bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Level and pattern of overstory retention interact to shape long‐term responses of understories to timber harvest
Authors: Halpern Charles B. , Halaj Juraj , Evans Shelley A. , Dovčiak Martin
Published: May 2012

In many regions of the world, variable retention has replaced clear‐cutlogging as the principal method of regeneration harvest. Partial retention of the overstory is thought to ensure greater continuity of the species and ecological processes that characterize older forests. Level (amount) and spatial pattern of overstory retention are two basic elements of forest structure that can be manipulated to achieve specific ecological or silvicultural objectives. However, experiments that elucidate the relative importance of retention level and pattern (or their interaction) are rare. Here we assess long‐term (>10 yr) responses of forest understories to experimental harvests of mature coniferous forests replicated at five sites in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). Treatments contrast both the level of retention (40% vs. 15% of original basal area) and its spatial distribution (dispersed vs. aggregated in 1‐ha patches). For most vascular plant groups (early seral, forest generalist, and late seral), postharvest changes in cover and richness were reduced at higher levels of retention and in dispersed relative to aggregated treatments. Although retained forest patches were stable, changes in adjacent harvested (cleared) areas were significantly greater than in dispersed treatments. Late‐seral herbs were highly sensitive to level and pattern of retention, with extirpations most frequent in the cleared areas of aggregated treatments and at low levels of dispersed retention. In contrast, early‐seral species were most abundant in these environments. Forest‐floor bryophytes exhibited large and persistent declines regardless of treatment, suggesting that threshold levels of disturbance or stress were exceeded. Our results indicate that 15% retention (the minimum standard on federal forestlands in the PNW) is insufficient to retain the abundance or diversity of species characteristic of late‐seral forests. Although 1‐ha aggregates provide refugia, they are susceptible to edge effects or stochastic processes; thus, smaller aggregates are unlikely to serve this function. The ability to achieve multiple ecological or silvicultural objectives with variable retention will require the spatial partitioning of habitats to include dispersed retention and larger undisturbed aggregates along with cleared areas.
Lost in translation: quantifying the overlap of popular media and non‐majors science course assessment vocabulary
Authors: Momsen Jennifer L. , Clark Scott K. , Doherty Jennifer H. , Haudek Kevin C. , Schramm Jonathon W. , Ward Emily M. Geraghty
Published: May 2012

Earth's climate is rapidly changing, and citizens of the 21st century will need to act based on informed decisions about climate change. A liberal education should contribute to an informed and responsible citizenry who can think independently, reason analytically, and communicate effectively. Following college graduation, typical Americans will gain most of their science information through the media. How well are students prepared to be effective, critical consumers of media‐reported science? We broach this subject by comparing the climate change vocabulary of undergraduate science courses for non‐science majors with multiple popular media sources. Using PASW Text Analytics for Surveys, we objectively identified key terms from both classroom and media sources, and grouped these terms into major reservoirs and fluxes of the carbon cycle. Our classroom data include exams and quizzes from biology and physical science courses taught at a large, research intensive university. Media reports were collected the week before, after, and during COP15 from daily, weekly, and monthly media sources. Of the 253 items analyzed (183 media responses, 40 assessment responses), we extracted 310 relevant terms and grouped those into 19 categories based on the carbon cycle. The most frequently used terms in assessments included CO2 and reservoirs such as the atmosphere, ocean, tree, and one flux, photosynthesis. Within the media, the most frequently used terms were socio‐political in nature (e.g., country, Obama). Between the media and assessments, seven of the top 20 words overlapped and focused primarily on carbon reservoirs. Media and assessments differ substantially in the usage of terms associated with carbon fluxes. Many courses for non‐science majors have a goal to improve students' abilities to apply scientifically sound reasoning and knowledge within their everyday lives. Our analysis reveals a discrepancy between the vocabulary used in media sources and in course assessments surrounding the topic of climate change. We suggest non‐major science courses should do more to explicitly tie scientific processes to current political, economic, and social discussions. For many students, these courses represent the only science class they will take. The vocabulary they learn today should prepare them to make informed decisions tomorrow.
Results From the Data & Democracy Initiative to Enhance Community-Based Organization Data and Research Capacity
Authors: Carroll-Scott Amy , Toy Peggy , Wyn Roberta , Zane Jazmin I. , Wallace Steven P.
Published: May 2012

