bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homoclinic and heteroclinic bifurcations in a two-dimensional endomorphism
Authors: Djellit Ilham , Ferchichi Mohamed
Published: October 2011

Our study concerns global bifurcations occurring in noninvertible maps, it consists to show that there exists a link between contact bifurcations of a chaotic attractor and homoclinic bifurcations of a saddle point or a saddle cycle being on the boundary of the chaotic attractor. We provide specific information about the intricate dynamics near such points. We study particularly a two-dimensional endomorphism of (Z\ - Z$ - Z\) type. We will show that points of contact, between boundary of the attractor and its basin of attraction, converge toward the saddle point or the saddle cycle. These points of contact are also points of intersection between the stable and unstable invariant manifolds. This gives rise to the birth of homoclinic orbits (homoclinic bifurcations).
Performance analysis of the adaptive algorithm for bias-to-variance trade-off
Authors: Stankovic Ljubisa
Published: October 2011

Analysis of the algorithm for the mean square error minimization, through the bias-to-variance ratio optimization, is performed. This algorithm is based on the confidence intervals intersection. It does not require explicit knowledge of the estimation bias. The algorithm performance and reliability for various kinds of noise in the estimation are studied.
Psychometric characteristics of the Beck depression inventory on a Serbian student sample
Authors: Novovic Zdenka , Mihic Ljiljana , Tovilovic Snezana , Jovanovic Veljko , Biro Miklos
Published: October 2011

Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) is one of the most popular instruments for
measuring intensity and symptoms of depression in clinical and general
population. The instrument has been translated into many languages and
validated in many different cultures, but there is still no published paper
on psychometric characteristics and the norms for the BDI in Serbian
language. In this paper, we checked psychometric characteristics of the
BDI-II on 400 students of the University of Novi Sad, Serbia. Descriptive
statistics (M=8.02; SD=7.10), internal consistency (?=.87), and test-retest
reliability (.63) are satisfactory and similar to the results of other
validation studies. Convergent and divergent validity of the instrument are
also supported by moderate to high correlations with the measures of similar
phenomena (r=.70 with Depression Symptoms Scale) and by low correlations with
unrelated constructs (i.e., r=.19 with Impulsive Sensation Seeking Scale).
However, the divergent validity is not supported by a high correlation with a
measure of anxiety (r=.70), similar finding is commonly obtained in other
validation studies. Our results suggest cut-off scores which are similar to
those suggested by Canadian authors (Kappa coefficient=.85). Two-factor
structure of the inventory is also in concordance with other authors.
Cognitive-Affective factor explains 29.27% of the variance and its structure
resembles those reported in other analyses. The second extracted factor
explains 7.76% of the variance and is saturated mostly with somatic items;
however, a significant contribution of some cognitive items has led us to
identify the factor as Exhaustion, specific to our student sample. The
two-factor solution is confirmed by Confirmatory Factor Analyses once the
item related to sexual difficulties was eliminated. General conclusion is
that BDI-II has satisfactory psychometric characteristics and can reliably be
used with Serbian student population.
Pushing the Frontiers of First-Principles Based Computer Simulations of Chemical and Biological Systems
Authors: Brunk Elizabeth , Tavernelli Ivano , Vanni Stefano , Penfold Thomas J. , Palermo Giulia , Neri Marilisa , Micciarelli Marco , Laktionov Andrey , Garrec Julian , Doemer Manuel , Diamantis Polydefkis , Curchod Basile F. E. , De Carvalho F. Franco , Campomanes Pablo , Athri Prashanth , Ashari Negar , Rothlisberger Ursula
Published: October 2011

The Laboratory of Computational Chemistry and Biochemistry is active in the development and application of first-principles based simulations of complex chemical and biochemical phenomena. Here, we review some of our recent efforts in extending these methods to larger systems,
longer time scales and increased accuracies. Their versatility is illustrated with a diverse range of applications, ranging from the determination of the gas phase structure of the cyclic decapeptide gramicidin S, to the study of G protein coupled receptors, the interaction of transition metal
based anti-cancer agents with protein targets, the mechanism of action of DNA repair enzymes, the role of metal ions in neurodegenerative diseases and the computational design of dye-sensitized solar cells. Many of these projects are done in collaboration with experimental groups from the
Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering (ISIC) at the EPFL.
LEPA: From Proteomics to Energy Conversion
Authors: Cortes-Salazar Fernando , Gassner Anne-Laure , Méndez Manuel A. , Pourhaghighi Mohammad Reza , Qiao Liang , Girault Hubert H.
Published: October 2011

This review article summarizes the different fields of research at the Laboratoire d'Electrochimie Physique et Analytique at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne. The research areas covered include charge transfer reactions at soft interfaces, bio-analytical microchips
and electrophoretic methods, electrochemical ionization methods for mass spectrometry and Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy (SECM).
Adjusted Wald Confidence Interval for a Difference of Binomial Proportions Based on Paired Data
Authors: Bonett Douglas G. , Price Robert M.
Published: October 2011

Adjusted Wald intervals for binomial proportions in one-sample and two-sample designs have been shown to perform about as well as the best available methods. The adjusted Wald intervals are easy to compute and have been incorporated into introductory statistics courses. An adjusted Wald interval for paired binomial proportions is proposed here and is shown to perform as well as the best available methods. A sample size planning formula is presented that should be useful in an introductory statistics course.
Living in a World of Dangers and Strangers: Changing EU and German Perceptions of Threat
Authors: Hampton Mary N.
Published: October 2011

