bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incident investigation in Pakistan's fertilizer industry—Common safety management system failures and issues
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Imran , Ramzan Naveed , Almas Qandeel
Published: January 2014

The learning from operational incidents plays a key role in improving the performance and safety of the chemical process plants. In this article, the incidents occurred during January 2011 to April 2012 in different sections, that is, Ammonia, Urea, and Utility Units of fertilizer sector in Pakistan have been analyzed using Why Tree analysis. The aim is to identify the failures in the safety management system to prevent the incidents. One thousand and fifteen, root and contributing causes identified in investigations strongly assert that improvement in safety management systems could have prevented or mitigated the intensity of many of the occurred incidents/accidents. The flaws in mechanical integrity, maintenance procedures and operating procedures, and job risk assessment are the most common recurrent as root cause failures of safety management system. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 33: 399–404, 2014
Structural order in single Co‐implanted ZnO nanowires
Authors: Chu M. H. , Martínez‐Criado G. , Segura‐Ruiz J. , Geburt S. , Ronning C.
Published: January 2014

In this work, we report on the short and long range order of single room temperature‐implanted and high temperature‐implanted Co:ZnO nanowires using hard X‐ray nanoprobe‐based techniques. X‐ray fluorescence maps reveal a homogeneous distribution of the Co ions implanted along the nanowires. X‐ray absorption near edge structure data indicate a substitutional incorporation of Co2+ into the wurtzite ZnO host lattice. The room temperature‐implanted nanowires present a higher structural disorder around Co atoms compared to the high temperature‐implanted ones. X‐ray diffraction results show a crystal lattice expansion induced by the ion implantation process in the room temperature‐implanted nanowires. Micro‐photoluminescence data corroborate these findings and exhibit an excellent optical activation of the incorporated Co ions in the high temperature‐implanted nanowires.
Reduction of threading dislocation by recoating GaN island surface with SiN for high‐efficiency GaN‐on‐Si‐based LED
Authors: Hikosaka Toshiki , Yoshida Hisashi , Sugiyama Naoharu , Nunoue Shinya
Published: January 2014

We have demonstrated low‐threading‐dislocation‐density (low‐TDD) GaN grown on Si substrate using the technique of multiple modulation of dislocation behavior that combines GaN island formation on SiN interlayer with recoating GaN island surface with SiN cap layer. TEM analysis showed the dislocation bending and/or blocking is brought about at the surface of GaN islands by recoating GaN island surface with SiN cap layer. TDD was found to be as low as 2.6×108/cm2 with FWHMs of 289 and 256 arcsec for (0002) and (10–12) X‐ray rocking curves (XRCs), respectively, which is a value comparable to that for GaN grown on a sapphire substrate. By reducing TDD, the light output power at 20 mA (12.5 A/cm2) was enhanced by a factor of 1.5 and the maximum EQE increased up to 59% for the blue LED. This result indicates that the reduction of TDD is an effective approach for obtaining the high‐efficiency GaN‐on‐Si‐based LED. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Transmission electron microscopy of indium gallium nitride nanorods grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Webster Richard F. , Cherns David , Novikov Sergei V. , Foxon C. Thomas
Published: January 2014

This paper demonstrates the growth of InGaN nanorods and lateral growth over nanorod arrays using molecular beam epitaxy. It is shown that nitrogen rich growth conditions result in a nanorod array and that, by changing to metal rich conditions, lateral growth may be enhanced to coalesce the nanorods into a continuous overgrown film. Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy has been used to demonstrate that the nanorods display a core‐shell structure with In‐rich cores and In‐poor edges. Transmission Electron Microscopy has shown that the nanorods are free of dislocations. However, when lateral growth occurs basal plane stacking faults are generated. It is shown that this stacking fault generation leads to a change in structure from hexagonal to cubic. When coalescence has occurred large angle grain boundaries are present. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
InGaN doping for high carrier concentration in plasma‐assisted molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Gherasoiu Iulian , Yu Kin Man , Reichertz Lothar A. , Walukiewicz Wladek
Published: January 2014

Magnesium is the only known effective p‐type dopant for nitride semiconductors. Although the p‐doping is challenging for AlN and GaN, requiring the activation of the Mg acceptors, in the case of the MOCVD growth, methods for obtaining reliable and high level doping have been developed. Similarly for n‐type doping silicon has been used successfully for more than a decade. More recently germanium has been found to be as effective for n‐type doping, with the additional advantage of inducing less strain in the host lattice due its size similarity to gallium. Doping of InGaN is more challenging due the difficulty in controlling the donor background associated with material extended defects and the incorporation of impurities. Although successful p‐type doping of InGaN with Mg has been demonstrated, quantitative limits for the magnesium incorporation and its behavior have not been analyzed. In this paper we investigate both, Mg and Ge doping of InGaN. We also discuss the challenges posed by the growth and measurement of the InGaN pn‐junctions characteristics as well as we demonstrate the fabrication of large area long wavelength LEDs on silicon (111) by PA‐MBE. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Surface stability of n‐type GaN depending on carrier concentration and electrolytes under photoelectrochemical reactions
Authors: Koike Kayo , Nakamura Akihiro , Sugiyama Masakazu , Nakano Yoshiaki , Fujii Katsushi
Published: January 2014

