bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Characterization of Platinum Nanotubules Made via Template Wetting Nanofabrication
Authors: Broaddus Eric , Brubaker Joel , Gold Scott A.
Published: October 2013

Standard oxidation-reduction reactions such as those of ferrocyanide and ferrocene have long been employed in evaluating and comparing new electrode structures with more traditional configurations. A variety of nanostructured carbon electrodes developed in recent years have been reported to exhibit faster electron transfer kinetics than more traditional carbon structures when studied with these redox reactions. This type of comparison has not been widely explored for nanostructured platinum electrodes that have become increasingly common. In this work, a platinum nanotubule array electrode was fabricated via a simple template-based process and evaluated using the standard ferrocyanide redox reaction. The nanotubule array electrodes were observed to more closely approach ideal reversible behavior than a typical Pt black/Nafion fuel cell electrode or a standard polished Pt disc electrode. The apparent heterogeneous electron transfer coefficient was determined using the Nicholson method and found to be one to two orders of magnitude greater for the nanotubule array electrodes, depending on the diameter of the nanotubules, in comparison with these same two more traditional electrode structures.
Insulin Deprivation Decreases Caspase-Dependent Apoptotic Signaling in Cultured Rat Sertoli Cells
Authors: Dias T. R. , Rato L. , Martins A. D. , Simões V. L. , Jesus T. T. , Alves M. G. , Oliveira P. F.
Published: October 2013

Insulin is essential for the regulation of glucose homeostasis. Insulin dysfunction occurs in several pathologies, such as diabetes mellitus, which is associated with fertility problems. Somatic Sertoli cells (SCs) not only metabolize glucose to lactate, which is the central energy source used by developing germ cells, but also determine the germ cell population size. If a deregulation in SCs apoptosis occurs, it will affect germ cells, compromising spermatogenesis. As SCs apoptotic signaling is a hormonally regulated process, we hypothesized that the lack of insulin could lead to alterations in apoptotic signaling. Therefore, we examined the effect of insulin deprivation on several markers of apoptotic signaling in cultured rat SCs. We determined mRNA and protein expression of apoptotic markers as well as caspase-3 activity. SCs cultured in insulin deprivation demonstrated a significant decrease on mRNA levels of p53, Bax, caspase-9, and caspase-3 followed by a significant increase of Bax and decrease of caspase-9 protein levels relatively to the control. Caspase-3 activity was also decreased in SCs cultured in insulin deprivation conditions. Our results show that insulin deprivation decreases caspase-dependent apoptotic signaling in cultured rat SCs evidencing a possible mechanism by which lack of insulin can affect spermatogenesis and fertility.
Honey‐Induced Protein Stabilization as Studied by Fluorescein Isothiocyanate Fluorescence
Authors: Wong Yin How , Abdul Kadir Habsah , Tayyab Saad
Published: October 2013

Protein stabilizing potential of honey was studied on a model protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA), using extrinsic fluorescence of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) as the probe. BSA was labelled with FITC using chemical coupling, and urea and thermal denaturation studies were performed on FITC‐labelled BSA (FITC‐BSA) both in the absence and presence of 10% and 20% (w/v) honey using FITC fluorescence at 522 nm upon excitation at 495 nm. There was an increase in the FITC fluorescence intensity upon increasing urea concentration or temperature, suggesting protein denaturation. The results from urea and thermal denaturation studies showed increased stability of protein in the presence of honey as reflected from the shift in the transition curve along with the start point and the midpoint of the transition towards higher urea concentration/temperature. Furthermore, the increase in and in presence of honey also suggested protein stabilization.
Identification and Characterization ofWheat Streak Mosaic VirusIsolates in Wheat-Growing Areas in Brazil
Authors: Mar Talita Bernardon , Lau Douglas , Schons Jurema , Pereira Paulo Roberto Valle da Silva , Carminatti Alan Johnny
Published: October 2013

Wheat streak mosaic virus(WSMV—Potyviridae,Tritimovirus), transmitted by the eriophyid miteAceria tosichellaKeifer (Acari:Eriophyidae), was considered a quarantine pest in South America. Since the first report of virus in Argentina, the vector has been found in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. The objective of this work was to determine the occurrence of WSMV in Brazil and characterize isolates from wheat-growing areas. Between 2009 and 2011, a total of 40 samples collected in wheat (Triticum aestivum) growing areas, where the presence of the mite was previously related, were tested by RT-PCR for virus detection. Six isolates of WSMV were obtained and characterized by sequencing. Two of them had their host range determined. The Brazilian WSMV isolates clustered in clade D are closely related to the Argentine isolate Arg2 (FJ348359). As expected, isolates were unable to infect dicotyledons plants. They caused mosaic inTriticum aestivum,Hordeum vulgare,Secale cereale, ×Triticosecale, andZea mays, and they were also able to infectAvena sativa. The presence of WSMV in wheat-growing areas of the Brazilian state Rio Grande do Sul was confirmed, possibly having been introduced from a common source and/or direct vector bearing virus migration from Argentina.
Asymmetries in English Vowel Perception Mirror Compression Effects
Authors: Katz Jonah
Published: October 2013

