bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Freedom of Speech and Assembly in the Digital Age
Authors: Edwards III Sam B.
Published: September 2014

The United States is facing challenges in applying First Amendment principles from the eighteenth century to modern communications. Speech and assembly in the eighteenth century was extremely limited when compared to speech now. This chapter examines two cases where the government has intruded upon fundamental rights contained in the First Amendment. In the first case, a government, in an effort to stop a protest, cut off all wireless mobile and Internet communications. This amounted to a digital gag and ear plugs for the protesters. In this case, the responsible government officials did not even contemplate that this might violate the fundamental rights of the protesters. In the second case, government employees were fired for using Facebook to “like” the page of a political candidate. The trial court ruled that “liking” on Facebook was not speech and therefore did not garner constitutional protection. These two cases represent warning signs that the United States, just like other countries, is struggling to adapt eighteenth century legal principles to modern communication. The digital revolution is happening in the United States and the courts will eventually have to develop a new set of rules based on the principles in the First Amendment.
E-Government Development in Africa
Authors: Asogwa Brendan E.
Published: September 2014

This chapter assesses the status of e-government practice in Africa. It identifies the best and least e-government states and developing sub-regions and the challenges. Data on e-government practice in Africa by the United Nations was extracted and used for measuring the e-government status of selected African states and their sub-regions. Eastern and Central African Sub-Regions were respectively the best and the least among the regions, while Morocco, South Africa, Kenya, Cape Verde, and Angola were the best e-government practicing states. The major impediments to e-government development were inadequately skilled ICT personnel and insufficient telecommunication infrastructure. Consequently, e-government development in many African states is likely to suffer terrible setbacks unless radical reformations are taken to address the issue of human resource underdevelopment and inadequate ICT infrastructure. Results of this survey could guide policy makers towards optimal manpower planning for effective ICT development.
E-Voting
Authors: Thakur Surendra
Published: September 2014

This chapter contributes to the debate around e-voting by describing and discussing the experiences of two adopting countries: India and the Philippines. With careful, qualified comparison of the experience, the author overviews the possibility for adoption in Africa. Africa often finds itself at the centre of attention with respect to elections. This regrettably relates to extreme violence, civil disobedience, and fraudulent activities. Will e-voting be the panacea for her problems? This chapter also provides a snapshot of current international e-voting experiences with respect to trailing, piloting, adopting, and even abandoning this practice. A challenge with electronic voting is that the voting machines are susceptible to sometimes undetectable changes by insiders, outsiders, and hackers who may or may not have ulterior motives. Opportunities, on the other hand, include inter alia neutral, faster, more accurate ballot counting. The chapter concludes with a contextual African evaluation of India's and the Philippines's respective e-voting experiences.
E-Government in East Africa
Authors: Kinyanjui Felistus
Published: September 2014

Today, many governments have embraced e-governance through automation in order to enhance service delivery thereby overcoming the challenges of traditional governance. Potentially, ICT can transform the generation and delivery of public services with the object of increasing the frequency and recurrence of online services interaction and participation between the governed and the governors. Since 2004, the Kenya government has made a shift towards automation and electronic service delivery. This chapter addresses the policies, strategies, and institutional structures through which e-participation is taking place. Evidence was gleaned through the use of extant secondary and primary data. Findings show that good will from the governors through an enabling environmental policy is an opportunity to be seized for e-participation to blossom amidst a few challenges that are surmountable. To enjoy the dividends of e-participation, more training and substantial investment in the architecture for e-governance in Kenya remain urgent priorities.
Electronic Government and Rural Development in Anglophone West Africa
Authors: Adejuwon Kehinde David
Published: September 2014

E-government has taken off since the end of the millennium. It has emerged as a viable means to address development issues and challenges especially at the grassroots level because citizens find empowerment through access to information. This chapter notes that Anglophone West Africa has been hard hit with poverty and disease, and this has had an immense effect on the quality of social, cultural, and political lives of the people. It identifies the major problems facing the isolated rural communities and various operational and infrastructure problems associated with implementing e-government are discussed, along with possible solutions. The chapter recommends, among others, that Anglophone West Africa must pursue a more active role in the formulation of national policies and strategies to promote the information economy, to reap huge benefits in terms of economic and social growth/development.
The Level of E-Government Implementation
Authors: Makoza Frank
Published: September 2014

This chapter presents an analysis for level of e-government implementation in the context of a developing country. The purpose of the study is to understand the level of e-government implementation in Malawi focusing on examining websites for government ministries and departments. Quantitative and partly qualitative data is used to analyse seven websites for government ministries and departments. The results are compared with indicators for e-government implementation from international development agencies. The findings confirm that the level of e-government implementation is in the early stages of presence and interaction. In addition, the results show slow growth in e-government implementation because of limited integration of public services. The study provides insights that may be useful in improving the implementation of e-government.
E-Government in Central Africa
Authors: Sodhi Inderjeet Singh
Published: September 2014

