bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SN2 Reaction of IO− + CH3Cl: An Ab Initio and DFT Benchmark Study
Authors: Liang Junxi , Su Qiong , Wang Yanbin , Geng Zhiyuan
Published: September 2014

Electronic structure theory calculations, using MP2 theory and the DFT functionals B3LYP, BHandHLYP, and M05-2X, were performed to characterize the structures, vibrational frequencies, and energies for stationary points on the SN2 reaction of IO− + CH3Cl potential energy surface (PES). The aug-cc-pVDZ basis for C, H, O, and Cl, with an effective core potential (ECP) for iodine, were employed. Single-point CCSD(T) calculations were performed to obtain the complete basis set (CBS) limit for the reaction energies, which were chosen as a benchmark for accuracy of the MP2 and DFT energies. Our results suggest that MP2 and DFT predict the same mechanism on PES, with an exception in the SN2-induced elimination channel. DFT/M05-2X functional is able to give competitive results with respect to the MP2 method for the reactions with SN2 pattern, in which M05-2X results are in good agreement with CCSD(T)/CBS calculations on the whole. In contrast, DFT/BHandHLYP belongs to a better functional for calculations of the SN2-induced elimination channel featured by the H-atom transfer pattern. Moreover, the difference in the MP2 and DFT values for the characters of the reaction of IO− with CH3Cl was further analyzed in detail by the activation strain model and natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis.
Directed evolution induces tributyrin hydrolysis in a virulence factor of Xylella fastidiosa using a duplicated gene as a template
Authors: Gouran Hossein , Chakraborty Sandeep , Rao Basuthkar J. , Asgeirsson Bjarni , Dandekar Abhaya M.
Published: September 2014

Duplication of genes is one of the preferred ways for natural selection to add advantageous functionality to the genome without having to reinvent the wheel with respect to catalytic efficiency and protein stability. The duplicated secretory virulence factors ofXylella fastidiosa(LesA, LesB and LesC), implicated in Pierce's disease of grape and citrus variegated chlorosis of citrus species, epitomizes the positive selection pressures exerted on advantageous genes in such pathogens. A deeper insight into the evolution of these lipases/esterases is essential to develop resistance mechanisms in transgenic plants. Directed evolution, an attempt to accelerate the evolutionary steps in the laboratory, is inherently simple when targeted for loss of function. A bigger challenge is to specify mutations that endow a new function, such as a lost functionality in a duplicated gene. Previously, we have proposed a method for enumerating candidates for mutations intended to transfer the functionality of one protein into another related protein based on the spatial and electrostatic properties of the active site residues (DECAAF). In the current work, we presentin vivovalidation of DECAAF by inducing tributyrin hydrolysis in LesB based on the active site similarity to LesA. The structures of these proteins have been modeled using RaptorX based on the closely related LipA protein fromXanthomonas oryzae. These mutations replicate the spatial and electrostatic conformation of LesA in the modeled structure of the mutant LesB as well, providingin silicovalidation before proceeding to the laboriousin vivowork. Such focused mutations allows one to dissect the relevance of the duplicated genes in finer detail as compared to gene knockouts, since they do not interfere with other moonlighting functions, protein expression levels or protein-protein interaction.
ABS–Scan: In silico alanine scanning mutagenesis for binding site residues in protein–ligand complex
Authors: Anand Praveen , Nagarajan Deepesh , Mukherjee Sumanta , Chandra Nagasuma
Published: September 2014

Most physiological processes in living systems are fundamentally regulated by protein–ligand interactions. Understanding the process of ligand recognition by proteins is a vital activity in molecular biology and biochemistry. It is well known that the residues present at the binding site of the protein form pockets that provide a conducive environment for recognition of specific ligands. In many cases, the boundaries of these sites are not well defined. Here, we provide a web-server to systematically evaluate important residues in the binding site of the protein that contribute towards the ligand recognition through in silico alanine-scanning mutagenesis experiments. Each of the residues present at the binding site is computationally mutated to alanine. The ligand interaction energy is computed for each mutant and the corresponding ΔΔG values are computed by comparing it to the wild type protein, thus evaluating individual residue contributions towards ligand interaction. The server will thus provide clues to researchers about residues to obtain loss-of-function mutations and to understand drug resistant mutations. This web-tool can be freely accessed through the following address: http://proline.biochem.iisc.ernet.in/abscan/.
Greating a cluster-logistic structure of the tourist and recreation system: economic appraisal of the potential
Authors: Луговской Александр , Lugovskoy Aleksandr , Межова Лидия , Mezhova Lidiya
Published: September 2014

The authors of the article substantiate the necessity of developing a methodological base for an economic appraisal of a tourist and recreation system, natural-resource-management-driven methods for creating a cluster and logistic structure. The authors also emphasize the importance of a natural resources inventory for the practices of natural resource rent, ecological certification, a tourist service consumer classification, and a classification of coordinating controlling systems. The current

practices of territorial municipal and federal administration determine the economic risks of investing into a complex programme of the tourist sector economic development and the economic effectiveness, as well as the lines, of ecological monitoring.