Photoelectrochemical properties and stabilities of n‐type GaN dependent on the carrier concentration and electrolytes were investigated. Flatband potential obtained from Mott‐Schottky plot shifted to positive direction with lowering the carrier concentration. The GaN surface morphologies after the reaction with H2SO4 were changed to rough. In contrast, the surface morphologies were not much changed and were mirror like for the case of NaOH electrolytes. These results show the GaN surface absorbed materials during the photoelectrochemical reactions were changed by the electrolyte and carrier concentration. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Wafer curvature, temperature inhomogeneity, plastic deformation and their impact on the properties of GaN on silicon power and opto‐electronic structures
Authors: Schulz Oliver , Dadgar Armin , Hennig Jonas , Krumm Oliver , Fritze Stephanie , Bläsing Jürgen , Witte Hartmut , Diez Annette , Krost Alois
Published: January 2014

A high device production yield requires accurate strain engineering during the epitaxial growth by different reasons. The maximum usable wafer area for subsequent processing is reached for zero curvature at room temperature. Besides this production process fact, the homogeneity of the growth demands a constant growth regime across the whole wafer, especially for ternary or quaternary compounds. Due to the dominant mismatch of the thermal expansion, these factors are of special importance for the growth of GaN devices on Silicon wafers. This work presents a step‐by‐step analysis of the correlation between in‐situ growth monitoring results (temperature, growth rate, and curvature) and the layer properties of power‐ and opto‐electronic device structures. Several methods as XRD, PL and electrical measurements are used to prove this relationship. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The not‐so‐lazy days of summer: Experimental interventions to increase college entry among low‐income high school graduates
Authors: Castleman Benjamin L. , Page Lindsay C.
Published: January 2014

Despite decades of policy intervention to increase college entry among low‐income students, substantial inequalities in college going by family income remain. Policy makers have largely overlooked the summer after high school as an important time period in students’ transition to college. During the post‐high school summer, however, students must complete a range of financial and informational tasks prior to college enrollment, yet no longer have access to high school counselors and have not engaged yet with their college community. Moreover, many come from families with little college‐going experience. Recent research documents summer attrition rates ranging from 10 to 40 percent among students who had been accepted to college and declared an intention to enroll in college as of high school graduation. Encouragingly, several experimental interventions demonstrate that students’ postsecondary plans are quite responsive to additional outreach during the summer months. Questions nonetheless remain about how to maximize the impact and cost effectiveness of summer support. This chapter reports on several randomized trials to investigate the impact of summer counselor outreach and support as well as the potential roles for technology and peer mentoring in mitigating summer attrition and helping students enroll and succeed in college. The authors conclude with implications for policy and practice.
Microglial Cell Activation Increases Saturated and Decreases Monounsaturated Fatty Acid Content, but Both Lipid Species are Proinflammatory
Authors: Button Emily B. , Mitchell Andrew S. , Domingos Marcia M. , Chung Jessica H.‐J. , Bradley Ryan M. , Hashemi Ashkan , Marvyn Phillip M. , Patterson Ashley C. , Stark Ken D. , Quadrilatero Joe , Duncan Robin E.
Published: January 2014

Neuroinflammation is a component of age‐related neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline. Saturated (SFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA) fatty acids are bioactive molecules that may play different extrinsic and intrinsic roles in neuroinflammation, serving as exogenous ligands for cellular receptors, or endogenous components of cell structural, energetic and signaling pathways. We determined the fatty acyl profile of BV2 microglial cells before and after acute activation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We also investigated the effect of SFA and MUFA pretreatment on the production of an invasive, neurotoxic phenotype in BV2 cells. Acute activation of BV2 microglia resulted in an increase in the relative content of SFA (12:0, 16:0, 18:0, 20:0, 22:0, and 24:0 increased significantly), and a relative decrease in the content of MUFA (16:1n7, 18:1n7, 18:1n9, 20:1n9, 24:1n9 decreased significantly). In agreement, the major stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD) isoform in BV2 cells, SCD2, was significantly down‐regulated by LPS. We next treated cells with SFA (16:0 or 18:0) or MUFA (16:1n7 or 18:1n9), and found that levels of secreted IL6 were increased, as was secreted MMP9‐mediated proteolytic activity. To test the functional significance, we treated SH‐SY5Y neuronal cells with conditioned medium from BV2 cells pretreated with fatty acids, and found a small but significant induction of cell death. Our findings suggest differential intrinsic roles for SFA and MUFA in activated microglial cells, but similar extrinsic roles for these fatty acid species in inducing activation. Expansion of SFA is important during microglial cell activation, but either supplemental SFA or MUFA may contribute to chronic low‐grade neuroinflammation.
Retardation of Crystallization of Diacylglycerol Oils Using Polyglycerol Fatty Acid Esters
Authors: Saitou Katsuyoshi , Homma Rika , Kudo Naoto , Katsuragi Yoshihisa , Sato Kiyotaka
Published: January 2014

