bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Polystyrene Composites with Oxidized and Ethylbenzene Functionalized Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Faraguna Fabio , Jukic Ante , Vidovic Elvira
Published: June 2014

Polystyrene nanocomposite materials prepared with differently functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNT) as nanofillers were investigated. Two types of functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes were used: oxidized (CNT-COOH) and their ester analogue with ethylbenzene groups (CNT-COOEtBz) introduced by further functionalization of the fore. The functionalized nanotubes were examined by thermogravimetric analysis and contact angle method that both revealed differences between them. Also, their dispersion was investigated in polar methanol and non-polar toluene with the assistance of UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Good dispersion of CNT-COOH in methanol and CNT-COOEtBz in toluene is in accordance with polarity introduced on the surfaces of carbon nanotubes. Mixtures of styrene monomer and 1 wt. % of CNT-COOH or CNT-COOEtBz in toluene were reacted in a radical in-situ polymerization reaction in order to prepare corresponding nanocomposites. Prior to the reaction nanotubes were dispersed by sonication of the reaction mixture. The synthesized composites were characterized by the SEC, TGA, DSC, DMA, SEM and contact angle method. The DSC measurements show a significant Tg shift towards lower temperature since Tg of studied PS is around 60 °C and Tg of PS composites with CNT-COOH at 35 °C and CNT-COOEtBz at 33 °C. The storage modulus increase in the PS/CNT-COOEtBz composite can be assigned to a larger similarity of matrix and filler structure. This is corroborated with the SEM micrographs where much lesser extent of agglomeration can be seen.
Influence of Filler Materials on Pinned Joints of Woven Glass Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Harsha H.M. , Murugesh M.C. , Bharath K.N.
Published: June 2014

Fiber reinforced composite materials have been gaining wide application in aircraft submarine and spacecraft constructions, to strengthen bridges and other civil engineering structures. Joints are formed using mechanical fasteners and load sharing in these joints depends on the number, size, and material of the bolts and the stiffness of the joining members. Therefore, suitable revealing methods for the failure strength would help in selecting the appropriate joint size in a given application.
The objective of the present work is to determine the bearing or failure load of filler added woven glass fiber/epoxy composites through single and double serial pinned joints with different parameters by experimental methods. The effect of the distance from free edge to the diameter of first hole (E/D) ratio, the width of plate to diameter of hole (W/D) ratio and the effect of filler materials on Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and Zinc Sulphide (ZnS) on bearing load are experimentally investigated using laminated woven glass fiber composite plate with single and double serial pinned joints.
Relaxation Processes and Polymeric Chain Interpenetration in a PMMA-Cz/ MEH-PPV Blend Studied by Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Martins T.D. , Atvars T.D.Z.
Published: June 2014

Miscibility and energy transfer processes of a blend containing 0.1 % of Poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MEH-PPV) in a matrix of poly(methyl-methacrylate) containing 1% of attached carbazolyl groups (PMMA-Cz) were studied by fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy techniques. From SEM micrographs, a uniform surface is found. The images on the cryogenic fracture of the blend does not show domains, although from fluorescence optical microscopy domains of MEH-PPV of about 30 mm in the PMMA-Cz matrix were observed, indicating the immiscibility of the blend components. By steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopies measured at room temperature and at 77 K, it was found that there is an important non-radiative energy transfer occurring by Forster mechanism and due to that, there must be an interpenetration degree between polymeric chains specially at room temperature, which is evidence for miscibility. This can be inferred also by temperature-dependent fluorescence spectroscopy, which informs about relaxation processes occurring in the blend and also reveals the occurrence of an interface effect that is characteristic of miscible components.
Beirut in Berlin? Interreligiöse Bildung in der Spannung zwischen Globalem und Lokalem
Authors: Simojoki Henrik
Published: June 2014

Religious pedagogy largely agrees that within religious education, interreligious instruction has to be aligned to the living environment of present-day children and youths. Yet in current concepts, this environmental context is normally interpreted in terms of the social proximity of the students, thus neglecting that the concept of religious contextuality has to be broadened as it develops in the interaction of global and local realities.

Based on a case-study from the multi-religious context of Berlin, the present contribution discusses the initial conditions of interreligious education which are being changed by globalization. In a first step, the ambivalent presence of remoteness within the religious environment of modern youths is analyzed from an external sociological perspective. This is done in dialogue with selected sociological theories of reference which help to understand the »new contextuality « of the interreligious sphere as regards its basic dynamics of motivation. Subsequently, the essay focuses on inside aspects of this development: It addresses the question of how the spatial melting of the world influences the perception of the self and the other. Finally an approach is presented that substantiates the increasing globalization of religious environments from a youth-sociological perspective and makes it accessible to empirical analysis.
Kindertaufe und Elternwille zwischen Sakrament und Selbstbestimmung Erkenntnisse aus einer Taufelternbefragung
Authors: Schulz Claudia
Published: June 2014

