bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geography, Writing System and History of Ancient Civilizations
Authors: Mo Pak Hung
Published: March 2015

We find an undiscovered effect of geography on the choices of writing system in ancient civilizations that in turn drive their courses of historical evolution. The history of the ancient civilizations was driven by the causation spirals generated by the writing system chosen by their ancient ancestors. Understanding the mechanism can enlighten our present political choices that in turn determine the future course of humankind evolution. It can also inspire us about the clue to build an inclusive global society that can integrate the cumulative knowledge, ideas and technology of the diverse speech-communities in the world for a better quality of living for all.
Self-trapping of charge polarized states in four-dot molecular quantum cellular automata: bi-electronic tetrameric mixed-valence species
Authors: Tsukerblat Boris , Palii Andrew , Clemente-Juan Juan Modesto
Published: March 2015

Our interest in this article is prompted by the problem of the vibronic self-trapping of charge polarized states in the four-dot molecular quantum cellular automata (mQCA), a paradigm for nanoelectronics, in which binary information is encoded in charge configuration of the mQCA cell. We report the evaluation of the electronic states and the adiabatic potentials of mixed-valence (MV) systems in which two electrons (or holes) are shared among four sites. These systems are exemplified by the two kinds of tetra–ruthenium (2Ru(II)+ 2Ru(III)) clusters (assembled as two coupled Creutz–Taube dimers) for which molecular implementation of mQCA was proposed. The tetra–ruthenium clusters include two holes shared among four sites and correspondingly we employ the model which takes into account the electron transfer processes as well as the Coulomb repulsion in the different instant positions of localization. The vibronic self-trapping is considered within the conventional vibronic Piepho, Krausz and Schatz (PKS) model adapted to the bi-electronic MV species with the square topology. This leads to a complicated vibronic problems (21
A
1g
+ 1
B
1g
+ 1
B
2g
+ 1
E

u
) ⊗ (b
1g
+ e

u
) and (3
A
2g
+ 3
B
1g
+ 23
E

u
) ⊗ (b
1g
+ e

u
) for spin-singlet and spin-triplet states correspondingly. The adiabatic potentials are evaluated with account for the low lying Coulomb levels in which the antipodal sites are occupied, the case just actual for utilization in mQCA. The conditions for the vibronic localization in spin-singlet and spin-triplet states are revealed in terms of the two actual transfer pathways parameters and strength of the vibronic coupling.
Limit Cycles of Nonlinear Oscillator Equations with Absolute Value by Means of the Homotopy Analysis Method
Authors: Cui Jifeng , Lin Zhiliang , Zhao Yinlong
Published: March 2015

An analytic approach based on the homotopy analysis method is proposed to obtain the limit cycles of highly nonlinear oscillating equations with absolute value terms. The non-smoothness of the absolute value terms is handled by means of an iteration approach with Fourier expansion. Two typical examples are employed to illustrate the validity and flexibility of this approach. It has general meanings and thus can be used to solve many other highly nonlinear oscillating systems with this kind of non-smoothness.
Multicenter Development, Implementation, and Patient Safety Impacts of a Simulation-Based Module to Teach Handovers to Pediatric Residents
Authors: Johnson David P. , Zimmerman Kanecia , Staples Betty , McGann Kathleen A. , Frush Karen , Turner David A.
Published: March 2015

Objective:

Teaching and evaluation of handovers are important requirements of graduate medical education (GME), but well-defined and effective methods have not been clearly established. Case-based computer simulations provide potential methods to teach, evaluate, and practice handovers.

Methods:

Case-based computer simulation modules were developed. In these modules, trainees care for a virtual patient in a time-lapsed session, followed by real-time synthesis and handover of the clinical information to a partner who uses this information to continue caring for the same patient in a simulated night scenario, with an observer tallying included handover components. The process culminates with evaluator feedback and structured handover education. Surveys were used before and after module implementation to allow the interns to rate the quality of handover provided and record rapid responses and transfers to the ICU.

Results:

Fifty-two pediatric and medicine/pediatric residents from 2 institutions participated in the modules. “Anticipatory guidance” elements of the handover were the most frequently excluded (missing at least 1 component in 77% of module handovers). There were no significant differences in the proportion of nights with rapid response calls (7.24% vs 12.79%, P = .052) or transfers to the ICU (7.76% vs 11.27%, P = .21) before and after module implementation.

Conclusions:

Case-based, computer-simulation modules are an easily implemented and generalizable mechanism for handover education and assessment. Although significant improvements in patient safety outcomes were not seen as a result of the educational module alone, novel techniques of this nature may supplement handover bundles that have been demonstrated to improve patient safety.
Improving Resident Handoffs for Children Transitioning From the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Warrick Denise , Gonzalez-del-Rey Javier , Hall Dawn , Statile Angela , White Christine , Simmons Jeffrey , Wong Sue Poynter
Published: March 2015

Background and Objective:

Handoffs ensure patient safety during patient care transitions in the hospital setting. At our institution, verbal handoffs communicated by resident physicians are suggested practice for patients transferring from the PICU to the hospital medicine (HM) service. Despite their importance, these verbal handoffs occurred only 76% of the time before patient arrival on HM units. Our goal was to increase the completion rate of verbal handoffs to 100% within 5 months.