In the 21st century, e-government has become of prime importance in every country. This has prompted many governments, whether developed or developing, to plan and develop digital technology through which government services could be provided. The growing importance of application of e-government stems from the fact that ICT has the capability of promoting transparency, improving public service delivery, removing corruption, and providing better governance. This chapter is based on a literature review of the data, information, and papers relating to e-government in Central Africa and looks into the issues and challenges to the successful implementation of e-government initiatives in these countries on a wider perspective. The results show that ICT policies, ICT infrastructure, Internet access, connectivity, and the digital divide are among the most common issues in the successful implementation of e-government initiatives in Central African countries.
Nanomechanical Characterization of Cement-Based Materials
Authors: Barbhuiya Salim
Published: September 2014

Nanoindentation technique is used to assess the mechanical properties of materials at nano-level. A very small tip (usually diamond) produces indents at the surface of the material to be tested. A load vs. deflection curve is generated and is used to study the elastic properties of materials. Generally, it is used for obtaining the hardness and Young's modulus of materials at nano-meter scale. Currently, the method to evaluate the mechanical properties by nanoindentation is restricted to homogeneous materials. Cement-based materials are heterogeneous in nature. Therefore, nanoindentation study of cement-based materials is critical and requires several important steps, which need to be performed accurately. This chapter provides a review of the theory of nanoindentation, instruments being used for nanoindentation, sample preparation techniques, indentation strategy, and determination of nanomechanical properties and data analysis for cement-based materials.
Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Rafeeqi Towseef Amin
Published: September 2014

Carbon-based nanotechnology has been rapidly developing, with a particular interest in the bio-application of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as a scaffold in tissue engineering. It is essential that the materials used in scaffold fabrication are compatible with cells, as well as with the biological milieu. Many synthetic polymers have been used for tissue engineering so far; however, many lack the necessary mechanical strength and may not be easily functionalized, in contrast to CNTs, which have shown very attractive features as a scaffold for cell culture system. In spite of many attractive features, the toxicity of CNTs is a prime concern. The potential applications of CNTs seem countless, although few have reached a marketable status so far and there is need of more studies on CNTs biocompatibility issues. This chapter aims to revisit the basics of CNTs with their bio-applications including their use as a scaffold in cell culture systems.
Novel Synthesis of 4nm Anatase Nanoparticles at Room Temperature Obtained from TiO2 Nanotube Structures by Anodizing Ti
Authors: López C. Y. Torres , Bueno J. J. Pérez , Torres I. Zamudio , Mendoza-López M. L. , Macías A. Hurtado , Urbina J. E.
Published: September 2014

The scope of the chapter is showing novel experimental findings on preparing anatase TiO2 nanoparticles, first anodizing titanium into an organic media for obtaining TiO2 nanotubes, and these used as a photo catalytic active electrode in treating water polluted with organic contaminants. The substrates were grit blasted in order to obtain mechanical fixation of the generated nanotubular TiO2 structure. This was successfully achieved without diminishment of the nanotubes order and with a self-leveling of the outer surface. A new phenomenon is investigated consisting in the process of oxidation of the nanotubes in water after anodizing. Along this process, methyl orange added to the aqueous solution was discolored as part of the redox reaction involved. The final state of the modified layer was composed of conglomerates of crystalline TiO2 nanoparticles, around 4 nm in size, consisting of anatase. This was obtained under room conditions.
Nanotechnology, Metal Nanoparticles, and Biomedical Applications of Nanotechnology
Authors: Bhat M. Amin , Nayak B. K. , Nanda Anima , Lone Imtiyaz H.
Published: September 2014

Nanotechnology has emerged as an important field of modern scientific research due to its diverse range of applications in the area of electronics, material sciences, biomedical engineering, and medicines at nano levels such as healthcare, cosmetics, food and feed, environmental health, optics, biomedical sciences, chemical industries, drug-gene delivery, energy science, optoelectronics, catalysis, reprography, single electron transistors, light emitters, nonlinear optical devices, and photoelectrochemical applications and other applications. Due to these immense applications of nanotechnology in biomedical science, it has became possible to design the pharmaceuticals in such a way that they could directly treat diseased cells like cancer and make microscopic repairs in hard-to-operate-on areas of the body. The nanomachines have been designed to clean up toxins or oil spills, recycle all garbage, eliminate landfills, etc. The chapter summarizes the present and future applications of nanotechnology for human welfare but needs further study in catalysis, optical devices, sensor technology, cancer treatment, and drug delivery systems.
Applications of Nanotechnology in Cancer
Authors: Bhat Firdous Ahmad , S Balakrishnan , J Arunakaran
Published: September 2014