Liquid oil containing high concentrations of diacylglycerols (DAG > 80 %, hereafter referred to as DAG‐rich oil) is generally more likely to cause precipitation at chilled temperatures (clouding phenomena) than triacylglycerol‐based oil. The clouding phenomena that occur during long‐term storage of DAG‐rich oil are unwanted in consumer products and therefore, must be prevented. In the present study, we attempted to retard precipitation by adding food emulsifiers, polyglycerol fatty acid esters (PGFE) containing different fatty acid moieties. DSC, polarized optical microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction studies revealed that the addition of 0.2 % PGFE containing palmitic and oleic acid moieties very effectively retarded precipitation in the DAG‐rich oil. To confirm these observations, we prepared a model DAG oil to mimic DAG‐rich oil and examined the retardation behavior of high‐melting DAG fractions using PGFE. The results are discussed in terms of the effects of PGFE additives on the pre‐nucleation processes of high‐melting fractions in DAG‐rich oil.
Generic properties of random gene regulatory networks
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Bianco Simone , Zhang Zhaoyang , Tang Chao
Published: January 2014

Modeling gene regulatory networks (GRNs) is an important topic in systems biology. Although there has been much work focusing on various specific systems, the generic behavior of GRNs with continuous variables is still elusive. In particular, it is not clear typically how attractors partition among the three types of orbits: steady state, periodic and chaotic, and how the dynamical properties change with network's topological characteristics. In this work, we first investigated these questions in random GRNs with different network sizes, connectivity, fraction of inhibitory links and transcription regulation rules. Then we searched for the core motifs that govern the dynamic behavior of large GRNs. We show that the stability of a random GRN is typically governed by a few embedding motifs of small sizes, and therefore can in general be understood in the context of these short motifs. Our results provide insights for the study and design of genetic networks.
The nature of the frictional force at the macro-, micro-, and nano-scales
Authors: Broitman Esteban
Published: January 2014

Nowadays it is accepted that the friction force is a combined effect arising from various phenomena: adhesive forces, capillary forces, contact elasticity, topography, surface chemistry, and generation of a third body, etc. Any of them can dominate depending on the experimental force and length scales of the study. Typical forces in macro-tribology are in the Newtons, while are reduced to milli-/micro-Newtons, and nano-Newtons in micro- and nano-tribology, respectively. In this paper, experimental friction results from fullerene like CN
x
films and single-crystal Si at the three scales will be discussed. The complex and broad variety of processes and phenomena connected with the dry friction coefficient at the macro-, micro-, and nano-scale point of view will be highlighted.
A qualitative correlation between friction coefficient and steel surface wear in linear dry sliding contact to polymers with SGF
Authors: Rus Dorin , Capitanu Lucian , Badita Liliana-Laura
Published: January 2014

In this paper we tried to present a qualitative correlation, based on extensive experimental determinations between the value and the evolution of the friction coefficient, wear, and contact temperature, in the case of linear dry contact, for thermoplastic material reinforced with short glass fibers (SGF) and various steel surfaces. The aim was to highlight the evolution of the wear process depending on the evolution of the friction coefficient. As a result, it was possible to graphically illustrate the evolution of the friction coefficient and the change of the wear process, emphasizing the abrasive, adhesive and corrosive wear. The evolution of the plastic material transfer function of the contact temperature, namely of the power lost by friction (product between the contact pressure and sliding speed, p and v) was aimed and it was highlighted. It has been demonstrated that in the case of a 30% SGF content it can reach and even exceed contact temperatures very close to the flow limit of the plastic material. We tried, believing successfully, the graphic illustration of the evolution of the steel surface wear and of the contact temperature, depending on the friction coefficient. The influence of the normal load and sliding speed was evaluated in detail, but also the influence of the metallic surface roughness on the friction coefficient was discussed.
Frictional performance of silicon carbide under different lubrication conditions
Authors: Zhao Xingyu , Liu Ying , Wen Qingfeng , Wang Yuming
Published: January 2014

The frictional performance of materials used in face seals is critical to the sealing performance. Silicon carbide is commonly used in hard rings because of its abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, and thermal shock resistance. In this study, the frictional performance of silicon carbide, including graphite-added silicon carbide, under water and lubrication-absent conditions was studied by using a Falex-1506 tribotester and different working parameters. In addition, the morphology of the worn surfaces was observed using scanning electron microscopy and the damage was characterized to understand the tribological behavior of different silicon carbides. The results suggest that the friction coefficients decrease with increasing pressure under water lubrication conditions because of the water within the holes on the surface of the materials. The percentage of water lubrication increases, whereas the percentage of solid friction decreases when the pressure increases. Under dry contact conditions, the friction coefficients change negligibly with increasing pressure and graphite-added silicon carbide shows better frictional performance.
Malignant Hyperthermia Crisis: Optimizing Patient Outcomes Through Simulation and Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Authors: Cain Cindy L. , Riess Matthias L. , Gettrust Lynn , Novalija Jutta
Published: January 2014