Methods:

Baseline data were collected in a daily survey of HM residents. Interventions were developed and tested on small, incremental change cycles. Key interventions included education about the importance of handoffs, standardization of the handoff process, standardization of handoff documentation, and identification and mitigation of handoff documentation failures. We tracked handoff completion rates by using statistical control charts. After success with improving the completion rate of patient handoffs to the HM service, we applied our process to handoffs from the PICU to all inpatient services.

Results:

Median completion of verbal patient handoff increased from 76% to 100% within 6 weeks, with improvement sustained for 15 months. Physician compliance with electronic medical record documentation increased from 58% to 94% within 8 months. After spreading to all patients transferring out of the PICU, documentation of patient handoffs increased from 76% to 94% in 5 months.

Conclusions:

A system using improvement science methods was successful in increasing the reliability of resident verbal patient handoffs. Consistent documentation and internal redundancy with checklists were associated with sustained improvement.
Lipids and Fatty Acids in the Preterm Infant, Part 1: Basic Mechanisms of Delivery, Hydrolysis, and Bioavailability
Authors: Martin Camilia R.
Published: March 2015

Lipids represent a diverse class of organic compounds that are critical for optimal nutrition, growth, and development. Fatty acids are the major building blocks for these compounds, and their structural configuration defines their bioactive potential in optimizing cell membrane structure and function. Activation and metabolism of membrane-bound long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids lead to the production of terminal metabolites that have diverse properties in regulating inflammation and organogenesis and thus are critical in maintaining global health. This article (part 1) provides a review of basic mechanisms in lipid and fatty acid delivery, hydrolysis, and bioavailability. Part 2 highlights the special considerations for preterm infants in the pathways of lipid hydrolysis and fatty acid bioavailability, including their unique needs in polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Neighborhood Adversity, Child Health, and the Role for Community Development
Authors: Jutte Douglas P. , Miller Jennifer L. , Erickson David J.
Published: March 2015

Despite medical advances, childhood health and well-being have not been broadly achieved due to rising chronic diseases and conditions related to child poverty. Family and neighborhood living conditions can have lasting consequences for health, with community adversity affecting health outcomes in significant part through stress response and increased allostatic load. Exposure to this “toxic stress” influences gene expression and brain development with direct and indirect negative consequences for health. Ensuring healthy child development requires improving conditions in distressed, high-poverty neighborhoods by reducing children’s exposure to neighborhood stressors and supporting good family and caregiver functioning. The community development industry invests more than $200 billion annually in low-income neighborhoods, with the goal of improving living conditions for residents. The most impactful investments have transformed neighborhoods by integrating across sectors to address both the built environment and the social and service environment. By addressing many facets of the social determinants of health at once, these efforts suggest substantial results for children, but health outcomes generally have not been considered or evaluated. Increased partnership between the health sector and community development can bring health outcomes explicitly into focus for community development investments, help optimize intervention strategies for health, and provide natural experiments to build the evidence base for holistic interventions for disadvantaged children. The problems and potential solutions are beyond the scope of practicing pediatricians, but the community development sector stands ready to engage in shared efforts to improve the health and development of our most at-risk children.
Healthcare aspects of domestic abuse
Authors: Kórász Krisztián
Published: March 2015

The paper reviews the forms of domestic abuse, its causes, prevalence and possible consequences. British and Hungarian Law, guidelines and the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals in relation to dealing with domestic abuse in their practice is also addressed within the paper. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(10), 383–392.
Nano-Encapsulation of Glucose Oxidase Dimer by Graphene
Authors: Ghoshdastider Umesh , Wu Rongliang , Trzaskowski Bartosz , Mlynarczyk Krzysztof , Miszta Przemyslaw , Gurusaran Manickam , Viswanathan Sowmya , Renugopalakrishnan Venkatesan , Filipek Slawomir
Published: March 2015

Using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations in water environment, it was possible to demonstrate spontaneous and tight encapsulation of glucose oxidase (GOx) dimer by graphene 7 nm x 7 nm sheets linked together by linkers of different width and forming a flower-like or cross-like shapes. The partially overlapping graphene sheets compacted the structure of GOx dimer, bringing the monomers much closer to one another. We found that the most complete wrapping of the enzyme was achieved for the cross-like graphene. Encapsulation can be a useful way to obtain a large contact surface. However, an exceptionally tight binding by the graphene can also influence the positions of amino acids in the enzyme binding site resulting in less efficient catalytic reaction. Furthermore, such extensive encapsulation could block the access of the substrate to the active site of the enzyme. Contrary, a partial encapsulation by graphene using nano-sheets caused only small distortions of GOx structure while the contact surface with graphene was high.
Perpendicular Magnetic Anisotropy on W-based Spin-Orbit Torque CoFeB | MgO MRAM Stacks
Authors: Kaidatzis Andreas , Psycharis Vasileios , García-Martín José Miguel , Bran Cristina , Vázquez Manuel , Niarchos Dimitrios
Published: March 2015