A series of vowel-identification experiments using gated consonant stimuli shows that English listeners are capable of recovering the vocalic context in which a consonant appears from information contained in the consonant alone. This is true for most consonants tested, including liquids, nasals, and stops in onset and coda position. Positional asymmetries in vowel sensitivity go in opposite directions for liquids (coda sensitivity > onset) and stops (onset > coda). Nasals pattern with liquids in terms of vowel sensitivity from consonant steady states alone, but pat- tern more closely with stops when portions outside the steady state are taken into account. It is argued that these asymmetries are related to patterns of cluster-driven vowel compression (also called ‘compensatory shortening') in speech production.
Listener Expectations and Gender Bias in Nonsibilant Fricative Perception
Authors: Babel Molly , McGuire Grant
Published: October 2013

The nonsibilant English fricatives /f/ and /θ / are known to be acoustically nonrobust. Using /f/ and /θ/ stimuli produced in CV, VCV, and VC syllables in /i α u/ contexts spoken by 10 talkers (5 male), we first replicate previous research suggesting that the most robust cues to this contrast are in the formant transitions in adjacent vowels. We also demonstrate vowel and syllable contextual differences that point to the contrast being most robust in /u/ contexts. In a series of perception experiments we go on to demonstrate effects of bias on perception of /f/ and /θ/ that derive from the uninformative nature of the frication noise, making them vulnerable to misperception in general, and especially in low-saliency contexts where the formant transition information is less robust. In experiment 1, listeners' classification of /f/ and /θ/ demonstrated a general bias to respond /f/ for fricatives produced by females and /θ/ for those produced by males. We hypothesize that the perceived concentrations of spectral energy in the fricative are shifted based on the concentration of energy in the vowel, which depend on a talker's gender. In experiment 2, vowel and frication noise portions were cross-spliced to probe this effect, resulting in the same gender-based bias. In a final experiment the vocalic information was removed and only the frication noise was presented to listeners for classification. In this task there was a general bias for /f/, regardless of the talker gender. Overall we demonstrate topdown gender effects in perception that originate in the strong indexical properties of adjacent vowels rather than being present in the frication noise itself.
Serum Uric Acid Is Not an Independent Risk Factor for Premature Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Zand Sara , Shafiee Akbar , Boroumand Mohammadali , Jalali Arash , Nozari Younes
Published: October 2013

Background/Aim: There is still debate on the role of serum uric acid as an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), particularly premature CAD. This study aimed to investigate whether serum uric acid is a risk factor for premature CAD and whether it can influence the severity of coronary artery stenosis. Methods: Candidates for coronary artery angiography (age <45 years for men and <55 years for women) who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study. Clinical data of the patients as well as their serum uric acid levels were compared with the presence of premature CAD. Results: In total, 473 patients were included and divided into two groups: the premature CAD group consisted of 245 patients (age = 46.2 ± 5.7 years; males = 110, 44.9%) and the normal coronary group consisted of 228 subjects (age = 45.7 ± 6.4 years; males = 62, 27.2%). Uric acid was significantly related to the presence of CAD, but this relationship was not significant after adjustment for confounding variables, including classic CAD risk factors. CAD patients were then categorized based on the extent of the disease (from minimal CAD to three-vessel disease); however, unlike the classic risk factors of CAD, uric acid was not significantly different between these groups (p = 0.10), and a similar result was observed after adjustment for confounders. Conclusion: Uric acid is not an independent risk factor for premature CAD but is weakly correlated with the extent of the disease; nevertheless, this relationship requires further investigation.
Successful Chemotherapy with Carboplatin and S-1 for Thymic Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Igawa Satoshi , Yanagisawa Nobuyuki , Ishihara Mikiko , Kimura Michiko , Maki Sachiyo , Otani Sakiko , Sasaki Jiichiro , Masuda Noriyuki
Published: October 2013

Thymic carcinoma is a rare but aggressive neoplasm. Although there is no clearly optimal first- or second-line chemotherapy regimen for thymic carcinoma, platinum-based chemotherapy has repeatedly been shown to be of benefit to patients with advanced thymic carcinoma. Some case reports have described S-1 as a novel agent with good activity against advanced thymic carcinoma. A 74-year-old female was diagnosed with thymic carcinoma complicated by pleural dissemination and pericardial effusion of carcinomatosa. She was treated with carboplatin on day 1 plus S-1 on days 1-14 in cycles repeated every 3 or 4 weeks. Four cycles of this regimen were administered, and a partial response was confirmed. There were no severe hematological or nonhematological toxicities, and no dose reduction was necessary. To our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate the efficacy of combination chemotherapy consisting of carboplatin and S-1 against thymic carcinoma.
Recurrent Annular Peripheral Choroidal Detachment after Trabeculectomy
Authors: Liu Shaohui , Sun Lisa L. , Kavanaugh A. Scott , Langford Marlyn P. , Liang Chanping
Published: October 2013

