bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancement in Microstructural, Optical, and Mechanical Properties of PVA (Mowiol 10-98) Doped by ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Kumar N. B. Rithin , Crasta Vincent , Praveen B. M.
Published: November 2014

The current paper explores the preparation of PVA nanocomposites by doping with zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using the method of coagulation and solvent casting technique. The dopant zinc oxide nanoparticle is prepared by simple precipitation method and is confirmed by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The XRD studies explore that the average particle size of the synthesized nanoparticles is 55 nm and show that the crystallinity factor of PVA nanocomposites is influenced by the interaction occurring between the PVA main chain and the ZnO nanoparticle. The FTIR spectroscopy suggests that the formulation of complexes occurring between the dopants and the PVA main chain is due to inter or intra molecular hydrogen bonding. UV-vis spectra explore the dramatic decrease in the optical energy gap of nanoparticles doped polymer composites and the variations of Urbach energy (Eu) related to crystallinity for various dopant concentrations. The mechanical properties of the PVA nanocomposites were explored using universal testing machine (UTM) that reflects that, for x=15% doping concentration, there is an increase in the tensile strength, stiffness, and Young’s modulus, whereas, for x=7.5% concentration, the percentage total elongation at fracture is found to be the maximum. The morphological behavior and homogenous nanoparticle distribution in the composites were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX).
Approximate Generalized Cubic*-Derivations
Authors: Koh Heejeong , Kang Dongseung
Published: November 2014

We will show the general solution of the functional equationf(ax+by)+f(ax-by)=ab2[f(x+y)+f(x-y)]+2a(a2-b2)f(x)and investigate the stability of cubic*-derivations associated with the given functional equation on Banach*-algebras.
Cellular Automata Supporting n‐Connectivity
Authors: Stamatovic Biljana , Kosec Gregor , Trobec Roman , Xuan Xiao , Stamatovic Sinisa
Published: November 2014

We propose a new algorithm based on cellular automation (CA) for preserving n‐connectivity, n > 1. The CA algorithm transforms an initial grid configuration in a grid with same number of holes but without 1‐connected components. Also, maximal thinning of n‐connected components, n > 1, is achieved. The grid can be used as initial for investigating properties of initial grid. Computational performances are evaluated and measured on real cases. The obtained results indicate that the proposed approach achieves comparable complexity as standard approaches; however, the speed‐up and scalability of the proposed algorithm are not limited by the number of processing nodes.
Balloon Occlusion Types in the Treatment of Coronary Perforation during Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Wang Xiangfei , Ge Junbo
Published: November 2014

Coronary artery perforation is an uncommon complication in patients with coronary heart disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. However, pericardial tamponade following coronary artery perforation may be lethal, and prompt treatment is crucial in managing such patients. Balloon occlusion and the reversal of anticoagulant activity are the common methods used to prevent cardiac tamponade by reducing the amount of bleeding. Herein, we discuss the pros and cons of currently used occlusion types for coronary perforation. Optimal balloon occlusion methods should reduce the amount of bleeding and ameliorate subsequent myocardial ischemia injury, even during cardiac surgery.
Behavioural Descriptions of Indian Pangolins (Manis crassicaudata) in Captivity
Authors: Mohapatra Rajesh Kumar , Panda Sudarsan
Published: November 2014

Conservation breeding programmes as an essential tool for conservation of endangered species require a sound knowledge on behaviour of the species. At present time, knowledge of behaviour and biology of Indian pangolins is inadequate and inconsistent. During the present study, an ethogram was developed based on the behavioural observations of seven Indian pangolins (Manis crassicaudata) at Pangolin Conservation Breeding Centre, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Odisha, India, between February 2012 and January 2013. A total of 27 behaviours of seven distinct behavioural categories (stationary body positions, locomotory patterns, maintenance behaviours, explorative behaviours, defensive behaviours, reproductive/social behaviours, and others) were described and illustrated. The results offer a consistent frame of reference for further studies on behavioural patterns of Indian pangolins. Besides, these preliminary observations could be useful in management and breeding of the species in captivity.
Equal Area Laws and Latent Heat ford-Dimensional RN-AdS Black Hole
Authors: Zhang Li-Chun , Zhao Hui-Hua , Zhao Ren , Ma Meng-Sen
Published: November 2014

We study the equal area laws ofd-dimensional RN-AdS black hole. We choose two kinds of phase diagrams,P-VandT-S. We employ the equal area laws to find an isobar which is the real two-phase coexistence line. Our calculation is much simpler to derive the critical value of the thermodynamic quantities. According to the thermodynamic quantities, we also study the latent heat of the black hole.
Attitude and Knowledge of Indian Emergency Care Residents towards Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors
Authors: Padhy Biswa Mohan , Bhadauria Hemant Singh , Gupta Yogendra Kumar
Published: November 2014