Efficient territorial administration in the course of tourist cluster creation is seen by the authors as impossible without a development of a scientifically valid methodology for economic efficiency assessment of the potential unlocked by an integrated/multipurpose utilization of territorialrecreational systems of federal and municipal taxonomies. A major line of research is an ROI study of investing into complex environmental action programmes.

According to the methodology considered in the article, tourist potential can be evaluated against such criteria as the resource validity for a recreational activity (technological evaluation), the degree of comfort, functioning, and creation of a natural-resource-management-driven cluster-logistic structure in urbanized areas (physiological evaluation), the degree of visual appeal (aesthetical evaluation), the uniqueness and quality of a resource (value assessment), the potential of a resource

to generate tourist traffic (self-sufficiency evaluation), and capacity evaluation of the complexity of tourist resources, especially of their transport infrastructure.
Information service as applied to the tourist business
Authors: Недкова Антонина , Nedkova Antonina
Published: September 2014

The article deals with the current issues of information and communication technologies and their touristindustry application. Nowadays, tourist service activity is inconceivable without information resources and communication technologies, which serve to equip the consumer with e-information transmission and acquisition tools. The author identified the following information service aspects that are valuable

for the tourist industry: information as a link for the activity in tourism and service provision; tourism information product consumers (tourists, travel agencies, hotels, restaurants, airlines, railway and nautical companies, car-rent firms, etc); information resources (accounting databases, data provided by transfer companies); information owners and information resources; information systems; reservation and sales systems; information processes such as, for example, registration procedures, information transmission procedures, information processing procedures, and top management decision-making procedures; information system and technology support and maintenance – software provision, technical, linguistic, legal and organizational resources to ensure the operation of computering machines, thesauri, as well as operational instructions and methodology. The research conducted by the author leads to the general conclusion that, the newly-evolved information service industry is to continue its development and technological improvement, which, in its turn, will facilitate operations in the sphere of tourism and will satisfy consumer demand more efficiently.
On creating modern urban service spaces: ensuring the comprehensiveness and accessibility of service (Case study: public services in Mytishchi urban area)
Authors: Харитонова Татьяна , Kharitonova Tatyana , Кривошеева Татьяна , Krivosheeva Tatiana , Казакова Светлана , Kazakova Svetlana
Published: September 2014

The issues of public service sector development have remained current since the sector was overhauled and reformed in the late 1990s and the early 2000s. The authors identify the following reasons for problems in the public service sector: a failure to force public service providers from the semishade sector and to provide opportunities for cost-effective operations in the newly created market. Currently, the major problems in the sphere of public service provision are largely connected with

quality characteristics. Public service shapes the service space in modern urban areas, and provides adequate living conditions, which is a key criterion for quality-of-life evaluation. The authors’ working hypothesis focuses on developing a new format of public service companies’ development on the basis of complexity/integrity and maximal accessibility. The format is seen by the authors as suitable for a network of mini public amenities centers located in functionally diverse urban zones. The authors’ conclusions rest on the results of the authors’ marketing research into the status and development prospects of the public service sector in Mytishchi, Moscow Region. The essence of the concept proposed by the author is the different lines of mini public amenities center development: creating a business environment, priority-based resource allocation, cooperation in information support activities, as well as implementation mechanisms.
Internet and historical knowledge from informatization to new horizons of research
Authors: Алимгазинов Кайрат , Alimgazinov Kayrat
Published: September 2014

In this paper the author reports about some aspects of the modern informational technologies impact on the further evolution of science and education in the «Post-Gutenberg epoch». While until recently the Internet as one of the phenomena of «microcomputer revolution» was perceived only as a means of information exchange (sometimes the auxiliary one), today the Internetization contains qualitative transformations in many spheres of society; there appear some new social phenomena, the essence and format of traditional ideas about society and state change, and the scientific knowledge get some new content. This paper proposes to discuss the possible prospects of inter-disciplinary dialogue between informational technologies and socio-humanities knowledge component.
Legendary Sevastopol as a tourist and excursion site: history and modern age
Authors: Попов Алексей , Popov Aleksey
Published: September 2014

In the article the author examines the historical dynamics of development of tourism and excursion business in Sevastopol in the second half of XIX – beginning of XXI centuries. The author describes evolution of the given type of business in Sevastopol, including history of local tourist-excursion organizations of prerevolution and soviet period taking into account the specifi c of the city as a main base of the Black Sea Navy. The basic objects of demonstrations, considerable part of which has a military historical theme are characterized, and also the maintenance of tourist and excursion routes is disclosed. The special attention is paid to the patriotic value of visiting Sevastopol by tourists and sightseers, which is conditioned by the heroic pages of history of the hero city.
Western Caucasus Dolmens: riddles, myths, legends
Authors: Джанджугазова Елена , Dzhandzhugazova Elena
Published: September 2014

The article is devoted to the dolmens of Western Caucasus which are considered not only as monuments of ancient material culture but also as signifi cant tourist facilities that have become a real brand of Olympic Sochi. The author gives interesting information about the mystical power

of dolmens, conducts comparative parallels with famous megaliths countries and highlights the reason for people’s interest to the monuments of dolmen culture.
A propositional logic of temporal connectives
Authors: Epstein Richard L. , Buitrago-Díaz Esperanza
Published: September 2014