We report a challenging case of recurrent flat anterior chamber without hypotony after trabeculectomy in a 54-year-old Black male with a remote history of steroid-treated polymyositis, cataract surgery, and uncontrolled open angle glaucoma. The patient presented with a flat chamber on postoperative day 11, but had a normal fundus exam and intraocular pressure (IOP). Flat chamber persisted despite treatment with cycloplegics, steroids, and a Healon injection into the anterior chamber. A transverse B-scan of the peripheral fundus revealed a shallow annular peripheral choroidal detachment. The suprachoroidal fluid was drained. The patient presented 3 days later with a recurrent flat chamber and an annular peripheral choroidal effusion. The fluid was removed and reinforcement of the scleral flap was performed with the resolution of the flat anterior chamber. A large corneal epithelial defect developed after the second drainage. The oral prednisone was tapered quickly and the topical steroid was decreased. One week later, his vision decreased to count fingers with severe corneal stromal edema and Descemet's membrane folds that improved to 20/50 within 24 h of resumption of the oral steroid and frequent topical steroid. The patient's visual acuity improved to 20/20 following a slow withdrawal of the oral and topical steroid. Eight months after surgery, the IOP was 15 mm Hg without glaucoma medication. The detection of a shallow anterior choroidal detachment by transverse B-scan is critical to making the correct diagnosis. Severe cornea edema can occur if the steroid is withdrawn too quickly. Thus, steroids should be tapered cautiously in steroid-dependent patients.
Pharmacodynamic effects of standard dose prasugrel versus high dose clopidogrel in non-diabetic obese patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Darlington Andrew , Tello-Montoliu Antonio , Rollini Fabiana , Ueno Masafumi , Ferreiro José Luis , Patel Ronakkumar , Desai Bhaloo , Guzman Luis A. , Bass Theodore A. , Angiolillo Dominick
Published: October 2013

Increased body weight is independently associated with impaired clopidogrel pharmacodynamic (PD) response. Prasugrel has more potent PD effects compared with clopidogrel, although its PD effects in obese patients are unknown. The aim of this prospective, randomised, study was to compare the PD effects of standard-dose prasugrel [60 mg loading dose (LD)/10 mg daily maintenance dose (MD)] with highdose clopidogrel (900 mg LD/150 mg daily MD) in non-diabetic obese [body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2] patients, with coronary artery disease (CAD) on aspirin therapy. PD assessments (baseline, 2 hours post-LD and 6 ± 2 days after MD) were conducted using four platelet function assays, and the platelet reactivity index (PRI) assessed by VASP was used for sample size estimation. A total of 42 patients with a BMI of 36.42 ± 5.6 kg/m2 completed the study. There were no differences in baseline PD measures between groups. At 2 hours post-LD, prasugrel was associated with lower PRI compared with clopidogrel (24.3 ± 5.5 vs 58.7 ± 5.7, p≤0.001), with consistent findings for all assays. At one-week, PRI values on prasugrel MD were lower than clopidogrel MD without reaching statistical significance (34.7 ± 5.8 vs 42.9 ± 5.8, p=0.32), with consistent findings for all assays. Accordingly, rates of high on-treatment platelet reactivity were markedly reduced after prasugrel LD, but not after MD. In conclusion, in non-diabetic obese patients with CAD, standard prasugrel dosing achieved more potent PD effects than high-dose clopidogrel in the acute phase of treatment, but this was not sustained during maintenance phase treatment. Whether an intensified prasugrel regimen is required in obese patients warrants investigation.
Mortality in vitamin K antagonist-related intracerebral bleeding treated with plasma or 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate
Authors: Meijer Karina , Larrazabal Ramiro , Arnberg Fabian , Luijckx Gert J. , Roberts Robin S. , Schulman Sam , Majeed Ammar
Published: October 2013

Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) can rapidly normalise prolonged prothrombin time, induced by vitamin K antagonists (VKA). We conducted a multicentre retrospective study to investigate whether reversal of VKA coagulopathy with 4-factor PCC improves the survival of patients with VKA-related intracerebral haemorrhage as compared to plasma. We included 135 consecutive patients with VKA-related intracerebral haemorrhage treated either with plasma (mainly in Canada) or 4-factor PCC (The Netherlands and Sweden) for the reversal of VKA. Data on characteristics of the patients and the haemorrhage were collected. The volume of intracerebral haematoma was calculated from the first computed tomography (CT) scan. The unadjusted and adjusted odds ratio (OR) for 30-day all-cause mortality in both treatment groups was compared using logistic regression. Patients who received plasma (n=35, median 4 units) more often had diabetes, antiplatelet therapy, and intraventricular haemorrhage on the initial CT scans than patients who received PCC (n=100, median 22.5 IU/kg [interquartile range 20–26 IU], median of total dose 1,700 IU). The volume of intracerebral haematoma was larger in the plasma-treated group compared to the PCC-treated group (haematoma, mean 64.5 vs 36.0 cm3; p=0.021). The unadjusted OR for all-cause 30-day mortality in the PCC group was 0.40 (95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.87; p=0.021) compared to the plasma group. After adjusting for the haematoma volume, bleeding localisation and age, the effect of PCC on mortality became non-significant. In conclusion, treatment with 4-factor PCC for VKA reversal in patients with intracerebral haemorrhage does not seem to reduce the 30-day all-cause mortality compared to plasma.
Legal, Political and Social Obstacles for Headscarved Women Working at State Institutions in Turkey
Authors: Bottoni Rossella
Published: October 2013