This contribution starts with a standardized poll among protestant parents of non-baptized children in the southern German city of Stuttgart. Its results convey the opinions of parents on the appropriate time and meaning of baptism. The deliberate decision of their child is a decisive factor for parents. Important obstacles are lacking opportunities, the feeling of alienation from the church, the difficulty to find godparents, as well as denominationally heterogeneous constellations within the family. Finally the essay makes suggestions for follow-up with these findings in a theoretical and practical-theological perspective.
Sugestionabilidade em pessoas idosas: Um estudo com a Escala de Sugestionabilidade de Gudjonsson (GSS 1)
Authors: Cruz Mónica Pedreiras , Pinho Maria Salomé
Published: June 2014

O presente trabalho teve como principal objetivo compreender alguns fatores que influenciam a sugestionabilidade interrogativa em pessoas idosas. Neste âmbito, procurou-se analisar a existência de diferenças na sugestionabilidade interrogativa em função da idade, bem como averiguar a sua relação com variáveis cognitivas e de ansiedade. A amostra incluiu 52 adultos idosos (78-83 anos), e igual número de adultos mais novos entre 42 e 52 anos. Utilizaram-se os seguintes instrumentos de avaliação: Escala de Sugestionabilidade de Gudjonsson 1 (GSS 1), Mini Mental State Examination, teste de Fluência Verbal de Categorias, subtestes Vocabulário e Memória de Dígitos da Escala de Inteligência para Adultos de Wechsler-III, Inventário de Ansiedade Estado-Traço para Adultos e Matrizes de Raven. Entre os grupos verificaram-se diferenças estatisticamente significativas nos resultados Cedência 1 e Mudança da GSS 1, Fluência Verbal, Memória de Dígitos e Ansiedade. No que respeita a valores de correlação moderados entre sugestionabilidade interrogativa e medidas cognitivas e de ansiedade, estes somente foram registados entre Sugestionabilidade Total e tempo de realização nas Matrizes de Raven, em ambos os grupos etários. Observou-se ainda que o conhecimento prévio, por parte de vários participantes, da entrevistadora que administrou a GSS 1 pode influenciar os resultados obtidos nesta escala. Os vários resultados são discutidos considerando a sua relevância forense.
“Parentalidade Minimamente Adequada”: Contributos paraaoperacionalização do conceito
Authors: Pereira Dora Isabel , Alarcão Madalena
Published: June 2014

Apontado na literatura como um conceito de referência nas avaliações da parentalidade, a “parentalidade minimamente adequada” está, contudo, insuficientemente refletida e operacionalizada. Este artigo procura abrir essa discussão, a partir da apresentação e discussão dos resultados de três focus group (FG) de profissionais, das áreas social, judicial e académica, aos quais foi directamente colocada a seguinte questão: o que é e quais são os indicadores de “parentalidade minimamente adequada”? O conteúdo das discussões foi analisado utilizando o software QSRnVivo 8. As categorias de conteúdo apontam para indicadores qualitativos de parentalidade mínima, distribuídos por diferentes níveis ecológicos (indivíduo, microssistema e contexto social). É também referida a impossibilidade de se alcançar uma formulação universal do que constitui uma “parentalidade minimamente adequada” e de se utilizar apenas um tipo de indicadores para a caracterizar. Com base nos contributos deste estudo é proposta uma matriz tridimensional de operacionalização do conceito.
Transformações da relação afetiva entre o bebê e a educadora na creche
Authors: Sanches de Almeida Leila , Rossetti-Ferreira Maria Clotilde
Published: June 2014

O presente estudo, conduzido na perspectiva da Rede de Significações (Rossetti-Ferreira et al., 2004), teve como objetivo identificar os momentos referidos por educadoras e mães como apresentando novos significados na forma do bebê e da educadora relacionarem-se nos três primeiros meses de inserção à creche. Os sujeitos focais foram quatro bebês (04-09 meses de idade), suas educadoras e mães. Realizou-se 60 entrevistas, utilizou-se um diário de campo e fotografias. Nas duas primeiras semanas, os adultos relataram que os bebês observavam indiscriminadamente o meio social. Na terceira e quarta semanas, o comportamento de observação do bebê passou a ser interpretado como focalizado para sua educadora. No segundo mês, foram mencionados comportamentos significados como preferenciais ou exclusivos à díade. Os relatos foram construídos sob o critério de o bebê manifestar, ou não, preferência pelos cuidados de uma educadora específica (CAPES).
Color Strength Method for Rating Odor-Resistant Effect of Cotton Socks
Authors: Weibin Xie , Shanhong Zhao , Jianjian Wu , Xiaowen Dong , Juan Du , Shuilin Chen
Published: June 2014

The odor-resistant property of socks is often linked with the antibacterial activity, depending on the antimicrobials used in odor-resistant finishing. However, antibacterial activity tests are not suitable for odor-resistant socks finished using non-antibacterial agents. In this study, a new method was developed to evaluate the odor-resistant effects of newly developed undyed, anti-odor cotton socks treated with a non-antibacterial agent. Worn, undyed (treated and untreated) cotton socks were sprayed with silver nitrate solution for color development under UV light. The resulting shade would be from white to brown, depending upon the intensities of the odor. A preliminary positive correlation between K/S values (color strength) and odor intensities with were found with the organoleptic test. The color strength method was more objective and had better reproducibility than the organoleptic test.
Enhancing the Protection Performance of Flame Resistant Fabrics Using Phase Change Materials
Authors: Farag Ramsis
Published: June 2014