This chapter examines the importance of nanotechnology in cancer prevention, cure, and diagnosis. This chapter deals with the applications of nanomedicine in cancer and various strategies to target cancer cells by using nanotechnology such as gold nanoparticles, liposomes, nanodots, nanorods, etc. Nanotechnology is an interdisciplinary area with potential applications in fighting many diseases including cancer. Conventional drugs have poor cell specificity, solubility, and high toxicity. The continued development of cancer nanotechnology holds the promise for personalized oncology. For accurate and self-confirming cancer diagnosis, it is essential to combine dual-mode and multi-mode imaging functionalities within one nanoparticle system. Nanoparticles improve the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs and prolong the half-life of drugs. Disadvantages of nanotechnology include the potential for mass poisoning. Understanding how nano-materials affect live cell functions, controlling such effects, and using them for disease therapeutics are now the principal aims and most challenging aspects of nanobiotechnology and nanomedicine.
Nanotechnology in the Food Industry
Authors: Mir Shabir Ahmad , Shah Manzoor Ahmad
Published: September 2014

This chapter addresses the potential application of nanotechnology in various areas of the food industry. Nanotechnology is having an impact on several aspects of the food industry, from product development to packaging processes. Nanotechnology is capable of solving the very complex set of engineering and scientific challenges in the food processing industries. This chapter focuses on exploring the role of nanotechnology in enhancing food stability at the various stages of processing. Research has highlighted the prospective role of nanotechnology use in the food sector, including nanoencapsulation, nanopackaging, nanoemulsions, nanonutraceuticals, and nanoadditives. Industries are developing nanomaterials that will make a difference not only in the taste of food but also in food safety and the health benefits that food delivers. While proposed applications of nanotechnologies are wide and varied, developments are met with some caution as progress may be stifled by lack of governance and potential risks.
A Review of Various Nanostructures to Enhance the Efficiency of Solar-Photon-Conversions
Authors: Akhoon S. A. , Rubab S. , Shah M. A.
Published: September 2014

The problem of dwindling energy can be attributed to the rapidly increasing worldwide energy demand, leading to an urgent need for alternative energy-harvesting technologies to sustain the economic growth by maintaining our appetite for energy. Among them, solar-energy-harvesting is most promising, and the huge demand for clean, cost-effective, and cost-efficient energy can be met by solar energy. The large-scale solar energy utilization has not become practical because of the high cost and inadequate efficiencies of the current solar-energy-conversions. Nanotechnology offers tools to develop cost-effective and cost-efficient technologies for solar-energy conversions. Nanostructures, such as nanowires, nanopillars, nanodomes, nanorods, quatumdots, nanoparticles, etc., facilitate photon absorption, electron transport, and electron collection properties of the solar-energy-conversion devices. This review specifically summarizes the contribution of the nanotechnology to photovoltaics, dye-sensitive solar cells, quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells, and solar hydrogen production devices.
Economic Aspects of a Health System Electronization
Authors: Šoltés Vincent , Balloni Antonio José , Gavurová Beáta , Šoltés Michal
Published: September 2014

There are significant disparities among the health needs of citizens and the financial resources of the healthcare system. Limitations of the inputs to growth of the health systems are primarily due to fiscal constraints, the demographic crisis, the degree of competitiveness of the EU, as well as the willingness of citizens to bear some degree of the tax burden. The costs of providing healthcare can be reduced by the proper implementation of eHealth project, as is evidenced by the analysis of the costs and benefits of successful implementation abroad. The aim of this chapter is to evaluate the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in medical institutions, in Slovakia, as the basis of effective strategic management, influencing the positive and negative changes in their external environment. In addition, the chapter focuses on investments in technological innovation, its determinants, and specification of the effects of the use of IS and IT in healthcare facilities. Finally, it reflects the partial outputs of the first international research GESITY/Hospitals 2011-2012 conducted in partnership with Slovakia and Brazil, in connection with the objectives of the implementation of an eHealth program in Slovakia.
Information Security Policy
Authors: Fontes Edison , Balloni Antonio José
Published: September 2014

In this chapter, the reader finds a structured definition to develop, implement, and keep the needed regulatory rules or principles for an Information System Security (ISS). In addition, the reader finds how to ensure the right use of this ISS, as well as in authorization and protection against disaster situations such as an effective system protection when accessing, storing, using, and retrieving the information in normal or contingency situations. This compound is the structure of information security policy that is based on a set of controls as described in NBR ISO/IEC 27002 (ABNT, 2005). The definition of this structure for the information security policy is important because the Norm ABNT (2005) does not indicate nor define—nor explain—how the structure of this policy should be (i.e., which are the fundamental elements and functions, which are the standards of rules for the controls and other practical issues) so that the policy could be effective for the organization. The structure shown in this chapter represents a practical and useful architecture regarding the elements of the information security policy of the organization.
Teaching Pre-Service Teachers to Repurpose and Innovate Using Online and Mobile Technology Applications
Authors: Shepherd Gregory
Published: September 2014