Abstract

This article aims to offer some remarks as to legal, political and social obstacles for women wearing a headscarf and working at State institutions. The first part focuses upon the historical background and the ideological context of the creation of the ‘new Turkey’, in order to explain why a garment revealing the affiliation to the majority’s religion is so controversial. The second part deals with the legal basis for the prohibition for headscarved women to work at State institutions, the political opposition to the use of the headscarf in State institutions, and the polarisation in the social understandings of the headscarf. The third part is a critique of the arguments for this limitation and takes three principles into special account: equality between men and women, secularism and State neutrality. Finally, some conclusive remarks are made concerning the prospects for resolution.
Two Generations of Debate on Freedom of Religion in Turkey
Authors: Vural Hasan Sayim
Published: October 2013

Abstract

Within the debate on freedom of religion in Turkey, we can identify two distinct generations, both of which are alive with an oscillating degree of vibrancy. The first generation of debate has evolved around the question on the proper place of Islam in the secular nation-state; while the second one has encompassed the plural concerns of protecting the rights and freedoms, pertaining to religion or belief, of a diverse multitude, under the rule of law. The first generation of debate resulted in a dual deadlock: Freedom to religion versus freedom from religion. The second generation is informed by a pluralisation of parties and concerns. The first generation has produced well-established results in jurisprudence, where the effect of the second generation is far from being significant. Yet, as this paper will explain in conclusion, we have good reasons to expect the second generation to prevail over the first one.
Jesuit Foreign Missions. A Historiographical Essay
Authors: Hsia Ronnie Po-chia
Published: October 2013

A review of recent scholarship on early modern Jesuit missions, this essay offers a reflection on the achievements and desiderata in current trends of research. The books discussed include studies on Jesuit missions in China (Matteo Ricci), on the finances of the eighteenth-century Madurai mission in India, the debates over indigenous missions in the Peruvian province in the sixteenth and early seventeenth century, on print and book culture in the Jesuits’ European missions, and finally a series of studies on German-speaking Jesuit missionaries in Brazil, Chile, and New Granada.
Serum and MRI Biomarkers in Mobile Device Texting
Authors: Gold Judith E. , Mohamed Feroze B. , Ali Sayed , Barbe Mary F.
Published: October 2013

Objective:

We aimed to determine if serum biochemical and MRI biomarkers differed between high volume (≥ 230 texts sent/day; n = 5) and low volume (≤ 25 texts sent/day; n = 5) texters. A secondary aim was to ascertain what correlations between the biochemical and imaging biomarkers could tell us about the pathophysiology of early onset tendinopathies.

Background:

Text messaging has become widespread, particularly among college-aged young adults. There is concern that high rates of texting may result in musculoskeletal disorders, including tendinopathies. Pathophysiology of tendinopathies is largely unknown.

Method:

Ten females with a mean age of 20 were recruited. We examined serum for 20 biomarkers of inflammation, tissue degeneration, and repair. We used conventional MRI and MRI mean intratendinous signal intensity (MISI) to assess thumb tendons. Correlations between MISI and serum biomarkers were also examined.

Results:

Three high volume texters had MRI tendinopathy findings as did one low volume texter. Increased serum TNF-R1 was found in high volume texters compared to low volume texters, as were nonsignificant increases in MISI in two thumb tendons. Serum TNF-R1 and TNF-α correlated with MISI in these tendons, as did IL1-R1.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that early onset tendinopathy with concurrent inflammation may be occurring in prolific texters. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed for confirmation.

Application:

High volume texting may be a risk factor for thumb tendinopathy in later years. Multidisciplinary research using biochemical and imaging biomarkers may be used to gain insight into pathophysiological processes in musculoskeletal disorders.
Biafra and the discourse on the Igbo Genocide
Authors: Korieh Chima J
Published: October 2013

There has been a reluctance or indifference to a systematic study and documentation of the Igbo Genocide in Nigeria. In the main, the reason has been due to official and non-official attempts to subvert a focus on an event in which more than one million Igbo were slaughtered through a process that was fomented, orchestrated, executed, and supervised by the Nigerian state.
Effects of silane functionalization of alumina whiskers on high-density polyethylene composites
Authors: Ares A , Lasagabaster A , Abad MJ , Noguerol R , Cerecedo C , Valcárcel V , Caamaño JM , Guitián F
Published: October 2013