This article analyzes the differences in U.S., EU, and German perceptions of threat. The secularist and cosmopolitan turns in EU European identity formation have had a tremendous impact on how security issues are interpreted, especially in Germany. The traditional conception of threat has been re-defined. Yet, recent events are threatening the success forged through a half century of EU elite-driven culture change. Renationalization and a return to defining threat as fear of strangers have emerged across the EU.
The future of U.S. higher education
Authors: Greenwood Davydd J.
Published: October 2011

Richard Arum and Josipa Roska (2011) Academically Adrift: Limited Learning on College Campuses, Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 259 pp., 978-0-226-02855-2 (hbk).
The Chemistry of B-Norsteroidal 6-Ketones and their Relatives
Authors: Uyanik Cavit , Hanson James R.
Published: October 2011

The preparation and reactions of B-norsteroidal 6-ketones and their relatives are reviewed in the context of the stability of the A/B and B/C ring junctions and the stereochemistry of the addition reactions to the carbonyl group. This review is a sequel to a previous article on the reactions of B-norsteroidal 4- and 5-enes.
Ultrasound Assisted Ring-Opening Reaction of Epoxides with 1,2-DiphenylDiselenide
Authors: Cheng Tianxing , Zheng Xiangyong , Ke Qiang
Published: October 2011

Ultrasound assisted ring-opening of epoxides with 1,2-diphenyldiselenide in PEG-400/H2O in the presence of sodium dithionite has been developed, affording β-hydroxy selenides with high regioselectivity in good to excellent yields. Importantly, the present protocol is very practical and highly efficient since it does not require the use of expensive and unpleasant smelly reagent.
Synthesis of (1R,2S)-2-(4′-Allyl-2′,6′-Dimethoxyphenoxyl)-1-(4″-Hydroxy-3″, 5″-Dimethoxyphenyl)Propan-1-ol
Authors: Ding Junwei , Qi Rongwei , Zhou Haitang , Jiao Bin , Xia Yamu
Published: October 2011

The asymmetric synthesis of the natural neolignan (1R,2S)-2-(4′-allyl-2′,6′-dimethoxyphenoxyl)-1-(4″-hydroxy-3″,5″-dimethoxyphenyl)propan-1-ol based on an asymmetric dihydroxylation as a key reaction using AD-mix-β to preparing the chiral threo-(1R,2R)-glycerol. The reaction, threo-alcohols were inverted by an SN2 reaction into erythro-(1R,2S)-isomers.
Playing Video Games While Using or Feeling the Effects of Substances: Associations with Substance Use Problems
Authors: Ream Geoffrey L. , Elliott Luther C. , Dunlap Eloise
Published: October 2011

This study tested the hypothesis that playing video games while using or feeling the effects of a substance—referred to herein as “concurrent use”—is related to substance use problems after controlling for substance use frequency, video gaming as an enthusiastic hobby, and demographic factors. Data were drawn from a nationally representative online survey of adult video gamers conducted by Knowledge Networks, valid n = 2,885. Problem video game playing behavior was operationalized using Tejeiro Salguero and Bersabé Morán’s 2002 problem video game play (PVP) measure, and measures for substance use problems were taken from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Separate structural equation modeling analyses were conducted for users of caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana. In all four models, concurrent use was directly associated with substance use problems, but not with PVP. Video gaming as an enthusiastic hobby was associated with substance use problems via two indirect paths: through PVP for all substances, and through concurrent use for caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol only. Results illustrate the potential for “drug interaction” between self-reinforcing behaviors and addictive substances, with implications for the development of problem use.
2-(6-Methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)propionic acid (1,3-dimethyl­butylidene)hydrazide
Authors: Mamatha Nakka , Babu Nallapati Suresh , Mukkanti Khagga , Pal Sarbani
Published: October 2011

The title compound, 2-(6-methoxynaphthalen-2-yl)propionic acid (1,3-dimethyl­butylidene)hydrazide was synthesized in high yield by the reaction of 2-(6-methoxy­naphthalen-2-yl)propionic acid hydrazide and 4-methylpentan-2-one in PEG 400. This compound was fully characterized by IR, 1H NMR, mass spectra and elemental analysis. The in vitro antibacterial activity of this compound was evaluated against gram positive and gram negative bacteria.
Use of Orbital LIDAR in the Brazilian Cerrado Biome: Potential Applications and Data Availability
Authors: Ferreira Laerte Guimarães , Urban Timothy J. , Neuenschawander Amy , De Araújo Fernando Moreira
Published: October 2011