We investigate how to formalize reasoning that takes account of time by using connectives like “before” and “after.” We develop semantics for a formal logic, which we axiomatize. In proving that the axiomatization is strongly complete we show how a temporal ordering of propositions can yield a linear timeline. We formalize examples of ordinary language sentences to illustrate the scope and limitations of this method. We then discuss ways to deal with some of those limitations.
Getting Down to Business: A Look at Leadership Education in Business Schools
Authors: Sowcik Matthew , Allen Scott J.
Published: September 2014

In the context of business schools, the word “leadership” is widely used in missions, visions, and marketing materials. However, underlying support and the infrastructure to truly develop leaders may be lacking. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the challenges and issues facing leadership education in the context of business education. More specifically, we highlight some of the structural challenges, foundational issues, and research related problems and identify several opportunities to address some of the areas for development. Throughout this paper, we discuss how the National Leadership Education Research Agenda can spark research that will legitimize our work not only in business, but across disciplines.
RETRACTED: Finite-element-based photoacoustic imaging of absolute temperature in tissue
Authors: Yao Lei , Huang Hua , Jiang Huabei
Published: September 2014

We describe a finite-element-based algorithm for the reconstruction of absolute temperature distribution in tissue using photoacoustic measurements. Assuming a linear temperature dependence of the Grueneisen parameter in tissue, the algorithm aims to recover the temperature-dependent acoustic speed while a heating mechanism is used. The absolute temperature over time is then calculated using the recovered temperature-dependent acoustic speed. To validate our method, photoacoustic measurements were conducted using a graphene nanosheet-containing target embedded in a 20-mm-diameter tissue-like phantom with varied heating power. The results obtained suggest that quantitatively accurate temperature images can be produced, suggesting that our method may serve as a tool to guide and monitor the temperature distribution in tissue in real time noninvasively and to improve the safety and efficacy of thermotherapy.
Orbital effects of a monochromatic plane gravitational wave with ultra-low frequency incident on a gravitationally bound two-body system
Authors: Iorio Lorenzo
Published: September 2014

We analytically compute the long-term orbital variations of a test particle orbiting a central body acted upon by an incident monochromatic plane gravitational wave. We assume that the characteristic size of the perturbed two-body system is much smaller than the wavelength of the wave. Moreover, we also suppose that the wave's frequency

ν
g

is much smaller than the particle's orbital one n
b. We make neither a priori assumptions about the direction of the wavevector

k
̂

nor on the orbital configuration of the particle. While the semi-major axis a is left unaffected, the eccentricity e, the inclination I, the longitude of the ascending node Ω, the longitude of pericenter ϖ and the mean anomaly ℳ undergo non-vanishing long-term changes of the form

d
Ψ
/
d
t
=
F
(

K

i
j

;
e
,
I
,
Ω
,
ω
)
,
Ψ
=
e
,
I
,
Ω
,
ϖ
,
ℳ

, where

K

i
j

,
 
i
,
j
=
1
,
2
,
3

are the coefficients of the tidal matrix K. Thus, in addition to the variations of its orientation in space, the shape of the orbit would be altered as well. Strictly speaking, such effects are not secular trends because of the slow modulation introduced by K and by the orbital elements themselves: they exhibit peculiar long-term temporal patterns which would be potentially of help for their detection in multidecadal analyses of extended data records of planetary observations of various kinds. In particular, they could be useful in performing independent tests of the inflation-driven ultra-low gravitational waves whose imprint may have been indirectly detected in the Cosmic Microwave Background by the Earth-based experiment BICEP2. Our calculation holds, in general, for any gravitationally bound two-body system whose orbital frequency n
b is much larger than the frequency

ν
g

of the external wave, like, e.g., extrasolar planets and the stars orbiting the Galactic black hole. It is also valid for a generic perturbation of tidal type with constant coefficients over timescales of the order of the orbital period of the perturbed particle.
Transnationalität als Ressource?
Authors: Schmiz Antonie
Published: September 2014

Transnationalität ist eine Ressource, die zur Erklärung grenzübergreifender ökonomischer, sozialer und kultureller Bezüge von Migrantinnen und Migranten herangezogen werden kann. Antonie Schmiz lässt in dieser multi-sited Ethnography Groß- und Einzelhändler_innen, Dienstleister_innen und Rückkehrer_innen als Akteurinnen und Akteure im transnationalen sozialen Raum zwischen Berlin und Vietnam zur Sprache kommen. Anhand von Netzwerken, Sozialkapital und strukturellen Bedingungen in der Aufnahmegesellschaft wird die Inklusion dieser Gruppe analysiert. Die erste detaillierte Studie zum Arbeitsmarkt vietnamesischer Migrantinnen und Migranten.
Globalismus und New Labour
Authors: Rossow Holger
Published: September 2014