Objective. Several studies carried out in developed countries have reported disproportionately high usage of acid suppressive drugs, especially proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). However, systematic assessment of attitude and practices of health care providers towards the use of these drugs in developing countries is lacking. In this study, we assessed the knowledge, attitude, and preferences of resident doctors posted in the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital in North India, towards the use of PPIs.Methods. A questionnaire based survey was carried out.Results. Fifty resident doctors responded to the questionnaire. Thirty-six percent reported prescribing acid suppressive drugs for majority of their patients, while 12% prescribed them to almost all patients they attended. Acute gastritis was the most common indication for prescribing PPI/H2blockers (50%). The majority of respondents (92%) regarded PPIs as their first choice in acid suppressive agents and 58% administered it through intravenous route. Knowledge about PPI related adverse effects was low.Conclusions. Emergency care residents in India also tend to overuse PPIs in a manner similar to their counterparts in developed countries. Specific measures may be helpful in preventing such practices.
SRT1720 Induces Lysosomal-Dependent Cell Death of Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Lahusen Tyler J. , Deng Chu-Xia
Published: November 2014

SRT1720 is an activator of SIRT1, a NAD+-dependent protein and histone deacetylase that plays an important role in numerous biologic processes. Several studies have illustrated that SRT1720 treatment could improve metabolic conditions in mouse models and in a study in cancer SRT1720 caused increased apoptosis of myeloma cells. However, the effect of SRT1720 on cancer may be complex, as some recent studies have demonstrated that SRT1720 may not directly activate SIRT1 and another study showed that SRT1720 treatment could promote lung metastasis. To further investigate the role of SRT1720 in breast cancer, we treated SIRT1 knockdown and control breast cancer cell lines with SRT1720 both in vitro and in vivo. We showed that SRT1720 more effectively decreased the viability of basal-type MDA-MB-231 and BT20 cells as compared with luminal-type MCF-7 breast cancer cells or nontumorigenic MCF-10A cells. We demonstrated that SRT1720 induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization and necrosis, which could be blocked by lysosomal inhibitors. In contrast, SRT1720-induced cell death occurred in vitro irrespective of SIRT1 status, whereas in nude mice, SRT1720 exhibited a more profound effect in inhibiting the growth of allograft tumors of SIRT1 proficient cells as compared with tumors of SIRT1-deficient cells. Thus, SRT1720 causes lysosomal-dependent necrosis and may be used as a therapeutic agent for breast cancer treatment. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(1); 183–92. ©2014 AACR.
Peritoneal Catheter Fixation to the Abdominal Wall in Surgical Catheter Implantation to Prevent Malfunction
Authors: Wang Huiming , Jia Houjun , Lv Xifeng , Ding Guohua
Published: November 2014

Background: Catheter failure, especially catheter displacement and obstruction remain the major barriers for peritoneal dialysis. We have developed a new surgery technique of catheter fixation on the lower abdominal wall in the catheter planting to avert the catheter mechanical complications. Method: A retrospective study was performed on 93 patients; among them, 52 patients underwent the traditional method of surgery for catheter insertion and 41 patients received additional catheter fixation. Comparisons of complications including infection, leak, infusion pains, catheter displacement, and obstruction occurred during a follow-up period of 6 months, were made between the fixed and non-fixed groups. Results: Catheter fixation cost more time than the conventional operating procedure (94.2 w 14.6 min vs. 83 w 13.3 min, p = 0.043). Complications of infection, leak, and infusion pain that occurred in the fixed and unfixed groups are comparable. Catheter fixation reduced the complications of catheter displacement or obstruction to 0 episode in the fixed group, whereas those complications were encountered by 7 patients in the unfixed group (0/41 vs. 7/52, p = 0.022). All these 7 patients received re-exploration and catheter replacement with further catheter fixation. In the following time until now (ranging from 3 to 16 months), no catheter dysfunction was observed. Conclusions: These results suggest that catheter fixation is effective in preventing catheter displacement and obstruction in peritoneal dialysis. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Alkali Burn Treated with 2% Rebamipide Ophthalmic Suspension: A Case Report
Authors: Sasaki Hidenori , Kokubun Takamichi
Published: November 2014

A 47-year-old man presented at the Ophthalmology Department of Saku City Asama General Hospital complaining of hyperemia and pain after industrial sodium hydroxide (approx. 40% concentration) had entered his left eye. With an epithelial defect of the bulbar and palpebral conjunctiva, ischemia of the inferior third of the limbal conjunctiva, a total corneal epithelial defect and mild corneal stromal opacity, the damage was determined as Roper-Hall grade III. 2% rebamipide ophthalmic suspension, which is used for dry eye disease, was administered 4 times a day followed by conventional treatment for serious alkali injury. The corneal epithelial defect was resolved, and there were no side effects. The effectiveness of 2% rebamipide ophthalmic suspension in both the repair and improvement of the damage in the conjunctival and corneal epithelia, and its anti-inflammatory effect suggest that it may be an effective treatment not only for dry eye disease but also for alkali ocular damage.
Application of Cellular Automata for a Generative Art System
Authors: Shin Jae Kyun
Published: November 2014