This paper focuses on the Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS) data availability over the 2 million km2 Cerrado, the Brazilian central savanna biome and one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. Overall, about 2.5 million laser shots, distributed along the seven years of ICESat operation (2003–2009) and comprising three major seasonal domains, were acquired, from which, 206,026 and 176,035 screened footprints are coincident with the remnant vegetation and cultivated pasture areas (the dominant land-use form in the Cerrado). Although these points are well distributed over the entire Cerrado, the ICESat track data collection results in substantial data gaps. In relation to the 15,612 Cerrado watersheds (6th order Otto basin system), 8,369 and 4,415 watersheds are completely deprived of data points over their remnant vegetation and pasture covers, respectively. Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) availability was also evaluated in relation to specific targets of interest, including both fully-protected conservation units as well as areas impacted by fire and deforestation. In spite of the very few occurrences, our assessments indicate that enough LIDAR data is available for retrieving structural and functional properties of a variety of Cerrado physiognomies, as well as to assess how these physiognomies respond to anthropogenic induced changes. In fact, the comprehensive data availability analysis conducted in this study corroborate the potential of GLAS LIDAR waveforms for the retrieval of biophysical properties at both local and regional scales, particularly concerning remnant carbon stocks and pasture conditions, key information for the conservation of the fast-changing and severely threatened Cerrado.
System Energy Assessment (SEA), Defining a Standard Measure of EROI for Energy Businesses as Whole Systems
Authors: Henshaw Philip F. , King Carey , Zarnikau Jay
Published: October 2011

A more objective method for measuring the energy needs of businesses, System Energy Assessment (SEA), measures the combined impacts of material supply chains and service supply chains, to assess businesses as whole self-managing net-energy systems. The method is demonstrated using a model Wind Farm, and defines a physical measure of their energy productivity for society (EROI-S), a ratio of total energy delivered to total energy expended. Energy use records for technology and proxy measures for clearly understood but not individually recorded energy uses for services are combined for a whole system estimate of consumption required for production. Current methods count only energy needs for technology. Business services outsource their own energy needs to operate, leaving no traceable record. That uncounted business energy demand is often 80% of the total, an amount of “dark energy” hidden from view, discovered by finding the average energy estimated needs for businesses far below the world average energy consumed per dollar of GDP. Presently for lack of information the energy needs of business services are counted to be “0”. Our default assumption is to treat them as “average”. The result is a hard measure of total business demand for energy services, a “Scope 4” energy use or GHG impact assessment. Counting recorded energy uses and discounting unrecorded ones misrepresents labor intensive work as highly energy efficient. The result confirms a similar finding by Hall et al. in 1981 [1]. We use exhaustive search for what a business needs to operate as a whole, tracing internal business relationships rather than energy data, to locate its natural physical boundary as a working unit, and so define a business as a physical rather than statistical subject of scientific study. See also online resource materials and notes [2].
L'institution militaire confrontée aux réformes organisationnelles
Authors: Jakubowski Sébastien
Published: October 2011

Résumé Cet article s’appuie sur le cas de la professionnalisation des armées françaises, plus particulièrement sur la récente réforme de modernisation, pour défendre l’hypothèse que les institutions publiques d’État sont aujourd’hui déstabilisées et en tension, dans le cadre du processus de transformation, par leur dimension organisationnelle. D’un côté, la réforme adopte une perspective résolument institutionnelle : les missions de l’institution ne changent pas, mais les moyens sont rationalisés (baisse des crédits, réorganisation structurelle et territoriale). D’un autre côté, la réforme adopte une perspective plus organisationnelle : les missions sont modifiées par le politique, mais les moyens ne sont pas adaptés (nouveau cadre stratégique, banalisation de l’institution). L’article entend poser les bases de ce diagnostic et montrer que ce glissement vers une logique organisationnelle appelle à une recomposition de l’institution sur de nouvelles bases d’action.
Critical Issues in the Decision to Retire: A Comparison of Retired and Retirement-Age Faculty
Authors: Cook Linda Sue , Williamson Marvel , Salmeron Lois , Burton Denise , Goad Dan M.
Published: October 2011

The nursing faculty workforce is on the verge of a crisis because the number of full-time faculty expected to retire in the next 10 years is predicted to escalate dramatically. To propose evidence-based strategies to retain qualified nursing faculty beyond retirement age, this study built on previous qualitative research. An initial phenomenological study of retirement-age faculty identified 15 critical issues in the decision to remain employed in academia. To determine the degree to which these factors are shared by retired and still-employed faculty and the relative importance of each of these factors, a quasi-experimental comparative study was conducted. A Likert scale questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample drawn from a national population using the snowball sampling technique. ANOVA established the difference between retired and still-working faculty; discriminant analysis identified eight predictor variables for faculty decisions to remain in academia.
Care Needs and Functional Status of Older Acute Care Patients
Authors: O’Connell Beverly , Hawkins Mary T. , Baker Linda , Ostaszkiewicz Joan
Published: October 2011

A growing number of older adults are admitted to hospitals, and information is needed on how age-related functional decline affects nursing care needs of this population. This study compared the functional status at admission and total nursing care needs of three age groups of older inpatients. A 12-month retrospective audit was performed on the records of 225 patients in a private metropolitan hospital. The three groups of patients were matched on diagnosis. Findings revealed that older patients were significantly more dependent, had greater total nursing care needs, and were less likely to be discharged to home, indicating that in addition to medical diagnoses, age-related differences of older patients’ functional status at admission and inpatient nursing care needs should be factored into staff workloads and funding of nursing care. The finding that significantly fewer of the older patients returned home must be considered when reviewing health care policy and services.
Flagellin, a TLR5 Agonist, Reduces Graft-versus-Host Disease in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Recipients While Enhancing Antiviral Immunity
Authors: Hossain Mohammad S. , Jaye David L. , Pollack Brian P. , Farris Alton B. , Tselanyane Malefa L. , David Ebenezer , Roback John D. , Gewirtz Andrew T. , Waller Edmund K.
Published: October 2011