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare, life‐threatening event. Many clinicians are unprepared to manage an MH crisis in the perioperative setting because it requires the use of low‐frequency, high‐risk skills and procedures. Simulation is a recognized educational method for cumulative and integrative learning in a safe environment that resembles real‐life clinical scenarios. The aim of this quality improvement project was to provide simulation‐based learning to perioperative personnel to educate them in the early recognition, treatment, and management of MH. An interdisciplinary team developed an MH education plan. Implementation of the plan involved a two‐part training: an educational session, and a role‐playing scenario using high‐fidelity OR simulation. Simulation teaching provided OR personnel with an opportunity for skill development, teamwork, interdisciplinary communication, and problem solving. Personnel responded favorably and identified positive outcomes, such as role clarity, improved anticipatory response, and overall team cohesion. In addition, the project included updating the MH cart and writing the hospital's MH policy.
Boston Bombings: Response to Disaster
Authors: Hemingway Maureen , Ferguson Joanne
Published: January 2014

Disasters disrupt everyone's lives, and they can disrupt the flow and function of an OR as well as affect personnel on a professional and personal level even though perioperative departments and their personnel are used to caring for trauma patients and coping with surprises. The Boston Marathon bombing was a new experience for personnel at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. This article discusses the incidents surrounding the bombing and how personnel at this hospital met the challenge of caring for patients and the changes we made after the experience to be better prepared in the event a response to a similar incident is needed.
An Analysis of Surgical Smoke Plume Components, Capture, and Evacuation
Authors: Schultz Leonard
Published: January 2014

Chronic exposure to surgical smoke can transmit viruses; lead to respiratory illness; and increase the risk of more serious conditions, including Alzheimer disease, collagen and cardiac diseases, and cancer. Despite this, surgical smoke plume capture and evacuation devices are often used sporadically or not at all, and do not necessarily reduce costs per procedure. In addition, the current choices for smoke plume capture are varied, and health care providers may make decisions about what type of method to use based on marketing materials rather than facts, leaving most clinicians and managers frustrated and cynical about supporting the effort to capture surgical smoke plume. This article presents current data and information that purchasing teams can use to help choose the best available technology for their practice patterns. It also provides analysis to help those responsible for choosing smoke evacuation systems make rational decisions in their quest to provide a clean, safe environment in the OR.
Clinical Issues‐February 2014
Authors: Van Wicklin Sharon A.
Published: January 2014

This Month

Adhesive tape rolls as a source of infection

Key words: adhesive tape, adhesive products, surgical tape, infection prevention.

Removing and discarding the outer layer of adhesive tape

Key words: adhesive tape, surgical tape, infection prevention.

Hand hygiene before donning unsterile gloves

Key words: hand hygiene, unsterile gloves, infection prevention.

Preparing for a procedure on a patient who is allergic to Di(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP)

Key words: di(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate, DEHP, polyvinyl chloride, PVC, allergy, nursing process, nursing care plan.

Surgical wound classification

Key words: wound classification, documentation, surgical site infection.
Introducing AORN's New Model for Evidence Rating
Authors: Spruce Lisa , Van Wicklin Sharon A. , Hicks Rodney W. , Conner Ramona , Dunn Debra
Published: January 2014

Nurses today are expected to implement evidence‐based practices in the perioperative setting to assess and implement practice changes. All evidence‐based practice begins with a question, a practice problem to address, or a needed change that is identified. To assess the question, a literature search is performed and relevant literature is identified and appraised. The types of evidence used to inform practice can be scientific research (eg, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews) or nonresearch evidence (eg, regulatory and accrediting agency requirements, professional association practice standards and guidelines, quality improvement project reports). The AORN recommended practices are a synthesis of related knowledge on a given topic, and the authorship process begins with a systematic review of the literature conducted in collaboration with a medical librarian. At least two appraisers independently evaluate the applicable literature for quality and strength by using the AORN Research Appraisal Tool and AORN Non‐Research Appraisal Tool. To collectively appraise the evidence supporting particular practice recommendations, the AORN recommended practices authors have implemented a new evidence rating model that is appropriate for research and nonresearch literature and that is relevant to the perioperative setting.
Does Preoperative Oral Carbohydrate Reduce Hospital Stay? A Randomized Trial
Authors: Webster Joan , Osborne Sonya Ranee , Gill Richard , Chow Carina Faran Kalan , Wallin Siobhan , Jones Lee , Tang Annie
Published: January 2014

Oral carbohydrate‐rich fluids are used preoperatively to improve postoperative recovery, but their effectiveness for reducing length of hospital stay is uncertain. We assessed the effectiveness of preoperative loading with carbohydrates on the postoperative outcomes of 44 patients scheduled for elective colorectal surgery who were randomly allocated to a carbohydrate‐rich fluid group or a usual care group during their preadmission clinic visit. Our primary outcome was the time patients required to be ready for discharge. Patients in the control group spent an average of 4.3 days (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.2‐5.7) in the hospital and patients in the carbohydrate‐rich fluid group spent 4.1 days (95% CI, 3.2‐5.4) in the hospital until they met discharge criteria (P = .824). We found that the safety of administering preoperative oral carbohydrate‐rich fluids is supported, but we were unable to confirm or refute the benefit of this treatment regimen for contributing to shorter hospital stays after elective colorectal surgery.
Developing a Strategy to Identify and Treat Older Patients With Postoperative Delirium
Authors: Brooks Paula , Spillane Jeffrey J. , Dick Karen , Stuart‐Shor Eileen
Published: January 2014