In this article, the author describes a study that proposes the use of cellular automata (CA) as a useful tool for a creative pattern-generating art system. A one-rule firing CA is used to efficiently represent basic CA patterns. The key idea in this method is to mix basic patterns in order to design complex patterns. Two types of mixing—iterative and hierarchical—are introduced. The results are demonstrated through example patterns, including ornamental and tiling patterns. The concept of an expanded neighborhood is introduced and applied to the generation of flower-like images. The author concludes with several suggestions for future research topics in relation to the proposed method.
“Progress through Novelty”: The Kavli Frontiers of Science Symposium
Authors: Yang Andrew
Published: November 2014

This report on the first-ever Art-Science Interface session at the annual Kavli Frontiers of Science Symposium collects reflections from a number of the session’s invited participants as well as its organizers. What impact does the participation of artists have at an elite science research symposium? How does cross-disciplinary engagement of this kind both reflect on, and take part in, the larger conversation concerning art-science collaborations and the significance of their outcomes? These questions and others are briefly explored.
Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita (Nematoda: Rhabditidae), a potential biocontrol agent isolated for the first time from invasive slugs in North America
Authors: Tandingan De Ley Irma , McDonnell Rory D. , Lopez Sandy , Paine Timothy D. , De Ley Paul
Published: November 2014

Phasmarhabditis hermaphroditais reported for the first time in North America from cadavers of the invasive slug speciesDeroceras reticulatum,D. laeveandLehmannia valentianacollected from three different locations in California, USA. Four isolates were identified using combined morphology, morphometrics and molecular sequence data for complete internal transcribed spacer (ITS-1, 5.8S, ITS-2), D2-D3 expansion segments of the large subunit (LSU or 28S) and nearly complete small subunit (SSU or 18S) ribosomal DNA. Extremely low sequence variations in the COI gene of the mitochondria were observed among US isolates as well as between US isolates and the two UK sequences. The occurrence ofP. hermaphroditain North America has regulatory implications for potential biological control strategies against non-native gastropod species that are pests in ornamental and agricultural cultivation on this continent. The D2-D3 sequence of the LSU rDNA is new for the species.
Ficotylus laselvae n. sp. (Tylenchomorpha: Anguinidae) associated with Ficus colubrinae in Costa Rica
Authors: Giblin-Davis Robin M. , Kanzaki Natsumi , Davies Kerrie A. , Ye Weimin , Zeng Yongsan , Center Barbara J. , Esquivel Alejandro , Powers Thomas O.
Published: November 2014

Ficotylus laselvaen. sp. was recovered from under the bracts of figs (syconia) ofFicus colubrinaefrom La Selva, Costa Rica, during a survey of nematode rainforest biodiversity and is described herein. This is only the second report of an association between the nematode suborder Tylenchina and the sycones of figs. Previous reports of most nematode associates of the sycones of figs have been from the lumen and involved transmission by female fig wasp pollinators (Agaonidae) during pollination/oviposition (e.g.,SchistonchusandParasitodiplogasterspp.). The association betweenF. laselvaen. sp. andFicus colubrinaemay involve an invertebrate host, but none was recovered from dissections of the bracts during this study. It is also possible that this is a rainforest understory nematode that feeds ectoparasitically in protected areas on the aerial parts ofF. colubrinae. Molecular analysis using near-full-length sequences of the small subunit (SSU) rRNA and D2-D3 expansion segments of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA genes ofFicotylus laselvaen. sp. suggests that it is a member of the suborder Tylenchina (infraorder: Tylenchomorpha; family: Anguinidae) and that the closest sequenced species isF. congestaefrom the lumen of sycones ofFicus congestafrom Queensland, Australia. Although both nematode species are associated with figs, they are morphologically divergent, suggesting that the different micro-niches that they fill provide different selective pressures for evolution of differing morphological characters or they represent different life history morphotypes of a dicyclic genus.
Detection of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus infection in Pinus massoniana from hyperspectral data
Authors: Ju Yunwei , Pan Jie , Wang Xiaotang , Zhang Heng
Published: November 2014

Hyperspectral remote sensing has great potential for accurate detection of forest pests and diseases. The main objectives of this research were: i) to determine the best hyperspectral wavelengths or their combinations to discriminate Pinus massoniana trees infected by Bursaphelenchus xylophilus disease from healthy trees over the spectral range of 350-1000 nm; and ii) to assess the chlorophyll content of infected trees using the hyperspectral algorithm. We also discuss the possibility of an early detection method of B. xylophilus disease dynamics by combining the spectral characteristics and the chlorophyll content of trees. The hyperspectral data were gathered for six stages of healthy to infected trees using a 1-nm-wide handheld spectroradiometer. First derivative (FD) spectra and vegetation indices were used for data dimensionality reduction and to select the most effective wavelengths for detection. The most effective FD spectrum in 759 nm was selected to discriminate the infected and healthy P. massoniana plants. The normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI)(810,450) value in the fully infected stage correlated with the variation of chlorophyll content (). We conclude that the combination of specific spectral characteristics and chlorophyll content is a reliable method for confirming infection about 30 days after B. xylophilus inoculation.
Taxonomic remarks on some Asian Lepidium s. l. (Brassicaceae)
Authors: German Dmitry A
Published: November 2014