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients treated with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Posttransplant immunosuppressive drugs incompletely control GVHD and increase susceptibility to opportunistic infections. In this study, we used flagellin, a TLR5 agonist protein (∼50 kDa) extracted from bacterial flagella, as a novel experimental treatment strategy to reduce both acute and chronic GVHD in allogeneic HSCT recipients. On the basis of the radioprotective effects of flagellin, we hypothesized that flagellin could ameliorate GVHD in lethally irradiated murine models of allogeneic HSCT. Two doses of highly purified flagellin (administered 3 h before irradiation and 24 h after HSCT) reduced GVHD and led to better survival in both H-2b → CB6F1 and H-2K → B6 allogeneic HSCT models while preserving >99% donor T cell chimerism. Flagellin treatment preserved long-term posttransplant immune reconstitution characterized by more donor thymic-derived CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells and significantly enhanced antiviral immunity after murine CMV infection. The proliferation index and activation status of donor spleen-derived T cells and serum concentration of proinflammatory cytokines in flagellin-treated recipients were reduced significantly within 4 d posttransplant compared with those of the PBS-treated control recipients. Allogeneic transplantation of radiation chimeras previously engrafted with TLR5 knockout hematopoietic cells showed that interactions between flagellin and TLR5 expressed on both donor hematopoietic and host nonhematopoietic cells were required to reduce GVHD. Thus, the peritransplant administration of flagellin is a novel therapeutic approach to control GVHD while preserving posttransplant donor immunity.
Genetic Risk Factors for Longitudinal Changes in Structural MRI in Former Organolead Workers
Authors: James Bryan D. , Caffo Brian , Stewart Walter F. , Yousem David , Davatzikos Christos , Schwartz Brian S.
Published: October 2011

This study examined associations between polymorphisms in three genes, apolipoprotein E (APOE), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), and vitamin D receptor (VDR), and longitudinal change in brain volumes and white matter lesions (WML) as well as effect modification by cardiovascular factors and tibia lead concentrations. Two MRIs, an average of 5 years apart, were obtained for 317 former organolead workers and 45 population-based controls. Both regions-of-interest and voxel-wise analyses were conducted.APOEε3/ε4andε4/ε4genotypes were associated with less decline in white matter volumes. There was some evidence of interaction between genetic polymorphisms and cardiovascular risk factors (ACEand high-density lipoprotein;VDRand diabetes) on brain volume decline. TheVDR FokIff genotype was associated with an increase in WML (no association forAPOEorACE). This study expands our understanding of how genetic precursors of dementia and cardiovascular diseases are related to changes in brain structure.
CLOCK Genes and Circadian Rhythmicity in Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Thome J. , Coogan A. N. , Woods A. G. , Darie C. C. , Häßler F.
Published: October 2011

Disturbed circadian rhythms with sleep problems and disrupted diurnal activity are often seen in patients suffering from Alzheimer disease (AD). Both endogenous CLOCK genes and external Zeitgeber are responsible for the maintenance of circadian rhythmicity in humans. Therefore, modifications of the internal CLOCK system and its interactions with exogenous factors might constitute the neurobiological basis for clinically observed disruptions in rhythmicity, which often have grave consequences for the quality of life of patients and their caregivers. Presently, more and more data are emerging demonstrating how alterations of the CLOCK gene system might contribute to the pathophysiology of AD and other forms of dementia. At the same time, the impact of neuropsychiatric medication on CLOCK gene expression is under investigation.
Yes, breast cancer related lymphoedema can be managed
Authors: Maree Johanna E.
Published: October 2011

The purpose of the study was to demonstrate that breast cancer related lymphoedema can be managed by means of Complete Decompression Therapy and consequently improve quality of life. An instrumental case study design was used. The target population was all women with breast cancer related lymphoedema living in Tshwane, the context of the study. The patient with the most severe breast cancer related lymphoedema treated by the researcher is presented. Mixed methods were used to gather data. The expected 60% limb volume reduction could not be achieved after 4 weeks of induction therapy. After 8.5 weeks of treatment, the limb volume reduced from the initial 3841 mL to 1639 mL, a 57.2% reduction. Patient compliance to compression therapy was a challenge and led to relapse extending the induction phase of treatment. Despite the prolonged treatment, the limb volume reduction improved the patient’s quality of life. The study demonstrated and confirmed that despite a degree of noncompliance, breast cancer related lymphoedema can be managed with Complete Decongestive Therapy which, in turn, improves the quality of life of women living with breast cancer.OpsommingDie doelstelling van die studie was om te demonstreer dat borskanker-verwante limfedeem deur middel van Volledige Dekompressie Terapie beheer kan word wat gevolglik die pasiënt se lewenskwaliteit verbeter. ‘n Instrumentele gevallestudie-ontwerp is gevolg. Die populasie waaruit die geval gekies is, het uit alle vroue met borskanker-verwante limfedeem in Tshwane, die konteks van die studie, bestaan. Die pasiënt met die ergste limfedeem wat die navorser behandel het, word voorgedra. Gekombineerde metode is ingespan om data in te samel. Die verwagte 60% vermindering in die armedeem binne 4 weke van induksie behandeling is nie bereik nie. Na 8.5 weke van behandeling het die edeem van die oorspronklike 3841 mL tot 1639 mL verminder wat ‘n 57.2% reduksie verteenwoordig. Die pasiënt het nie die voorskrifte ten opsigte van dekompressie terapie noukeurig nagekom nie, wat terugvalling en ‘n verlengde induksie-fase tot gevolg gehad het. Die vermindering van die armedeem het die pasiënt se lewenskwaliteit nogtans positief beïnvloed. Die studie het aangetoon dat, ten spyte van pasiënt afvalligheid, dit moontlik was om borskanker-verwante limfedeem deur middel van Volledige Dekompressie Terapie te verminder en lewenskwaliteit te verbeter.
Inheritance of stem strength and its correlations with culm morphological traits in wheat (Triticum aestivumL.)
Authors: Yao Jinbao , Ma Hongxiang , Zhang Pingping , Ren Lijuan , Yang Xueming , Yao Guocai , Zhang Peng , Zhou Miaoping
Published: October 2011