New polyethylene matrix and alumina whiskers composites have been designed in order to combine the processability of common thermoplastics with improved physical properties. This work analyzes the influence of the composite formulation on the morphological, rheological and thermal properties of the new materials. Concerning rheological properties, a significant increase in viscosity and storage modulus is observed for high alumina whiskers content. Furthermore, the whiskers were functionalized with silane coupling agent in order to improve compatibility with the matrix. Two surface treatments were used for comparison purposes, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was applied for evaluating the chemical changes on the surface of whiskers. Pre-treatment with the silane coupling agent brought about beneficial changes in morphology and rheology, related with improved dispersion of whiskers and increased filler–matrix interface. Finally, the inclusion of only 5 wt.% filler, functionalized with 100 wt.% silane, increased the thermal stability of matrix around 37%.
Test Anxiety Among College Students With Specific Reading Disability (Dyslexia)
Authors: Nelson Jason M. , Lindstrom Will , Foels Patricia A.
Published: October 2013

Test anxiety and its correlates were examined with college students with and without specific reading disability (RD; n = 50 in each group). Results indicated that college students with RD reported higher test anxiety than did those without RD, and the magnitude of these differences was in the medium range on two test anxiety scales. Relative to college students without RD, up to 5 times as many college students with RD reported clinically significant test anxiety. College students with RD reported significantly higher cognitively based test anxiety than physically based test anxiety. Reading skills, verbal ability, and processing speed were not correlated with test anxiety. General intelligence, nonverbal ability, and working memory were negatively correlated with test anxiety, and the magnitude of these correlations was medium to large. When these three cognitive constructs were considered together in multiple regression analyses, only working memory and nonverbal ability emerged as significant predictors and varied based on the test anxiety measure. Implications for assessment and intervention are discussed.
“I’ve Never Seen People Work So Hard!” Teachers’ Working Conditions in the Early Stages of School Turnaround
Authors: Cucchiara Maia Bloomfield , Rooney Erin , Robertson-Kraft Claire
Published: October 2013

School turnaround—a reform strategy that strives for quick and dramatic transformation of low-performing schools—has gained prominence in recent years. This study uses interviews and focus groups conducted with 86 teachers in 13 schools during the early stages of school turnaround in a large urban district to examine teachers’ perceptions of the social and organizational conditions within their schools. The study shows that some turnaround schools provided more positive working conditions than others, particularly with respect to organizational function and culture. It further finds a strong association between teachers’ perceptions of school-level working conditions and support for school turnaround.
Mentoring Graduate Students in Teaching
Authors: Finch Jessie K. , Fernández Celestino
Published: October 2013

Research has consistently shown the high value of mentorship for graduate students in various areas—program satisfaction, professional self-image, confidence, productivity, and so on. However, specific templates of how to best mentor graduate students, especially in the vital area of teaching, are lacking. This article outlines the mentoring model called “From Conception to Co-instructor to Completion” (FCCIC). This five-step method provides a plan of action for faculty and graduate students who wish to co-develop a course in such a way that graduate student mentees are exposed to the entire teaching process with the supervision and assistance of a faculty mentor. This relationship moves beyond the traditional “professor/teaching assistant” hierarchy (the TA model) to create equally operational co-instructors. In this note, the FCCIC method is summarized and then illustrated through the development of a sociology course on happiness as an exemplar of how to better mentor graduate students in teaching.
The Perceived Benefits of a Preparing Future Faculty Program and Its Effect on Job Satisfaction, Confidence, and Competence
Authors: Wurgler Emily , VanHeuvelen Jane S. , Rohrman Shawna , Loehr Annalise , Grace Matthew K.
Published: October 2013

The training of effective instructors and future faculty members is a critical component of doctoral programs in sociology. Many universities and departments have instituted a single course, course sequence, or certification program dedicated to the preparation of future academic faculty. This article evaluates the efficacy of one such program, and asks two questions: (1) What are the most useful aspects of the Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) program? (2) Is participation in the PFF program associated with greater job satisfaction, confidence, or competence? Qualitative data from Indiana University alumni suggest that the program is beneficial for exposing students to pedagogical knowledge, encouraging professionalization, and providing institutionalized support in the form of peer and faculty mentorship. Quantitative data indicate that although PFF participants were not significantly more satisfied or confident than their nonparticipating peers, the PFF program did appear to help to make participants feel more competent in their first jobs.
Power and Resistance in the Shaping of Argentine Domestic Policy
Authors: Firchow Pamina
Published: October 2013

In contemporary Argentina, as in much of Latin America, politics is often found in the streets. In recent years it has bypassed traditional political party politics to bring day-to-day needs to the forefront through road blockades and cacerolazos (pot banging). These methods have been particularly successful in Argentina, not only in changing policy but also in bringing down administrations and politicians. They emerged from the 2001 Argentinazo’s repertoire of assemblies, demonstrations, riots, looting, and sit-ins as the primary tactics for actors participating in protests in Argentina today. The continuity of resistance in Argentina is a concrete example of Foucault’s notions of power and resistance in practice.

