bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water surface locomotion in tropical canopy ants
Authors: Yanoviak S. P. , Frederick D. N.
Published: June 2014

Upon falling onto the water surface, most terrestrial arthropods helplessly struggle and are quickly eaten by aquatic predators. Exceptions to this outcome mostly occur among riparian taxa that escape by walking or swimming at the water surface. Here we document sustained, directional, neustonic locomotion (i.e. surface swimming) in tropical arboreal ants. We dropped 35 species of ants into natural and artificial aquatic settings in Peru and Panama to assess their swimming ability. Ten species showed directed surface swimming at speeds >3 body lengths s−1, with some swimming at absolute speeds >10 cm s−1. Ten other species exhibited partial swimming ability characterized by relatively slow but directed movement. The remaining species showed no locomotory control at the surface. The phylogenetic distribution of swimming among ant genera indicates parallel evolution and a trend toward negative association with directed aerial descent behavior. Experiments with workers of Odontomachus bauri showed that they escape from the water by directing their swimming toward dark emergent objects (i.e. skototaxis). Analyses of high-speed video images indicate that Pachycondyla spp. and O. bauri use a modified alternating tripod gait when swimming; they generate thrust at the water surface via synchronized treading and rowing motions of the contralateral fore and mid legs, respectively, while the hind legs provide roll stability. These results expand the list of facultatively neustonic terrestrial taxa to include various species of tropical arboreal ants.
Gathering Reliable Data on Malting Quality for Genetic Analysis from Barley Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Walker Cassandra , Panozzo Joe
Published: June 2014

This study applies near infrared (NIR) data for phenotyping genetic populations to determine genomic regions associated with malting quality in barley. To date, most such phenotyping has used reference testing, but this is expensive when a large number of samples must be tested. NIR is a cost-effective tool, but the precision in identifying genomic regions associated with a quality trait is dependent on the accurate collection of data. To ensure that NIR is accurate for use in genomic studies, samples from genetic populations need to be validated independently. Useful interpretive statistics for both calibration and validation data, in combination, include the standard error of prediction ( SEP), the RPD value (the standard deviation of the reference data divided by the SEP) and the coefficient of determination ( R2 and r2). The most useful of these three statistics used in this study were RPD and SEP. We demonstrated that when using NIR-predicted protein and malt extract on wholegrain barley for quantitative trait loci (QTL) analyses, an RPD value greater than 4.00 was required to ensure significant QTL were identified. We have demonstrated that NIR is an appropriate tool to phenotype barley grain for protein content and malt extract in barley mapping studies. However, when the error in the NIR data increased, and RPD values less than 4.00 were observed, which also increased the SEP values, the number of significant QTLs decreased, and the number of spurious QTLs increased.
Review: Near Infrared Spectroscopy for Analysing Olive Oils
Authors: Casale Monica , Simonetti Remo
Published: June 2014

Over the past 30 years, there has been an emphasis on the quality, safety and nutritional proprieties of food products and thus an increasing interest by food producers to reveal frauds and to assure consumers regarding the quality and provenance of their products. In particular, olive oil has become more popular as a healthy food in contrast with the rapid decrease in world demand for animal fats in all their forms. In parallel, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has emerged in the food sector as a rapid and very useful tool for such purposes as quality control, process monitoring and estimating shelf-life. Despite its widespread use in the food sector, NIR spectroscopy is not commonly applied online in the olive oil production process: the challenge for the future is the development of dedicated analytical systems and oil analysers that can be used directly and simply in olive mills in order to guarantee the quality and authenticity of olive oil, following its production from the implantation of the tree to the bottling of the oil. This review summarises findings over the last two decades in which NIR spectroscopy was used for analysing olive oils.
NIR Spectral Heritability: A Promising Tool for Wood Breeders?
Authors: Hein Paulo Ricardo Gherardi , Chaix Gilles
Published: June 2014

NIR spectroscopy has been widely used in tree-breeding programmes for selection because it is able to characterize large wood samplings rapidly and at relatively low cost. NIR spectra were recorded on various radial and longitudinal positions on the wood of 150 Eucalyptus trees. Each NIR spectrum used for analysis consisted of 280 absorption values following data reduction. The ratio between the genetic variance and phenotypic variance of the NIR absorbance values was calculated for each wavenumber producing the broad-sense NIR spectral heritability estimates. The variations in NIR spectra are thought to be related to variation in lignin and cellulose and hemicelluloses contents. The findings suggest that the variations of some specific ranges of the NIR spectra are controlled by genetic factors. Some ranges of the NIR spectra showed heritabilities greater than 50%. Thus, these variations in NIR spectra are thought to be related to variation in lignin, cellulose and hemicelluloses contents. The indirect estimates of broad-sense heritabilities from NIR spectra recorded on wood appear to be an efficient and promising way to evaluate the genetic control for many wood traits simultaneously.
Line Scan Hyperspectral Imaging Spectroscopy for the Early Detection of Melamine and Cyanuric Acid in Feed
Authors: Pierna Juan Antonio Fernandez , Vincke Damien , Dardenne Pierre , Yang Zengling , Han Lujia , Baeten Vincent
Published: June 2014

