specific coumarin derivatives against the DPPH· radical molecule. Molecular descriptors such as Randic Path/Walk, hydrophilic factor and chemical hardness were selected to propose a mathematical model. We obtained a linear correlation with R2 = 96.65 and Q
LOO2 = 93.14 values. The evaluation of the predictive ability of the model was performed by applying the Q
ASYM2, $\hat r^2 $ and Δr
m2 methods. Fukui functions were calculated here for coumarin derivatives in order to delve into the mechanics by which they work as primary antioxidants. We also investigated xanthine oxidase inhibition with these coumarins by molecular docking. Our results show that hydrophobic, electrostatic and hydrogen bond interactions are crucial in the inhibition of xanthine oxidase by coumarins.
Numerical simulation of thermal-hydraulic generators running in a single regime
Authors: Chioreanu Nicolae , Mitran Tudor , Rus Alexandru , Beles Horia
Published: April 2014

The paper presents the basis for the design of thermal-hydraulic generators running in a single regime. The thermal-hydraulic generators in a single regime running represent an absolute novelty worldwide (a pioneer invention). Based on the methodology concerning this subject, the design calculus for an experimental model was developed.
Pre-decommissioning complex engineering and radiation inspection of the WWR-M reactor
Authors: Lobach Yu. N. , Shevel V. N.
Published: April 2014

The Kiev's research reactor WWR-M has been in operation for more than 50 years. Decommissioning plan should to be prepared and approved before the beginning of the decommissioning activities. A key activity during reactor operation is implementing the pre-decommissioning complex engineering and radiation inspection. It should be done with objective to collect, arrange and analyze the data related to the engineering and radiation conditions of the reactor systems and equipment. Recently, such an inspection has been completed. The analysis of available documentation has consisted in the assessment of design, construction, technological, assembling, operation, maintenance and repair documentation for each system. The radiation survey was performed in two different ways, namely, by doing the experimental measurements and by performing calculations. The collected data are provided a comprehensive technical basis for the development of decommissioning documentation which is required for the planning and implementation of the reactor decommissioning.
Application of the method for uncertainty and sensitivity evaluation to results of PWR LBLOCA analysis calculated with the code ATHLET. Part 2: sensitivity analysis
Authors: Kozmenkov Y. , Rohde U.
Published: April 2014

In the previously published part 1 of the paper the uncertainty analysis of the large break loss-of-coolant accident (LBLOCA) for German PWR Konvoi was performed using a statistical method, which is based on the Wilks' theory. The evaluated output parameter is the peak cladding temperature (PCT). The primary goal of this (second) part of the paper is a ranking of the input uncertainties, according to their contributions to the PCT uncertainty in the ATHLET simulation of PWR LBLOCA, by performing a sensitivity analysis. It was shown, that the first extended set of varied parameters used in part 1 can be considerably reduced without any statistically significant influence on the uncertainty analysis results. Thus, it can be shown that the input uncertainty vector based on the LBLOCA PIRT of AREVA GmbH was complete. To minimize the number of varied parameters the statistical t-test was used and, thus, a set of uncertainty parameters with significant impact on the uncertainty of the PCT was identified. The main contribution to the uncertainty of the first cladding temperature maximum during the blowdown phase of the accident is produced by the core parameters that affect the fuel's stored energy at the beginning of the accident. However, the major contributors to the uncertainty of the second PCT maximum are the uncertainties in the code models, and first of all the uncertainties in the heat transfer coefficients for dispersed and pure steam flows.
T
1 and U
1 approximations to neutron transport equation in one-dimensional spherical geometry
Authors: Tıraş M. , Öztürk H. , Bülbül A.
Published: April 2014