Diskursive Aspekte spielen in der Globalisierungsforschung bisher eine eher untergeordnete Rolle. Vor diesem Hintergrund entwickelt Holger Rossow ein spezifisches Globalismus-Konzept, das in Abgrenzung zu den Begriffen Globalisierung und Globalität für die Rolle von Diskursen bei der Setzung der Globalisierungsagenda und der Konstruktion unserer gesellschaftlichen Realität steht. Seine konkrete Anwendung findet das Konzept des Globalismus bei der Untersuchung der Transformation der britischen Labour Party unter Tony Blair (1997-2007) - als einem Beispiel für eine sozialdemokratische Partei im Kontext der Herausforderungen, Chancen und Probleme der Globalisierung.
Entbehrliche der Bürgergesellschaft?
Authors: Klatt Johanna , Walter Franz
Published: September 2014

Mitmachen, gestalten, sich für andere einsetzen - zivilgesellschaftliches Engagement hat viele Facetten. Und sie sind alle wichtig, denn die Beteiligung an der Bürgergesellschaft ist nicht zuletzt Beteiligung an der res publica. Die Form der Bürgergesellschaft hat sich in den letzten Jahren allerdings gewandelt: Informelle und flexible Aktivitäten werden gegenüber starren Mitgliedschaften bevorzugt. Doch ist bislang kaum versucht worden, die Perspektive sozial Benachteiligter einzunehmen. Dieses Buch beschäftigt sich daher mit der Teilhabe von Menschen mit geringem Einkommen und niedrigem Bildungsgrad an der modernen Bürgergesellschaft und zeigt: Auch hier gibt es zivilgesellschaftliches Engagement. Nur anders. Unter Mitarbeit von David Bebnowski, Oliver D'Antonio, Ivonne Kroll, Michael Lühmann, Felix M. Steiner und Christian Woltering.
Bildung und Biographie
Authors: Fuchs Thorsten
Published: September 2014

Die erziehungswissenschaftliche Diskussion um das Verhältnis von Bildungstheorie und Bildungsforschung wird zwar ambitioniert geführt, blieb aber bislang weitgehend folgenlos: Positionen, die Bildungstheorie und Bildungsforschung als zuwiderlaufend ansehen, stehen gegen Ansätze, die der Abstraktheit ›bloßer‹ Theorie durch eine methodisch kontrollierte und empirisch differenzierte Forschung zu entgehen versuchen. Bezugnehmend auf diese weit verzweigte Diskussion setzt sich Thorsten Fuchs mit der bildungstheoretisch orientierten Biographieforschung und deren Anspruch, zwischen Bildungstheorie und Bildungsforschung zu vermitteln, auseinander. Sein konstruktiver Entwurf einer qualitativ-empirischen Studie, in der lebensgeschichtliche Erzählungen von Jugendlichen ›in biographie- und bildungstheoretischer Absicht‹ gedeutet werden, ermöglicht so zugleich eine Reformulierung der bildungstheoretisch orientierten Biographieforschung.
Vorführen und Verführen
Authors: Ellrich Lutz
Published: September 2014

Medienanalysen lenken die Aufmerksamkeit auf technische und kulturelle Bedingungen, unter denen ›etwas‹ zur Erscheinung kommt - mit dem Ziel, Vermittlungsprozesse als konstitutive Akte zu offenbaren. Das führt jedoch oft zur Unterbelichtung der im Einzelnen dargestellten Phänomene. Die hier versammelten Studien behandeln daher exemplarische Aufführungen, Dramen, Romane, Fotografien, Filme, TV-Formate und Internetportale, um neben den medialen Eigenheiten auch und gerade die jeweils thematisierten Sachverhalte in den Blick zu nehmen - seien es Tragik oder Komik, Souveränität oder Scham, Begehren oder Realitätsflucht, Geschlechterkampf oder Wirtschaftskrise.
Visiones, tensiones y resultados. La nueva gobernanza de la educación en Honduras
Authors: Morales Ulloa Ricardo , Magalhães António M.
Published: September 2014

Como resultado de la crisis de la deuda y por influencia de los organismos supranacionales como el Banco Mundial y el Fondo Monetario Internacional, a partir de los años 1980 América Latina experimenta una serie de reformas para sustituir al Estado desarrollista y sentar las bases de un nuevo modelo sustentado en la gobernanza. Derivado de este contexto, este artículo analiza los cambios ocurridos en el sistema educativo hondureño, en los últimos veinte años, por influencia de un proceso iniciado en el año 1990, conocido como modernización de la educación y continuado en el año de 1996 con la desconcentración administrativa de los niveles de educación, prebásica básica y media. El texto analiza las características singulares que adquiere un fenómeno de esta naturaleza en un país con tantas contradicciones sociales, políticas y económicas como Honduras y en condiciones en que el sistema educativo aún no logra dar respuestas a las grandes demandas de una sociedad marcada por la exclusión. El balance del período analizado refleja las brechas entre las expectativas de una política educativa, concebida para impactar el sistema en forma integral y los modestos resultados alcanzados.
The Legal Consequences of Mandating High Stakes Decisions Based on Low Quality Information: Teacher Evaluation in the Race-to-the-Top Era
Authors: Baker Bruce D. , Oluwole Joseph O. , Green III Preston C.
Published: September 2014