This study was aimed at exploring the feasibility of detecting and quantifying melamine, and the structural analogue cyanuric acid, contamination in soybean meal, using line-scan near infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging spectroscopy (HIS). Soybean meal is one of the main ingredients used in the feed industry because it offers a complete protein profile. Each year, demand increases for soybean products and soya oil, the consumption of which is directly boosted by Chinese consumers' growing wealth, and for soybean meal, which is indirectly affected by the growing demand for meat. Recent cases of deliberate melamine contamination of soybean meal have been reported. This study focuses on the development of a methodology based on NIR–HIS for the acquisition, treatment and interpretation of images and spectra, as well as for the detection and quantification of melamine and cyanuric acid contamination in soybean meal. A total of 40 commercial soybean meal samples were collected, and 17 adulterated samples were prepared by adding different amounts of melamine/cyanuric acid to the samples, with concentrations varying between 0.5% and 5%. The spectral data were collected using line-scan NIR–HIS, and a qualitative model was created based on a principal-component analysis (PCA), whereas partial least-squares discriminant analysis was used to obtain a discrimination model and a semi-quantitative prediction of the content of contaminant. This study has permitted the detection of low levels of melamine and also revealed some limitations for the feasibility of quantifying melamine in soybean meal.
Use of near Infrared Spectroscopy for the Identification of Coffinite and Uranothorite
Authors: Baron Fabien , Robin Valentin , Beaufort Daniel , Szenknect Stéphanie , Dacheux Nicolas , Petit Sabine
Published: June 2014

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was performed on a synthetic coffinite–uranothorite series and natural coffinite. The NIR spectra revealed a characteristic band at 1135 nm, allowing the identification of coffinite–uranothorite minerals within uranium ore environments. These minerals can be identified even in some complex mixtures (host rocks containing coffinite and several infrared reactive minerals such as clay minerals) or samples with low structural uranium amounts (e.g. Th0.8U0.2SiO4). Well-resolved on field spectra, the 1135 nm band could be used as a powerful tool for uranium ore exploration.
Accuracy of Plantar Electrodes Compared with Hand and Foot Electrodes in Fat‐free‐mass Measurement
Authors: Jaffrin Michel Y. , Bousbiat Sana
Published: June 2014

This paper investigates the measurement of fat‐free mass (FFM) by bioimpedance using foot‐to‐foot impedancemeters (FFI) with plantar electrodes measuring the foot‐to‐foot resistance R34 and hand‐to‐foot medical impedancemeters. FFM measurements were compared with corresponding data using Dual X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA). Equations giving FFM were established using linear multiple regression on DXA data in a first group of 170 subjects. For validation, these equations were used on a second group of 86 subjects, and FFM were compared with DXA data; no significant difference was observed. The same protocol was repeated, but using electrodes on the right hand and foot in standing position to measure the hand to‐foot resistance R13. Mean differences with DXA were higher for R13 than for R34. Effect of electrode size and feet position on resistance was also investigated. R34 decreased when electrode area increased or if feet were moved forward. It decreased if feet were moved backward. A proper configuration of contact electrodes can improve measurement accuracy and reproducibility of FFI.
PM2: A Partitioning‐Mining‐Measuring Method for Identifying Progressive Changes in Older Adults’ Sleeping Activity
Authors: Lin Qiang , Zhang Daqing , Connelly Kay , Zhou Xingshe , Ni Hongbo
Published: June 2014

As people age, their health typically declines, resulting in difficulty in performing daily activities. Sleep‐related problems are common issues with older adults, including shifts in circadian rhythms. A detection method is proposed to identify progressive changes in sleeping activity using a three‐step process: partitioning, mining, and measuring. Specifically, the original spatiotemporal representation of each sleeping activity instance was first transformed into a sequence of equal‐sized segments, or symbols, via a partitioning process. A data‐mining‐based algorithm was proposed to find symbols that are not present in all instances of a sleeping activity. Finally, a measuring process was responsible for evaluating the changes in these symbols. Experimental evaluation conducted on a group of datasets of older adults showed that the proposed method is able to identify progressive changes in sleeping activity.
Energy Performance of Medium‐sized Healthcare Buildings in Victoria, Australia‐ A Case Study
Authors: Rajagopalan Priyadarsini , Elkadi Hisham
Published: June 2014

This paper investigates the energy performance of three medium‐sized healthcare buildings in Victoria, Australia, that operate only during the daytime. The aim is to provide preliminary understanding of energy consumption in this particular typology in Australia in relation to the available benchmarks. This paper also identifies the differences of energy consumption between different functional areas within medium health facilities. Building features and operational characteristics contributing to the variations in healthcare energy performance are discussed. The total annual energy consumption data ranging from 167‐306 kWh/m2 or 42‐72 kWh/m3 were compared against international data from various climatic zones. Some of the drivers of energy consumption were determined and potentials for energy and water conservation were identified. Comparison with international standards shows a possibility to achieve lower energy consumption in Victorian healthcare buildings.
Coaching to promote professional development in nursing practice
Authors: Narayanasamy Aru , Penney Vivian
Published: June 2014