Yao, J., Ma, H., Zhang, P., Ren, L., Yang, X., Yao, G., Zhang, P. and Zhou, M. 2011. Inheritance of stem strength and its correlations with culm morphological traits in wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.). Can. J. Plant Sci. 91: 1065–1070. The genetic effect of stem strength and its correlation with culm morphological traits were investigated in a 7×7 diallel cross of wheat involving seven parents (Ningmai 8, Ningmai 9, Yangmai 5, Yangmai 9, Yangmai 11, Sumai 3, and Wangshuibai) during the crop season of 2009–2010. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for stem strength. The estimates of general combining ability (GCA) pointed out that the best general combiners for stem strength were Ningmai 8 and Yangmai 9. The additive-dominance model was adequate for stem strength, and it was controlled by the over dominance type of gene action. Ningmai 8, followed by Yangmai 5, possessed maximum recessive genes, whereas Wangshuibai had maximum dominant genes. Stem strength could be controlled by three genes with low narrow sense heritability. A statistical analysis showed that stem strength is highly significantly correlated with nine culm morphological traits except for diameter of the first basal internode.
Effect of ammonium sulfate and water hardness on glyphosate and glufosinate activity in corn
Authors: Soltani Nader , Nurse Robert , Robinson Darren , Sikkema Peter
Published: October 2011

Soltani, N., Nurse, R. E., Robinson, R. E. and Sikkema, P. H. 2011. Effect of ammonium sulfate and water hardness on glyphosate and glufosinate activity in corn. Can. J. Plant Sci. 91: 1053–1059. Eight field trials were conducted over a 3-yr period (2008 to 2010) near Harrow and Ridgetown, Ontario, to evaluate the effect of water hardness (distilled: 0 ppm; intermediate: 353 ppm; and very hard 1799 ppm) on full label doses of glyphosate (900 g a.e. ha−1) and glufosinate (400 g a.i. ha−1) [with and without ammonium sulfate (AMS) at 2.5 L ha−1] efficacy in corn. There was no effect of water hardness on control of velvetleaf (ABUTH), redroot pigweed (AMARE), common lambsquarters (CHEAL), and annual grasses green foxtail (SETVI) and barnyardgrass (ECHCG) when glyphosate was applied with or without the AMS. There was also no difference in yield of corn with various water sources when glyphosate was applied with or without AMS. Glyphosate applied with various water sources with or without AMS controlled ABUTH, AMARE, CHEAL, and annual grasses better than glufosinate with or without AMS. Glufosinate with AMS, especially at the 1799 ppm water hardness, generally controlled ABUTH, AMARE, and CHEAL better than glufosinate without AMS, but there was no improvement in annual grass control. Contrasts indicated an 11% increase in yield when glufosinate was applied with AMS compared with when applied without AMS. Based on these results water hardness and AMS had little benefit on the efficacy of glyphosate in corn; however, efficacy of glufosinate was improved when applied with AMS at high water hardness.
Earlystar field pea
Authors: Bing Deng-Jin , Beauchesne Don , Sloan Al , McLaren Debbie , Vera Cecil
Published: October 2011

Bing, D. J., Beauchesne, D., Sloan, A., McLaren, D. and Vera, C. 2011. Earlystar field pea. Can. J. Plant Sci. 91: 1115–1116. Earlystar is a semi-leafless, yellow cotyledonary field pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivar developed at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lacombe Research Centre, Lacombe, Alberta, Canada. It is a high-yielding and early-maturing cultivar and is resistant to powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe pisi Syd. Earlystar is adapted to all field growing regions in western Canada.
Gore-Tex Medialization Thyroplasty in Patients with Unilateral Vocal Cord Paralysis: An Audit of 47 Cases
Authors: Gopinath M , Subramanian Mukundan
Published: October 2011

Though the surgical technique of medialization thyroplasty has been standardized, still the ideal implant has not been defined in the management of unilateral vocal cord paralysis. The authors present their experience of Gore-tex as the implant material.
Laryngeal Schwannoma Excision by Lateral Pharyngotomy
Authors: Chandra Satish T , Rao Sudhakar M , Kumar Ajay Y , Murthy PSN
Published: October 2011