Taxonomy of some Central, Middle and South West Asian representatives of Lepidium s. l. is revised and updated. Poorly known taxon, L. rubtzovii, is shown to be unrelated to L. coronopifolium s. l., but close to L. lacerum. Three new combinations (L. lacerum subsp. rubtzovii, L. leventii, and L. macrocarpum) are proposed. The names L. deserti, L. persicum subsp. arianum and L. seravschanicum, and Stroganowia kazachstanica are newly recognized as synonyms of L. obtusum, L. ferganense, and L. cardiophyllum, respectively. For L. ferganense and L. macrocarpum, lectotypes are designated. Besides, L. lacerum subsp. rubtzovii is reported for the first time for China (instead of subsp. lacerum), L. leventii for Iran, L. macrocarpum for Tajikistan, and L. obtusum for Afghanistan. In contrast, occurrence of L. lacerum in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan is considered doubtful.
Spionidae (Polychaeta: Canalipalpata: Spionida) from seamounts in the NE Atlantic
Authors: MEIBNER KARIN , BICK ANDREAS , GUGGOLZ THERESA , GÖTTING MIRIAM
Published: November 2014

Spionidae (Polychaeta) collected from seamounts in the Atlantic Ocean were studied. Altogether six species were found of which two are new to science and one belongs to a new genus. Aonidella cf. dayi Maciolek in López-Jamar, 1989 and Glandulospio orestes gen. et sp. nov. were the most common species and occurred on both the Great and Little Meteor Seamount, the Irving Seamount and the Hyeres Seamount. Laonice norgensis Sikorski, 2003 and Malacoceros jirkovi Sikorski, 1992 have a wider distribution in the North Atlantic, including the Mediterranean Sea in case of L. norgensis. Aonides selvagensis Brito, Núñez and Riera, 2006 is only known from the Macaronesian Region. Dipolydora paracaulleryi sp. nov. has been collected from both the Great and Little Meteor Seamounts. All species are compared with morphological similar species and their taxonomy is discussed. Detailed descriptions are provided for the species new to science and descriptions of the previously known species are amended. Accompanying histological studies revealed the presence of very strong dorsoventral musculature in A. cf. dayi and for G. orestes gen. et sp. nov. the presence of glandular organs in the middle body region. Laonice maciolekae Aguirrezabalaga & Ceberio, 2005 was found to be a junior synonym of L. appellöfi Söderström, 1920 and is formally synonymised. Molecular data suggest gene flow between seamounts and autochthonous as well as allochthonous larval recruitment for different species. The results of previous studies by other authors, that polychaete communities of the North Atlantic Seamounts are characterized by low diversity, low rates of endemism, and the predominance of widely distributed (and cosmopolitan) species is not corroborated by our results.
The Community Earth System Model (CESM) Large Ensemble Project: A Community Resource for Studying Climate Change in the Presence of Internal Climate Variability
Authors: Kay J. E. , Deser C. , Phillips A. , Mai A. , Hannay C. , Strand G. , Arblaster J. M. , Bates S. C. , Danabasoglu G. , Edwards J. , Holland M. , Kushner P. , Lamarque J.-F. , Lawrence D. , Lindsay K. , Middleton A. , Munoz E. , Neale R. , Oleson K. , Polvani L. , Vertenstein M.
Published: November 2014

While internal climate variability is known to affect climate projections, its influence is often underappreciated and confused with model error. Why? In general, modeling centers contribute a small number of realizations to international climate model assessments [e.g., phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5)]. As a result, model error and internal climate variability are difficult, and at times impossible, to disentangle. In response, the Community Earth System Model (CESM) community designed the CESM Large Ensemble (CESM-LE) with the explicit goal of enabling assessment of climate change in the presence of internal climate variability. All CESM-LE simulations use a single CMIP5 model (CESM with the Community Atmosphere Model, version 5). The core simulations replay the twenty to twenty-first century (1920–2100) 30 times under historical and representative concentration pathway 8.5 external forcing with small initial condition differences. Two companion 1000+-yr-long preindustrial control simulations (fully coupled, prognostic atmosphere and land only) allow assessment of internal climate variability in the absence of climate change. Comprehensive outputs, including many daily fields, are available as single-variable time series on the Earth System Grid for anyone to use. Early results demonstrate the substantial influence of internal climate variability on twentieth- to twenty-first-century climate trajectories. Global warming hiatus decades occur, similar to those recently observed. Internal climate variability alone can produce projection spread comparable to that in CMIP5. Scientists and stakeholders can use CESM-LE outputs to help interpret the observational record, to understand projection spread and to plan for a range of possible futures influenced by both internal climate variability and forced climate change.
Extended Reconstructed Sea Surface Temperature Version 4 (ERSST.v4): Part II. Parametric and Structural Uncertainty Estimations
Authors: Liu Wei , Huang Boyin , Thorne Peter W. , Banzon Viva F. , Zhang Huai-Min , Freeman Eric , Lawrimore Jay , Peterson Thomas C. , Smith Thomas M. , Woodruff Scott D.
Published: November 2014

Described herein is the parametric and structural uncertainty quantification for the monthly Extended Reconstructed Sea Surface Temperature (ERSST) version 4 (v4). A Monte Carlo ensemble approach was adopted to characterize parametric uncertainty, because initial experiments indicate the existence of significant nonlinear interactions. Globally, the resulting ensemble exhibits a wider uncertainty range before 1900, as well as an uncertainty maximum around World War II. Changes at smaller spatial scales in many regions, or for important features such as Niño-3.4 variability, are found to be dominated by particular parameter choices.