Integrating the use of Web-based and mobile technology applications into K-12 world languages contexts requires innovative teacher preparation models. This chapter evaluates a multi-step technology integration unit that develops in pre-service teachers the skills necessary to plan and carry out learner-centered communicative instruction. Importantly, this unit also incorporates five skills for disruptive innovators. Pre-service teachers blend pedagogy, technology tools, and content in project-based learning lesson design while practicing creative-thinking skills. As student teachers learn to repurpose mobile applications for the language-learning classroom, they empower articulate digital natives and foster 21st century learning. Given technology's constant growth, teaching integration of specific apps will have limited benefits. On the other hand, teaching how to innovate and repurpose will serve student teachers for their entire career. Results of this study show growth in lesson planning, creativity, and innovation skills.
International Students and Their Technology Proficiency
Authors: Manu Jacob , Mensah Emmanuel
Published: September 2014

The term “Global Village” has been used by both experts and novices to explain how the world we live in has gradually become a mere neighborhood. Meanwhile, one important factor that does not come into the global village discourse is that not all places or people can be accessed based on disparities in technology infrastructure and proficiency (Internet World Stats, 2012). Most importantly, not all college students in today's classrooms are technologically savvy (Fletcher, 2005). The purpose of this chapter is to identify the perceived relevance of computer technology among international students and their past technology experience levels in one of the Midwest universities in the United States. A sample of 90 international students reveals that they perceive technology as relevant to their learning. The study also reveals that different continents have different past technology experiences that might adversely affect international students' academic work.
Developing Global Literacy Skills of K-12 Pre-Service Teachers of English Language Learners (ELLs) through Service-Learning
Authors: Crosby Cate
Published: September 2014

One of the challenges in teacher preparation programs is providing pre-service teachers with practice teaching ELLs. Our K-12 teachers are being asked to work with growing numbers of culturally and linguistically diverse students in their classrooms. Kramsch (2008) calls this the ability “to operate in a globalized space where . . . exchanges will be increasingly plurilingual and pluricultural” (p. 390). To help meet this need, a collaborative teacher training service-learning project on the global literacy development of K-12 pre-service teachers of ELLs was carried out to examine: 1) how a global literacy experience raises pre-service teachers' awareness of their pedagogy, 2) what this experience means for their belief system and the knowledge base they hold about teaching linguistically and culturally diverse students, and 3) to prepare future teachers of ELLs to teach in a global society by gaining experience working with multicultural and multilingual learners. This chapter explores the service-learning project.
Mentoring Pre-Service Teachers at a Historically Black University
Authors: Brantley Helen , Conway Cassandra Sligh
Published: September 2014

Mentoring relationships that can provide connections regionally and nationally are essential to prepare pre-service teachers (Crocito, Sullivan, & Carrabar, 2005). Moreover, a global perspective in mentoring pre-service teachers is needed in all teacher education programs to give pre-service teachers authentic application skills. The mentoring experiences provided in the chapter are based on experiences at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. These same mentoring experiences can occur at any type of university. These experiences are integral to enhance the understanding of preparing pre-service teachers in a global and ever changing society. The purpose of this chapter is as follows: 1) to provide a conceptual definition of mentoring; 2) to provide an example of a mentoring evaluation program; 3) to provide case examples of global and cultural mentoring experiences that impact pre-service teachers; 3) to provide examples of how educators can implement globalization activities in instructional materials; and 4) to provide an intellectual discussion of future strategies that impact practical and field experiences in teacher education programs.
Complement Opsonization of HIV-1 Results in Decreased Antiviral and Inflammatory Responses in Immature Dendritic Cells via CR3
Authors: Ellegård Rada , Crisci Elisa , Burgener Adam , Sjöwall Christopher , Birse Kenzie , Westmacott Garrett , Hinkula Jorma , Lifson Jeffrey D. , Larsson Marie
Published: September 2014

Immature dendritic cells (iDCs) in genital and rectal mucosa may be one of the first cells to come into contact with HIV-1 during sexual transmission of virus. HIV-1 activates the host complement system, which results in opsonization of virus by inactivated complement fragments, for example, iC3b. We investigated antiviral and inflammatory responses induced in human iDCs after exposure to free HIV-1 (F-HIV), complement-opsonized HIV-1 (C-HIV), and complement and Ab–opsonized HIV-1 (CI-HIV). F-HIV gave rise to a significantly higher expression of antiviral factors such as IFN-β, myxovirus resistance protein A, and IFN-stimulated genes, compared with C-HIV and CI-HIV. Additionally, F-HIV induced inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, whereas these responses were weakened or absent after C-HIV or CI-HIV exposure. The responses induced by F-HIV were TLR8-dependent with subsequent activation of IFN regulatory factor 1, p38, ERK, PI3K, and NF-κB pathways, whereas these responses were not induced by C-HIV, which instead induced activation of IFN regulatory factor 3 and Lyn. This modulation of TLR8 signaling was mediated by complement receptor 3 and led to enhanced infection. The impact that viral hijacking of the complement system has on iDC function could be an important immune evasion mechanism used by HIV-1 to establish infection in the host.
Theological education with the help of technology
Authors: Oliver Erna
Published: September 2014