En la Argentina contemporánea, como en gran parte de la América Latina, la política muchas veces se encuentra en la calle. En años recientes se ha desviado de la política partidaria tradicional para dar énfasis más bien a las necesidades cotidianas del pueblo por medio de bloqueos a los caminos y cacerolazos. Estos métodos han sido particularmente exitosos en Argentina no solo para cambiar políticas públicas sino también para quitar a políticos y administraciones. Emergieron del repertorio de asambleas, manifestaciones, disturbios, saqueos, y sentadas del Argentinazo de 2001 como las tácticas principales usadas por los actores que participan hoy día en las protestas argentinas. La continuidad de la resistencia en Argentina es un ejemplo concreto de las nociones foucaultianas de la práctica de poder y resistencia.
Genetic vulnerability interacts with parenting and early care and education to predict increasing externalizing behavior
Authors: Lipscomb Shannon T. , Laurent Heidemarie , Neiderhiser Jenae M. , Shaw Daniel S. , Natsuaki Misaki N. , Reiss David , Leve Leslie D.
Published: October 2013

The current study examined interactions among genetic influences and children’s early environments on the development of externalizing behaviors from 18 months to 6 years of age. Participants included 233 families linked through adoption (birth parents and adoptive families). Genetic influences were assessed by birth parent temperamental regulation. Early environments included both family (overreactive parenting) and out-of-home factors (center-based Early Care and Education; ECE). Overreactive parenting predicted more child externalizing behaviors. Attending center-based ECE was associated with increasing externalizing behaviors only for children with genetic liability for dysregulation. Additionally, children who were at risk for externalizing behaviors due to both genetic variability and exposure to center-based ECE were more sensitive to the effects of overreactive parenting on externalizing behavior than other children.
Impact of Perineural Invasion in the Pathologically N0 Neck in Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chinn Steven B. , Spector Matthew E. , Bellile Emily L. , McHugh Jonathan B. , Gernon Thomas J. , Bradford Carol R. , Wolf Gregory T. , Eisbruch Avraham , Chepeha Douglas B.
Published: October 2013

Objective

Patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) undergo adjuvant radiation for pathologically high‐risk features including positive nodal disease and extracapsular spread (ECS). In the absence of these high‐risk features, our objective was to determine if perineural invasion (PNI) is an independent risk factor and if adjuvant radiation (XRT) improves disease control rates.

Study Design

Historical cohort analysis.

Setting

Tertiary university hospital.

Methods

Eighty‐eight OCSCC patients (46 males, 42 females; mean age = 56.7 years; median follow‐up = 4.6 years) treated surgically with pathologically N0 (pN0) necks were studied. Overall, 23% (20/88) were pN0/PNI+ and of those with PNI, 70% (14/20) underwent XRT. Survival analysis using Kaplan‐Meier followed by multivariable Cox models was performed.

Results

Multivariate analysis verified PNI to be associated with worse disease‐free interval (DFI) (P =. 012) and local‐regional control (LRC) (P =. 005) and perivascular invasion (PVI) associated with worse DFI (P =. 05). Among pN0/PNI+ patients, those who received XRT demonstrated significantly improved DFI (mean = 6.5 years vs 1.7 years; P =. 014) and LRC (mean 6.7 years vs 1.9 years; P =. 047). There was no improvement in overall survival (P =. 68) or disease‐specific survival (P =. 8) in those receiving XRT.

Conclusions

PNI is an independent adverse risk factor in the absence of nodal metastasis and extracapsular spread. We observed a statistically significantly longer DFI and LRC when patients were treated with adjuvant radiation.
Endoscopic Anatomy of the Pediatric Middle Ear
Authors: Isaacson Glenn
Published: October 2013

Traditionally, otologists have aimed to produce a clean, dry, safe ear with the best possible hearing result. More recently, “less invasively” has been added to this list of goals. The development of small‐diameter, high‐quality rigid endoscopes and high‐definition video systems has made totally endoscopic, transcanal surgery a reality in adult otology and a possibility in pediatric otology. This article reviews the anatomy of the pediatric middle ear and its surrounding airspaces and structures based on the work of dozens of researchers over the past 50 years. It will focus on the developmental changes in ear anatomy from birth through the first decade, when structure and function change most rapidly. Understanding the limits and possibilities afforded by new endoscopic technologies, the pediatric otologist can strive for results matching or exceeding those achieved by more invasive surgical approaches.
Perception of Better Nasal Patency Correlates with Increased Mucosal Cooling after Surgery for Nasal Obstruction
Authors: Sullivan Corbin D. , Garcia Guilherme J. M. , Frank‐Ito Dennis O. , Kimbell Julia S. , Rhee John S.
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To (1) quantify mucosal cooling (ie, heat loss) spatially in the nasal passages of nasal airway obstruction (NAO) patients before and after surgery using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and (2) correlate mucosal cooling with patient‐reported symptoms, as measured by the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) and a visual analog scale (VAS) for sensation of nasal airflow.

Study Design

Prospective.