We study W | Ta | CoFeB | MgO stacks for spin-orbit torque MRAM applications. A strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy is obtained after annealing for CoFeB layer thickness of 0.9 nm or 1.2 nm and for specific W/Ta ratios, were the Ta layer thickness is between 0.3 nm and 1 nm. Furthermore, the desired high-spin orbit coupling β-phase of W is preserved even after annealing at 350°C. We argue that an efficient B getter, like Ta, is necessary for the coherent crystallization of the CoFeB | MgO interface that allows for the establishment of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy.
Photoelectron Spectroscopy Characterization and Computational Modeling of Gadolinium Nitride Thin Films Synthesized by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Gernhart Zane C. , Colón Santana Juan A. , Wang Lu , Mei Wai-Ning , Cheung Chin Li
Published: March 2015

Here we report our study of the electronic properties of [100]-textured gadolinium nitride (GdN) thin films synthesized using a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. The electronic properties of the films were investigated using photoemission and inverse photoemission spectroscopy coupled with computational modeling. Our density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the theoretically predicted half-metallic electronic structure of GdN is likely due to its low density of states (DOS) at the Fermi level. These calculations are supported by our photoemission and inverse photoemission spectroscopic measurements which show a band gap for the prepared films of a few milli-electron volts, seemingly consistent with the predicted electronic structure. Additionally, the use of a CVD gallium nitride capping layer was found to decelerate the surface oxidation of our GdN samples.
Stability and Performance of Heterogeneous Anode Assemblies of Silicon Nanowires on Carbon Meshes for Lithium-Sulfur Battery Applications
Authors: Krause Andreas , Brueckner Jan , Doerfler Susanne , Wisser Florian M. , Althues Holger , Grube Matthias , Martin Jan , Grothe Julia , Mikolajick Thomas , Weber Walter M.
Published: March 2015

Si is a promising anode material for Li storage due to its high theoretical specific capacity surpassing 4200 Ah/kg. Si based anodes exhibit an extreme instability upon electrochemical incorporation of Li given the accompanied large volume expansion of about 400%. We show innovative anode assemblies composed of a forest of free standing Si nanowires conformally integrated on carbon meshes. The morphology of silicon nanowires allows a volume expansion and compression lowering strain incorporation. In this paper, we demonstrate the utilization of SiNW grown on top of a current collector made of a carbon fiber network. This leads to an increase of stability of Si with a remaining effective capacitance above 2000 Ah/kg(Si) after 225 full charge/discharge cycles. This is significantly better compared to previous results shown in literature. The anodes are fabricated by a simple and inexpensive method promising for a transfer into industrial integration.
The Art of Re-Framing
Authors: Navarro Wagner Ana
Published: March 2015

This article exposes a way of re-framing the experiences of four European music therapists with local disadvantaged children in Gulu (North of Uganda, Africa) from a Community Music Therapy point of view. CoMT offers certain qualities that help to rethink conventional bounderies in their contexts and to widen the cultural sensitivity of the music therapists. The power of re-framing according to the context is the power of looking with other frames, the power of allowing other patterns to arise.
A Struggle Within: The Case Study of Kenneth
Authors: Allen Joy L.
Published: March 2015

Music therapy is unique in its ability to address physical issues such as pain along with emotional and spiritual issues faced when living with a chronic illness.  This case study describes in-patient music therapy sessions with Kenneth, a 31-year-old man diagnosed with Burkett’s lymphoma and HIV. A biopsychosocial approach was taken throughout the seven months of recurrent music therapy sessions, focused on pain management, emotional and spiritual healing., and family dynamics.  Phases in the treatment process with Kenneth and his family are described along with personal thoughts and feelings of the therapist.  As working with medical patients is often supportive in nature, boundaries can become fluid.  The inherent parallel process became a powerful tool to facilitate awareness and healing for both client and therapist.
Forming the Youth Music Action Group
Authors: Hense Cherry
Published: March 2015

Young people recovering from mental illness may benefit from ongoing musical opportunities in the community following music therapy engagement in mental health services. In this paper I describe the second cycle of a Participatory research project investigating young people’s musical identities in their recovery from mental illness. This cycle explored the types of services needed for young people’s ongoing recovery and compared these against the reality of service provision in the local area. Findings revealed the need for a unique advocacy body to facilitate partnerships between institutions and community-based services and lead to the forming of a Youth Music Action Group to address this unmet need.
Profile of Community Music Therapists in North America: A Survey
Authors: Curtis Sandra L.
Published: March 2015