Current application of phase change materials (PCMs) in protective clothing is mostly limited to providing comfort through temperature regulation in extremely hot or cold weather. In this research work, PCMs were incorporated into a firefighters garment fabrics to enhance its thermal protective performance. Woven and knit Spentex (carbon-based flame resistant (FR) fiber) fabrics were permeated with selected hydrated salt PCMs. The rate of temperature rise on the wearer side was traced. Inclusion of PCMs increased the fabric thickness and its thermal conductivity which, in turn, resulted in a slight increase in thermal resistance. Thermal protective performance (TPP) testing showed a significant increase in protection time and performance with use of PCMs. Such extension in the tolerable rescue time can be important in preventing firefighters’ burns.
Accidental cARTographer
Authors: Toth Tibor
Published: June 2014

This paper gives a retrospective of my forty-year career as a relief artist, much of it for the National Geographic Society. I discuss the manual development of relief art created by pencil, airbrush, and acrylic painting. The paper ends with digital relief shading, a production method that complements earlier manual methods.
Mapping Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Authors: Patterson Tom
Published: June 2014

Making a National Park Service (NPS) visitor map of a large, famous park such as Glacier Bay involves careful planning and many people. Preliminary work on the Glacier Bay map required a site visit to Alaska, consultations with park staff, and observing visitors using maps on board a cruise ship. The paper examines various mountain-mapping challenges, including shaded relief, landcover, glaciers, fjord bathymetry, braided rivers, and place names. The paper then ties these strands together by discussing the design of the final brochure map.
The Aesthetic of Maps: Considerations on their Mutable Functions
Authors: Pereira Anne Cristyne , Dos Santos Flávio Anthero Nunes Vianna
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this paper is to give a short review of the concepts of artistic and aesthetic function given by Jan Mukařovský, the Czech literary and aesthetic theorist. Mukařovský gives a clear concept of aesthetic function and its use in distinguishing the difference between artistic objects and aesthetic objects. The functions of an object—a map, for instance—can change in time and space, as are shown in two examples.
A Lay Mapmaker’s Perspective on the Dilemma of Cartographic Design
Authors: Moenius Johannes
Published: June 2014

Aesthetic, accessible, astounding, and accurate—these four adjectives best describe the value drivers of maps from a lay mapmaker’s perspective. Aesthetics is the marketing of the map, as an unappealing map will not attract readers. It also needs to be accessible: readers need to understand the message correctly and recognize the locations of their interest, otherwise they will turn away quickly. If the content of a map is astounding, readers will get engaged with the map. Accuracy, which refers to the correctness and precise measurement of the data as well as its visual representation, builds reputation—inaccuracy kills it. Frequently there are trade-offs between these four main value drivers to consider, requiring a dilemma approach to cartography.
Integrality of Stickelberger elements and the equivariant Tamagawa number conjecture
Authors: Nickel Andreas
Published: June 2014

Let

L
/
K

${L/K}$

be a finite Galois CM-extension of number fields with Galois group G.
In an earlier paper, the author has defined a module

SKu
⁢

(

L
/
K

)

${\mathrm{SKu}(L/K)}$

over the center
of the group ring

ℤ
⁢
G

${\mathbb{Z}G}$

which coincides with the Sinnott–Kurihara ideal if G is abelian and,
in particular, contains many Stickelberger elements.
It was shown that a certain conjecture on the integrality of

SKu
⁢

(

L
/
K

)

${\mathrm{SKu}(L/K)}$

implies
the minus part of the equivariant Tamagawa number conjecture at an odd prime p
for an infinite class of (non-abelian) Galois CM-extensions of number fields which are at most tamely ramified
above p, provided that Iwasawa’s μ-invariant vanishes. Here, we prove a relevant part of this
integrality conjecture which enables us to deduce the minus-p-part of the equivariant Tamagawa number conjecture
from the vanishing of μ for the same class of extensions. As an application we prove the non-abelian
Brumer and Brumer–Stark conjecture outside the 2-primary part for every monomial Galois extension of

ℚ

${\mathbb{Q}}$

provided that certain μ-invariants vanish.
China’s Real Capital Crisis
Authors: Purdy Mark J. , Qiu Jing
Published: June 2014

Investment in fixed assets – roads, buildings, machinery and other infrastructures – has powered China’s economy for the last two decades. It has driven success in manufacturing export markets and has transformed the physical face of China. At the same time, many commentators worry that China’s growth model relies too heavily on increasingly inefficient investments and that, as a result, its economy has become unbalanced. To sustain growth rates of 8% or higher, they argue, China must shift its economy toward consumption-led growth. While seemingly compelling, the conventional overinvestment story is misleading in certain respects. Our research shows that on some measures China may need more capital, not less. However, the key issue facing China is the distribution of capital and how it is used. In fact, investments in the right areas can stimulate household consumption and provide an entirely new source of balanced growth.
Testing Game-Based Performance in Team-Handball
Authors: Wagner Herbert , Orwat Matthias , Hinz Matthias , Pfusterschmied Jürgen , Bacharach David W. , von Duvillard Serge P. , Müller Erich
Published: June 2014