This article presents coaching, which facilitates the highest form of learning, as a potential strategy for promoting professional development in nursing. In doing so, it sets out what coaching is and highlights its benefits in terms of team building, adaptation to changes, career planning and professional development. Having established the rudiments of coaching and identifying its qualities, the article then sets out strategies of coaching using three models: the 3-D Technique Model, The Practice Spiral Model and The Grow Model. Three case histories are presented to explain how these models could be used to implement coaching and personal learning plans (PLP). Directions are provided where training for coaching is available. It is concluded that coaching can be a powerful tool in enhancing nurses' and other health professionals' ability to contribute to the success of healthcare organisations.
Effectiveness of alcohol brief interventions in general practice
Authors: Clossick Emma , Woodward Sue
Published: June 2014

Harmful levels of alcohol consumption are a longstanding but continually growing health concern affecting individuals, and consequently populations. Through personalised advice, alcohol brief interventions (ABIs) target drinking habits, which are deemed damaging to health. They are not targeted at dependent drinkers for whom a more intensive and specialist service would be better suited. In response to recent shifts in public-health strategy away from ABIs, and the publication of new trials into their effectiveness, this article evaluates the value of ABIs through the review of eleven relevant studies. Findings suggest that hazardous drinkers did reduce their drinking patterns following ABI, but not more so than control participants who were given standard treatment. The evolution of standard treatment to include thorough screening, non-personalised advice and sometimes literature on alcohol intake delivers an intervention, that is effective in reducing drinking. Therefore, future research and practice should focus on screening methods and quality of standard care rather than on brief interventions.
Fingolimod for multiple sclerosis: a review for the specialist nurse
Authors: Harrison Kitty
Published: June 2014

The availability of treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) has increased substantially over the past decade. Once-daily fingolimod 0.5 mg capsules (Gilenya, Novartis Pharma) were approved in the European Union in March 2011 as the first oral disease-modifying therapy for patients with relapsing MS. This review summarises the efficacy and safety of fingolimod, and discusses practical considerations for MS specialist nurses. Fingolimod has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of relapsing–remitting MS, as assessed by relapse measures, inflammatory disease activity and brain volume loss. Evaluation of its safety profile suggests a need for monitoring procedures for specific adverse events, including transient, mostly asymptomatic, reductions in heart rate, blood pressure increases, macular oedema and liver enzyme elevations. The MS nurse is likely to be involved in monitoring treatment initiation, providing support in the case of adverse events and promoting patient adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen.
The use of Surgihoney to prevent or eradicate bacterial colonisation in dressing oncology long vascular lines
Authors: Dryden M. , Tawse C. , Adams J. , Howard A. , Saeed K. , Cooke J.
Published: June 2014

Objective:

A pilot evaluation was performed to assess the effects of Surgihoney, an engineered honey with highly active antimicrobial activity, on bacterial colonisation in long lines in oncology patients.

Method:

This prospective service evaluation was conducted at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (HHFT) in England, UK, between 2012 and 2013. The study population consisted of oncology patients with central intravenous lines who were receiving outpatient chemotherapy. All patients were offered line dressing with or without Surgihoney, applied to the line exit site.

Results:

The primary outcome measure of the study was the presence or absence of bacterial colonisation of the line site. There were 30 patients in each arm – with or without Surgihoney. In the Surgihoney arm, 2 patients with existing line site colonisation were cleared of bacterial colonisation and none acquired colonisation during the study period. In the non-treatment arm, 6 patients were colonised at the line site prior to screening or during the evaluation. Bacterial colonisation was maintained throughout the period.

Conclusion:

Surgihoney is an effective antimicrobial line-site dressing, significantly reducing line site colonisation and eradicating existing colonisation. It was well tolerated by the patients.

Declaration of interest:

Surgihoney supplies were donated by Healing Honey International (HHI) who also provided some funding to Hampshire Hospitals Foundation Trust for microbiological investigation. MD and JC have provided clinical advice in an advisory capacity to HHI.
Readers respond
Authors: Leiba Tony
Published: June 2014

Fighting against the workplace terrorists
Playing with numbers
Authors: Aitken Elizabeth
Published: June 2014

Continuing our series giving ideas to develop thinking skills across the currriculum, these versatile games will help improve children's mathematical problem-solving.
Score goals with science
Authors: Keeling Anne
Published: June 2014

The World Cup taking place in Brazil in June is a great starting point for investigations that explore forces, properties of materials, the human body and staying healthy.
Volunteers in British mountain rescue: responding to increasing demand for rescues and a changed relationship with the state
Authors: Nichols Geoffrey , Goel Rohan , Nichols Tom , Jones Will
Published: June 2014