This study surveyed music therapists (682 respondents from 1,890 survey recipients) to examine their experiences in terms of reported perceptions of their situations, their practices, their approaches, and their personal, work, and family concerns. A first report from this survey (Curtis, 2013) looked at the experiences of present-day music therapists in Canada and the United States. This follow-up report examines the experiences of those survey respondents who self-identify as community music therapists (103 of the 682 survey respondents). Of those respondents, 13.6% were men and 86.4% were women. Canadians accounted for 18.4% and respondents from the US accounted for 81.6%. From among the entire 682 respondents, significantly more Canadians (55.4%) self-identified as community music therapists in comparison with their US counterparts (15.3%; p<.05). Quantitative and qualitative analyses provided information concerning Canadian and US Community Music Therapy respondents in terms of their: demographic information; education and work situations; personal, family, and work concerns; perceptions of discrimination; and theoretical orientations. Emerged themes from the qualitative analysis of respondents’ thoughts on Community Music Therapy included: firm identification; identification with a caveat; community building/belonging; drawing from Community Music Therapy principles; formal track record; reducing stigma; and working with groups. A need for future research (e.g., surveys, interviews, auto-ethnographies, etc.) into the profiles of community music therapists practicing in other parts of the world was highlighted.
The influence of sour taste and cold temperature in pharyngeal transit duration in patients with stroke
Authors: Cola Paula Cristina , Gatto Ana Rita , Silva Roberta Gonçalves da , Spadotto André Augusto , Schelp Arthur Oscar , Henry Maria Aparecida Coelho de Arruda
Published: March 2015

CONTEXT: The effect of sour taste and food temperature variations in dysphagic patients has not been entirely clarified. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of sour and cold food in the pharyngeal transit times of patients with stroke. METHODS: Patients participating in this study were 30 right-handed adults, 16 of which were male and 14 were female, aged 41 to 88 (average age 62.3 years) with ictus varying from 1 to 30 days (median of 6 days). To analyze the pharyngeal transit time a videofluoroscopy swallow test was performed. Each patient was observed during swallow of a 5 mL paste bolus given by spoon, totaling four different stimuli (natural, cold, sour and cold sour), one at a time, room temperature (22ºC) and cold (8ºC) were used. Later, the tests were analyzed using specific software to measure bolus transit time during the pharyngeal phase. RESULTS: The results showed that the pharyngeal transit time was significantly shorter during swallow of cold sour bolus when compared with other stimuli. Conclusion - Sour taste stimuli associated to cold temperature cause significant change in swallowing patterns, by shortening the pharyngeal transit time, which may lead to positive effects in patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Identifying habitats at risk: simple models can reveal complex ecosystem dynamics
Authors: Maxwell Paul S. , Pitt Kylie A. , Olds Andrew D. , Rissik David , Connolly Rod M.
Published: March 2015

The relationship between ecological impact and ecosystem structure is often strongly nonlinear, so that small increases in impact levels can cause a disproportionately large response in ecosystem structure. Nonlinear ecosystem responses can be difficult to predict because locally relevant data sets can be difficult or impossible to obtain. Bayesian networks (BN) are an emerging tool that can help managers to define ecosystem relationships using a range of data types from comprehensive quantitative data sets to expert opinion. We show how a simple BN can reveal nonlinear dynamics in seagrass ecosystems using ecological relationships sourced from the literature. We first developed a conceptual diagram by cataloguing the ecological responses of seagrasses to a range of drivers and impacts. We used the conceptual diagram to develop a BN populated with values sourced from published studies. We then applied the BN to show that the amount of initial seagrass biomass has a mitigating effect on the level of impact a meadow can withstand without loss, and that meadow recovery can often require disproportionately large improvements in impact levels. This mitigating effect resulted in the middle ranges of impact levels having a wide likelihood of seagrass presence, a situation known as bistability. Finally, we applied the model in a case study to identify the risk of loss and the likelihood of recovery for the conservation and management of seagrass meadows in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia. We used the model to predict the likelihood of bistability in 23 locations in the Bay. The model predicted bistability in seven locations, most of which have experienced seagrass loss at some stage in the past 25 years providing essential information for potential future restoration efforts. Our results demonstrate the capacity of simple, flexible modeling tools to facilitate collation and synthesis of disparate information. This approach can be adopted in the initial stages of conservation programs as a low‐cost and relatively straightforward way to provide preliminary assessments of nonlinear dynamics in ecosystems.
Conventional and Advanced Oxidation Processes Used in Disinfection of Treated Urban Wastewater
Authors: Rodríguez‐Chueca J. , Ormad M. P. , Mosteo R. , Sarasa J. , Ovelleiro J. L.
Published: March 2015

The purpose of the current study is to compare the inactivation of Escherichia coli in wastewater effluents using conventional treatments (chlorination) and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) such as UV irradiation, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)/solar irradiation, and photo‐Fenton processes. In addition, an analysis of the operational costs of each treatment is carried out taking into account the optimal dosages of chemicals used. Total inactivation of bacteria (7.5 log) was achieved by means of chlorination and UV irradiation. However, bacterial regrowth was observed 6 hours after the completion of UV treatment, obtaining a disinfection value around 3 to 4 log. On the other hand, the combination H2O2/solar irradiation achieved a maximum inactivation of E. coli of 3.30 ± 0.35 log. The photo‐Fenton reaction achieved a level of inactivation of 4.87 ± 0.10 log. The order of disinfection, taking into account the reagent/cost ratio of each treatment, is as follows: chlorination > UV irradiation > photo‐Fenton > H2O2/sunlight irradiation.
Survival of Biofilm‐Associated Legionella pneumophila Exposed to Various Stressors
Authors: Vatansever Cansu , Türetgen Irfan
Published: March 2015