Wagner, H, Orwat, M, Hinz, M, Pfusterschmied, J, Bacharach, DW, von Duvillard, SP, and Müller, E. Testing game-based performance in team-handball. J Strength Cond Res 30(10): 2794–2801, 2016—Team-handball is a fast paced game of defensive and offensive action that includes specific movements of jumping, passing, throwing, checking, and screening. To date and to the best of our knowledge, a game-based performance test (GBPT) for team-handball does not exist. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop and validate such a test. Seventeen experienced team-handball players performed 2 GBPTs separated by 7 days between each test, an incremental treadmill running test, and a team-handball test game (TG) (2 × 20 minutes). Peak oxygen uptake (V̇o
2peak), blood lactate concentration (BLC), heart rate (HR), sprinting time, time of offensive and defensive actions as well as running intensities, ball velocity, and jump height were measured in the game-based test. Reliability of the tests was calculated using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Additionally, we measured V̇o
2peak in the incremental treadmill running test and BLC, HR, and running intensities in the team-handball TG to determine the validity of the GBPT. For the test-retest reliability, we found an ICC >0.70 for the peak BLC and HR, mean offense and defense time, as well as ball velocity that yielded an ICC >0.90 for the V̇o
2peak in the GBPT. Percent walking and standing constituted 73% of total time. Moderate (18%) and high (9%) intensity running in the GBPT was similar to the team-handball TG. Our results indicated that the GBPT is a valid and reliable test to analyze team-handball performance (physiological and biomechanical variables) under conditions similar to competition.
Immunoendocrinology: Faulty hormonal imprinting in the immune system
Authors: Csaba György
Published: June 2014

Hormonal imprinting is an epigenetic process which is taking place perinatally at the first encounter between the developing hormone receptors and their target hormones. The hormonal imprinting influences the binding capacity of receptors, the hormone synthesis of the cells, and other hormonally regulated functions, as sexual behavior, aggressivity, empathy, etc. However, during the critical period, when the window for imprinting is open, molecules similar to the physiological imprinters as synthetic hormone analogs, other members of the hormone families, environmental pollutants, etc. can cause faulty imprinting with life-long consequences. The developing immune system, the cells of which also have receptors for hormones, is very sensitive to faulty imprinting, which causes alterations in the antibody and cytokine production, in the ratio of immune cells, in the defense against bacterial and viral infections as well as against malginant tumors. Immune cells (lymphocytes, monocytes, granulocytes and mast cells) are also producing hormones which are secreted into the blood circulation as well as are transported locally (packed transport). This process is also disturbed by faulty imprinting. As immune cells are differentiating during the whole life, faulty imprinting could develop any time, however, the most decisive is the perinatal imprinting. The faulty imprinting is inherited to the progenies in general and especially in the case of immune system. In our modern world the number and amount of arteficial imprinters (e.g. endocrine disruptors and drugs) are enormously increasing. The effects of the faulty imprinters most dangerous to the immune system are shown in the paper. The present and future consequences of the flood of faulty imprintings are unpredictable however, it is discussed.
Whole genome sequence of a goose haemorrhagic polyomavirus detected in Hungary
Authors: Fehér Enikő , Lengyel György , Dán Ádám , Farkas Szilvia , Bányai Krisztián
Published: June 2014

Goose haemorrhagic polyomavirus (GHPV) provoke haemorrhagic nephritis and enteritis of domestic geese. Outbreaks were detected in European countries and caused economic losses for goose keepers. Domestic ducks may be infected with GHPV without any signs typical for geese. The genomic organisation of some isolates was described but the gene functions and the pathomechanisms of the virus was not precisely defined. Here we describe the genome sequence and structure of GHPV of a goose from a Hungarian goose flock showing characteristics of the haemorrhagic nephritis and enteritis. The GHPV genome investigated in this study was 5252 bp long and was very similar (99% nucleotide identity) to sequences deposited in the GenBank. All the whole GHPV genomes possess the same ORFs in length, including the VP1, VP2, VP3, ORF-X, t and T tumour antigens. Amino acid changes are detected mainly in the putative ORF-X region. Data about the GHPV genome imply a conserved genomic structure among isolates from different countries. Genomic and epidemiological studies may help vaccine development efforts and identify potential heterologous reservoirs of GHPV.
Use of TaqMan® real-time PCR for rapid detection of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi
Authors: Ranjbar Reza , Naghoni Ali , Farshad Shohreh , Lashini Hadi , Najafi Ali , Sadeghifard Nourkhoda , Mammina Caterina
Published: June 2014

We evaluated the performances of a newly designed real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay using TaqMan® probes to detectSalmonellaTyphi. TaqMan® real-time PCR assays were performed by designed primers and probe based on thestaGgene for detectingS.Typhi. The specificity of the assay was evaluated on 15Salmonellaserovars. The analytical specificity was evaluated on 20 non-Salmonellamicroorganisms. The analytical sensitivity was assessed using decreasing DNA quantities ofS.Typhi ATCC 19430. Finally the detection capability of the TaqMan® real-time PCR assay on isolates recovered from patients withSalmonellainfections was compared to the conventional PCR assay. OnlyS.Typhi strain had positive results when subjected to the assay using Typhi-specific real-time PCR. No amplification products were observed in real-time PCR with any of the non-Salmonellamicroorganisms tested. The TaqMan® real-time PCR was more sensitive than the conventional PCR. In conclusion, we found that the easy-to-use real-time PCR assays were faster than conventional PCR systems. ThestaG-based TaqMan® real-time PCR assay showed to be specific and sensitive method for the safe and rapid detection of theS.Typhi.
The in vitro antibacterial effect of S53P4 bioactive glass and gentamicin impregnated polymethylmethacrylate beads
Authors: Gergely István , Zazgyva Ancuta , Man Adrian , Zuh Sándor , Pop Tudor
Published: June 2014