Mountain rescue (MR) teams in Britain are run entirely by volunteers. The number of MR callouts has increased, partly because teams are increasingly being used by the police in searches for missing people in non-mountainous areas. Most MR teams feel they are coping with the increased demand although some are becoming selective about which call-outs they respond to. A survey of MR team members and potential recruits reveals a mismatch between potential members’ expectation of being engaged in MR and the reality of the increased work supporting non-mountain incidents. This illustrates a potential strain in the motivations of volunteers being used to deliver public services. This article explores how this is particular to the type of volunteering involved in MR, how teams have coped with the increased demand and how the increased use of MR teams is partly a response to changed police management practices.
Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution TOF Analysis: Investigation of MSE for Broad-Spectrum Drug Screening
Authors: Chindarkar Nandkishor S , Wakefield Michael R , Stone Judith A , Fitzgerald Robert L
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

High-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) has the potential to supplement other drug screening platforms used in toxicology laboratories. HRMS offers high analytical specificity, which can be further enhanced by incorporating a fragment ion for each analyte. The ability to obtain precursor ions and fragment ions using elevated collision energies (MSE) can help improve the specificity of HRMS methods.

METHODS

We developed a broad-spectrum screening method on an ultraperformance liquid chromatography TOF mass spectrometer (UPLC-TOF-MS) using the MSE mode. A diverse set of patient samples were subjected to a simple dilute, hydrolyze, and shoot protocol and analyzed in a blind manner. Data were processed with 3 sets of criteria with increasing stringency, and the results were compared with the reference laboratory results.

RESULTS

A combination of retention time match (±0.2 min), a protonated analyte, and fragment ion mass accuracy of ±5 ppm produced zero false-positive results. Using these criteria, we confirmed 92% (253/275) of true positives. The positive confirmation rate increased to 98% (270/275) when the requirement for a fragment ion was dropped, but also produced 53 false positives. A total of 136 additional positive drug findings not identified by the reference methods were identified with the UPLC-TOF-MS.

CONCLUSIONS

MSE provides a unique way to incorporate fragment ion information without the need of precursor ion selection. A primary limitation of requiring a fragment ion for positive identification was that certain drug classes required high-energy collisions, which formed many fragment ions of low abundance that were not readily detected.
Serializing imports and importing series: France and foreign mass-produced fiction
Authors: Letourneux Matthieu
Published: June 2014

The question of the circulation of imaginaries is crucial for anyone interested in serial fiction texts, where the reception of the work is mediated by a broader series of which the text forms a part and with which it enters into a dialogue. Serial literature circulates globally, drawing a complex geography of imaginaries, literary currents and aesthetics that we can only map out by understanding the different flows, zones of influence and periodicities at work in the devising of international imaginaries. The texts do not exist in isolation: they are written as part of a dialogue with other texts and aesthetics, which do not stop at the borders of a single country, so much so that the study of the circulation of texts sometimes appears to matter more than approaches focusing on the text in itself. The globalization of imaginaries thus appears as a dialogue between local mechanisms and imported forms, according to a game of resistance, assimilation and reconfiguration. It is useful in such cases to look at such mechanisms at work within the creation of a series, while taking into account the architextual heritage and the logics associated with the culture industries and with the local structure of the media.
Transnational connections in European crime film series (1908–1914)
Authors: Pagello Federico
Published: June 2014

This article addresses the issue of ‘European popular cinema’ by discussing a very specific phenomenon, i.e. the crime series produced in the years immediately preceding World War I (e.g. Victorin Jasset’s Nick Carter, Viggo Larsen’s Arsène Lupin contra Sherlock, Ubaldo Maria del Colle’s Raffles, il ladro misterioso, Louis Feuillade’s Fantômas, George Pearson’s Ultus). On the one hand, the transnational circulation of these films is seen as the result of the development of the European cultural industries since the late nineteenth century; on the other hand, the rapid decline of this genre testifies of the historical peculiarity of this production. In particular, the popular heroic figure of the ‘gentleman thief’ seems to express at the same time the liberating, anti-hierarchial ethos of modernization and the dream of a quiet conciliation of the new and the traditional values: as a consequence, it might be regarded as a telling example of the economical, social and ideological transformations of that crucial phase in European history, when the development of the second industrial revolution and the first phase of ‘globalization’ pointed at the birth of a supranational sphere before the outbreak of World War I, which would temporarily stop this process.
The meaning of intonation in yes-no questions in American English: A corpus study
Authors: Hedberg Nancy , Sosa Juan M. , Görgülü Emrah
Published: June 2014