Substantial differences in parametric uncertainty estimates are found between ERSST.v4 and the independently derived Hadley Centre SST version 3 (HadSST3) product. The largest uncertainties are over the mid and high latitudes in ERSST.v4 but in the tropics in HadSST3. Overall, in comparison with HadSST3, ERSST.v4 has larger parametric uncertainties at smaller spatial and shorter time scales and smaller parametric uncertainties at longer time scales, which likely reflects the different sources of uncertainty quantified in the respective parametric analyses. ERSST.v4 exhibits a stronger globally averaged warming trend than HadSST3 during the period of 1910–2012, but with a smaller parametric uncertainty. These global-mean trend estimates and their uncertainties marginally overlap.

Several additional SST datasets are used to infer the structural uncertainty inherent in SST estimates. For the global mean, the structural uncertainty, estimated as the spread between available SST products, is more often than not larger than the parametric uncertainty in ERSST.v4. Neither parametric nor structural uncertainties call into question that on the global-mean level and centennial time scale, SSTs have warmed notably.
An Interdecadal Change in the Relationship between Boreal Spring Arctic Oscillation and the East Asian Summer Monsoon around the Early 1970s
Authors: Chen Shangfeng , Chen Wen , Wu Renguang
Published: November 2014

Previous studies suggested that the boreal spring Arctic Oscillation (AO) exerts a pronounced influence on the following East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) variability. This study reveals that the relationship of spring AO with the following EASM experienced a significant interdecadal change in the early 1970s. The influence of spring AO on the following EASM is weak during the 1950s and 1960s but strong and significant during the mid-1970s through the mid-1990s. The spring AO-related sea surface temperature (SST), atmospheric circulation, and heating anomalies are compared between 1949–71 and 1975–97. Results show that the spring AO-related cyclonic circulation anomaly over the tropical western North Pacific is weaker and located more northward in the former epoch than in the latter epoch. Correspondingly, SST, atmospheric circulation, and heating anomalies over the tropical North Pacific are located more northeastward in the former than latter epoch from spring to summer. In the following summer, the spring AO-related cyclonic circulation anomalies over the tropical North Pacific are located farther away from East Asia in the former epoch. This interdecadal change in the AO–EASM connection may be attributed to a significant change in the intensity of spring North Pacific synoptic-scale eddy activity around the early 1970s from a weak regime to a strong regime, which induces a stronger eddy feedback to the low-frequency mean flow after the early 1970s. This may explain a stronger spring AO-related cyclonic circulation over the tropical western North Pacific and thus a closer relationship between the spring AO and the following EASM in the latter than former epoch.
SRI Indices and Responsible Corporate Behavior
Authors: Slager Rieneke
Published: November 2014

This dissertation abstract and the reflection commentary present the work of Dr. Rieneke Slager. The dissertation addresses the influence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) metrics on responsible corporate behavior, through a case study of a prominent metric in the Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) market, namely, the FTSE4Good Index. This extended dissertation abstract introduces the research questions, theoretical framework, methods, and findings. The author’s views on successful completion of a PhD are discussed in the appendix.
For and against European Union expansion: Examining mixed opinion on enlargement and specific countries’ entries
Authors: Dixon Jeffrey C , Fullerton Andrew S
Published: November 2014

European Union (EU) residents hold complex attitudes toward expanding the union not completely captured in extant models of enlargement opinion. We develop two-by-two matrices of support and opposition toward (1) enlargement and (2) a potential member’s entry. Descriptive analyses of 2006 Eurobarometer data reveal that, across two-by-two matrices for enlargement and 13 potential members’ entries, EU-25 residents often support enlargement and a potential member’s entry or oppose both. Yet, what we call ‘qualified support of enlargement’ – support for enlargement but opposition to a potential member’s entry – varies by potential and current members. Synthesizing literature on similar attitudinal combinations with research on enlargement opinion, we develop hypotheses to account for the individual- and country-level variation in qualified support of enlargement, relative to supporting enlargement and a potential member’s entry or opposing both. According to our multilevel multinomial logit results, individual-level factors such as education, political awareness, and political ideology are generally related to qualified support of enlargement; economic distance between current and potential EU members is related to the levels of qualified support of enlargement in member countries. However, attitudes toward enlargement and the entries of countries, such as Turkey, Albania, and Iceland are exceptions to some patterns. Our findings highlight the multidimensionality of EU enlargement attitudes and suggest that literature on similar attitudinal combinations should incorporate group dynamics into their models.
Novel elastomer nanocomposite with uniform silica dispersion from polybutadiene rubber treated with epoxidized soybean oil
Authors: Kim Kyung-gun , Saha Prosenjit , Kim Jin-Hong , Jo Su-Hwan , Kim Jin Kuk
Published: November 2014