The diffusion lengths for one-speed neutrons are calculated by solving transport equation in one-dimensional spherical geometry. The pseudo-slab transport equation is obtained using a reasonable approach. The neutron angular flux is expanded in a series of both the Chebyshev polynomials of first and second kinds. Then analytic and numerical results for asymptotic relaxation length are obtained by applying first order approximations to the transport equation and they are compared with each other.
Comparing the Visual Analogue Scale and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory for Measuring Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Oral Clefts
Authors: Wehby George , Naderi Hodad , Robbins James , Ansley Timothy , Damiano Peter
Published: April 2014

Objectives: To evaluate the performance of the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), in measuring overall health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in children with oral clefts relative to the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQLTM) Generic Core Scales, one of the most validated and commonly used methods to measure pediatric HRQoL. Methods: The study included a population-based sample of 307 children aged 5 to 10 years who were born in Iowa, New York, and Arkansas with non-syndromic oral clefts. Data on HRQoL were obtained using a VAS and PedsQLTM via self-administered interviews with the parents. We evaluated the correlations between the VAS and PedsQLTM total scores, and the correlations of each of these two scales with a series of child health and wellbeing indicators. Results: The VAS and PedsQLTM scores were well-correlated (r = 0.67). There were no prominent differences between the correlations of VAS and PedsQLTM with the selected indicators of child health and wellbeing; differences in correlations were less than 0.1. Differences in HRQoL by cleft type were more pronounced on the PedsQLTM. Conclusions: Our study finds the VAS to perform relatively well in measuring overall HRQoL among children with oral clefts. The VAS may be useful as a screening tool to identify children with oral clefts at risk of low HRQoL for referral into more comprehensive evaluations and for measuring average HRQoL across a sample of children.
The Effects of the Clock and Kickoff Rule Changes on Actual and Market-Based Expected Scoring in NCAA Football
Authors: Linna Kenneth , Moore Evan , Paul Rodney , Weinbach Andrew
Published: April 2014

Clock rule changes were introduced in the 2006 season with the goal of reducing the average duration of the game; these changes were reversed in 2007. In addition, in 2007 the kickoff rule was changed to create more excitement and potentially more scoring. We examine what happened to actual and expected scoring during these National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) football seasons. The clock rule change in 2006 led to lower scoring which was not fully encompassed in the betting market, leading to significant returns to betting the under. Multiple rule changes in 2007 led to volatility in the betting market that subsided by season’s end.
Functional Analysis of the Dioxin Response Elements (DREs) of the Murine CYP1A1 Gene Promoter: Beyond the Core DRE Sequence
Authors: Li Shuaizhang , Pei Xinhui , Zhang Wen , Xie Heidi , Zhao Bin
Published: April 2014

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that mediates the biological and toxicological effects of halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, such as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). When activated by dioxin, the cytosolic AhR protein complex translocates into the nucleus and dimerizes with the ARNT (Ah receptor nuclear translocator) protein. The heteromeric ligand:AhR/Arnt complex then recognizes and binds to its specific DNA recognition site, the dioxin response element (DRE). DREs are located upstream of cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) and other AhR-responsive genes, and binding of the AhR complex stimulates their transcription. Although CYP1A1 expression has been used as the model system to define the biochemical and molecular mechanism of AhR action, there is still limited knowledge about the roles of each of the seven DREs located in the CYP1A1 promoter. These seven DREs are conserved in mouse, human and rat. Deletion analysis showed that a single DRE at -488 was enough to activate the transcription. Truncation analysis demonstrated that the DRE at site -981 has the highest transcriptional efficiency in response to TCDD. This result was verified by mutation analysis, suggesting that the conserved DRE at site -981 could represent a significant and universal AhR regulatory element for CYP1A1. The reversed substituted intolerant core sequence (5'-GCGTG-3' or 5'-CACGC-3') of seven DREs reduced the transcriptional efficiency, which illustrated that the adjacent sequences of DRE played a vital role in activating transcription. The core DRE sequence (5'-TNGCGTG-3') tends to show a higher transcriptional level than that of the core DRE sequence (5'-CACGCNA-3') triggered by TCDD. Furthermore, in the core DRE (5'-TNGCGTG-3') sequence, when “N” is thymine or cytosine (T or C), the transcription efficiency was stronger compared with that of the other nucleotides. The effects of DRE orientation, DRE adjacent sequences and the nucleotide “N” in the core DRE (5'-TNGCGTG-3') sequence on the AhR-regulated CYP1A1 transcription in response to TCDD were studied systematically, and our study laid a good foundation for further investigation into the AhR-dependent transcriptional regulation triggered by dioxin and dioxin-like compounds.
The Biomolecular Basis of Adipogenic Differentiation of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Scioli Maria , Bielli Alessandra , Gentile Pietro , Mazzaglia Donatella , Cervelli Valerio , Orlandi Augusto
Published: April 2014