Postoperative delirium is one of the most common adverse outcomes in elderly patients undergoing surgery and is associated with increased morbidity, length of stay, and patient care costs. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the effectiveness of a multicomponent strategy to identify and treat general surgical patients 65 years of age or older at risk for and who develop postoperative delirium at Cape Cod Hospital, a community hospital in southern New England. We evaluated 96 patients using the Mini‐Cog assessment tool preoperatively and the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) delirium screening tool or CAM‐Intensive Care Unit (CAM‐ICU) assessment tool postoperatively. Patients who tested positive during preoperative assessment underwent a postoperative delirium management protocol. We summarized data using descriptive statistics. The results showed an association between compliance and outcomes. High compliance with implementation of CAM and CAM‐ICU assessment tools resulted in increased identification of postoperative delirium in the older surgical population. The use of screening tools helped facilitate early identification of postoperative delirium in elderly surgical patients.
From I-Phone 3G to I-Phone 4G: A Two-Stage Complex Systems Model of the Two Stage Diffusion Process
Authors: D'Alessandro Steven , Winzar Hume
Published: January 2014

We present a conceptual model where agents are prompted to adopt a new technology through a two-step process: information from neighbours prompts an upgrade, and the option purchased may be influenced by the one demonstrated by the neighbour. In a network world with two options available we systematically manipulate (1) the initial number of neighbours with white compared to black, (2) rate of naturally-occurring upgrade, (3) chance of upgrade prompted by a neighbour using white relative to black, and (4) the relative chance of choosing white instead of black having decided to upgrade. Not surprisingly, adoption speed is influenced by starting users, natural upgrade, and relative upgrade chance. Market share, on the other hand, is influenced only by the relative chance of choosing white over black, with no influence at all from the other predictors. We find that this result applies regardless of the type or complexity of network.
Epstein-Barr virus and Hodgkin lymphoma in Jordan
Authors: Sughayer Maher A , Haddad Hussam A , Al-Yousef Rana M , El-Khateeb Mohammed , Abu-Rass Hanoods
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

This study aims to examine the possible association of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) and to shed light on the epidemiology of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) in Jordan.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

We examined 100 consecutive cases of HL for the presence of EBV in tumor cells by immunohistochemistry for latent membrane protein-1 (LMP-1). We collected patient data on age, sex and histologic subtype. We reviewed the pathological findings in each case and confirmed diagnosis.

RESULTS:

Nodular lymphocyte predominant HL was diagnosed in 6% of the cases and these were negative for EBV LMP-1. Of the 94 cases of cHL, 65% were males, the most common subtype was nodular sclerosis (NS), representing 70% of the cases, and 45.7% of cHL (43% of all HL) cases were positive for EBV LMP-1. The positive cases were significantly related to age: ≤15 years and >51 years (p: 0.009 and 0.014 respectively), male gender (p: 0.03) and mixed cellularity (MC) subtype (p: <0.0001). In line with other developing countries, there also appears to be a trend towards a decreasing association of EBV with cHL and a subtype switch from MC to NS in Jordan.

CONCLUSION:

The epidemiology of HL in Jordan and some developing countries is approaching that of developed countries.
Determinants of educational outcomes: Analysis of the Republic of Tatarstan
Authors: Tovar García Edgar Demetrio
Published: January 2014

This paper studies the determinants of educational outcomes in the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia. Using principle component analysis, least squares with robust standard errors, and probit models, I found that family resources, including socioeconomic status, cultural and social capital, show a statistically significant effect on educational achievements and plans about educational trajectories. However, little of the variation in the dependent variables can be explained by variation in family resources. In Tatarstan, as in developed countries, family resources have a low influence on educational outcomes. Moreover, school quality, gender, nationality, peers, health, plans about future work, and other physical and psychological factors play important roles in influencing educational outcomes. Girls obtain better results than boys, and Tatar speakers show higher educational achievements than Russian speakers.
Vultures vs livestock: conservation relationships in an emerging conflict between humans and wildlife
Authors: Margalida Antoni , Campión David , Donázar José A.
Published: January 2014

Human–wildlife conflict is emerging as an important topic in conservation. Carnivores and birds of prey are responsible for most conflicts with livestock and game but since the mid 1990s a new conflict is emerging in south-west Europe: the presumed killing of livestock by griffon vulturesGyps fulvus. Lack of scientific data and magnification of the problem by the media are increasing alarm amongst the public, and political pressures to implement management decisions have not been based on scientific evidence. We compiled information on 1,793 complaints about attacks by griffon vultures on livestock, lodged with Spanish authorities from 1996 to 2010. Spain is home to the majority (95%) of griffon vultures and other scavengers in the European Union. Most of the cases occurred in areas of high livestock density, affected principally sheep (49%) and cows (31%), and were associated with spring birthing times (April–June). On average 69% of the complaints made annually were rejected because of a lack of evidence about whether the animal was alive before being eaten. The total economic cost of compensation was EUR 278,590 from 2004 to 2010. We discuss possible ways to mitigate this emerging human–wildlife conflict. These need to include the participation of livestock farmers, authorities, scientists and conservation groups.
Supplementing with vitamin C the diet of honeybees (Apis mellifera carnica) parasitized with Varroa destructor: effects on antioxidative status
Authors: FARJAN MAREK , ŁOPIEŃSKA-BIERNAT ELŻBIETA , LIPIŃSKI ZBIGNIEW , DMITRYJUK MAŁGORZATA , ŻÓŁTOWSKA KRYSTYNA
Published: January 2014