Setting

Academic tertiary medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Computed tomography (CT) scans and NOSE and VAS surveys were obtained from 10 patients before and after surgery to relieve NAO. Three‐dimensional models of each patient's nasal anatomy were used to run steady‐state CFD simulations of airflow and heat transfer during inspiration. Heat loss across the nasal vestibule and the entire nasal cavity, as well as the surface area of mucosa exposed to heat fluxes >50 W/m2, were compared pre‐ and postoperatively.

Results

After surgery, heat loss increased significantly on the preoperative most obstructed side (P <. 0002). A larger surface area of nasal mucosa was exposed to heat fluxes >50 W/m2 after surgery. The best correlation between patient‐reported and CFD measures of nasal patency was obtained for NOSE against surface area in which heat fluxes were >50 W/m2 (Pearson r = −0.76).

Conclusion

A significant postoperative increase in mucosal cooling correlates well with patients’ perception of better nasal patency after NAO surgery. Computational fluid dynamics–derived heat fluxes may prove to be a valuable predictor of success in NAO surgery.
The Naked Body of Alia: Gender, Citizenship, and the Egyptian Body Politic
Authors: Mourad Sara
Published: October 2013

In November 2011, 20-year-old Egyptian blogger Alia al-Mahdy posted a nude picture of herself on her blog. The photograph received 1.5 million hits within a week of its posting and drew condemnations from conservatives and liberals alike in the critical period leading up to the deeply polarized first post-Mubarak parliamentary election. How was Alia’s nudity framed in mainstream public discourse and by Alia herself? Drawing on a corpus of primary sources, 60 articles from mostly Egyptian and Arab newspapers, this article argues that the public controversy transcends contentious media representations of women to reach into the heart of Egyptian revolutionary citizenship. While mainstream Egyptian and Arab media discourse framed Alia’s nudity as “merely cultural” and “Westernized,” Alia described it as an artistic social commentary. These rhetorical frames reveal the reconfiguration of political dissent—its forms, channels, and actors—and the tensions around national identity that animate the contemporary Arab public sphere.
Infants’ discrimination of female singing voices
Authors: Costa-Giomi Eugenia , Davila Yvonne
Published: October 2013

There’s extensive research on infant’s discrimination of speaking voices but few studies have focused on infant’s discrimination of singing voices. Most investigations on infants’ perception of timbre in music have been based on instrumental sounds. We completed an experiment with 7- and 13-month-olds ( n = 16 and n = 17 respectively) to answer two basic questions: Can infants discriminate melodies sung by the same woman? Can they discriminate the voices of women singing the same melody?

We found that infants did not discriminate between the voices and that only the older infants discriminated between two melodies sung by the same woman. In other words, older infants discriminated the melodies but not the voices, and younger infants discriminated neither.

The results of the present study question the assumption that infants discriminate singing voices and suggest that there may be critical differences in how infants perceive the timbre of voices in music and language contexts.
Towards a post-mathematical topology
Authors: Martin Lauren , Secor Anna J.
Published: October 2013

This paper aims to bring clarity to the term topology as it has been deployed in human geography. We summarize the insights that geographers have garnered from thinking topologically about space and power. We find that many deployments of topology both overstretch topology’s conceptual merit and limit its insights for spatial thinking. We show how topology, with its structuralist and modernist baggage, requires some theoretical reworking to be put to work by poststructuralist geographers. Our purpose is not to consolidate a specific topological approach for geographers, but to call for an ongoing consideration of what topology offers poststructuralist spatial theories.
Quality investing in an Australian context
Authors: Gallagher David R , Gardner Peter A , Schmidt Camille H , Walter Terry S
Published: October 2013

This study extends an examination of Quality investing in the US to the Australian market. Specifically, a Quality score is computed as the aggregate of eight fundamental accounting metrics. An investment strategy investing in the highest (lowest) quality stock quintile, that is, Quintile 5 (1) generates an average annual Daniel, Grinblatt, Titman and Wermers (DGTW)-adjusted alpha of 6.37% (−7.98%), which is significant at the 5% level over April 2000–March 2010. A two-way segmentation based on size first, and quality second, reveals that the strong positive quality effect is primarily driven by small stocks, as the average DGTW-alpha for the top-quality tercile of small stocks is 14.02%, significant at the 5% level. Statistically significant positive DGTW-alphas are also determined for quality micro and large stocks. The quality analysis is also applied to a sample of Active Equity Mutual Funds’ stock holdings. Weak evidence of the quality return premium is detected at the fund level.
Simulation of braking performance: The AnsaldoBreda EMU V250 application
Authors: Pugi Luca , Malvezzi Monica , Papini Susanna , Tesi Simone
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the development of a modular tool for the prediction of train braking performance. Particular attention is devoted to the accurate prediction of stopping distances, considering different loading and operating conditions, necessary to verify safety requirements prescribed by the European Technical Specifications for Interoperability of High Speed Trains (TSI-HS) and the corresponding EN regulations. Results are verified by considering, as a benchmark, the AnsaldoBreda EMU V250: a European train being developed for Belgium and The Netherlands’s high-speed lines. Technical information and experimental data were available for this train, directly recorded during preliminary supplier exercise. Validation results were encouraging, and allowed a more accurate identification of the pad friction factor influence on braking performance.
Numerical simulation of a bird impact on a composite aerodynamic brake wing of a high-speed train
Authors: Jianyong Zuo , Xiaoyu Zhu , Mengling Wu
Published: October 2013