Osteomyelitis is a disease that is still difficult to treat, with considerable morbidity and associated costs. The current “gold standard” in treatment — debridement and implantation of antibiotic impregnated polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads — presents the disadvantage of a second surgical intervention required for the removal of the beads. We comparatively investigated thein vitroantibacterial effect of S53P4 bioactive glass (BAG) and gentamicin impregnated PMMA beads. Bacterial viability was assessed hourly by Standard Plate Count during 24 hours of incubation, by determining the number of colony forming units (CFU) ofStaphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coliandKlebsiella pneumoniae. Both tested materials showed an antibacterial effect on all studied bacteria. In case ofS. aureus, BAG granules were almost as effective as gentamicin impregnated PMMA beads, with no statistically significant differences. In contrast, PMMA beads had a superior antibacterial effect onS. epidermidisandK. pneumoniae. The antibacterial effect of BAG was greatly influenced by granule size and contact time. There was a statistically significant correlation between pH values and the number of CFU in the case of S53P4 BAG granules. As a biocompatible and biodegradable bone substitute, S53P4 bioactive glass can be a good alternative in the local management of osteomyelitis.
Evaluation of possibilities in identification and susceptibility testing for Candida glabrata clinical isolates with the Integral System Yeast Plus (ISYP)
Authors: Szweda Piotr , Gucwa Katarzyna , Naumiuk Lukasz , Romanowska Ewa , Dzierzanowska-Fangrat Katarzyna , Brillowska-Dabrowska Anna , Wojciechowska-Koszko Iwona , Milewski Slawomir
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate possibilities of correct identification and susceptibility testing of C. glabrata clinical isolates with Integral System Yeast Plus (ISYP). For species identification, as the reference method, API Candida test and species-specific PCR reactions were used. The potential of antifungal susceptibility testing by the ISYP test was compared with the Sensititre Yeast One. Whilst the reference methods confirmed that the received population (n = 65 isolates) represented only C. glabrata, identification with the ISYP system showed correct data only in the case of 18 strains tested (27.7%). Species identification of the other 47 strains with the ISYP test was not possible at all. Significant differences were also observed for drug susceptibility testing carried out by the ISYP and the Sensititre Yeast One. The highest level of disagreement in classifying strains as resistant or susceptible estimated, as 73.9% and 40.0%, was observed for itraconazole and amphotericin B, respectively. Satisfactory results were only obtained for 5-fluorocytosine with 93.8% agreement between both methods. In our opinion the idea of the ISYP system is certainly good. The combination of identification ability and drug susceptibility testing in one test is very important, especially from a clinical point of view. However, the current version of the ISYP has many disadvantages. We would like to encourage the manufacturer to make an effort and develop a new, more accurate version of the test.
Prevalence of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (2010–2013): The first Croatian report
Authors: Babic-Erceg Andrea , Vilibic-Cavlek Tatjana , Erceg Marijan , Mlinaric-Missoni Emilija , Begovac Josip
Published: June 2014

Pneumocystis jirovecii is an important cause of interstitial pneumonia particularly among immunocompromised hosts. We analysed the prevalence of P. jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) among HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients presented with interstitial pneumonia or acute respiratory syndrome hospitalized in six Croatian tertiary care hospitals. Over four-year period (2010–2013), a total of 328 lower respiratory tract samples: 253 (77.1%) bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, 43 (13.1%) tracheal aspirates and 32 (9.8%) bronchial aspirates from 290 patients were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCP was detected in 23 (7.9%) patients. The prevalence of PCP differed significantly among tested groups (χ2 = 95.03; d.f. = 3; p < 0.001). HIV-infected patients were more often positive (56.6%, 95%CI = 37.3–72.4) compared to other groups (patients with malignant disease 7.7%, 95%CI = 2.6–20.3; transplant patients 7.7%, 95%CI = 2.2–24.1; patients with other diagnosis 1.5%, 95%CI = 0.5–4.4). Majority of HIV-positive patients (80%) were newly diagnosed cases. Our results indicate that HIV-infected patients still represents the main risk group for P. jirovecii infection. PCP is responsible for pneumonia in 56.6% HIV-positive patients in Croatia, primarily those who do not know that they are HIV infected.
Influence of the substrate on the anomalous Nernst effect of magnetite thin films
Authors: Ramos R. , Anadón A. , Lucas I. , Farrell L. , Aguirre M.H. , Sofin R.G.S. , Shvets I.V. , Algarabel P.A. , Morellón L. , Ibarra M.R.
Published: June 2014