Neurogenic tumors of the larynx are extremely rare. Here, we are reporting a case of laryngeal schwannoma presenting as supraglottic submucosal lesion with hoarseness and stridor, which was excised by lateral pharyngotomy approach. This presentation is to further discuss the histology of neurogenic tumors, modes of presentation, differential diagnosis and treatment modalities.
Evaluation of a three-dimensional chemical transport model (PMCAMx) in the European domain during the EUCAARI May 2008 campaign
Authors: Fountoukis C. , Racherla P. N. , Denier van der Gon H. A. C. , Polymeneas P. , Charalampidis P. E. , Pilinis C. , Wiedensohler A. , Dall'Osto M. , O'Dowd C. , Pandis S. N.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. PMCAMx-2008, a detailed three-dimensional chemical transport model (CTM), was applied to Europe to simulate the mass concentration and chemical composition of particulate matter (PM) during May 2008. The model includes a state-of-the-art organic aerosol module which is based on the volatility basis set framework treating both primary and secondary organic components as semivolatile and photochemically reactive. The model performance is evaluated against high time resolution aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) ground and airborne measurements. Overall, organic aerosol is predicted to account for 32% of total PM1 at ground level during May 2008, followed by sulfate (30%), crustal material and sea-salt (14%), ammonium (13%), nitrate (7%), and elemental carbon (4%). The model predicts that fresh primary OA (POA) is a small contributor to organic PM concentrations in Europe during late spring, and that oxygenated species (oxidized primary and biogenic secondary) dominate the ambient OA. The Mediterranean region is the only area in Europe where sulfate concentrations are predicted to be much higher than the OA, while organic matter is predicted to be the dominant PM1 species in central and northern Europe. The comparison of the model predictions with the ground measurements in four measurement stations is encouraging. The model reproduces more than 94% of the daily averaged data and more than 87% of the hourly data within a factor of 2 for PM1 OA. The model tends to predict relatively flat diurnal profiles for PM1 OA in many areas, both rural and urban in agreement with the available measurements. The model performance against the high time resolution airborne measurements at multiple altitudes and locations is as good as its performance against the ground level hourly measurements. There is no evidence of missing sources of OA aloft over Europe during this period.
Basic principles and aims of model order reduction in compliant mechanisms
Authors: Rösner M. , Lammering R.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. Model order reduction appears to be beneficial for the synthesis and simulation of compliant mechanisms due to computational costs. Model order reduction is an established method in many technical fields for the approximation of large-scale linear time-invariant dynamical systems described by ordinary differential equations. Based on system theory, underlying representations of the dynamical system are introduced from which the general reduced order model is derived by projection. During the last years, numerous new procedures were published and investigated appropriate to simulation, optimization and control. Singular value decomposition, condensation-based and Krylov subspace methods representing three order reduction methods are reviewed and their advantages and disadvantages are outlined in this paper. The convenience of applying model order reduction in compliant mechanisms is quoted. Moreover, the requested attributes for order reduction as a future research direction meeting the characteristics of compliant mechanisms are commented.
Flood susceptibility assessment in a highly urbanized alluvial fan: the case study of Sala Consilina (southern Italy)
Authors: Santangelo N. , Santo A. , Di Crescenzo G. , Foscari G. , Liuzza V. , Sciarrotta S. , Scorpio V.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. This paper deals with the risk assessment to alluvial fan flooding at the piedmont zone of carbonate massifs of the southern Apennines chain (southern Italy). These areas are prime spots for urban development and are generally considered to be safer than the valley floors. As a result, villages and towns have been built on alluvial fans which, during intense storms, may be affected by flooding and/or debris flow processes. The study area is located at the foothills of the Maddalena mountains, an elongated NW-SE trending ridge which bounds to the east the wide intermontane basin of Vallo di Diano. The area comprises a wide detrital talus (bajada) made up by coalescent alluvial fans, ranging in age from the Middle Pleistocene to the Holocene. Historical analysis was carried out to ascertain the state of activity of the fans and to identify and map the zones most hit by past flooding. According to the information gathered, the Sala Consilina fans would appear prone to debris flows; in the past these processes have produced extensive damage and loss of life in the urban area. The watershed basins feeding the fans have very low response times and may produce debris flow events with high magnitudes. Taking into account the historical damage, the fan surface morphology, and the present urban development (street orientation and hydraulic network), the piedmont area was zoned and various susceptibility classes were detected. These results may represent a useful tool for studies aiming at territorial hazard mapping and civil protection interventions.
Cancelation of unknown multiharmonic disturbance for nonlinear plant with input delay
Authors: Bobtsov A. A. , Pyrkin A. A.
Published: October 2011

In this paper, a new approach for cancelation of a multiharmonic disturbance is proposed. Compared with a number of known results in this paper, the disturbance cancelation problem is solved when the output variable is measured only, a relative degree of the plant is arbitrary and the control channel has delay. The numerical example is presented to illustrate the theoretical result. The reaction wheel pendulum on a movable platform is considered as the plant to demonstrate that the proposed approach is realizable and can be plugged in practice. The second goal is the development of mechatronic applications for use in education. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymptotic stability, ℓ2 gain, boundness analysis, and control synthesis for switched systems: a switching frequency approach
Authors: Xiang Weiming , Xiao Jian , Iqbal Muhammad Naveed
Published: October 2011