In this article, we explain how overly prescriptive, rigid state statutory and regulatory policy frameworks regarding teacher evaluation, tenure and employment decisions outstrip the statistical reliability and validity of proposed measures of teaching effectiveness.  We begin with a discussion of the emergence of highly prescriptive state legislation regarding the use of student testing data within teacher evaluation systems, specifically for purposes of making employment decisions.  Next, we explain the most problematic features of those policies, which include a) requirements that test-based measures constitute fixed, non-negotiable weight in final decisions, b) that test-based measures are used to place teachers into categories of effectiveness by applying numerical cutoffs beyond the precision or accuracy of the available data, and c) that professional judgment is removed from personnel decisions by legislating (or regulating) specific actions be taken when teachers fall into certain performance categories.  In the subsequent section, we point out that different types of measures are being developed and implemented across states, and we explain that while value-added metrics in particular are, in fact designed to estimate a teacher’s effect on student outcomes, descriptive growth percentile measures are not designed for making such inference and thus have no place in making determinations regarding teacher effectiveness. We also explain that, due to the properties of value-added estimates, they have no place in making high-stakes decisions based on rigid policy frameworks like those described herein.  We evaluate the legal implications of rigid reliance on measures of teaching effectiveness that a) lack reliability and b) may be entirely invalid.
Value-added Teacher Estimates as Part of Teacher Evaluations: Exploring the Effects of Data and Model Specifications on the Stability of Teacher Value-added Scores
Authors: Kersting Nicole B , Chen Mei-Kuang , Stigler James W.
Published: September 2014

In this study we explored the effects of statistical controls, single versus multiple cohort models, and student sample size on the stability of teacher value-added estimates (VAEs). We estimated VAEs for all 5th grade mathematics teachers in a large urban district by fitting two level mixed models using four cohorts of student data. We found that student sample size had the largest effect on changes in teachers’ relative standing and designation into performance groups, while control variables affected VAEs only minimally. However, we also found that teacher VAEs showed a fair degree of stability; year-to-year correlations ranged between .62 and .66, and changes in teacher effectiveness systematically varied by teacher experience, with beginning teachers showing the largest improvements over the four years under study.  Our results suggest that some model specifications are likely to produce teacher value-added scores that can reflect meaningful differences in teachers while we also found that other models might produce VAEs that might be unreliable.
Das HeBIS Discovery System
Authors: Sunckel Bettina , Reh Uwe , Nienerza Heike
Published: September 2014

Die HeBIS-Verbundzentrale bietet das HeBIS Discovery System (HDS) als Dienstleistung für interessierte Mitgliedsbibliotheken an. Der Service beinhaltet eine Rechercheoberfläche mit Suchunterstützung durch eine moderne Suchmaschine, Erweiterung des Suchraums mit Inhalten aus Datenbanken und Volltexten durch einen Resource Discovery Service und alle gewohnten Funktionen eines lokalen OPACs. Technisch besteht HDS aus dem Open-Source-OPAC VuFind, der Suchmaschine Solr, dem Discovery-Service EDS und dem ReDi-Linkresolver. Dieser Beitrag geht auf die Projektstruktur und die Erfahrungen bei der kooperativen Entwicklung ein.
„suchen“ – ein Prototyp zum Vergleich von Discovery-Diensten
Authors: Hagenbruch André , Heise Miriam
Published: September 2014

Wir beschreiben den Prototypen einer Webanwendung, die zwei unterschiedliche Discovery-Dienste und einen OPAC-basierten Suchmaschinenindex integriert. Zunächst skizzieren wir die technische Architektur, geben dann einen Überblick über die Metadaten und APIs der eingesetzten Discovery-Dienste und berichten im Anschluss von den Nutzererfahrungen, die wir aus dem Feedback der Testpersonen gewonnen haben. Zuletzt geben wir einen Überblick über die Ergebnisse unseres Tests und umreißen die Richtung, in die wir unsere Entwicklung fortführen wollen.
On Barnes beta distributions, Selberg integral and Riemann xi
Authors: Ostrovsky Dmitry
Published: September 2014

The theory of Barnes beta probability distributions is advanced and related to the Riemann xi function.
The scaling invariance, multiplication formula, and Shintani factorization of Barnes multiple gamma functions are reviewed
using the approach of Ruijsenaars and shown to imply novel properties of Barnes beta distributions. The applications are given to the meromorphic extension of the Selberg integral as a function of its dimension and the scaling invariance of the underlying probability distribution. This probability distribution in the critical case is described and conjectured to be the distribution of the derivative martingale.
The Jacobi triple product is interpreted probabilistically resulting in an approximation of the Riemann xi function by the Mellin transform of the logarithm of a limit of Barnes beta distributions.
Homological aspects of the dual Auslander transpose
Authors: Tang Xi , Huang Zhaoyong
Published: September 2014