We present a comparative study of the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE), measured at room temperature for magnetite thin films deposited on different substrates in order to study the effects induced by the substrate, compressive or tensile strain and structural defects as anti-phase boundaries (APB), on the observed ANE. From our preliminary results we have observed an increase of the measured ANE in the case of compressive strain compared with the tensile one. Moreover our results also suggest that the density of APBs also play an important role in the ANE values.
Charge Transport through Methylated DNA Strand
Authors: Qi Jianqing , Anantram M. P.
Published: June 2014

Charge transport through an eight-base pair methylated DNA strand and its native counterpart have been investigated. We focus on three factors, contact coupling, decoherence and temperature, which can contribute to DNA charge transport. Our results show that with the same choice of contact coupling, in the phase-coherent limit the transmission of the methylated strand is smaller in the bandgap at energies close to the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO), while inside the HOMO band, the transmission is oscillatory and the methylated DNA may have a larger transmission in certain energy windows. The trend in transmission also holds in the presence of the decoherence though there is a crossover in the transmission of the native and methylated strands away from the HOMO level. We also find that the transport depends on the strength of contact coupling and the measurement temperature.
Resistive Switching Behavior and Electrical Properties of TiO2:Ho2O3 and HoTiOx Based MIM Capacitors
Authors: García H. , Castán H. , Dueñas S. , Pérez E. , Bailón L. A. , Kukli K. , Ritala M. , Leskelä M.
Published: June 2014

Ho2O3-TiO2 based metal-insulator-metal capacitors were grown by ALD, using Ho(thd)3, Ti(OCH(CH3)2)4 and ozone as precursors. The thicknesses of the films were in the range of 7.7 to 25 nm. Some of the films were post-deposited annealed in order to study the treatment effects. The capacitors were electrically characterized. Leakage current decreases as the amount of holmium increased in the films. Resistive switching behavior was obtained in the samples where the leakage current was low. This effect was also observed in Ho2O3 films, where no titanium was present in the films.
Bringing an ecological view of change to Landsat‐based remote sensing
Authors: Kennedy Robert E , Andréfouët Serge , Cohen Warren B , Gómez Cristina , Griffiths Patrick , Hais Martin , Healey Sean P , Helmer Eileen H , Hostert Patrick , Lyons Mitchell B , Meigs Garrett W , Pflugmacher Dirk , Phinn Stuart R , Powell Scott L , Scarth Peter , Sen Susmita , Schroeder Todd A , Schneider Annemarie , Sonnenschein Ruth , Vogelmann James E , Wulder Michael A , Zhu Zhe
Published: June 2014

When characterizing the processes that shape ecosystems, ecologists increasingly use the unique perspective offered by repeat observations of remotely sensed imagery. However, the concept of change embodied in much of the traditional remote‐sensing literature was primarily limited to capturing large or extreme changes occurring in natural systems, omitting many more subtle processes of interest to ecologists. Recent technical advances have led to a fundamental shift toward an ecological view of change. Although this conceptual shift began with coarser‐scale global imagery, it has now reached users of Landsat imagery, since these datasets have temporal and spatial characteristics appropriate to many ecological questions. We argue that this ecologically relevant perspective of change allows the novel characterization of important dynamic processes, including disturbances, long‐term trends, cyclical functions, and feedbacks, and that these improvements are already facilitating our understanding of critical driving forces, such as climate change, ecological interactions, and economic pressures.
Putting meaning back into “sustainable intensification”
Authors: Loos Jacqueline , Abson David J , Chappell M Jahi , Hanspach Jan , Mikulcak Friederike , Tichit Muriel , Fischer Joern
Published: June 2014

In light of human population growth, global food insecurity is an escalating concern. To meet increasing demand for food, leading scientists have called for “sustainable intensification”, defined as the process of enhancing agricultural yields with minimal environmental impact and without expanding the existing agricultural land base. We argue that this definition is inadequate to merit the term “sustainable”, because it lacks engagement with established principles that are central to sustainability. Sustainable intensification is likely to fail in improving food security if it continues to focus narrowly on food production ahead of other equally or more important variables that influence food security. Sustainable solutions for food security must be holistic and must address issues such as food accessibility. Wider consideration of issues related to equitable distribution of food and individual empowerment in the intensification decision process (distributive and procedural justice) is needed to put meaning back into the term “sustainable intensification”.
The Effect of Computer-Based Resuscitation Simulation on Nursing Students’ Performance, Self-Efficacy, Post-Code Stress, and Satisfaction
Authors: Roh Young Sook , Kim Sang Suk
Published: June 2014

Computer-based simulation has intuitive appeal to both educators and learners with the flexibility of time, place, immediate feedback, and self-paced and consistent curriculum. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of computer-based simulation on nursing students’ performance, self-efficacy, post-code stress, and satisfaction between computer-based simulation plus instructor-led cardiopulmonary resuscitation training group and instructor-led resuscitation training-only group. This study was a nonequivalent control group posttest-only design. There were 213 second year nursing students randomly assigned to one of two groups: 109 nursing students with computer-based simulation or 104 with control group. Overall nursing students’ performance score was higher in the computer-based simulation group than in the control group but reached no statistical significance (t = 1.086, p = .283). There were no significant differences in resuscitation-specific self-efficacy, post-code stress, and satisfaction between the two groups. Computer-based simulation combined with hands-on practice did not affect in nursing students’ performance, self-efficacy, post-code stress, and satisfaction in nursing students. Further study must be conducted to inform instructional design and help integrate computer-based simulation and rigorous scoring rubrics.
Nutrient retention efficiency of small regulated streams during the season of low-flow regime in Central Lithuanian lowland
Authors: Gasiūnas Valerijus , Lysovienė Jelena
Published: June 2014