Theology seemingly does not have a major impact on society anymore. However, Christianity did not only change and form the western world over the past 2000 thousand years, it still has a substantial role to play in society. This could be done through the development of theologies, the recognition that religious topics are still major segments in the publishing industry and the transforming potential of the Christian message on people. Although theological training finds itself in a difficult position, technology offers support to teaching and learning, cuts costs and offers solutions to a number of current problems concerning the effective formation of ministers. It is no longer necessary to provide theological training through a one-size-fits-all approach – a style that kept the pre-network society boxed. The aim is to motivate educators in theology to embrace the opportunities provided by the network society in aiding with the training of ministers by utilising current and future trends of development in technology.
Unemployment, capital accumulation and labour market institutions in the Great Recession*
Authors: Stockhammer Engelbert , Guschanski Alexander , Köhler Karsten
Published: September 2014

This paper restates the post-Keynesian view of unemployment within a NAIRU framework. In the short run, the private effective labour demand need not be downward sloping because of debt deflation and wage-led demand regimes. In the medium run, the NAIRU will be endogenous because of the social norm character of wage setting and the supply-side effects of capital accumulation. Capital investment rather than labour market institutions is the crucial variable that explains changes in unemployment performance. We provide econometric evidence that the post-Keynesian view holds up well in the recession following the crisis of 2008.
800 year ice-core record of nitrogen deposition in Svalbard linked to ocean productivity and biogenic emissions
Authors: Wendl I. A. , Eichler A. , Isaksson E. , Martma T. , Schwikowski M.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. We present the records of the two nitrogen species nitrate (NO3−) and ammonium (NH4+) analysed in a new ice core from Lomonosovfonna, Svalbard, in the Eurasian Arctic covering the period 1222–2009. We investigate the emission sources and the influence of melt on the records. During the 20th century both records are influenced by anthropogenic pollution from Eurasia. In pre-industrial times NO3− is highly correlated with methane-sulfonate (MSA) on decadal time-scales, which we explain by a fertilising effect. Enhanced atmospheric NO3− concentrations and the corresponding nitrogen input to the ocean trigger the growth of dimethyl-sulfide-(DMS)-producing phytoplankton. Increased DMS production results in elevated fluxes to the atmosphere where it is oxidised to MSA. Eurasia was presumably the main source area also for pre-industrial NO3−, but a more exact source apportionment could not be performed based on our data. This is different for NH4+, where biogenic ammonia (NH3) emissions from Siberian boreal forests were identified as the dominant source of pre-industrial NH4+. Changes in melt at the Lomonosovfonna glacier are excluded as major driving force for the decadal variations of the investigated compounds.
Development and basic evaluation of a prognostic aerosol scheme in the CNRM Climate Model
Authors: Michou M. , Nabat P. , Saint-Martin D.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. We have implemented a prognostic aerosol scheme in the CNRM-GAME/CERFACS climate model, based upon the GEMS/MACC aerosol module of the ECMWF operational forecast model. This scheme describes the physical evolution of the five main types of aerosols, namely black carbon, organic matter, sulfate, desert dust and sea-salt. In this work, we describe the specificities of our implementation, for instance, taking into consideration a different dust scheme or boosting biomass burning emissions by a factor of 2, as well as the evaluation performed on simulation outputs. The simulations consist of 2004 conditions and transient runs over the 1993–2012 period, and are either free-running or nudged towards the ERA-Interim Reanalysis. Evaluation data sets include several satellite instrument AOD products (i.e., MODIS Aqua classic and Deep-Blue products, MISR and CALIOP products), as well as ground-based AERONET data and the derived AERONET climatology, MAC-v1. The internal variability of the model has little impact on the seasonal climatology of the AODs of the various aerosols, and the characteristics of a nudged simulation reflect those of a free-running simulation. In contrast, the impact of the new dust scheme is large, with modelled dust AODs from simulations with the new dust scheme close to observations. Overall patterns and seasonal cycles of the total AOD are well depicted with, however, a systematic low bias over oceans. The comparison to the fractional MAC-v1 AOD climatology shows disagreements mostly over continents, while that to AERONET sites outlines the capability of the model to reproduce monthly climatologies under very diverse dominant aerosol types. Here again, underestimation of the total AOD appears in several cases, linked sometimes to insufficient efficiency of the aerosol transport away from the aerosol sources. Analysis of monthly time series at 166 AERONET sites shows, in general, correlation coefficients higher than 0.5 and lower model variance than observed. A large interannual variability can also be seen in the CALIOP vertical profiles over certain regions of the world. Overall, this prognostic aerosol scheme appears suitable for aerosol-climate studies. There is room, however, for implementing more complex parameterisations in relation to aerosols.
Diseño y validación de la Escala de Actitud Religiosa
Authors: Orozco-Parra Carla Lorena , Domínguez-Espinosa Alejandra Del Carmen
Published: September 2014