Experimental bird strike tests were conducted in which a 2.6-kg dead chicken was projected at a speed of 500 km/h to hit a raised aerodynamic brake wing. The brake wing was fabricated with a sandwich of composite material as its skin and polymethacrylimide foam as its core. Pre-test numerical analyses of bird strikes were performed using the LS-Dyna solver code, an Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian model of the bird, and a Lagrangian model of the brake wing. The numerical and experimental results were well correlated, confirming the validity of the finite element model and calculation approach. Finally, bird strikes were conducted on a brake wing extended to 75° and 90° to determine the difference between the two conditions on the basis of effective wind-drag area. Impact, failure after impact and high strength at impact properties were investigated for a composite of carbon and glass fibre laminate.
Simulation of secondary and separated flow in a diffusing S-duct using four different turbulence models
Authors: Fiola Colin , Agarwal Ramesh K
Published: October 2013

The focus of this article is on the numerical simulation of compressible flow in a diffusing S-duct inlet; this flow is characterized by secondary flow as well as regions of boundary layer separation. The S-duct geometry produces streamline curvature and an adverse pressure gradient resulting in these flow characteristics. The geometry used in this investigation is based on a NASA Glenn Research Center experimental diffusing S-duct that was studied in the early 1990s. The computational fluid dynamics flow solver ANSYS - FLUENT is employed in the investigation of compressible flow through the S-duct. A second-order accurate, steady, density-based solver is employed in a finite-volume framework. The three-dimensional Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes equations are solved on a structured mesh with a number of turbulence models, namely the Spalart–Allmaras (SA), k-ɛ, k-ω SST, and Transition SST models, and the results are compared with the experimental data. The computed results capture the flow field and pressure recovery with acceptable accuracy when compared with the experimental data. The turbulence model giving the best results is identified.
Economic crisis and the politics of public service employment relations in Italy and France
Authors: Bordogna Lorenzo , Pedersini Roberto
Published: October 2013

This article analyses the impact of government austerity measures on the working conditions of public employees and public sector employment relations in Italy and France. The timing and severity of these measures have differed, given the different conditions of public finances in the two countries. The impact on employment levels, wages, working conditions and pensions has generally been more pronounced in Italy than in France. The reform of public sector employment relations institutions predated the economic crisis; in Italy the aim was to limit union prerogatives and the scope of collective bargaining, in France to strengthen social dialogue institutions. But in both cases the ultimate government power to determine terms and conditions of employment unilaterally has been clearly reaffirmed.
The role of tree composition in Holocene fire history of the hemiboreal and southern boreal zones of southern Sweden, as revealed by the application of the Landscape Reconstruction Algorithm: Implications for biodiversity and climate-change issues
Authors: Cui Qiao-Yu , Gaillard Marie-José , Lemdahl Geoffrey , Sugita Shinya , Greisman Annica , Jacobson George L , Olsson Fredrik
Published: October 2013

We present a quantitative reconstruction of local forest history at two sites, Stavsåkra (hemiboreal zone) and Storasjö (southern boreal zone), in southern Sweden (province of Småland) to evaluate possible causes of contrasting Holocene fire histories in mid- and late Holocene. The Landscape Reconstruction Algorithm (LRA) is applied to evaluate between-site differences in the relative abundance of deciduous trees and Pinus (pine) and landscape/woodland openness during the Holocene. The LRA estimates of local vegetation abundance are compared with other proxies of local vegetation, that is, plant and beetle remains. The LRA results suggest that Pinus was a major tree taxon in the woodlands of Storasjö during mid- and late Holocene, while Tilia (linden) and Betula (birch) were dominant at Stavsåkra. The contrasting fire histories are shown to be strongly related to between-site differences in tree composition during mid-Holocene, 4000–2000 bc in particular. The archaeological/historical and beetle data indicate contrasting land uses from c. 1000 bc (late Bronze Age/early Iron Age), grazing in open Calluna heaths at Stavsåkra and woodland grazing at Storasjö. Between-site differences in fire history during late Holocene were likely due to different land-use practices. Between-site differences in tree composition in mid-Holocene are best explained by local climatic and geological/geomorphological differences between the hemiboreal and southern boreal zones of Småland, which might also be the primary cause of between-site differences in land-use histories during late Holocene. Maintenance of biodiversity at the landscape scale in the study area requires that existing old pine woodlands and Calluna heath are managed with fire and cattle grazing. Further climate warming might lead to higher probabilities of climate-induces fire, in particular in pine-dominated woodlands.