Small streams are polluted with nutrients when crude or partially treated wastewater flows from settlements. The aim of the study was to determine the efficiency of small streams to self-purify themselves of nutrients during the season of low-flow regime. The study was carried out in five regulated streams with catchments of up to 30 km2 in the Central Lithuanian lowland. The retention of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) compounds was studied up to 5.2 km downstream from the settlements. Owing to the pollution load from settlements, the concentrations of total N increased from 2.0–3.0 above the settlements to 6.75 ± 2.07 mg L−1 below; the concentrations of total P increased from 0.03–0.07 to 0.56 ± 0.30 mg L−1, with the stream's ecological state deteriorating to ‘poor’ and ‘bad’. For the calculation of total N retention, with respect to the pollution load and the distance from the settlement, an empirical equation was derived. Calculations show that with a pollution load of 2.0 g N m−3 at 5.0 km distance, around 90% of total N can be retained. However, when the load is threefold greater, at the same distance only 65% of total N is retained. As a result of self-purification processes only about 50% of total P may be retained.
Nationwide hydrological statistics for Sweden with high resolution using the hydrological model S-HYPE
Authors: Bergstrand Marie , Asp Sara-Sofia , Lindström Göran
Published: June 2014

A first version of nationally covering hydrological statistics for Sweden based on the S-HYPE hydrological model for the period 1961–2010 is described. A key feature of the proposed method is that observed data are used as input wherever such data are available, and the model is used for interpolation in between stations. Short observation records are automatically extended by the use of the model. High flow statistics typically differed by about ±10% from observations. The corresponding number for low flow was about ±30%. High flow peaks were usually simulated slightly too low whereas low flows were too high. In a relative sense low flows were more uncertain than high flows. The mean flow was relatively certain. The annual maximum values were fitted to a Gumbel distribution, by the method of moments, for each subbasin. Flood statistics were then calculated up to a return period of 50 years. According to a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, less than 1% of the fitted distributions were rejected. Most rejections occurred in regulated systems, due to difficulties in simulating regulation strategies, but also due to uncertainties in the precipitation input in the mountainous region. Results at small scale are very uncertain. The proposed method is a cost-effective way of calculating hydrological statistics with high spatial resolution.
Short-term precipitation extremes in regional climate simulations for Sweden
Authors: Olsson Jonas , Foster Kean
Published: June 2014

Climate change is expected to generate higher short-term precipitation intensities, which may have negative consequences in terms of, for example, increased risk of flooding and sewer overflow. In this study, extreme precipitation for durations between 30 min and 1 day in simulations with the RCA3 regional climate model (RCM) for Sweden are analysed. As compared with daily observations in the period 1961–2010, the simulated extremes are found to be overall realistic with respect to magnitude, spatial homogeneity and temporal variability. In the ensemble of future projections, from 1981 to 2010 the 10-year 30-min precipitation will increase by 6% until 2011–2040, 15% until 2041–2070 and 23% until 2071–2100. The increase decreases with increasing duration and at the daily scale the percentage values are approximately halved. The values are largely consistent with earlier estimates. Assessment of the impacts on the results of the spatial resolution and the specific RCM used indicated possibilities of both smaller and larger future increases.
Simulation of aquifer-peatland-river interactions under climate change
Authors: Bourgault M. A. , Larocque M. , Roy M.
Published: June 2014

Wetlands play an important role in preventing extreme low flows in rivers and groundwater level drawdowns during drought periods. This hydrological function could become increasingly important under a warmer climate. Links between peatlands, aquifers, and rivers remain inadequately understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate the hydrologic functions of the Lanoraie peatland complex in southern Quebec, Canada, under different climate conditions. This peatland complex has developed in the beds of former fluvial channels during the final stages of the last deglaciation. The peatland covers a surface area of ~76 km2 and feeds five rivers. Numerical simulations were performed using a steady-state groundwater flow model. Results show that the peatland contributes on average to 77% of the mean annual river base flow. The peatland receives 52% of its water from the aquifer. Reduced recharge scenarios (−20 and −50% of current conditions) were used as a surrogate of climate change. With these scenarios, the simulated mean head decreases by 0.6 and 1.6 m in the sand. The mean river base flow decreases by 16 and 41% with the two scenarios. These results strongly underline the importance of aquifer-peatland-river interactions at the regional scale. They also point to the necessity of considering the entire hydrosystem in conservation initiatives.
Quantitative microbial risk assessment related to urban wastewater and lagoon water reuse in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Yapo R. I. , Koné B. , Bonfoh B. , Cissé G. , Zinsstag J. , Nguyen-Viet H.
Published: June 2014