In order to investigate the distinct nuances of meaning conveyed by the different intonational contours encountered in yes-no questions in English, we conducted a corpus study of the intonation of 410 naturally occurring spoken interrogative-form yes-no questions in American English. First we annotated the intonation of each question using ToBI and then examined the meaning of each utterance in the context. We found that the low-rise nuclear contour (e.g., L*H-H%) is the unmarked question contour and is by far the most frequently occurring. Yes-no questions with falling intonation (e.g. H*L-L%) do not occur frequently, but when they do, they can be classified in speech act terms as “non-genuine” questions, where one or more felicity conditions on genuine questions are not met. Level questions (e.g., L*H-L%) tend to be “stylized” in meaning and pattern with falling questions in being non-genuine. We also found that the pitch accent on high-rise questions (e.g., H*H-H%), where the final pitch contour starts high and ends higher, tends to mark information that is given in the discourse or a function word. These are syllables that would normally remain unaccented parts of the post-nuclear “tail” of the intonation phrase. This leads us to propose that many such accents are “post-nuclear accents” in the sense of Ladd 2008.
The p-parity conjecture for elliptic curves with a p-isogeny
Authors: Česnavičius Kęstutis
Published: June 2014

For an elliptic curve E over a number field K, one consequence of the Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture is the parity conjecture: the global root number matches the parity of the Mordell–Weil rank. Assuming finiteness of

Ш
⁢

(

E
/
K

)

⁢

[

p
∞

]

${\Sha(E/K)[p^{\infty}]}$

for a prime p this is equivalent to the p-parity conjecture: the global root number matches the parity of the

ℤ
p

${\mathbb{Z}_{p}}$

-corank of the

p
∞

${p^{\infty}}$

-Selmer group. We complete the proof of the p-parity conjecture for elliptic curves that have a p-isogeny for

p
>
3

${p>3}$

(the cases

p
≤
3

${p\leq 3}$

were known). Tim and Vladimir Dokchitser have showed this in the case when E has semistable reduction at all places above p by establishing respective cases of a conjectural formula for the local root number. We remove the restrictions on reduction types by proving their formula in the remaining cases. We apply our result to show that the p-parity conjecture holds for every E with complex multiplication defined over K. Consequently, if for such an elliptic curve

Ш
⁢

(

E
/
K

)

⁢

[

p
∞

]

${\Sha(E/K)[p^{\infty}]}$

is infinite, it must contain

(

ℚ
p

/

ℤ
p

)

2

${(\mathbb{Q}_{p}/\mathbb{Z}_{p})^{2}}$

.
Towards quantum-resistant cryptosystems from supersingular elliptic curve isogenies
Authors: De Feo Luca , Jao David , Plût Jérôme
Published: June 2014

We present new candidates for quantum-resistant public-key
cryptosystems based on the conjectured difficulty of finding isogenies
between supersingular elliptic curves. The main technical idea in our
scheme is that we transmit the images of torsion bases under the isogeny
in order to allow the parties to construct a shared commutative square
despite the non-commutativity of the endomorphism ring.
We give a precise formulation of the necessary computational assumptions
along with a discussion of their validity, and prove the
security of our
protocols under these assumptions. In addition, we present implementation
results showing that our protocols are multiple orders of magnitude faster
than previous isogeny-based cryptosystems over ordinary curves.
This paper is an extended version of
[Lecture Notes in Comput. Sci. 7071, Springer (2011), 19–34].
We add a new zero-knowledge identification scheme and detailed security proofs for
the protocols. We also present a new, asymptotically faster, algorithm
for key generation, a thorough study of its optimization, and new
experimental data.
A review of potable water accessibility and sustainability issues in developing countries – case study of Uganda
Authors: Nayebare Shedrack R. , Wilson Lloyd R. , Carpenter David O. , Dziewulski David M. , Kannan Kurunthachalam
Published: June 2014

Providing sources of sustainable and quality potable water in Uganda is a significant public health issue. This project aimed at identifying and prioritizing possible actions on how sustainable high quality potable water in Uganda’s water supply systems could be achieved. In that respect, a review of both the current water supply systems and government programs on drinking water in Uganda was completed. Aspects of quantity, quality, treatment methods, infrastructure, storage and distribution of water for different water systems were evaluated and compared with the existing water supply systems in the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean, for purposes of generating feasible recommendations and opportunities for improvement. Uganda utilizes surface water, groundwater, and rainwater sources for consumption. Surface water covers 15.4% of the land area and serves both urban and rural populations. Lake Victoria contributes about 85% of the total fresh surface water. Potable water quality is negatively affected by the following factors: disposal of sewage and industrial effluents, agricultural pesticides and fertilizers, and surface run-offs during heavy rains. The total renewable groundwater resources in Uganda are estimated to be 29 million m
Validation of a Video Analysis Software Package for Quantifying Movement Velocity in Resistance Exercises
Authors: Sañudo Borja , Rueda David , Pozo-Cruz Borja del , de Hoyo Moisés , Carrasco Luis
Published: June 2014