As a dual of the
Auslander transpose of modules, we introduce and study the
cotranspose of modules with respect to a semidualizing module C.
Then using it we introduce n-C-cotorsionfree modules, and show
that n-C-cotorsionfree modules possess many dual properties of
n-torsionfree modules. In particular, we show that
n-C-cotorsionfree modules are useful in characterizing the Bass
class and investigating the approximation theory for modules.
Moreover, we study n-cotorsionfree modules over Artin algebras and
answer negatively an open question of Huang and Huang posed in 2012.
A core domain of the BMP2 proregion is sufficient for the biogenesis of mature homodimeric growth factor
Authors: Kuhfahl Silke , Schwarz Elisabeth
Published: September 2014

The large proregions of cystine knot growth factors exert several important biological functions. Previous results have shown that the proregion of BMP2 retards the activity of the mature growth factor. Hitherto, no information exists about the function of the BMP2 proregion during the biogenesis of the mature growth factor. Here, evidence is presented that the proregion is required for the secretion of BMP2 when present in covalent linkage to the mature domain. In trans complementation, i.e., with the proregion encoded by a separate plasmid, does not result in secretion of homodimeric mature growth factor. An extended variant of a previously in vitro characterized subdomain of the proregion, when being present in covalent linkage to the mature growth factor, restores secretion of mature BMP2, albeit at a reduced level.
Vibration Characteristics of Squeeze Film Damper during Maneuver Flight
Authors: Wang Siji , Liao Mingfu , Li Wei
Published: September 2014

The rotor systems of an aero engine will endure additional centrifugal force and gyroscopic moment during maneuver flight. A maneuver fly mechanical simulator is designed and experimental investigations on dynamics of squeeze film damper (SFD) under the different additional centrifugal force and gyroscopic moment are carried out. The results show that the maneuver flight weaken effectiveness of the SFD, the additional centrifugal force and gyroscopic moment caused by maneuver flight will change film damping, film stiffness. And the influence of maneuver flight can be effective relieved by increasing the film clearance.
Automation in Strain and Temperature Control on VHCF with an Ultrasonic Testing Facility
Authors: Lage Y. , Ribeiro A. M. R. , Montalvão D. , Reis L. , Freitas M.
Published: September 2014

Increased safety and reliability in mechanical components has become a subject of prime importance in recent years. Therefore, a proper understanding of damage and fracture mechanics in materials and components designed to withstand very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) loadings is extremely important nowadays. However, the use of conventional machines for fatigue testing is very time consuming and costly for VHCF tests. Ultrasonic machines have been introduced as a way to increase the number of cycles in fatigue testing up to 1E8 to 1E10 cycles within a considerably reduced amount of time. Nevertheless, the accurate measurement of the parameters that influence fatigue life at ultrasonic frequencies (e.g., stress, displacement, strain rate, temperature, and frequency) is still a matter of concern and ongoing development. Because of the high frequencies involved in VHCF testing, a huge amount of heat is generated over the specimen, which greatly affects the variables determining the fatigue behavior. This paper describes the design and instrumentation of an ultrasonic fatigue testing machine that operates at a working frequency of 20 kHz. Among other features, it incorporates automated strain and temperature control. In order to run automated tests, a closed-loop monitoring and control system was developed based on the measured temperature and displacement amplitudes. Temperature readings are made with a pyrometer and thermography camera, and displacement is monitored at the free end of the specimen with a high-resolution laser. The machine's power output is continuously adjusted from the displacement readings, so that the stress variations within the specimen are as flat as possible. When the temperature increases above a certain set value, a cooling function is triggered and the test is interrupted until the specimen is cooled down. Data are acquired, managed, and processed with a data acquisition device working at a 400 kHz sampling frequency. The advantages and limitations of metal fatigue testing at very high frequencies are discussed in this paper, with special emphasis on strain and temperature-control issues. Comparisons are made of tests carried out with and without both displacement and temperature control on two metallic alloys, copper 99 % and carbon steel, with the determination of strength-life (S-N) curves.
Automated Real Time Correction of Motion Induced Dynamic Load Errors in the Force Readout of a Test Apparatus
Authors: Dingmann D. , White A. , Nickel T.
Published: September 2014

In mechanical testing, it is often important to understand the dynamic characteristics of the test system to assess if there could be any error in the indicated force readout induced by the motions of the system. That these errors exist is readily apparent for load sensors which are mounted on the actuator; the actuator is expected to move during the course of the test. What may be less obvious is that these errors also exist in load measurements taken on the “grounded” side of a sample. Methods have been developed (such as ASTM E467-08e1) for the assessment and correction of these errors; however, these methods can be time consuming to implement. In some cases, they may not be practical or even possible (e.g., placing strain gauges on a biological sample). Existing methods using accelerometers to predict acceleration induced load have been used for some time. What is presented are a set of approaches to increase the simplicity and reliability of using acceleration sensors to address dynamic load errors. Using various modes of stimulation of the system, software algorithms are used to assess the correct compensation factors to use for both magnitude and phase of the acceleration signal, as a function of frequency. This has the additional benefit of allowing the use of load and acceleration sensors which may not be ideally phase matched. These methods also allow stimulation of both motor mounted load sensors as well as frame mounted sensors.
Analysis Round Robin Results on the Linearity of Fracture Toughness Test Data
Authors: McKeighan Peter C. , James Mark A.
Published: September 2014