El propósito del presente estudio fue desarrollar y validar la Escala de Actitud Religiosa, con el fin de contar con un instrumento que evalúe las actitudes religiosas de personas creyentes en una religión teísta. Se utilizó una muestra no probabilística compuesta por 1982 personas, de las cuales la mayoría fueron mujeres (56.7%), y una media de edad de 29 años. La escala final quedó compuesta por 17 reactivos tipo Likert, con un α de Cronbach de .94 y la varianza explicada con una dimensión fue del 55.9%. Los resultados indican que la Escala de Actitud Religiosa cuenta con características psicométricas adecuadas. Sin embargo, es necesario realizar nuevos estudios que permitan determinar su validez en muestras pertenecientes a distintas religiones.
Exploratory structural equation modeling of the general decision-making style inventory
Authors: Reyna Cecilia , Ortiz María Victoria , Revilla Romina Graciela
Published: September 2014

El General Decision-Making Style Inventory ha sido validado con muestras de varios países, sin reportes sobre su validez en países latinoamericanos. En este estudio evaluamos la estructura subyacente al GDMSI en una muestra de habitantes de Argentina y comparamos un modelo clásico de análisis factorial confirmatorio (CFA) con un modelo más flexible que combina modelos exploratorios y confirmatorios, el modelo de ecuaciones estructurales exploratorio (ESEM). En general, los resultados muestran la validez de constructo del GDMSI y confirman la potencialidad y superioridad de los procedimientos ESEM para evaluar las relaciones entre los ítems y las dimensiones subyacentes, comparado con modelos más restrictivos.
Análisis del test neuropsicológico Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination mediante el Modelo de Rasch
Authors: Junco Juan Ignacio , Prieto Gerardo
Published: September 2014

El Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (ACE) es un test cognitivo breve diseñado para detectar y diferenciar entre demencia tipo Alzheimer y demencia frontotemporal, recientemente validado en España. En el presente estudio se evaluaron las propiedades psicométricas de la versión española del ACE mediante el modelo de Rasch y se comparó la eficacia discriminativa de esta prueba con el Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). La prueba se aplicó a un grupo de 103 participantes, 53 de los cuales tenían establecido un diagnóstico de demencia. Los resultados indican que, en general, el ACE posee adecuadas propiedades psicométricas en cuanto ajuste y precisión de las medidas, aunque el rendimiento en la prueba se ve influido por algunas características sociodemográficas de los participantes (sexo y nivel de escolarización). Más aún, en comparación con el MMSE, los ítems del ACE permiten identificar un conjunto más amplio de síntomas de deterioro cognitivo y presenta mayor poder de discriminación. En conclusión, la versión española del ACE parece ser una herramienta adecuada para el diagnóstico de demencia, aunque son necesarias más investigaciones para seguir profundizando en sus características psicométricas.
Identidad personal y compromiso deportivo en adolescentes nadadoras de nivel competitivo
Authors: Hernández Bárbara , Capella Claudia
Published: September 2014

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo comprender la forma en que las adolescentes nadadoras de nivel competitivo construyen su identidad personal y cómo esto se relaciona con la construcción de significados asociados al compromiso deportivo. Se utilizó una metodología de carácter cualitativo, con un enfoque constructivista evolutivo, con el objetivo de acceder a los significados construidos por las propias adolescentes con respecto a la práctica deportiva y al lugar que ocupa en su construcción de identidad. Se recurrió al uso de autobiografías escritas y entrevistas semiestructuradas, las que posteriormente fueron sometidas a análisis de contenido. A partir de los resultados, se concluye que la práctica deportiva de natación a nivel competitivo puede ocupar tres lugares en la construcción de identidad adolescente, los cuales se relacionan con un mayor o menor compromiso deportivo. Además, se dio a conocer la construcción de significados asociados a la práctica deportiva, que se vincularían a una mayor permanencia en el deporte o a su abandono. Finalmente, se enfatizaron los aportes que desde una mirada constructivista evolutiva se pueden realizar a la investigación e intervención en Psicología Deportiva, al considerar no solo los aspectos competitivos, sino también el logro de un desarrollo adaptativo.
¿Existen asociaciones entre sociabilidad, aprendizaje y comunicación entre perros y personas?
Authors: Putrino Natalia , Jakovcevic Adriana , Carpintero Silvana , D´Orazio María , Bentosela Mariana
Published: September 2014

Los perros mantienen un estrecho vínculo con las personas; y algunos rasgos, como la sociabilidad y la velocidad de aprendizaje, podrían modular la comunicación entre ambas especies. El objetivo del presente estudio fue indagar la existencia de correlaciones entre la sociabilidad, durabilidad de la mirada espontánea a la cara humana cuando la comida no esta disponible y una tarea de aprendizaje inhibitorio consistente en inhibir una conducta no social (acercarse a una fuente de comida) para desplegar una respuesta social (acudir al llamado de una persona desconocida). Para ello, previamente se validó la prueba utilizada para medir sociabilidad, evaluando la estabilidad de dicho rasgo a través de una evaluación-reevaluación de los sujetos. Los resultados sugieren la estabilidad de la sociabilidad a través del tiempo. A su vez, se hallaron correlaciones significativas entre la sociabilidad y la mirada como respuesta comunicativa, pero no con la tarea de aprendizaje inhibitorio. Tanto la sociabilidad como la respuesta de mirada son fundamentales para el desarrollo de diversas clases de entrenamiento.
Preface Vol.12
Authors: Batsuren D , Minjigmaa A
Published: September 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.161 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011
Adsorption kinetics for the removal of copper(II) from aqueous solution by adsorbent PSTM-3T
Authors: Burmaa G , Nasantogtokh O , Narantsogt N , Perlee-Oidov A
Published: September 2014