In this study, a novel bioelastomer nanocomposite with well-dispersed silica nanoparticles is prepared via anionic polymerization of polybutadiene rubber and epoxidized soybean oil. A substantial enhancement of uniform dispersion of silica nanoparticles within bioelastomer was found to impart improved surface energy of epoxidized nanocomposite. This observation arises as a result of induced polar character of polybutadiene rubber chain following epoxidation that eventually instigates an improved compatibility between silica nano-filler and polybutadiene rubber matrix. A successful epoxidation of rubber chain was confirmed by Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy analysis and measured volume fraction (Vr) of nanocomposite. Scanning electron microscopy photomicrographs showed the higher uniform dispersion of silica nanoparticles within epoxidized nanocomposites compared to the nanocomposites prepared without epoxidation. Mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation at break, modulus, were also found to improve following epoxidation. Furthermore, a higher thermal stability for epoxidized nanocomposite was established from thermogravimetric analysis. Proposed epoxidation method was successfully applied to prepare well-dispersed silica-filled nanocomposite for shoe outsoles.
Online news: between private enterprise and public subsidy
Authors: Hjarvard Stig , Kammer Aske
Published: November 2014

The Nordic countries’ media systems are exemplary of the democratic corporatist model, and newspapers have occupied a very prominent position in the political public sphere supported by wide circulation and a political will to subsidize the press and still keep an arm’s length distance. During past decades, these features have come under pressure due to – among other things – the spread of digital media. In this article, we explore two current structural economic challenges to legacy newspaper organizations in Denmark. The first challenge regards the implementation of subscription on news websites since 2013. The second challenge concerns the revision of the Danish press subsidy law in 2013–2014. The introduction of a ‘platform neutral’ subsidy law could be interpreted as a first step toward rethinking the entire press subsidies system. Taken together, these developments pose serious challenges to the printed press: on the one hand, no viable business model seems ready to replace the old one; on the other hand, a reorientation of the regulatory system, which subsidizes the press, seems under way. Despite the global nature of ongoing transformation (digitalization and commercialization), national particularities continue to influence developments and reflect continued support for the democratic corporatist model.
The press in Catalonia: between the digital challenge and nation building
Authors: Prado Emili
Published: November 2014

This article discusses the challenges facing the Catalan press in a context marked by the digitization and by a political process that demands independence. The media landscape in Catalonia is populated by media produced at Spanish level and at Catalan level, and this applies to the press, radio and television. Mainstream paid-for newspapers, available to the citizens of Catalonia produced at a national, regional, local or state level, whether written in Catalan or Spanish merit discussion. This kind of press is the most influential in the shaping of Catalonian public opinion and therefore plays a central role in the political debate on independence. In this context, newspapers in Catalonia are facing the crisis of the print-only business model and falling revenues from a declining readership base and the subsequent fall of advertising revenue. To face this problem, newspaper publishers are throwing themselves into digital strategies (web, tablet, mobile phones).
‘He probably thought we were students’: Age norms and the exercise of visual judgement in service work
Authors: Llewellyn Nick
Published: November 2014

This paper analyses how organisational actors draw upon, perhaps without conscious acknowledgement, assumptions about age as they engage in organisational activities. Drawing on video-recordings of naturalistic interaction, the paper analyses how customers are positioned with respect to age-based norms, often following visual assessments of their physical appearance. Through detailed rhetorical and sequential analysis, the paper describes artful practices, through which participants make age-based norms relevant for the composition of ordinary organisational actions. The paper is amongst the first micro-sociological studies to analyse how people engage age-based norms in this way. It shows the positioning of age identities to be substantially an interactional phenomenon, as well as a discursive and reflexive one.
“How Much Is Too Much?” The Social Construction of Elite Youth Athlete Exercise Tolerances From the Coaches’ Perspective
Authors: Schubring Astrid , Bub Eva-Maria , Thiel Ansgar
Published: November 2014

Coaches are key actors in youth elite sport. As such, they are regularly confronted with professional problems that are both complex and highly consequential. Herein, we address one fundamental coaching problem: the definition of athletes’ exercise tolerance levels. Drawing on the sociology of knowledge, we focus on coaches’ conceptions of exercise tolerance and the sociocultural framing of their reflections. The qualitative analyses of 16 interviews with German youth elite sport coaches reveal that the coaches’ understanding of exercise tolerances is changed by a variety of aspects (e.g., athletes’ injury status, up-coming events, coaching philosophy). Furthermore, the coaches rely heavily on socioculturally shaped experiential knowledge. This results in subjective and flexible definitions of exercise tolerance, which are functional, but bear risks of inappropriate loading.
A Fumbled Opportunity? A Case Study of Twitter’s Role in Concussion Awareness Opportunities During the Super Bowl
Authors: Hull Kevin , Schmittel Annelie
Published: November 2014