All ASTM standards require precision and bias statements that address the typical variability observed when performing the standard. It is useful to determine the different sources of variability in a given standard so that future efforts can be undertaken to minimize error in the resulting material properties measured by that standard. This analysis round robin was undertaken with nine participants using fifteen different previously measured load-displacement datasets from linear–elastic, KIC fracture toughness tests fabricated from aluminum, titanium, and steel material. Each round robin participant analyzed the data using their own previously proven methods. A bi-modal trend in PQ variation was noted with ±1 % variability capturing 40 % of the datasets and ±4 % generally capturing the remaining 60 % of the datasets, although there were outliers observed. In summary, the method used to analyze the load-displacement response in a linear–elastic fracture toughness test contributes to between a minimum of one-tenth and on average one-third of the overall uncertainty quoted in the KIC precision and bias statement. Although the analysis methodology is likely not a primary contributor to the overall variability observed in a fracture toughness test, it is a significant contributor. In two of the nine datasets, linearity analysis methodology accounted for in excess of 10 % error. The observed variability did not definitively appear to be material related although some systematic trends were noted as a function of participant.
Is Intervertebral Cement Leakage a Risk Factor for New Adjacent Vertebral Collapse?
Authors: Churojana Anchalee , Songsaeng Dittapong , Khumtong Rujimas , Suwanbundit Anek , Saliou Guillaume
Published: September 2014

This retrospective study evaluated the relationship between intervertebral cement leakage and new adjacent vertebral fracture and describes the different characteristics of cement leakage.

Increased risk of new adjacent vertebral fracture (NF) has been reported to be a complication of cement leakage in vertebroplasty. In our observation, an incidental intervertebral cement leakage may occur during vertebroplasty but is commonly asymptomatic.

The study focused on osteoporotic collapse patients who had percutaneous vertebroplasty (PV) between 2005 and 2007. We divided patients into leakage and non-leakage groups and compared the incidence of NF. Leakage characteristics were divided into three types: Type I intervertebral-extradiscal leakage, Type II intradiscal leakage and Type III combined leakage. Visual analog scale for pain and the Karnofsky Performance Status at 24 h, three months, six months and one year were compared between groups and types of leakages. Among 148 PVs (102 patients) there were 30 leakages (20.27%) and 21(14.19%) NFs. The incidence of NF did not significantly differ between leakage and non-leakage groups (P<0.05). Type II was the most common type of leakage (15/30). Reduction of average pain and improvement of Karnofsky Performance Status score did not differ between groups (P<0.05). Type II had decreased pain score < type I and III at 24 h (P < 0.01), three months and six months (P < 0.1) but not at one year (P<0.10). Type II also had decreased pain score < non-leakage group only at 24 h (P<0.05).

Intervertebral cement leakage is not an increased risk for NF, influenced outcomes of pain relief or improvement of physical function. Intradiscal leakage (Type II) is the most common characteristic of cement leakage and probably related to delayed pain relief.
Retrospective Review of Procedural Parameters and Outcomes of Percutaneous Vertebroplasty in 673 Patients
Authors: Kim Benny S. , Hum Barbara , Park Jung Cheol , Choi In Sup
Published: September 2014

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is a minimally invasive procedure to treat back pain secondary to osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCF). This study aims to review our techniques and outcomes in patients with VCF.

Outcomes of all patients who underwent PVP at our institution from 1998 to 2014 were retrospectively collected from medical records and follow-up telephone interviews. 1174 PVP procedures for VCF in 673 patients were identified to have complete follow-up data. Patients with inadequate data were excluded from the analysis. Procedural aspects such as unipedicular or bipedicular access, vertebral region treated, amount of cement injected into vertebrae, number of levels treated at a single session, refracture rates and location, presence of a necrotic cavity, and pain outcomes were examined.

Excellent rates of improvement of back pain for both single level and multilevel PVP were achieved in 92% of patients. Unipedicular or bipedicular approach, cement volume, vertebral region treated, cement extravasation, and presence of a necrotic cavity did not affect pain outcomes or refracture rates. Fractures that did develop after PVP were often adjacent and occurred earlier than distant level fractures. Lumbar vertebrae required more cement than thoracic vertebrae.

PVP provides excellent rates of pain relief in both single and multilevel procedures. The procedural aspects evaluated did not affect pain outcome or refracture rates. Adjacent refractures tended to occur sooner than distant ones.
Safety of CT-Guided Lumbar Nerve Root Infiltrations Analysis of a Two-Year Period
Authors: Gossner Johannes
Published: September 2014

Selective nerve root infiltrations are frequently performed in patients with lumbar radiculopathy. Computed tomography (CT) is now commonly used for image guidance. Despite the widespread use of CT-guided lumbar nerve root infiltrations few studies have systematically examined the safety of this approach. In a two-year period, 231 lumbar nerve root infiltrations were performed on in-patients and were retrospectively reviewed. No major complications like inflammation (especially spondylodiscitis), large haematomas requiring surgery, severe allergic reactions or spinal ischaemia occurred. In accordance with other published studies, CT-guided lumbar nerve root infiltrations seem to be safe. To minimize the risk of catastrophic neurological complications due to spinal ischaemia, careful needle placement dorsal to the nerve root and the use of a non-particulate corticosteroid, like dexamethasone, are advocated.
Short-term variation in plasma mitotane levels confirms the importance of trough level monitoring
Authors: Kerkhofs T M A , Derijks L J J , Ettaieb M H T , Eekhoff E M W , Neef C , Gelderblom H , den Hartigh J , Guchelaar H J , Haak H R
Published: September 2014