We assessed the infection risks related to the use of wastewater in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, by using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA). Giardia lamblia and Escherichia coli were isolated and identified in wastewater samples from the canal and lagoon. The exposure assessment was conducted using a cross-sectional survey by questionnaire with 150 individuals who were in contact with the wastewater during their daily activities of swimming, fishing, washing, and collecting materials for reuse. Risk was characterised using the Monte Carlo simulation with 10,000 iterations. Results showed high contamination of water by G. lamblia and E. coli (12.8 CFU/100 mL to 2.97 × 104CFU/100 mL and from 0 cyst/L to 18.5 cysts/L, respectively). Estimates of yearly average infection risks for E. coli (90.07–99.90%, assuming that 8% of E. coli were E. coli O157:H7) and G. lamblia (9.4–34.78%) were much higher than the acceptable risk (10−4). These results suggest the need for wastewater treatment plants, raising awareness in the population in contact with urban wastewater and lagoon water. Our study also showed that QMRA is appropriate to study health risks in settings with limited data and budget resources.
Safety of packaged water distribution limited by household recontamination in rural Cambodia
Authors: Holman Emily J. , Brown Joe
Published: June 2014

Packaged water treatment schemes represent a growing model for providing safer water in low-income settings, yet post-distribution recontamination of treated water may limit this approach. This study evaluates drinking water quality and household water handling practices in a floating village in Tonlé Sap Lake, Cambodia, through a pilot cross-sectional study of 108 households, approximately half of which used packaged water as the main household drinking water source. We hypothesized that households purchasing drinking water from local packaged water treatment plants would have microbiologically improved drinking water at the point of consumption. We found no meaningful difference in microbiological drinking water quality between households using packaged, treated water and those collecting water from other sources, including untreated surface water, however. Households' water storage and handling practices and home hygiene may have contributed to recontamination of drinking water. Further measures to protect water quality at the point-of-use may be required even if water is treated and packaged in narrow-mouthed containers.
Ceramic water filters impregnated with silver nanoparticles as a point-of-use water-treatment intervention for HIV-positive individuals in Limpopo Province, South Africa: a pilot study of technological performance and human health benefits
Authors: Abebe Lydia Shawel , Smith James A. , Narkiewicz Sophia , Oyanedel-Craver Vinka , Conaway Mark , Singo Alukhethi , Amidou Samie , Mojapelo Paul , Brant Julia , Dillingham Rebecca
Published: June 2014

Waterborne pathogens present a significant threat to people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). This study presents a randomized, controlled trial that evaluates whether a household-level ceramic water filter (CWF) intervention can improve drinking water quality and decrease days of diarrhea in PLWH in rural South Africa. Seventy-four participants were randomized in an intervention group with CWFs and a control group without filters. Participants in the CWF arm received CWFs impregnated with silver nanoparticles and associated safe-storage containers. Water and stool samples were collected at baseline and 12 months. Diarrhea incidence was self-reported weekly for 12 months. The average diarrhea rate in the control group was 0.064 days/week compared to 0.015 days/week in the intervention group (p < 0.001, Mann–Whitney). Median reduction of total coliform bacteria was 100% at enrollment and final collection. CWFs are an acceptable technology that can significantly improve the quality of household water and decrease days of diarrhea for PLWH in rural South Africa.
The effect of sodium azide concentration on the recovery of enterococci from water
Authors: Fricker C. R. , Eldred B. J.
Published: June 2014

The ability of Slanetz and Bartley medium to recover chlorine-stressed enterococci has been studied. Results showed that chlorine injury significantly affected the ability of Slanetz and Bartley medium to recover enterococci while lower concentrations of sodium azide in the same basal medium allowed their recovery. However, reducing the concentration of sodium azide considerably reduced the specificity making it unsuitable for use in the routine examination of water. A non-azide-containing medium, Enterolert®-DW appeared to be able to recover injured and non-injured enterococci with similar efficiency. The data presented here suggest that further work is required to improve the recovery of chlorine-injured enterococci by Slanetz and Bartley medium.
Prospective epidemiological pilot study on the morbidity of bathers exposed to tropical recreational waters and sand
Authors: Sánchez-Nazario Elia E. , Santiago-Rodriguez Tasha M. , Toranzos Gary A.
Published: June 2014

A prospective cohort epidemiological pilot study was performed at three tropical beaches with point- and non-point-sources of fecal pollution to characterize the risk of illness among swimmers and non-swimmers. There was an increased risk of illness in swimmers as compared to non-swimmers, even when waters met current microbial standards for recreational water quality. Illnesses included gastrointestinal (GI), skin and respiratory symptoms, earache and fever. Odds ratios (ORs) ranged from 0.32 to 42.35 (GI illness), 0.69 to 3.12 (skin infections), 0.71 to 3.21 (respiratory symptoms), 0.52 to 15.32 (earache) and 0.80 to 1.68 (fever), depending on the beach sampled. The indicators that better predicted the risks of symptoms (respiratory) in tropical recreational waters were total (somatic and male-specific) coliphages (OR = 1.56, p < 0.10, R2 = 3.79%) and Escherichia coli (OR = 1.38, p < 0.10, R2 = 1.97%). The present study supports the potential of coliphages as good predictors of risks of respiratory illness in tropical recreational waters. This is the first study that has determined risks of illness after exposure to tropical recreational waters with point- and non-point sources of fecal contamination. The results give an opportunity to perform epidemiological studies in tropical recreational waters in Puerto Rico which can include more participants and other indicators and detection techniques.