The batch removal of copper (II) from aqueous solution under different experimental conditions using silicon-organic sorbent poly[N,N’-bis(3-silseskquioxanilpropyl)thiocarbamide] (PSTM-3T) was investigated in this study. This sorbent was produced from the hydrolytic poly-condensation reaction. The removal was favoured at pH = 5 for PSTM-3T. The effects of concentration and temperature have been reported. PSTM-3T was found to efficiently remove Cu(II) from solution. The batch sorption kinetics have been tested for a first-order reaction. The rate constants of adsorption have been calculated. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔG0, Kc) obtained to indicate the endothermic nature of Cu(II) adsorption on PSTM-3T.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.162 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 1-6
Improvement of Electrochemical Activity of Pt/MWCNT Catalyst for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Myekhlai Munkhshur , Baatar Battsengel , Jamiyansuren Bayardulam , Myagmarsuren Baasandorj
Published: September 2014

In last years, the carbon nanotubes have been studied as an advanced metal catalyst support for proton exchange membrane fuel cell. This study focuses on the sonochemical treatment of multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as a platinum supporting material for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) by mixture of sulfuric acid and nitric acid and mixture of sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Infrared (IR) spectroscopy were used to characterize the surface of sonochemically treated MWCNT and nanostructured electrocatalyst Pt/MWCNT. According to the experimental results of this work, the surface of MWCNT can be more successfully functionalized with hydroxyl and carboxyl groups after sonochemical treatment by mixture of sulfuric acid and nitric acid. The particle size of prepared Pt -electrocatalyst on MWCNT was determined 3.4 nm by XRD.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.165 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 20-23
Hydrocracking of atmospheric distillable residue of Mongolian oil
Authors: Tugsuu Ts , Yoshikazu Sugimoto , Enkhsaruul B , Monkhoobor D
Published: September 2014

Many catalytic processes to refine heavy part of crude oil have attracted much interest due to declining reserves of light crude oils. This study focused on hydrocracking process of atmospheric distillable residue of Mongolian crude oil in the first time compared to those of other countries. Residue samples were hydrocracked with a commercial catalyst at 450°C, 460°C, 470°C for 2 h under hydrogen pressure of 10 MPa. The amount of residual fraction (350°C<BP) decreased to 9.4wt% by the hydrocracking of atmospheric distillable residue from Tamsagbulag crude oil. When the ME-AR was hydrocracked, the high consumption of hydrogen was related to the lowest H/C atomic ratio of feed atmospheric residue. The amount of liquid fractions (BP<350°C) including gaseous products increased from 45.4wt% to 89.2wt%, when the reaction temperature increased from 450°C to 470°C. The highest yield of the middle fraction for each sample was observed at temperature of 460°C. On the other hand, the effect of temperature on the yield of middle fraction was not so high as compared with the yields of other fractions. The contents of n-paraffins on midlle and heavy fractions of TB-AR, DQ-AR were similar, but ME-AR’s was around 2 times lower than other after hydrocracking runs.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.166 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 24-28
Study of rare earth elements in coal ash from Khartarvagatai coal deposit
Authors: Gantumur B , Pagmadulam M
Published: September 2014

Have been investigated the mineral matter and chemical composition of ash from the Khartarvagatai coal deposite by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) methods. In the ash of this coal have revealed trace elements like Се, Th, Be, La, Nd, Y, As. These elements come from mineral gasparite that present in raw coal. All diffraction patterns were analyzed by full-profile Rietveld refinements, using the software package WinPLOTR.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.168 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 35-37
Physico-chemical quality of Bactrian camel milk
Authors: Gansaikhan O , Batsukh Ts , Ichinhorloo Z
Published: September 2014

Present study was carried out to investigate the quality of camel milk. A wide variation was observed in the quality of raw camel milk. Specific gravity ranged between 1.014 and 1.017 (1.015±0.001), pH 6.53 and 6.77. Total solids, fat, protein, casein, lactose, ash and minerals contents ranged between 14.23 and 12.13, 5.56 and 8.29, 1.8 and 5.0, 1.8 and 3.2, 0.78 and 2.76, 2.9 and 4.12, 0.85 to 1.00 0.20 and 0.28 g per 100 g, respectively.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.171 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 50-52
New isoquinoline alkaloid from Carduus crispus L.
Authors: Tunsag J , Davaakhuu G , Batsuren D
Published: September 2014