We studied a total of eight developmental stages of capped brood and newly emerged workers of Apis mellifera carnica colonies naturally parasitized with Varroa destructor. During winter and early spring four colonies were fed syrup containing 1·8 mg vitamin C kg−1 (ascorbic acid group; group AA) while four colonies were fed syrup without the vitamin C (control group C). Selected elements of the antioxidative system were analysed including total antioxidant status (TAS), glutathione content and antioxidative enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase). Body weight, protein content and indices of infestation were also determined. The prevalence (8·11%) and intensity (1·15 parasite per bee) of the infestation were lower in group AA compared with group C (11·3% and 1·21, respectively). Changes in the indicators of antioxidative stress were evidence for the strengthening of the antioxidative system in the brood by administration of vitamin C. In freshly emerged worker bees of group AA, despite the infestation, protein content, TAS, and the activity of all antioxidative enzymes had significantly higher values in relation to group C.
The effect of psychotherapy for depression on improvements in social functioning: a meta-analysis
Authors: Renner F. , Cuijpers P. , Huibers M. J. H.
Published: January 2014

Background

Patients with depression often report impairments in social functioning. From a patient perspective, improvements in social functioning might be an important outcome in psychotherapy for depression. Therefore, it is important to examine the effects of psychotherapy on social functioning in patients with depression.

Method

We conducted a meta-analysis on studies of psychotherapy for depression that reported results for social functioning at post-treatment. Only studies that compared psychotherapy to a control condition were included (31 studies with 2956 patients).

Results

The effect size of psychotherapy on social functioning was small to moderate, before [Hedges' g = 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.32–0.60] and after adjusting for publication bias (g = 0.40, 95% CI 0.25–0.55). Univariate moderator analyses revealed that studies using care as usual as a control group versus other control groups yielded lower effect sizes, whereas studies conducted in the USA versus other countries and studies that used clinician-rated instruments versus self-report yielded higher effect sizes. Higher quality studies yielded lower effect sizes whereas the number of treatment sessions and the effect size of depressive symptoms were positively related to the effect size of social functioning. When controlling for these and additional characteristics simultaneously in multivariate meta-regression, the effect size of depressive symptoms, treatment format and number of sessions were significant predictors. The effect size of social functioning remained marginally significant, indicating that improvements in social functioning are not fully explained by improvements in depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Psychotherapy for depression results in small to moderate improvements in social functioning. These improvements are strongly associated with, but not fully explained by, improvements in depressive symptoms.
The Voyages of the “Sea Adventure” to Ayutthaya, 1615–1618: The English East India Company and its Siam–Japan Trade
Authors: na Pombejra Dhiravat
Published: January 2014

The English East India Company (EIC) first arrived in Siam in 1612, when its traders were given a royal audience by King Songtham (r. 1610/11–28) in Ayutthaya. Peter Floris and Lucas Antheuniss, Dutchmen working for the EIC, came to Patani on theGlobeand then branched out to other ports, exploring the possibilities of trade in mainland Southeast Asia. Armed with a letter from King James I, the EIC employees led by Antheuniss and Thomas Essington were able not only to approach the court, but also to observe for themselves the possibilities of trade in Siam. This first sojourn in Ayutthaya marked the start of over a decade of Anglo–Siamese contacts, through the establishment and maintenance of an EIC factory in Ayutthaya.

During this first phase, the EIC was to stay in Ayutthaya for only eleven years, closing its factory in 1623. It was not until the 1660s, after a gap of around thirty years, that the company returned to trade in Siam. After a troubled stay, the EIC once again left Siam in 1685, and was engaged in war with the court of King Narai (r. 1656–88) over several disputes. The only English merchants coming to Siam after 1688 were “country traders” mostly based in India.
The Fundamentally Different Roles of Interpreters in the Ports of Nagasaki and Canton
Authors: Yao Keisuke
Published: January 2014

With the expansion of Western power from the seventeenth century onward, many Asian countries were confronted with difficult political and economic problems in their relations with Europe. In several countries in Asia, in order to suppress Western cultural influences within their own nations, governments often employed foreigners as interpreters for their own diplomacy and trade with Europeans, with some governments even prohibiting their people from learning foreign languages.

But, in the case of Japan, interpreters played a crucial role in both the study of the Dutch language and the integration of Western knowledge during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. It seems that early-modern Japanese interpreters were quite different from the interpreters of Western languages in other countries in Asia, as in Nagasaki interpreters of the Dutch language were shogunate-appointed Japanese nationals.