There is considerable attention regarding the role of receptor signaling and downstream-regulated mediators in the homeostasis of adipocytes, but less information is available concerning adipose-derived stem cell (ASC) biology. Recent studies revealed that the pathways regulating ASC differentiation involve the activity of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), including fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, ErbB receptors and the downstream-regulated serine/threonine protein kinase B (Akt) and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) activity. RTKs are cell surface receptors that represent key regulators of cellular homeostasis but also play a critical role in the progression of cancer. Many of the metabolic effects and other consequences of activated RTKs are mediated by the modulation of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases 1 (Erk-1) signaling. Akt activity sustains survival and the adipogenic differentiation of ASCs, whereas Erk-1 appears downregulated. The inhibition of FGFR-1, EGFR and ErbB2 reduced proliferation, but only FGFR-1 inihibition reduced Akt activity and adipogenesis. Adipogenesis and neovascularization are also chronologically and spatially coupled processes and RTK activation and downstream targets are also involved in ASC-mediated angiogenesis. The potentiality of ASCs and the possibility to modulate specific molecular pathways underlying ASC biological processes and, in particular, those shared with cancer cells, offer new exciting strategies in the field of regenerative medicine.
Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor in the Treatment of Acute Radiation Syndrome: A Concise Review
Authors: Hofer Michal , Pospíšil Milan , Komůrková Denisa , Hoferová Zuzana
Published: April 2014

This article concisely summarizes data on the action of one of the principal and best known growth factors, the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), in a mammalian organism exposed to radiation doses inducing acute radiation syndrome. Highlighted are the topics of its real or anticipated use in radiation accident victims, the timing of its administration, the possibilities of combining G-CSF with other drugs, the ability of other agents to stimulate endogenous G-CSF production, as well as of the capability of this growth factor to ameliorate not only the bone marrow radiation syndrome but also the gastrointestinal radiation syndrome. G-CSF is one of the pivotal drugs in the treatment of radiation accident victims and its employment in this indication can be expected to remain or even grow in the future.
Synthesis and Anti-hypertensive Effects of the Twin Drug of Nicotinic Acid and Quercetin Tetramethyl Ether
Authors: Wang Zhonglei , Yang Liyan , Cui Shuai , Liang Yingxi , Zhang Xiaohua
Published: April 2014

A novel twin drug consisting of nicotinic acid (VB3) and quercetin tetramethyl ether (QTME) has been synthesized as an antihypertensive in a total yield of 79.2% through methylation, hydrolysis, acylation and esterification starting from rutin. The structures of synthesized compounds were elucidated by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and elemental analysis. The anti-hypertensive effects of an oral daily dose (15 mg/kg) of the synthesized compounds in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats and normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were analysed. The data demonstrate that the twin drug VB3-QTME both reduces the elevated blood pressure and prolongs the action time in SHR rats without effect on WKY rats. However, definitive evidence of a precise mechanism of action by which VB3-QTME might decrease blood pressure remains elusive. Based on the results, the therapeutic potential of this twin drug is discussed.
Nativity and Serum Concentrations of Antioxidants in Mexican American Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Eldeirawi Kamal , Koenig Mary , Persky Victoria , Chavez Noel
Published: April 2014