A new isoquinoline alkaloid, along with other known 4 bioactive compounds (1 isoquinoline alkaloid, 2 flavonoids, 1 coumarin), were isolated from the ethanol extract of aerial parts of Carduus crispus L. Crispine А N-oxide was newly isolated compound, two of them (quercetin and rutin) were compounds isolated for the first time from indicated plant. The structures of these compounds were elucidated and confirmed with spectroscopic methods e.g. 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, EI-MS, COSY, HSQC, HMBC, and by comparison with literature data.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.178 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 85-87
Utilization of spent brewer’s yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the production of yeast enzymatic hydrolysate
Authors: Bayarjargal M , Munkhbat E , Ariunsaikhan T , Odonchimeg M , Uurzaikh T , Gan-Erdene T , Regdel D
Published: September 2014

Spent brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is a rich source of protein, vitamins and widely used as a raw material for production of food supplements. The autolysis and enzymatic treatment of spent brewer’s yeast using Pancreatin (2.5%) and Flavourzyme (2.5%) were performed at 45 °C and 50 °C, respectively. The autolysis and hydrolysis processes were evaluated by determining a soluble solids, soluble protein concentration and α-amino nitrogen content in a reaction mixture. The yield of pancreatic digest and α-amino nitrogen content was high in comparison with autolysis and Flavourzyme treatment. The total solids recovery in dry Yeast hydrolysate was about 50%, a protein and α-amino nitrogen content was 55.9 and 4.8%, respectively. These results show the possibility of utilizing the spent brewer’s yeast as hydrolysate using hydrolytic enzymes and use it as a food supplement after biological experiments.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.179 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 88-91
Investigation on the possibility of obtaining of motor fuels from bituminous sand by heat treatment
Authors: Jadamba D , Ulzii B , Tuya M
Published: September 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.182 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 102-106
Alkaloids from cultivated plant of Peganum harmala L.
Authors: Javzan S , Selenge D , Jamyansan Y , Nadmid J , Ouynbileg Yu
Published: September 2014

Alkaloids such as 1H-cyclopenta(b) quinoline, 2.3.5.6.7.8-hexahydro-9-amino-; Vasicinone(1H-Pyrrоlo[2.1-b]quinazolin-9-one,3-hydroxy-2.3-dihydro) and harmine were isolated from cultivated plant of P. harmala. Four unknown alkaloids were isolated from P. harmala for the first time: 2.2.6.6-Tetramethyl-4-piperidone., Quinoline, 2.3.4-trimethyl-., Pyridine, 2-phenoxy-4- amino- and 4-(3-Propynyloxy)- quinazoline. Their structures were determined by GC-MS.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.184 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 113-116
The vascular plant species of the Krugłe Bagno aquatic peatland complex (Łęczna – Włodawa Lakeland)
Authors: Banach Barbara , Pogorzelec Magdalena , Serafin Artur , Szczurowska Agnieszka , Buczek Alicja
Published: September 2014

This paper presents the richness of vascular plant species of the Krugłe Bagno aquatic peatland complex and its structure.

A field study was carried out in the growing seasons of 2008–2010.

The aim of the study was to determine the species richness of the flora and its characteristics as well as to document changes in its composition taking place in successive years of the study.

Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the stability of the qualitative and quantitative structure of the phytocoenoses and abiotic environmental factors bodes well for the maintenance of this aquatic peatland complex in good condition. However, due to the specificity of its species composition (a large proportion of stenobiontic species), it seems advisable to monitor regularly the biotic and abiotic conditions of this habitat.
Orobanche caryophyllacea Sm. (Orobanchaceae) in Poland: current distribution, taxonomy, plant communities and hosts
Authors: Piwowarczyk Renata
Published: September 2014

The paper presents the current distribution of Orobanche caryophyllacea Sm. in Poland based on a critical revision of herbarium and literature data as well as the results of my field studies. The majority of localities are in south and south-eastern Poland: Małopolska Upland, Lublin Upland, Roztocze, Przemyśl Foothills, Pieniny Mts, rarely in the valleys of the Lower Vistula and Oder rivers or Wolin island. The distribution map in Poland is included. The taxonomy, biology and ecology of the species are discussed.
Growth and flowering of Helleborus argutifolius (Viviani) grown in pots depending on substrate type
Authors: Henschke Monika , Czuchaj Piotr K. , Szczepaniak Stanisława J.
Published: September 2014

An experiment was conducted on the effect of substrate type on growth of Corsican hellebore (Helleborus argutifolius Viviani). Plants were grown for two years in pots with substrates whose components included Klasmann highmoor peat and Hartmann highmoor peat, mineral soil, expanded clay and perlite at various volumetric ratios. Vegetative growth and flowering were observed in hellebores. It was shown that substrates exhibited a varied effect on plant growth. Corsican hellebore in a substrate with a considerable addition of mineral soil was lower, but more branched, and it did not form inflorescences. An optimal medium for growing H. argutifolius in pots was Hartmann’s de-acidified peat + mineral soil (1:1 v:v). In this medium vegetative growth of plants was extensive, flowering was early and abundant, and long peduncles were produced.