Doctors, journalists, and other advocates are attempting to draw attention to the dangers of head trauma in football, and the popularity of social media has given them a new outlet to perform advocacy. This case study explores how advocates for concussion awareness in football used Twitter to help spread their message during the 2013 Super Bowl. A content analysis of tweets from 92 concussion advocates on the day of the Super Bowl was conducted. Analysis revealed that the advocates used Twitter for (a) linking to football concussion content, (b) Super Bowl game-related commentary, (c) non-concussion or non–Super Bowl related links or messages, (d) linking to non-football concussion content, (e) concussion-related commentary, (f) engagement, and (g) self or website promotion. Results demonstrate that while advocates have a tremendous opportunity to use the agenda-setting possibilities that are afforded through Twitter, concussion advocates did not utilize Twitter in this manner.
Spontaneous hemopneumothorax: Our experience with surgical management
Authors: Tay Cheong Kiat Julian , Yee Yong Chen , Asmat Atasha
Published: November 2014

Background

Spontaneous hemopneumothorax is rare, accounting for only 1%–12% of patients presenting with spontaneous pneumothorax. The optimal management of these patients remains controversial with no definitive guidelines on patient selection and timing of surgery. The aim of this study was to review our institution’s surgical experience in the management of patients with spontaneous hemopneumothorax.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of all patients with spontaneous hemopneumothorax who underwent surgery from January 2000 to June 2013. Patient data were obtained from our institution’s primary spontaneous pneumothorax database.

Results

Of 510 patients who underwent surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax, 33 (6.4%) developed spontaneous hemopneumothorax. The mean age was 24.0 years (range 16–40 years). In 30 (90.9%) patients, it was their first presentation of pneumothorax. There were 25 (75.8%) patients with Vanderschueren stage III spontaneous pneumothorax. Blood loss ranged from 250 to 3000 mL (mean 1280 mL). In 28 patients, a torn adhesion band was the source of bleeding. Thoracotomy was the surgical approach in 9 (27.3%) patients, and video-assisted thoracic surgery was used in 24 (72.7%). One patient required reoperation for retained clots. There was no mortality.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that surgical management of spontaneous hemopneumothorax can be undertaken with minimal morbidity and mortality. With the increasing use of video-assisted thoracic surgery, definitive surgical management of spontaneous hemopneumothorax can be instituted earlier.
Thyroid Circadian Timing
Authors: Philippe Jacques , Dibner Charna
Published: November 2014

The circadian clock represents an anticipatory mechanism, well preserved in evolution. It has a critical impact on most aspects of the physiology of light-sensitive organisms. These rhythmic processes are governed by environmental cues (fluctuations in light intensity and temperature), an internal circadian timing system, and interactions between this timekeeping system and environmental signals. Endocrine body rhythms, including hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis rhythms, are tightly regulated by the circadian system. Although the circadian profiles of thyroid-releasing hormone (TRH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) in blood have been well described, relatively few studies have analyzed molecular mechanisms governing the circadian regulation of HPT axis function. In this review, we will discuss the latest findings in the area of complex regulation of thyroid gland function by the circadian oscillator. We will also highlight the molecular makeup of the human thyroid oscillator as well as the potential link between thyroid malignant transformation and alterations in the clockwork.
The sixth admiralty: The Dutch East India Company and the military revolution at sea, c. 1639–1667
Authors: Odegard Erik
Published: November 2014

In February 1665, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) agreed to equip 20 ships for the Dutch fleet, six of which were specifically named Indiamen. This article will focus on this episode as the culmination of 25 years of VOC involvement in the Republic’s wars in Europe. During this period, the VOC acted at times as a sixth admiralty board. This article will argue that the ships that the VOC provided in 1665 should not be seen as armed merchantmen, but rather as a distinct type of warship. Drawing on fleet lists and armament figures, the case is made that the VOC provided important support for the fleet. In addition, it is argued that the VOC followed the technical changes in Dutch warship design in this period. The inability to cope with the risk of battlefleet strategy, not technical changes, forced the VOC out of its role as sixth admiralty.
An involuntary ship owner: Swedish state involvement in shipping during the 1970s and 1980s
Authors: Lennerfors Thomas Taro
Published: November 2014

This article contributes to modern shipping history by analysing the Swedish state’s role as a ship owner in the 1970s and 1980s, when it at most controlled a fleet of 47 ships of six million deadweight tonnes, making it one of the world’s largest ship owners. The article, departing from a theoretical framework of the ‘state as entrepreneur’, describes the conception, functioning and dismantling of two state-owned shipping companies, Zenit and Uddevalla (UV) Shipping, and throws light on a hitherto undocumented aspect of modern Swedish maritime history. It argues that Zenit and UV Shipping had a significant impact on the development of the Swedish shipping industry in the 1970s and the 1980s.
‘Enveloped in fog’: The asbestos problem in Britain’s Royal Naval Dockyards, 1949–1999
Authors: Bartrip Peter W.J.
Published: November 2014