Biofilm is crucial for the multiplication and survival of Legionella pneumophila. The survival after different stressors of biofilm‐associated L. pneumophila was evaluated during 150 days in this study. Mixed biofilms were allowed to develop on coupons in a biofilm reactor, which was experimentally infected with L. pneumophila. A dose of 2 ppm of monochloramine was found ineffective to kill younger (60 days) biofilm‐associated L. pneumophila, whereas shock treatment (500 and 1000 ppm) was found to be significantly successful, as expected. Also, short exposure to 60 °C was insufficient to kill all young L. pneumophila within biofilms. A significant amount of young L. pneumophila bacteria also resisted pH 11 and 3 molar salt solution. No significant change was observed after exposure to 4 °C, ultra pure water and pH 5. Interestingly, L. pneumophila bacteria in biofilm became more sensitive after 90 days.
Futurescapes: evidence expectations in the USA for comparative effectiveness research for drugs in 2020
Authors: Messner Donna A , Mohr Penny , Towse Adrian
Published: March 2015

Aim:
Explore key factors influencing future expectations for the production of evidence from comparative effectiveness research for drugs in the USA in 2020 and construct three plausible future scenarios.
Materials & methods:
Semistructured key informant interviews and three rounds of modified Delphi with systematic scenario-building methods.
Results & conclusion:
Most influential key factors were: health delivery system integration; electronic health record development; exploitation of very large databases and mixed data sources; and proactive patient engagement in research. The scenario deemed most likely entailed uneven development of large integrated health systems with pockets of increased provider risk for patient care, enhanced data collection systems, changing incentives to do comparative effectiveness research and new opportunities for evidence generation partnerships.
Bifactor Analysis of the Mental Health Continuum—Short Form (MHC—SF)
Authors: de Bruin Gideon P. , du Plessis Graham A.
Published: March 2015

This report examined the factor structure of the Mental Health Continuum–Short Form (MHC–SF) using bifactor analysis to evaluate a general well-being factor and the three group factors that correspond with emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Using a sample of 902 South African psychology students ( M age = 21.1 yr., SD = 2.7), the MHC–SF was examined using confirmatory factor models, (1) a one-factor model conceptualizing well-being as unidimensional, (2) a correlated three-factor model corresponding with Keyes' model, and (3) a bifactor solution with a general well-being factor and three orthogonalized group factors. The bifactor solution fitted the best and evidenced a strong general well-being factor and three comparatively weak residualized group factors. These findings contribute to the literature by facilitating an examination of the strength of a general well-being factor as contrasted with the multidimensional components of emotional, social, and psychological well-being and advance a case for the interpretation of both the general and multidimensional components. The results inform considerations regarding the employ of the scale in statistical procedures such as multiple regression analysis and structural equation modeling.
Psychometric Properties of the Physical Self-Concept Questionnaire with Mexican University Students
Authors: Blanco Josér , Blanco Humberto , Viciana Jesüs , Zueck Carmen
Published: March 2015

This study analyzes, in a sample of Mexican students, the factor structure of the Physical Self-Concept Questionnaire of Goñi, Ruiz de Azúa, and Rodríguez (2006), which assesses physical ability, physical fitness, attractiveness, strength, general physical self-concept, and global self-concept. A representative sample of 1,466 Mexican university physical education students was selected (754 men, 712 women; M age = 20.6 yr., SD = 2.0). Confirmatory factor analysis showed a two-factor structure (motor competency and physical attractiveness). The two-factor structure, regarding statistical and substantive criteria, had good fit indices. Results of the factor analyses carried out with the sub-samples indicated a strong stability and evidence for the factor structure obtained. The findings support the use of this questionnaire to measure physical self-concept in Mexican university students. Future studies should replicate these findings in other populations.
Associations between Seasonal Sleep Change and Indoor Tanning
Authors: Culnan Elizabeth , Kloss Jacqueline D. , Darlow Susan , Heckman Carolyn J.
Published: March 2015

Identification of risk factors for indoor tanning may ultimately aid the development of better indoor tanning prevention strategies, which is pertinent given the association between indoor tanning and skin cancer. This study aimed to examine the relationship between seasonal sleep change and indoor tanning. Female tanners ( N = 139) completed self-report measures including items relating to seasonal sleep changes, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), reasons for tanning, tanning during the winter months, and the Tanning Pathology Scale (TAPS), which measures problematic tanning motives and symptoms of tanning dependence. It was hypothesized that seasonal sleep change and SAD would be associated with greater indoor tanning during the winter, more tanning to improve mood and to relax, and higher scores on the TAPS. Findings indicated that more seasonal sleep change was associated with tanning to improve mood and higher scores on the TAPS. Similarly, the presence of SAD was related to tanning to improve mood, tanning to relax, and more problematic tanning.
Self-Acceptance Mediates the Relationship between Mindfulness and Perceived Stress
Authors: Rodriguez Marcus A. , Xu Wei , Wang Xiaoming , Liu Xinghua
Published: March 2015