Sañudo, B, Rueda, D, del Pozo-Cruz, B, de Hoyo, M, and Carrasco, L. Validation of a video analysis software package for quantifying movement velocity in resistance exercises. J Strength Cond Res 30(10): 2934–2941, 2016—The aim of this study was to establish the validity of a video analysis software package in measuring mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and the maximal velocity during bench press. Twenty-one healthy males (21 ± 1 year) with weight training experience were recruited, and the MPV and the maximal velocity of the concentric phase (Vmax) were compared with a linear position transducer system during a standard bench press exercise. Participants performed a 1 repetition maximum test using the supine bench press exercise. The testing procedures involved the simultaneous assessment of bench press propulsive velocity using 2 kinematic (linear position transducer and semi-automated tracking software) systems. High Pearson's correlation coefficients for MPV and Vmax between both devices (r = 0.473 to 0.993) were observed. The intraclass correlation coefficients for barbell velocity data and the kinematic data obtained from video analysis were high (>0.79). In addition, the low coefficients of variation indicate that measurements had low variability. Finally, Bland-Altman plots with the limits of agreement of the MPV and Vmax with different loads showed a negative trend, which indicated that the video analysis had higher values than the linear transducer. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated that the software used for the video analysis was an easy to use and cost-effective tool with a very high degree of concurrent validity. This software can be used to evaluate changes in velocity of training load in resistance training, which may be important for the prescription and monitoring of training programmes.
The Taiwan Dilemma in Chinese Nationalism
Authors: Ohlendorf Hardina
Published: June 2014

Chinese Taiwan Studies faces a dilemma: By treating Taiwan as an autonomous research subject, Taiwan Studies indirectly questions the rationale for China's reunification. Yet, by emphasizing the commonalities between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland, Taiwan Studies justifies the island's subversive role as an agent of democratization on the mainland.
Taiwan and the Rising Tensions in the East China Sea
Authors: Hickey Dennis V.
Published: June 2014

This study examines Taiwan’s policy toward the territorial dispute in the East China Sea and explains why it has yielded some dividends. The paper suggests that Taipei’s diplomatic initiative—the East China Sea Peace Initiative—is the most sensible proposal advanced to reduce the potential for conflict in the region.
Local Levels of Participation in Japan's Foreign Aid and Cooperation
Authors: Takao Yasuo
Published: June 2014

This study will examine the determinants of local Japanese government involvement in decentralized international cooperation by taking an actor-specific approach to three outstanding cases: Shiga Prefecture, Kitakyushu City, and Yokohama City. It will look beneath the aggregate relationships to more qualitative evidence of localized motives for Japanese cooperation with developing countries.
Australia, China, and the U.S. in an Era of Interdependence
Authors: Beeson Mark , Wang Yong
Published: June 2014

Tensions in the Asia-Pacific region are rising as a consequence of the U.S. “pivot” to Asia and China’s increasingly assertive foreign policy. Other states in the region must try to reconcile potentially conflicting economic and strategic imperatives as a consequence. Australia illustrates these dilemmas. We ask what role regional institutions can play.
Chief Resource Management Officer
Authors: Mueller Ellen
Published: June 2014

This series of videos, Chief Resource Management Officer, decontextualizes and amplifies mundane tasks and actions, exposing an inherent absurdity and dry humor. Conceptually and visually, I engage themes of corporate management structures, cult dynamics, and Sisyphean tasks. Within this work, I am primarily interested in developing situations that disrupt familiar social and political hierarchies. Utilizing recognizable apparel and gestures, I playfully occupy the threshold of absurdity while asking questions about time, value, routines, and the monetization of work and/or presence.
Threshold/Medium
Authors: LeVan Michael
Published: June 2014

This essay considers threshold phenomena as mediums—that is, as technical support—for expression. For illustration, I discuss Shelley Hirsch’s live vocal interpretation of Christian Marclay’s Manga Scroll, a landscape-like musical score composed of onomatopoeias taken from Japanese comics. Hirsch’s performance of threshold enacts expression as a new milieu of experience. Attending to threshold phenomena can show points of contact among mediums and forms of technical support to see how modes of expression fold, unfold, merge, and emerge.
Zones of Immanence
Authors: LeVan Michael
Published: June 2014

This is a photo essay about the quivering immanence of thresholds.
Insulators recruit histone methyltransferase dMes4 to regulate chromatin of flanking genes
Authors: Lhoumaud Priscillia , Hennion Magali , Gamot Adrien , Cuddapah Suresh , Queille Sophie , Liang Jun , Micas Gael , Morillon Pauline , Urbach Serge , Bouchez Olivier , Severac Dany , Emberly Eldon , Zhao Keji , Cuvier Olivier
Published: June 2014

Chromosomal domains in Drosophila are marked by the insulator‐binding proteins (IBPs) dCTCF/Beaf32 and cofactors that participate in regulating long‐range interactions. Chromosomal borders are further enriched in specific histone modifications, yet the role of histone modifiers and nucleosome dynamics in this context remains largely unknown. Here, we show that IBP depletion impairs nucleosome dynamics specifically at the promoters and coding sequence of genes flanked by IBP binding sites. Biochemical purification identifies the H3K36 histone methyltransferase NSD/dMes‐4 as a novel IBP cofactor, which specifically co‐regulates the chromatin accessibility of hundreds of genes flanked by dCTCF/Beaf32. NSD/dMes‐4 presets chromatin before the recruitment of transcriptional activators including DREF that triggers Set2/Hypb‐dependent H3K36 trimethylation, nucleosome positioning, and RNA splicing. Our results unveil a model for how IBPs regulate nucleosome dynamics and gene expression through NSD/dMes‐4, which may regulate H3K27me3 spreading. Our data uncover how IBPs dynamically regulate chromatin organization depending on distinct cofactors.
Special aspects of breast cancer surgery in the elderly
Authors: Mátrai Zoltán , Polgár Csaba , Kovács Eszter , Bartal Alexandra , Rubovszky Gábor , Gulyás Gusztáv
Published: June 2014