In the twentieth century, asbestos was used extensively in Britain’s Royal Naval Dockyards, especially between the mid-1940s and 1960s. In an era of international tension and conflict, it was invaluable for fire protection and thermal insulation on warships. In 1930, it was established that heavy and prolonged exposure to asbestos dust could cause asbestosis, and from 1931, precautions were required to protect at-risk workers in asbestos factories. These precautions did not apply on ships under construction or undergoing refit or repair in HM Dockyards. Until the 1960s, notwithstanding that asbestos dust was by then linked with two more fatal diseases, health precautions in these yards remained inadequate. Surgeon Commander Peter Harries played a crucial part in recognizing and controlling the occurrence of asbestos-related diseases in the yards. As a result, the occurrence of disease among HM dock workers fell at a time when its incidence was increasing in the wider population.
Childhood Sexual Abuse and Its Association With Adult Physical and Mental Health
Authors: Coles Jan , Lee Adeline , Taft Angela , Mazza Danielle , Loxton Deborah
Published: November 2014

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) occurs across the world, with a prevalence of 20% internationally. Our aim was to investigate the associations between CSA, CSA plus adult violence experiences, and selected self-reported physical and mental health in a community sample of women. Data from 7,700 women aged 28-33 years from the 1973-1978 cohort who completed Survey 4 of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (ALSWH) were analyzed. Questions about prior abuse experience such as child sexual abuse, IPV, adult physical and sexual assaults, andphysical and mental health. Women who experienced CSA were 1.4 times more likely to experience bodily pain (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.37, confidence interval [CI] = [1.19, 1.58]), 1.3 times more likely to have poorer general health (AOR = 1.33, CI = [1.15, 1.54]), and 1.4 times more likely to be depressed in the past 3 years (AOR = 1.44, CI = [1.22, 1.71]) compared with those without abuse.. Women who experienced both CSA and adult violence were 2.4 to 3.1 times more likely to experience poor general (AOR = 2.35, CI = [1.76, 3.14]) and mental health (AOR = 2.69, CI = [1.98, 3.64]), and suffer from depression (AOR = 2.84, CI = [2.13, 3.78]) and anxiety (AOR = 3.10, CI = [2.12, 4.53]) compared with women with no abuse. This study demonstrates the importance of CSA in pain and poorer long-term mental and physical health.. It emphasizes how prior CSA may amplify pain and poorer long-term mental and physical health among women who are again exposed to violence in adulthood.
Administering Cash Balance Pension Plans to Conform With Qualified Divorce Orders
Authors: Phillips Emir
Published: November 2014

This article provides an overview of the unique issues that normally arise under a cash balance pension plan to conform with qualified domestic relations orders (or QDRO). Presently, many plan administrators treat a cash balance plan just like a defined contribution plan only to find that the benefits within a cash balance plan are not as easily divided as those within a defined contribution plan. The apparent similarity of hypothetical account balances in a cash balance plan and the actual account balances in a 401(k) plan can result in mishandled QDROs. The similarities between a cash balance plan and a traditional defined benefit plan can also confound plan administrators, particularly when a defined benefit plan was subsequently converted to cash balance plan. Then all or a part of a participant’s benefit subject to a QDRO has the option to be determined under a traditional defined benefit formula, such as a percentage of final average pay. And while a QDRO administered under a pure cash balance plan can split the benefit in a fashion similar to that used for 401(k) plans, QDROs remain distinct and involve important differences between a cash balance plan and a 401(k) or other defined contribution plans. These unique features of a cash balance plan can drastically affect the monetary impact on alternate payees. To fulfill the duties prescribed under both ERISA and the IRC, plan administrators must engage in a very targeted fact-specific analysis involving the participant (employee), alternate payee and the Plan within a taut web of federal laws, regulations and mandates.
Application of an automated aircraft architecture generation and analysis tool to unmanned aerial vehicle subsystem design
Authors: Judt David M , Lawson Craig P
Published: November 2014

The work presents the application of a new computational framework, addressing future preliminary design needs for aircraft subsystems. The ability to investigate multiple candidate technologies forming subsystem architectures is enabled with the provision of automated architecture generation, analysis and optimisation. The core aspects involve a functional decomposition, coupled with a synergistic mission performance analysis on the aircraft, architecture and component level. This may be followed by a complete enumeration of architectures combined with a user-defined technology filtering and concept ranking procedure. In addition, a novel hybrid heuristic optimiser, based on ant colony optimisation and a genetic algorithm, is employed to produce optimal architectures in both component composition and design parameters. The framework is applied to the design of a regenerative energy system for a long endurance high altitude unmanned aerial vehicle, considering various emerging technologies. A comparison with the traditional design processes and certification requirements is made as well as technology trends summarised and substantiated.
Identification and characteristics of vulnerable adults attending an inner city sexual health service
Authors: Sullivan Verity , Cheserem Emily , Milne Cliodhna , Hopkins Marina , Lock Eleanor , Hamlyn Elizabeth
Published: November 2014

Adult safeguarding is the function of protecting vulnerable adults from abuse or neglect. The 2012 Department of Health Draft Care and Support Bill highlighted adult safeguarding as a key government priority and stated that a clear framework is required for organisations dealing with ‘adults at risk’. Adults at risk present to sexual health services but no formal guidance currently exists to aid their identification and management in this setting. We conducted a retrospective case note review which identified that vulnerable adults attend our service. They may display recognised risk factors, awareness of which is likely to facilitate identification and assessment of this group and aid appropriate onward referral.