Previous research has shown that the effects of mindfulness-based interventions and increased trait mindfulness are associated with reduced stress. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms by which mindfulness-based interventions exert their beneficial effect on decreased stress. The purpose of the present study was to examine the role of self-acceptance in the relationship between trait mindfulness and perceived stress among a sample of 132 students from Beijing, China. Results revealed that self-acceptance was found to partially mediate the relationship between mindfulness and stress. Limitations, clinical implications, and directions for future research are identified.
A discrete dislocation technique for fatigue microcracks (Part III)
Authors: Močilnik Vinko , Gubeljak Nenad
Published: March 2015

In accordance with the method of discrete dislocations, an explanation of the reasons for the increase in lifetime of torsion subjected specimens is given. The lifetime of the specimens was increased by means of pre-stress compression in the axial direction. The increase in service life of axial pre-stressed mechanical parts fatigued by torsion or a combination of torsion and bending is explained by the method of discrete dislocations, which will be discussed in detail in this study.
Failure of porcelain coated heating elements used in regenerative air preheaters
Authors: Pongsaksawad Wanida , Kaewkumsai Siam , Sorachot Sikharin , Viyanit Ekkarut
Published: March 2015

Sulfuric acid dew point corrosion is still a matter of concern with respect to early failure of heating elements used for air preheating in thermal power plants. Therefore, corrosion protection by means of porcelain enamel coatings is widely used. However, insufficient protective properties of the coating can result in a drastic decrease in service life. In the present study, failure analysis was comparatively performed on damaged heating elements showing different degrees of damage after approximately 1.5 years in service in a thermal power plant. The analytical results indicated that a lower degree of damage was observed for the heating element having higher content of silica. The protective properties of coatings decreased with the increasing pore density formed in the coating layer. The heating element coated with a harder porcelain layer was less severely attacked.
Charring rate of timbers in terms of size, layer material and fire class evaluated by the Taguchi method
Authors: Altin Mustafa
Published: March 2015

This publication is focused on the fire performance of different wood materials to determine the charring rate. For this purpose, L27(313) Taguchi orthogonal design was used for the derivation of the parameter combinations. A total of 108 timber specimens made of 3 different natural timber types having 3 different sizes had been coated with fire retardant varnish and boron impregnation. Specimens were tested for three different fire classes and temperatures. The values of charring rate were obtained from fire tests according to the orthogonal design. Obtained results were analyzed using the signal-to-noise ratio, analysis of variance methods and 3D surface plots. It was concluded that the type of timber and specimen section are the most significant factors affecting the charring rate. The second significant factor affecting the charring rate was found to be the duration and temperature of fire. Lastly, coating material is the third important factor influencing the charring rate.
The Role of Metallography in the Development and Characterization of High-Performance Materials
Authors: Mayer S. , Hawranek G. , Mendez-Martin F. , Panzenböck M. , Pölzl S. , Primig S. , Rashkova B. , Clemens H.
Published: March 2015

The Department of Physical Metallurgy and Materials Testing of the Montanuniversität Leoben combines research and development activities in the field of high-performance materials. The Department's methodology and expertise is completed by a national and international network of research institutions and industrial partners. This synergetic approach to complex topics is one of the cornerstones of international visibility and competitiveness of the Department's research work.
Stereotactic radiosurgery and immunotherapy for metastatic spinal melanoma
Authors: Caruso James P. , Cohen-Inbar Or , Bilsky Mark H. , Gerszten Peter C. , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: March 2015

The management of metastatic spinal melanoma involves maximizing local control, preventing recurrence, and minimizing treatment-associated toxicity and spinal cord damage. Additionally, therapeutic measures should promote mechanical stability, facilitate rehabilitation, and promote quality of life. These objectives prove difficult to achieve given melanoma's elusive nature, radioresistant and chemoresistant histology, vascular character, and tendency for rapid and early metastasis. Different therapeutic modalities exist for metastatic spinal melanoma treatment, including resection (definitive, debulking, or stabilization procedures), stereotactic radiosurgery, and immunotherapeutic techniques, but no single treatment modality has proven fully effective. The authors present a conceptual overview and critique of these techniques, assessing their effectiveness, separately and combined, in the treatment of metastatic spinal melanoma. They provide an up-to-date guide for multidisciplinary treatment strategies. Protocols that incorporate specific, goal-defined surgery, immunotherapy, and stereotactic radiosurgery would be beneficial in efforts to maximize local control and minimize toxicity.
Ipilimumab and craniotomy in patients with melanoma and brain metastases: a case series
Authors: Jones Pamela S. , Cahill Daniel P. , Brastianos Priscilla K. , Flaherty Keith T. , Curry William T.
Published: March 2015

OBJECT

In patients with large or symptomatic brain lesions from metastatic melanoma, the value of resection of metastases to facilitate administration of systemic ipilimumab therapy has not yet been described. The authors undertook this study to investigate whether craniotomy creates the opportunity for patients to receive and benefit from ipilimumab who would otherwise succumb to brain metastasis prior to the onset of regression.