Due to the aging population of Western countries and the high-quality health care system, breast cancer in the eldelry generally affects women of good or satisfactory performance status pursuing active lifestyle. Over the last decade, it became evident that, in contrast to previous dogmas, age alone cannot be the contraindication to standard oncological treatment, and adequate multidisciplinary therapy aiming full recovery rather than compromise treatment is required. A number of specific aspects needs to be taken into account regarding surgery, such as life expectancy, co-morbidities, individual mobility, mental and emotional status as well as family background, which may result in changes to the individual treatment plan. Objective evaluation of the above mentioned parameters necessitates a close co-operation of professions. Interestingly, the evidence-based protocols of modern oncology often originate from the generalizations of results from clinical trials representing younger population, due to the typical underrepresentation of elderly patients in clinical studies. Clinical trials should be extended to elderly patients as well or should specifically aim this patient population. The authors of the present paper review the special oncological and reconstructive surgical aspects of breast cancer in the elderly, such as breast conserving surgery versus mastectomia, sentinel lymph node biopsy, axillary lymphadenectomy or the omission of surgery in axillary staging, and questions regarding implant based and autologous reconstructive techniques. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(24), 931–938.
Psychological and biological background of the interaction between psoriasis and stress
Authors: Kálmán L. János , Gonda Xénia , Kemény Lajos , Rihmer Zoltán , Janka Zoltán
Published: June 2014

Stress is considered as a major contributor to the development and exacerbation of psoriasis by a significant proportion of patients and dermatologists. As both stressor and its effects are subject-dependent, thus extremely difficult to measure, our understanding of the exact role of stress in disease development was limited for a long time. In the past decade several new studies were carried out which expanded our knowledge on the pathophysiologic processes linking stress to psoriasis via with their objective measurements and the applied new techniques. The authors review the current literature of both psychological (alexithymia, personality, affect) and biological (cortisol, epinephrine, neurogenic inflammation) factors influencing stress perception and response in psoriasis. Results of recent investigations support previous reports about the interaction between stress and psoriasis with objective evidence. Knowing how effective stress-reducing psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions are in the treatment of psoriasis the authors hope that this review contributes to a wider acceptance of the psychosomatic attitude in everyday dermatologic practice. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(24), 939–948.
Birth weight of Roma neonates: biomedical and socioeconomic factors in Hungary
Authors: Balázs Péter , Fogarasi-Grenczer Andrea , Rákóczi Ildikó , Foley Kristie L.
Published: June 2014

Introduction: The last Hungarian study on birth weight of Roma neonates published in 1991 indicated –377 gram crude difference as compared to the general population. Exploration of this complex problem requires more sophisticated, multifactorial linear regression analysis. Aim: To compare Roma and non-Roma maternal and neonatal populations using biomedical and socioeconomic variables focusing on differences in the birth weight of the neonates. Method: Data collection with self-identified ethnicity was performed between 2009 and 2012 in five north and eastern counties of Hungary. The authors used the IBM-SPSS v.22 program for Chi-square and t-probe and linear regression analysis. Results: In the sample of Roma (n = 3103) and non-Roma (n = 8918) populations there was a disadvantage in birth weight in Roma neonates by 294 gram in crude terms, but the linear regression model reduced it to 92 gram by the ethnic variable. Conclusions: Biological (genetic) impact on the weight difference cannot be excluded, however, the multifactorial statistical analysis indicates the priority of socioeconomic factors and behavioural patterns. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(24), 954–962.
The effect of Kaqun-water on the immune parameters of healthy volunteers
Authors: Biró Anna , Tompa Anna
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Kaqun-water contains a high amount of stable oxygen, which absorbed through the skin and intestinal tract, increases tissue oxygenation. Aim: The aim of the authors was to evaluate the effect of 21 days of Kaqun-water treatment on the immune parameters of healthy volunteers. Method: Subpopulations of lymphocytes were determined by immune phenotyping, and CD25 and CD71 activation antigens were used to assess lymphocyte activation. Production of reactive oxygen intermediates was measured to determine the killing capacity of neutrophil granulocytes. Data was analysed with repeated measures ANOVA. Results: The reactive oxygen intermediate production of neutrophils increased significantly in stimulated samples during three weeks of Kaqun-water treatment. The percent of activated, CD25 positive T and helper T cells, and the ratio of NK cells increased. Conclusions: The increase in oxygen concentration caused by Kaqun-water treatment affects several immune functions: the killing potential of neurophil granulocytes is enhanced, the activation of lymphocytes shows an increased activity of immune function, and the elevated ratio of NK cells may help combat virally infected and tumorous cells. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(24), 949–953.
Effect of strain on Ni-(GeSn)x contact formation to GeSn nanowires
Authors: Noroozi M. , Moeen M. , Abedin A. , Toprak M. S. , Radamson H. H.
Published: June 2014