There is limited research on the effect of immigration on biological markers of nutrition among children of Mexican origin in the United States. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) (1988–1994), on a national and representative sample of 1559 Mexican American children, 4–16 years of age, and assess the associations of country of birth with serum concentrations of carotenoids, vitamin A, and vitamin E. In multiple regression analyses, Mexico-born Mexican American children had significantly higher serum concentrations of α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, vitamin A, and vitamin E than their counterparts who were born in the United States after adjustment for age, sex, poverty income ratio, level of education of family reference person, body mass index, total serum cholesterol, serum cotinine, total energy intake, and vitamin/mineral consumption. Our findings confirm evidence for a negative effect of immigration/acculturation on dietary quality in this population. These findings also suggest that immigrant Mexican families should be encouraged to maintain their consumption of fruits and vegetables. Prospective studies are needed to further assess the effects of immigration/acculturation on diet and other health outcomes in children of Mexican origin and immigrants.
Transport Schemes for Fiber-Wireless Technology: Transmission Performance and Energy Efficiency
Authors: Lim Christina , Yang Yizhuo , Nirmalathas Ampalavanapillai
Published: April 2014

Fiber-wireless technology has been actively researched as a potential candidate for next generation broadband wireless signal distribution. Despite the popularity, this hybrid scheme has many technical challenges that impede the uptake and commercial deployment. One of the inherent issues is the transport of the wireless signals over a predominantly digital optical network in today’s telecommunication infrastructure. Many different approaches have been introduced and demonstrated with digitized RF transport of the wireless signals being the most compatible with the existing optical fiber networks. In this paper, we review our work in the area of digitized RF transport to address the inherent issues related to analog transport in the fiber-wireless links and compare the transmission performance and energy efficiency with the other transport strategies.
A Systems Engineering Methodology for Designing and Planning the Built Environment—Results from the Urban Research Laboratory Nuremberg and Their Integration in Education
Authors: Geyer Philipp , Stopper Jochen , Lang Werner , Thumfart Maximilian
Published: April 2014

Sustainable urban development requires a long-term sector-integrative approach. This paper proposes a method of system analysis and partial simulation for urban structures for this purpose. It couples a discussion-based holistic approach for systems analysis and modelling of urban structures with quantitative modelling and simulation of partial scenarios that serve to examine specific questions regarding the long-term development of urban structures. In the first part, the application in the City Lab Nuremberg West, a multidisciplinary urban research laboratory, serves to develop the methodology and its illustration. The main objective is to examine the transition of the existing underperforming quarter to a sustainable and livable urban environment. Scenario-based experiments with respect to development paths determine robustness and risks of different configurations. The second part of the paper describes the transfer of the methodology to education. The approach serves to teach students in the Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Building master course program an integrative way of planning a sustainable built environment. The definition of educational objectives concerning the students’ understanding and management of systemic interdependencies of sustainability help assess the use of the method in the classroom. The aim is to provide them with the competence to develop strategies for complex situations while planning a sustainable built environment.
Systems Education at Bergen
Authors: Davidsen Pål , Kopainsky Birgit , Moxnes Erling , Pedercini Matteo , Wheat I.
Published: April 2014

At the University of Bergen in Norway, educating students to use computer models and to think systemically about social and economic problems began in the 1970s. The International Masters Program in System Dynamics was established in 1995, and a Ph.D. program began a few years later. Student enrolment doubled in 2010 with the establishment of the European Master Program in System Dynamics. International diversity has been a hallmark of the Bergen program; each year, students come from about 30 different countries and more than 95% of the degrees have been awarded to students from outside of Norway. However, a Bergen systems education is not confined to a classroom in Norway. Projects in developing countries, emerging economies, and developed countries have taken the systems perspective and modeling tools on the road and, increasingly, online. Whatever the delivery mode, the goal is the same: capacity building among international students, planners and managers, and local stakeholders. This paper describes the Bergen program and its impact on systems thinking and modeling throughout the world.
Notes sur la fonction agricole de Tokyo et les modalités de l'emprise urbaine sur les campagnes périphériques
Authors: Pezeu-Massabuau Jacques
Published: April 2014