Here I will examine and compare several aspects of the Chinese pidgin-English interpreters at Canton and the Japanese Dutch-language interpreters at Nagasaki, in particular their origins, incomes, duties, learning, and businesses. Through this examination I will demonstrate how the so-called Westernisation processes adopted in China and Japan were actually reflected in and represented by the different models of foreign trade at the ports of Canton and Nagasaki.
Development of a whole arm wearable robotic exoskeleton for rehabilitation and to assist upper limb movements
Authors: Rahman M. H. , Rahman M. J. , Cristobal O. L. , Saad M. , Kenné J. P. , Archambault P. S.
Published: January 2014

To assist physically disabled people with impaired upper limb function, we have developed a new 7-DOF exoskeleton-type robot named Motion Assistive Robotic-Exoskeleton for Superior Extremity (ETS-MARSE) to ease daily upper limb movements and to provide effective rehabilitation therapy to the superior extremity. The ETS-MARSE comprises a shoulder motion support part, an elbow and forearm motion support part, and a wrist motion support part. It is designed to be worn on the lateral side of the upper limb in order to provide naturalistic movements of the shoulder (vertical and horizontal flexion/extension and internal/external rotation), elbow (flexion/extension), forearm (pronation/supination), and wrist joint (radial/ulnar deviation and flexion/extension). This paper focuses on the modeling, design, development, and control of the ETS-MARSE. Experiments were carried out with healthy male human subjects in whom trajectory tracking in the form of passive rehabilitation exercises (i.e., pre-programmed trajectories recommended by a therapist/clinician) were carried out. Experimental results show that the ETS-MARSE can efficiently perform passive rehabilitation therapy.
When do institutional transfers work? The relation between institutions, culture and the transplant effect: the case of Borno in north-eastern Nigeria
Authors: SEIDLER VALENTIN
Published: January 2014

Little is known of why institutional transfers have been largely disappointing. Berkowitzet al.(2001) have argued that because of what they call the transplant effect, imported law lacks effectiveness unless there is an initial level of familiarity or the imported law is successfully adapted to local legal norms. Yet, history shows that institutional transfers are possible: Why have some countries been more successful than others in importing foreign institutions? The paper introduces a framework for the analysis of the transplant effect, which is based on institutional economics. In the second part, we investigate the case of Borno State in northeastern Nigerian where institutions transferred during colonial rule and upon independence have been largely ineffective. In the case of Borno, the lack of a European educated bureaucratic class, low commitment of the political leadership, generally low levels of education and urbanization contributed to the low effectiveness of imported institutions.
Levo-tetrahydropalmatine attenuates oxaliplatin-induced mechanical hyperalgesia in mice
Authors: Guo Zhenggang , Man Yuanyuan , Wang Xiaoyan , Jin Heng , Sun Xuefeng , Su Xiaojun , Hao Jianhua , Mi Weidong
Published: January 2014

Common chemotherapeutic agents such as oxaliplatin often cause neuropathic pain during cancer treatment in patients. Such neuropathic pain is difficult to treat and responds poorly to common analgesics, which represents a challenging clinical issue. Corydalis yanhusuo is an old traditional Chinese medicine with demonstrated analgesic efficacy in humans. However, the potential analgesic effect of its active component, levo-tetrahydropalmatine (l-THP), has not been reported in conditions of neuropathic pain. This study found that l-THP (1–4 mg/kg, i.p.) produced a dose-dependent anti-hyperalgesic effect in a mouse model of chemotherapeutic agent oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain. In addition, we found that the anti-hyperalgesic effect of l-THP was significantly blocked by a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH23390 (0.02 mg/kg), suggesting a dopamine D1 receptor mechanism. In contrast, l-THP did not significantly alter the general locomotor activity in mice at the dose that produced significant anti-hyperalgesic action. In summary, this study reported that l-THP possesses robust analgesic efficacy in mice with neuropathic pain and may be a useful analgesic in the management of neuropathic pain.
Entangled photons from on-chip slow light
Authors: Takesue Hiroki , Matsuda Nobuyuki , Kuramochi Eiichi , Notomi Masaya
Published: January 2014

We report the first entanglement generation experiment using an on-chip slow light device. With highly efficient spontaneous four-wave mixing enhanced by the slow light effect in a coupled resonator optical waveguide based on a silicon photonic crystal, we generated 1.5-μm-band high-dimensional time-bin entangled photon pairs. We undertook two-photon interference experiments and observed the coincidence fringes with visibilities >74%. The present result enables us to realize an on-chip entanglement source with a very small footprint, which is an essential function for quantum information processing based on integrated quantum photonics.
Microplasma-chemical synthesis and tunable real-time plasmonic responses of alloyed AuxAg1−x nanoparticles
Authors: Yan Tingting , Zhong Xiaoxia , Rider Amanda Evelyn , Lu Yi , Furman Scott A. , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken)
Published: January 2014

A new conceptual microplasma-based approach is developed to produce AuAg alloyed crystalline nanoparticles at atmospheric pressure and low temperatures, in the absence of a chemical reducing agent. Real-time plasmonic monitoring is demonstrated.
FeSe2 films with controllable morphologies as efficient counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Wang Wenjun , Pan Xu , Liu Weiqing , Zhang Bing , Chen Haiwei , Fang Xiaqin , Yao Jianxi , Dai Songyuan
Published: January 2014

The FeSe2 films with controllable morphologies (including 3D flower-like and sphere-shaped) have been applied as the counter electrodes (CEs) for dye-sensitized solar cells. It is found that 3D flower-like FeSe2 CEs perform comparably to conventional platinum CEs.
Ultrafast dynamics of single molecules
Authors: Brinks Daan , Hildner Richard , van Dijk Erik M. H. P. , Stefani Fernando D. , Nieder Jana B. , Hernando Jordi , van Hulst Niek F.
Published: January 2014