METHODS

All patients with metastatic melanoma who received ipilimumab and underwent craniotomy for metastasis resection between 2008 and 2014 at the Massachusetts General Hospital were identified through retrospective chart review. The final analysis included cases involving patients who underwent craniotomy within 3 months prior to initiation of therapy or up to 6 months after cessation of ipilimumab administration.

RESULTS

Twelve patients met the inclusion criteria based on timing of therapy (median age 59.2). The median number of metastases at the time of craniotomy was 2. The median number of ipilimumab doses received was 4. Eleven of 12 courses of ipilimumab were stopped for disease progression, and 1 was stopped for treatment-induced colitis. Eight of 12 patients had improvement in their performance status following craniotomy. Of the 6 patients requiring corticosteroids prior to craniotomy, 3 tolerated corticosteroid dose reduction after surgery. Ten of 12 patients had died by the time of data collection, with 1 patient lost to follow-up. The median survival after the start of ipilimumab treatment was 7 months.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series, patients who underwent resection of brain metastases in temporal proximity to receiving ipilimumab had qualitatively improved performance status following surgery in most cases. Surgery facilitated corticosteroid reduction in select patients. Larger analyses are required to better understand possible synergies between craniotomy for melanoma metastases and ipilimumab treatment.
A practical review of prognostic correlations of molecular biomarkers in glioblastoma
Authors: Karsy Michael , Neil Jayson A. , Guan Jian , Mahan Mark A. , Colman Howard , Jensen Randy L.
Published: March 2015

Despite extensive efforts in research and therapeutics, achieving longer survival for patients with glioblastoma (GBM) remains a formidable challenge. Furthermore, because of rapid advances in the scientific understanding of GBM, communication with patients regarding the explanations and implications of genetic and molecular markers can be difficult. Understanding the important biomarkers that play a role in GBM pathogenesis may also help clinicians in educating patients about prognosis, potential clinical trials, and monitoring response to treatments. This article aims to provide an up-to-date review that can be discussed with patients regarding common molecular markers, namely O-6-methylgua-nine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (IDH1/2), p53, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), and 1p/19q. The importance of the distinction between a prognostic and a predictive biomarker as well as clinical trials regarding these markers and their relevance to clinical practice are discussed.
Fast, Microwave-Promoted One-Pot Synthesis of Bicyclic Pyrimidones from Baylis-Hillman Adducts
Authors: Liu Yongliang , Wan Kun , Wang Zengxue
Published: March 2015

Two types of fused pyrimidones, 3-substituted-7-chloro-4H -pyrimido[1,2-b]pyridazin-4-ones and 6-substituted-5H-thiazolo-[3,2-a]pyrimidin-5-ones were easily prepared from Baylis-Hillman adduct acetates under microwave irritation in high yields.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Non-Natural Amino Acid Derivatives: (2R/3S) and (2S/3R) 2-(Tert-Butoxycarbonylamino)-3-Cyclohexyl-3-Phenyl Propanoic Acids
Authors: Yang Rui , Guo Ya-Fei , Gao Zhan-Yong , Zhao Qian , Zhang Qian-Yang , Lin Jun
Published: March 2015

Highly conformationally-constrained novel α-amino acid derivatives ((2R/3S) and (2S/3R)-2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)-3-cyclohexyl-3-phenylpropanoic acids) have been synthesised with high stereoselectivity (> 90% de) and in 36–37% overall yields. In the synthesis, Evans’ auxiliary (4(R/S)-4-phenyl-oxzaolidin-2-one) was used to control the stereoselectivity via the key reactions of asymmetric Michael addition, azidation and catalytic hydrogenolysis.
A Paddle-Wheel Motif versus an Extended Network: Two Crystalline Forms of 2,4-Bis(Phenylamino)Nitrobenzene
Authors: Plater M. John , Harrison William T.A.
Published: March 2015

2,4-Difluoronitrobenzene is reacted with either one or two amines selected from aniline, ammonia, butylamine and benzylamine. All products are characterised spectroscopically and by single-crystal structure determinations. When formed as a minor component alongside 4-dimethylamino-2-(phenylamino)nitrobenzene, 2,4-bis(phenylamino)nitrobenzene crystallises as a hydrogen-bonded hexamer, or paddle-wheel motif, encompassing one-dimensional channels, but as a dense framework when pure. 2,4-Bis(butylamino)nitrobenzene crystallises with the same hexamer motif but with offset sheets.
HClO4-SiO2 Nanoparticles: An Efficient and Versatile Catalyst for Synthesis of 1,4-Dihydropyrano[2,3-c]Pyrazoles
Authors: Sadeghi Bahareh , Shirkhani Mona , Hassanabadi Alireza
Published: March 2015

The reaction between aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile and 3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazoline-5-one catalysed by silica supported perchloric acid nanoparticles (HClO4-SiO2 nanoparticles) in solvent H2O under reflux provided a simple and efficient one-pot route for the synthesis of 1,4-dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazoles in excellent yields.
Ruthenium Chloride Catalysed Multicomponent Reaction for Efficient and One-Pot Synthesis of Functionalised Tetrahydropiperidines at Room Temperature
Authors: Mohammadi Sedigheh , Abbasi Mohsen
Published: March 2015