In this study, the formation of Ni-(GeSn)x on strained and relaxed Ge1−xSnx (0.01≤x≤ 0.03) nanowires in contact areas has been investigated. The epi-layers were grown at different temperatures (290 to 380°C) by RPCVD technique. The strain in GeSn layers tailored through carefully chosen of growth parameters and virtual substrate. The nanowires were fabricated through both I-line and dry-etching. 15 nm Ni was deposited either on the contact areas or whole length of nanowires. The wires went through rapid thermal annealing at intervals of 360 to 550°C for 30s in N2 ambient. The results show the thermal stability and amount of particular phases were strain-dependent. The formation of Ni-GeSn was eased when GeSn layers were strain-free. When the Sn content is high the epi-layers suffer from Sn segregation. The Sn-rich surface impedes remarkably the Ni diffusion. The electrical conductivity measurement of nanowires shows low resistivity and Ohmic contact are obtained for Ni-GeSn.
Direct Observation of Stacking Fault Nucleation from Deflected Threading Dislocations with Burgers Vector c+a in PVT Grown 4H-SiC
Authors: Wu Fangzhen , Wang Huanhuan , Raghothamachar Balaji , Dudley Michael , Mueller Stephan G. , Chung Gil , Sanchez Edward K. , Hansen Darren , Loboda Mark J.
Published: June 2014

In our previous studies [1-3], four kinds of stacking faults in 4H-SiC bulk crystal have been distinguished based on their contrast behavior differences in synchrotron white beam x-ray topography images. These faults are Shockley faults, Frank faults, Shockley plus c/2 Frank faults, and Shockley plus c/4 Frank faults. Our proposed formation mechanisms for these stacking faults involve the overgrowth of the surface outcrop associated with threading screw dislocations (TSDs) or threading mixed dislocations (TMDs) with Burgers vector of c+a by macrosteps and the consequent deflection of TSDs or TMDs onto the basal plane. Previous synchrotron x-ray topography observations were made in offcut basal wafers using transmission geometry. In this paper, further evidence is reported to confirm the proposed stacking fault formation mechanism. Observations are made in axially cut slices with surface plane {11-20}. Several kinds of stacking faults are recognized and their contrast behavior agrees with the four kinds previously reported. Direct observation is obtained of a Shockley plus c/4 Frank stacking fault nucleating from a TMD deflected onto the basal plane. The contrast from stacking faults on the basal plane in the axial slices is enhanced by recording images after rotating the crystal about the active -1010 reflection vector enabling a broader projection of the basal plane.
In-situ real-time x-ray scattering for probing the processing-structure-performance relation
Authors: Smilgies Detlef-M.
Published: June 2014

In-situ x-ray scattering methodology is discussed, in order to analyze the microstructure development of soft functional materials during coating, annealing, and drying processes in real-time. The relevance of a fundamental understanding of coating processes for future industrial production is pointed out.
Crise financeira: o caso japonês
Authors: Fraga Jefferson Souza , Strachman Eduardo
Published: June 2014

Analisar a experiência do Japão, após os colapsos das bolhas especulativas dos ativos e a crise bancária no país, na década de 1990, é o objetivo do presente trabalho. Analisa-se a eficácia das políticas fiscais e monetárias adotadas e discutem-se as medidas tomadas com relação ao setor bancário. A experiência da crise financeira japonesa sugere que a natureza, a velocidade e a ordem em que o poder público implementa medidas podem determinar a magnitude e o custo da crise. Portanto, em retrospectiva, percebe-se que era necessário realizar as seguintes tarefas: 1) recapitalizar o setor bancário; 2) restaurar o crédito; e 3) revigorar a atividade econômica, por meio de medidas fiscais adequadas.
Uma investigação e aplicação das novas medidas de alfabetização no Brasil
Authors: Ribeiro Felipe Garcia , Souza André Portela Fernandes de
Published: June 2014

Este trabalho objetiva investigar o analfabetismo no Brasil com base no uso de medidas que utilizam os conceitos de externalidades da alfabetização e analfabetismo isolado. Entende-se por "analfabetos isolados" aqueles indivíduos analfabetos que não convivem com pessoas alfabetizadas. Para tanto, avalia-se o perfil de alfabetização da população brasileira com esses conceitos e aplicam-se as principais medidas de alfabetização desenvolvidas recentemente. Da investigação do perfil de alfabetização no país, constata-se ser a região Nordeste a que apresenta os piores resultados entre as demais, uma vez que é a que tem a maior parcela de analfabetos isolados do total. Além disso, a proporção de pessoas que residem em arranjos domiciliares com chefes solteiros, sem filhos e sem outros parentes é fortemente associada às variações nos rankings das diferentes medidas de alfabetização dos municípios do Nordeste.