Room-temperature studies of single molecules at femtosecond timescales provide detailed observation and control of ultrafast electronic and vibrational dynamics of organic dyes and photosynthetic complexes, probing quantum dynamics at ambient conditions and elucidating its role in chemistry and biology.
Recent progress on nitrogen/carbon structures designed for use in energy and sustainability applications
Authors: Wood Kevin N. , O'Hayre Ryan , Pylypenko Svitlana
Published: January 2014

Nitrogen modification of carbon structures is making a vast impact across the scientific community, specifically in the realms of energy and sustainability.
Multifunctional dendrimers modified with alpha-tocopheryl succinate for targeted cancer therapy
Authors: Zheng Yun , Fu Fanfan , Zhang Mengen , Shen Mingwu , Zhu Meifang , Shi Xiangyang
Published: January 2014

Multifunctional generation 5-poly(amidoamine) dendrimers can be used as a platform to conjugate covalently alpha-tocopheryl succinate for targeted cancer therapy.
An in situ spectroscopic study on decomposition of MgSiO3 during the alkali fusion process using sodium hydroxide
Authors: Xu Min , Wang Zirui , Xu Qian , Song Qiushi , You Jinglin , Zhai Yuchun
Published: January 2014

The two intermediates, Mg2SiO4 and Na2MgSiO4, reveal the reaction pathway of the alkali fusion process of magnesium inosilicate.
Synthesis of chestnut-bur-like palladium nanostructures and their enhanced electrocatalytic activities for ethanol oxidation
Authors: Ye Seong Ji , Kim Do Youb , Kang Shin Wook , Choi Kyeong Woo , Han Sang Woo , Park O Ok
Published: January 2014

Chestnut-bur-like palladium nanostructures were synthesized through the particle attachment growth mechanism by using CPC as a surfactant and they exhibited greater electrocatalytic activity toward ethanol oxidation reaction.
Physico-mechanical and electrochemical corrosion behavior of soy alkyd/Fe3O4nanocomposite coatings
Authors: Rahman Obaid ur , Ahmad Sharif
Published: January 2014

Anticorrosive nanocomposite coatings were synthesized using soya alkyd a renewable polymer matrix and Fe3O4nanoparticles as filler.
Preparation and characterization of luminescent silicone elastomer by thiol–ene “click” chemistry
Authors: Zuo Yujing , Lu Haifeng , Xue Lei , Wang Xianming , Ning Liang , Feng Shengyu
Published: January 2014

Novel transparent and luminescent silicone elastomers were prepared by thiol–ene chemistry. They show very intense photoluminescence under ultraviolet light and have very high coloric purity.
Mesoporous Fe3O4@C submicrospheres evolved by a novel self-corrosion mechanism for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Gan Yongping , Gu Huaqing , Xiao Han , Xia Yang , Tao Xinyong , Huang Hui , Du Jun , Xu Lusheng , Zhang Wenkui
Published: January 2014

Mesoporous Fe3O4@C submicrospheres with high conductivity and structural stability exhibit fascinating electrochemical performance.
Regioselective alkyl transfer from phosphonium ylides to functionalized polyfluoroarenes
Authors: Lu Wei , Gao Juan , Yang Jing-Kui , Liu Lei , Zhao Yuliang , Wu Hai-Chen
Published: January 2014

We report an unprecedented alkyl transfer from phosphonium ylides to polyfluoroarenes in a highly regioselective manner.
The NTP pyrophosphatase DCTPP1 contributes to the homoeostasis and cleansing of the dNTP pool in human cells
Authors: Requena Cristina E. , Pérez-Moreno Guiomar , Ruiz-Pérez Luis M. , Vidal Antonio E. , González-Pacanowska Dolores
Published: January 2014

The size and composition of dNTP (deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate) pools influence the accuracy of DNA synthesis and consequently the genetic stability of nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. In order to keep the dNTP pool in balance, the synthesis and degradation of DNA precursors must be precisely regulated. One such mechanism involves catabolic activities that convert deoxynucleoside triphosphates into their monophosphate form. Human cells possess an all-α NTP (nucleoside triphosphate) pyrophosphatase named DCTPP1 [dCTP pyrophosphatase 1; also known as XTP3-TPA (XTP3-transactivated protein A)]. In the present study, we provide an extensive characterization of this enzyme which is ubiquitously distributed in the nucleus, cytosol and mitochondria. Interestingly, we found that in addition to dCTP, methyl-dCTP and 5-halogenated nucleotides, DCTPP1 hydrolyses 5-formyl-dCTP very efficiently and with the lowest Km value described so far. Because the biological function of mammalian all-α NTP pyrophosphatases remains uncertain, we examined the role of DCTPP1 in the maintenance of pyrimidine nucleotide pools and cellular sensitivity to pyrimidine analogues. DCTPP1-deficient cells accumulate high levels of dCTP and are hypersensitive to exposure to the nucleoside analogues 5-iodo-2′-deoxycytidine and 5-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine. The results of the present study indicate that DCTPP1 has a central role in the balance of dCTP and the metabolism of deoxycytidine analogues, thus contributing to the preservation of genome integrity.