Résumé. - Les progrès de l'agglomération de Tokyo modifient la vie rurale des alentours : la population rurale diminue en nombre ; le sol est soumis à très forte spéculation financière ; les rapports sociaux évoluent ; le rôle des femmes augmente ; l'activité rurale se tourne de plus en plus vers l'exploitation maraîchère, l'élevage des volailles et l'élevage laitier.
Les faluns lagunaires de Côte-d'Ivoire (indicateurs pour l'étude du Quaternaire récent)
Authors: Pomel René-Simon
Published: April 2014

Résumé. Des amas de petites coquilles, trop petites pour avoir été consommées, gisent sur le bord des Lagunes. Le falun de Tchotchoraf, près de Dabou, date du premier siècle avant Jésus-Christ. Il a été mis en place en moins d'un siècle. Le niveau de la lagune était légèrement plus haut que l'actuel ; le climat était probablement plus sec. Ces faluns ont été remaniés, probablement à des fins religieuses, par des populations de pêcheurs beaucoup plus nombreuses que les populations actuelles.
Preuves et implications de la régression endoréique messinienne au niveau des plaines abyssales : l'exemple du Midi méditerranéen français
Authors: Clauzon Georges
Published: April 2014

Résumé. — La régression endoréique messinienne en Méditerranée est d'origine eustatique. Le niveau de base s'est effondré jusqu'au plancher des plaines abyssales. L'épisode d'assèchement qui a engendré le dépôt des évaporites a découvert un bassin profond préexistant. Cette confirmation de l'hypothèse « dessiccated deep-basin model » résulte de l'étude des marges continentales ainsi que des longues (plusieurs centaines de kilomètres) et profondes (plusieurs centaines de mètres) incisions des cratons européen et africain opérées par le Rhône et le Nil entre le Tortonien et le Tabianien. Pendant toute la période suivante des ingressions marines filiformes (rias pliocenes) se sont substituées à ces vallées. On démontre que l'interprétation mobiliste de ce phénomène ne peut pas être retenue. La relation de cause à effet, traditionnellement admise, entre l'orogenèse fini-miocène et le creusement contemporain des vallées devient caduque dès lors que celui-ci a précédé celle-là. La reprise d'érosion enregistrée dans l'ensemble du domaine méditerranéen est une conséquence de la régression eustatique messinienne. Ce renversement d'optique entraîne de multiples révisions : il rend inconcevable l'élaboration d'une « surface d'érosion pontienne » dans un tel contexte de surcreusement ; il implique qu'en dehors des secteurs orogéniques, la plupart des organismes inadaptés à la structure et réputés antécédents sont en fait surimposés ; il implique également que les chevauchements qui ont affecté la marge continentale messinienne ont progressé sur une topographie de ravinement et qu'ils ont subi une évolution morphotectonique déterminante. On envisage enfin, dans cette nouvelle perspective, une relation tectonophysique entre les accidents tangentiels rhodaniens du domaine provençal (et subalpin provençal) et l'émersion synchrone du bassin océanique téthysien.
Une nouvelle expression graphique de la variabilité interannuelle des climats : les « calendriers de probabilités »
Authors: Péguy Charles-Pierre
Published: April 2014

Résumé. - Le nom de « calendrier de probabilités » est proposé pour désigner un nouveau type de diagramme, comportant un axe vertical gaussien et un axe horizontal arithmétique sur lequel est porté le temps. Le développement de cet axe horizontal correspond à une année. Sur ce fond, des courbes représentent les probabilités qu'a une variable quelconque d'être, soit non atteinte, soit dépassée. Les figures qui illustrent la communication se rapportent à la variabilité de températures, de précipitations, d'épaisseur du manteau neigeux etc.