In this paper, several concepts of switching frequency are introduced to analyze the properties and performance of switched systems in infinite as well as finite‐time intervals. The observation is very motivating that different system properties and performances depend on different switching frequencies. Sufficient conditions ensuring asymptotic stability, ℓ2 gain performance, and state boundness are derived on the basis of the notions of switching frequency, respectively. Then, on the basis of the analysis results, the control synthesis problems are addressed. LMI‐based design algorithms are proposed to meet different control synthesis requirements. Numerical design examples are provided to demonstrate our results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reversible Magnetic Field Induced Strain in Ni2MnGa‐Polymer‐Composites
Authors: Kauffmann‐Weiss Sandra , Scheerbaum Nils , Liu Jian , Klauss Hansjörg , Schultz Ludwig , Mäder Edith , Häßler Rüdiger , Heinrich Gert , Gutfleisch Oliver
Published: October 2011

Composite materials consisting of magnetic shape memory alloy particles and a polymer matrix combine the advantages of both material classes: the high achievable magnetic field induced strain (MFIS) of 6% of Ni‐Mn‐Ga with a ductile matrix. Engineering the particle‐matrix interface as well as matching stiffness of polymer matrix is of importance for achieving high reversible MFIS to use this material as actuator or damper. We investigated those properties for Ni50.9Mn27.1Ga22.0 and Ni50.3Mn24.6Ga25.1 polymer composites. Particles were produced by gently crushing melt‐extracted and subsequently annealed fibres. At room temperature, the Ni50.9Mn27.1Ga22.0 particles exhibit a 5M martensitic structure, while the Ni50.3Mn24.6Ga25.1 particles are austenitic. These particles were embedded into the polymer, either a stiff epoxy resin or a soft polyurethane. In response to an external applied magnetic field, the particles tend to relocate within the polyurethane due to its very low Young's modulus and magnetostatic interaction between particles. Slightly stiffer polymer matrices are advantageous for achieving controllable MFIS. In Ni50.9Mn27.1Ga22.0 epoxy composites, a MFIS of 0.1% was observed and was resettable by rotating the magnetic field by 90°. Furthermore, single fibre pull‐out tests indicated significant improvements of the interfacial properties when using silane coupling agent treated fibres.
Bioactive TiOB‐Coating on Titanium Alloy Implants Enhances Osseointegration in a Rat Model
Authors: Schrader Christian , Schmidt Jürgen , Diefenbeck Michael , Mückley Thomas , Zankovych Sergiy , Bossert Jörg , Jandt Klaus D. , Faucon Mathilde , Finger Ulrich
Published: October 2011

The surface properties of titanium alloy implants for improved osseointegration in orthopaedic and dental surgery have been modified by many technologies. Hydroxyapatite coatings with a facultative integration of growth factors deposited by plasma spraying showed improved osseointegration. Our approach in order to enhance osseointegration was carried out by a surface modification method of titanium alloy implants called plasma chemical oxidation (PCO). PCO is an electrochemical procedure that converts the nm‐thin natural occurring titanium‐oxide layer on an implant to a 5 µm thick ceramic coating (TiOB‐surface). Bioactive TiOB‐surfaces have a porous microstructure and were loaded with calcium and phosphorous, while bioinert TiOB‐surfaces with less calcium and phosphorous loadings are smooth. A rat tibial model with bilateral placement of titanium alloy implants was employed to analyze the bone response to TiOB‐surfaces in vivo. 64 rats were randomly assigned to four groups of implants: (i) pure titanium alloy (control), ii) titanium alloy, type III anodization, (iii) bioinert TiOB‐surface, and (iv) bioactive TiOB‐surface. Mechanical fixation was evaluated by pull out tests at 3 and 8 weeks.

The bioactive TiOB‐surface showed significantly increased shear strength at 8 weeks compared to all other groups.
Development and Characterization of Electropsun Poly(propylene carbonate) Ultrathin Fibers as Tissue Engineering Scaffolds
Authors: Nagiah Naveen , Sivagnanam Uma Tiruchirapalli , Mohan Ranganathan , Srinivasan Natarajan Tirupattur , Sehgal Praveen Kumar
Published: October 2011

Electrospinning is a desired method to produce ultrathin fibers for tissue engineering. In order to mimic the nanofibrous structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM) poly(propylene carbonate) ultrathin fibers were electrospun using N,N‐dimethyl acetamide as solvent. Cationic surfactant, cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, was found to aid in the formation of beadless fibers of poly(propylene carbonate). Electrospinning parameters viz. concentration of polymer and that of the surfactant used as an additive, flow rate, electrostatic field, and effect of inner diameter of the needle were investigated and optimized. Scanning electron microscopy showed porous scaffold and fibers of diameter ranging from nano‐ to submicron range. FTIR spectroscopy and thermal analysis of the obtained fibers ensured the complete evaporation of solvent and optimal thermal stability of fibers for tissue engineering applications. The prepared fibers possess Young's modulus of 10.19 and 26.39 GPa with the tensile strengths of 22.11 and 21.29 MPa under dry and wet conditions, respectively. The fiber mat was measured to have a porosity of 48% and exhibited competent water retention capacity of 64%. Furthermore the scaffold was found to support the adhesion of mouse NIH 3T3 fibroblasts proving its mettle as a potential scaffold for tissue engineering applications.
Development of an evidence‐based review with recommendations using an online iterative process
Authors: Rudmik Luke , Smith Timothy L.
Published: October 2011

Background:

The practice of modern medicine is governed by evidence‐based principles. Due to the plethora of medical literature, clinicians often rely on systematic reviews and clinical guidelines to summarize the evidence and provide best practices. Implementation of an evidence‐based clinical approach can minimize variation in health care delivery and optimize the quality of patient care.