Ruthenium chloride plays the role of a Lewis acid catalyst for the one-pot three-component synthesis of highly functionalised tetrahydropiperidines from aromatic aldehydes, anilines and ethyl acetoacetate in ethanol at ambient temperature without any ligand or activator. The simple experimental procedure, high yields of products, no need for column chromatography, and short reaction times compared to other catalysts are some of the advantages of this method.
Have Eggs, Will Travel: The Experiences and Ethics of Global Egg Donation
Authors: Kroløkke Charlotte
Published: March 2015

Feminist scholars have critically questioned the practices and ethics of reproductive mobility. While the reproductive mobility of fertility patients has been foregrounded, little is known of egg donor mobility including the experiences of travelling internationally to donate eggs. Based on written stories and photographic material provided by forty-two egg donors, this article uses feminist cluster analysis and the concept of eggpreneurship to illustrate how global egg donors negotiate reproductive agency and choice when they travel internationally to donate their eggs. In their stories, global egg donors position egg donation through a moral economy of gifting and an affective economy of desire in which reproductive mobility is transformed from a gift to a trip of a lifetime.
‘25 degrees of separation’ Versus the ‘ease of doing it closer to home’: Motivations to Offshore Surrogacy Arrangements Amongst Australian Citizens
Authors: Riggs Damien W.
Published: March 2015

At present, onshore commercial surrogacy is illegal in all Australian states and territories. By contrast, offshore commercial surrogacy is legal in all bar one territory and two states. As a result, significant numbers of Australian citizens undertake travel each year to enter into commercial surrogacy arrangements. The present paper reports on findings derived from interview data collected with 21 Australian citizens who had children through an offshore commercial surrogacy arrangement, either in India or the United States. Framed by an understanding of the vulnerability that arises from the demand of reproductive citizenship, the analysis focuses specifically on whether or not the participants would have entered into an onshore commercial surrogacy arrangement had this been legal at the time. The findings suggest that for some participants, undertaking surrogacy ‘at a distance’ was perceived to be safer and provided a degree of privacy, whilst for other participants surrogacy closer to home would have removed some of the more challenging aspects of offshore arrangements. With these findings in mind, the paper concludes by considering Jenni Millbank's (2014) suggestion that Australian states and territories should legalise onshore commercial surrogacy, and the barriers that may exist to the uptake of such potential legal change.
Self-Sensing Ionic Polymer Actuators: A Review
Authors: Kruusamäe Karl , Punning Andres , Aabloo Alvo , Asaka Kinji
Published: March 2015

Ionic electromechanically active polymers (IEAP) are laminar composites that can be considered attractive candidates for soft actuators. Their outstanding properties such as low operating voltage, easy miniaturization, and noiseless operation are, however, marred by issues related to the repeatability in the production and operation of these materials. Implementing closed-loop control for IEAP actuators is a viable option for overcoming these issues. Since IEAP laminates also behave as mechanoelectrical sensors, it is advantageous to combine the actuating and sensing functionalities of a single device to create a so-called self-sensing actuator. This review article systematizes the state of the art in producing self-sensing ionic polymer actuators. The IEAPs discussed in this paper are conducting (or conjugated) polymers actuators (CPA), ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC), and carbonaceous polymer laminates.
Effects of Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Visually Guided Learning of Grip Force Control
Authors: Minarik Tamas , Sauseng Paul , Dunne Lewis , Berger Barbara , Sterr Annette
Published: March 2015

Anodal transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to be an effective non-invasive brain stimulation method for improving cognitive and motor functioning in patients with neurological deficits. tDCS over motor cortex (M1), for instance, facilitates motor learning in stroke patients. However, the literature on anodal tDCS effects on motor learning in healthy participants is inconclusive, and the effects of tDCS on visuo-motor integration are not well understood. In the present study we examined whether tDCS over the contralateral motor cortex enhances learning of grip-force output in a visually guided feedback task in young and neurologically healthy volunteers. Twenty minutes of 1 mA anodal tDCS were applied over the primary motor cortex (M1) contralateral to the dominant (right) hand, during the first half of a 40 min power-grip task. This task required the control of a visual signal by modulating the strength of the power-grip for six seconds per trial. Each participant completed a two-session sham-controlled crossover protocol. The stimulation conditions were counterbalanced across participants and the sessions were one week apart. Performance measures comprised time-on-target and target-deviation, and were calculated for the periods of stimulation (or sham) and during the afterphase respectively. Statistical analyses revealed significant performance improvements over the stimulation and the afterphase, but this learning effect was not modulated by tDCS condition. This suggests that the form of visuomotor learning taking place in the present task was not sensitive to neurostimulation. These null effects, together with similar reports for other types of motor tasks, lead to the proposition that tDCS facilitation of motor learning might be restricted to cases or situations where the motor system is challenged, such as motor deficits, advanced age, or very high task demand.