Objective

Mitotane is the drug of choice in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma. The anti-neoplastic effect is correlated with mitotane plasma levels, which render it crucial to reach and maintain the concentration above 14 mg/l. However, mitotane pharmacokinetics is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the variation in plasma mitotane levels during the day and the influence of a single morning dose.

Design

A prospective case–control study was conducted to investigate the variation in plasma mitotane levels.

Methods

Patients who had been treated for at least 24 weeks and had reached the therapeutic plasma level (14 mg/l) at least once were eligible. In the first group, mitotane levels were determined hourly for the duration of 8 h after administration of a single morning dose. In the second group, mitotane levels were assessed similarly without administration of a morning dose.

Results

Ten patients were included in this study, and three patients participated in both groups. Median plasma level at baseline was 16.2 mg/l (range 11.3–23.3 mg/l) in the first group (n=7) and 17.0 mg/l (13.7–23.8) in the second group (n=6). Plasma levels displayed a median increase compared with baseline of 24% (range 6–42%) att=4 after morning dose and a change of 13% (range −14 to 33%) att=4 without morning dose (P=0.02).

Conclusion

A substantial increase in mitotane plasma levels was observed in steady-state patients within a period of 8 h after morning dosing. Without morning dose, mitotane curves showed a variable profile throughout the day. This implies that random sampling could yield incidentally high levels. For this reason, we recommend early-morning trough sampling as standard management in monitoring mitotane treatment.
Asthma and Food Allergy Management in Chicago Public Schools
Authors: Gupta Ruchi S. , Rivkina Victoria , DeSantiago-Cardenas Lilliana , Smith Bridget , Harvey-Gintoft Blair , Whyte Stephanie A.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES:

This study aimed to characterize asthma and food allergy reporting and management in Chicago Public Schools.

METHODS:

Demographic and health data for students who have asthma and food allergy were extracted from the Chicago Public Schools database. Demographic and geographic variability and the existence of school health management plans were analyzed, and multiple logistic regression models were computed. Home addresses were geocoded to create maps of case counts per community area.

RESULTS:

Approximately 18 000 asthmatic and 4000 food allergic students were identified. Of asthmatic students, 9.3% had a food allergy; of food allergic students, 40.1% had asthma. Asthma odds were significantly higher among black and Hispanic students (odds ratio [OR] = 2.3 and 1.3, respectively), whereas food allergy odds were significantly higher among black students (OR = 1.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0–1.3) and significantly lower among Hispanic students (OR = 0.8; 95% CI, 0.7–0.9). Only 24.3% of students who had asthma and 50.9% of students who had food allergy had a school health management plan on file. Odds of having a school health management plan were significantly higher among students with both conditions, but the likelihood of having a plan on file was significantly lower among racial/ethnic minority and low-income students, regardless of medical condition.

CONCLUSIONS:

Only 1 in 4 students who have asthma and half of food allergic students have health management plans in schools, with lower numbers among minority and low-income students. Improving chronic disease reporting and access to school health management plans is critical.
Sibling Bullying and Risk of Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Harm: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bowes Lucy , Wolke Dieter , Joinson Carol , Lereya Suzet Tanya , Lewis Glyn
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES:

Being the victim of peer bullying is associated with increased risk of psychopathology, yet it is not known whether similar experiences of bullying increase risk of psychiatric disorder when the perpetrator is a sibling. We tested whether being bullied by a sibling is prospectively associated with depression, anxiety, and self-harm in early adulthood.

METHODS:

We conducted a longitudinal study using data from >6900 participants of a UK community-based birth cohort (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children) who reported on sibling bullying at 12 years. Our main outcome measures were depression, anxiety, and self-harm, assessed using the Clinical Interview Schedule–Revised during clinic assessments when participants were 18.

RESULTS:

Children who were frequently bullied were approximately twice as likely to have depression (odds ratio [OR] = 2.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33–3.51; P < .001), self-harm (OR = 2.56; 95% CI, 1.63–4.02; P < .001), and anxiety (OR = 1.83; 95% CI, 1.19–2.81; P < .001) as children who were not bullied by siblings. The ORs were only slightly attenuated after adjustment for a range of confounding individual, family, and peer factors. The population-attributable fractions suggested that 13.0% (95% CI, 1.0%–24.7%) of depression and 19.3% (95% CI, 7.6%–29.6%) of self-harm could be explained by being the victim of sibling bullying if these were causal relationships.

CONCLUSIONS:

Being bullied by a sibling is a potential risk factor for depression and self-harm in early adulthood. Our results suggest that interventions designed to target sibling bullying should be devised and evaluated.