Methods:

This article reports a method for developing an “Evidence‐based Review with Recommendations” using an online iterative process. The manuscript describes the following steps involved in this process: Clinical topic selection, Evidence‐hased review assignment, Literature review and initial manuscript preparation, Iterative review process with author selection, and Manuscript finalization.

Results:

The goal of this article is to improve efficiency and increase the production of evidence‐based reviews while maintaining the high quality and transparency associated with the rigorous methodology utilized for clinical guideline development.

Conclusion:

With the rise of evidence‐based medicine, most medical and surgical specialties have an abundance of clinical topics which would benefit from a formal evidence‐based review. Although clinical guideline development is an important methodology, the associated challenges limit development to only the absolute highest priority clinical topics. As outlined in this article, the online iterative approach to the development of an Evidence‐based Review with Recommendations may improve productivity without compromising the quality associated with formal guideline development methodology. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Synthesis and selected properties of polyurethanes with monodisperse hard segments based on hexane diisocyanate and three types of chain extenders
Authors: Biemond G. J. E. , Brasspenning K. , Gaymans R. J.
Published: October 2011

Poly(tetramethylene oxide)‐based segmented polyurethanes were synthesized by the chain extension of a poly(tetramethylene oxide) with a length of 1270 g/mol that was end‐capped with 1,6‐hexane diisocyanate. Three types of uniform chain extenders were used: a diamine diamide, a diol diamide, and a diol diester. The concentration of the monodisperse hard segments was approximately 32 wt %, and the materials were clear and tough. The polyurethanes with monodisperse hard segments were subsequently characterized with differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and compression set measurements and were found to display low glass‐transition temperatures, an almost temperature‐independent rubbery plateau, and sharp melting temperatures. The rate of crystallization (melting temperature − crystallization temperature) was moderately fast (36–54°C). Moreover, the melting temperature of the polyurethanes increased with the number of hydrogen‐bonding groups in the hard segment, whereas the modulus at room temperature was more dependent on the structural regularity of the extender. The best elastic properties were found for the materials extended with the diamine diamide. Finally, an interesting combination of properties was revealed for the polyurethane with a diol diamide extender based on aminopropanol. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Preparation and morphology of transparent poly(methyl methacrylate)–poly(dimethylsiloxane) hybrid materials using multifunctional silicone macromonomer
Authors: Sugimoto Hideki , Nishino Go , Koyama Haruki , Daimatsu Kazuki , Inomata Katsuhiro , Nakanishi Eiji
Published: October 2011

In this study, transparent poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA)‐silicone hybrid materials, P(MMA‐co‐SigUMAx), were prepared with methylmethacrylate (MMA) and multifunctional silicone macromonomer introduced methacryl groups. The transmittance of hybrid materials improved with increase of methacryl groups of silicone macromonomer and reached around 90% T. Atomic force microscopic analysis, scanning electron microscope examinations, and copolymerization kinetics estimation by proton nuclear magnetic resonance revealed that the silicone macromonomer randomly incorporated in the copolymer with MMA by the increase of methacryl groups and suppresses the aggregation of the silicone segment. The hybrid materials introduced over 10 wt % of silicone component had water‐shedding surface and the water contact angle was elevated from 65 to 95°. Though the mechanical properties of hybrid materials were lowered by introduction of flexible silicone component, thermal property such as 5 wt % weight loss temperature were improved. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Measuring effect of the blooming of chemical curatives on the rate of cyclic fatigue crack growth in natural rubber filled with a silanized silica nanofiller
Authors: Saeed Farhan , Ansarifar Ali , Ellis Robert J. , Haile‐Meskel Yared
Published: October 2011

Two rubber compounds with different amounts of chemical curatives were prepared by mixing natural rubber with a high loading of a sulfur‐bearing silanized precipitated amorphous white silica nanofiller. The chemical bonding between the filler and rubber was optimized via the tetrasulfane groups of the silane by adding a sulfenamide accelerator and zinc oxide. The rubber compounds were cured and stored at ambient temperature for 65 days before they were tested. One compound showed extensive blooming as a function of storage time. Thin tensile strips of the rubber vulcanizates containing an edge crack were repeatedly stressed at constant strain amplitude and test frequency at ambient temperature and crack length c was measured as a function of the number of cycles n. The cut growth per cycle, dc/dn, was calculated and plotted against the tearing energy, T. The blooming of the chemical curatives increased dc/dn by up to an order of magnitude at a constant T. This was due to the reagglomeration of the chemical curatives in the rubber and also within a thin layer approximately 15 to 20 μm in size beneath the rubber surface. Under repeated stressing, cracks grew through the relatively weak agglomerated areas in the rubber and this caused the rate of crack growth to increase at a constant T. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012