Objectives. In an era of community-based participatory research and increased expectations for evidence-based practice, we evaluated an initiative designed to increase community-based organizations’ data and research capacity through a 3-day train-the-trainer course on community health assessments.

Methods. We employed a mixed method pre–post course evaluation design. Various data sources collected from 171 participants captured individual and organizational characteristics and pre–post course self-efficacy on 19 core skills, as well as behavior change 1 year later among a subsample of participants.

Results. Before the course, participants reported limited previous experience with data and low self-efficacy in basic research skills. Immediately after the course, participants demonstrated statistically significant increases in data and research self-efficacy. The subsample reported application of community assessment skills to their work and increased use of data 1 year later.

Conclusions. Results suggest that an intensive, short-term training program can achieve large immediate gains in data and research self-efficacy in community-based organization staff. In addition, they demonstrate initial evidence of longer-term behavior change related to use of data and research skills to support their community work.
One Community’s Effort to Control Genetic Disease
Authors: Strauss Kevin A. , Puffenberger Erik G. , Morton D. Holmes
Published: May 2012

In 1989, we established a small community health clinic to provide care for uninsured Amish and Mennonite children with genetic disorders. Over 20 years, we have used publicly available molecular data and sophisticated technologies to improve diagnostic efficiency, control laboratory costs, reduce hospitalizations, and prevent major neurological impairments within a rural underserved community. These actions allowed the clinic’s 2010 operating budget of $1.5 million to save local communities an estimated $20 to $25 million in aggregate medical costs. This exposes an unsettling fact: our failure to improve the lot of most people stricken with genetic disease is no longer a matter of scientific ignorance or prohibitive costs but of choices we make about how to implement existing knowledge and resources.
Current Status of the Brent System Monitoring Cao System
Authors: Parkinson Dudley G. , Richards A. W. , Hepworth H.
Published: May 2012

This paper presents an overview of the Computer Assisted Operations (CAO) systems and their interconnecting telecommunications which are being installed on the Northern North Sea platforms and pipelines operated by Shell UK Exploration and Production.
New Computerized Solids Control Program Reduces Drilling Costs in North Sea
Authors: Sharpies Virginia M.
Published: May 2012

The Solids Control Optimized Program for Equipment (S.C.O.P.E.) is a computerized model for use in well planning. The simulation of a completed well reproduces quantities of mud and chemicals consumed and their costs. In subsequent reports, the costs for materials to drill the same well with various solids control programs are calculated. The knowledge gained by comparing the reports may be used to optimize solids control programs on wells drilled through similar formations.

The primary purpose of this paper is verification of the program by testing its accuracy in comparison against data from a U.K. North Sea well summary selected for its location and its completeness of data. The optimum combination of solids control equipment for similar Beryl Field wells found by the program is also reported.
Measuring Subsurface Soil‐Water Evaporation with an Improved Heat‐Pulse Probe
Authors: Xiao Zhang , Lu Sen , Heitman Joshua , Horton Robert , Ren Tusheng
Published: May 2012

Recently a three‐needle heat‐pulse probe has been used to monitor subsurface soil‐water evaporation dynamics. Several of these probes have to be installed precisely at different depths to measure subsurface evaporation for multiple soil layers, and approximation of the shallow temperature gradient is limited by needle spacing. In this study, an 11‐needle heat‐pulse probe, including four heating needles among the 11 temperature needles and 1‐mm spacing between the upper‐most needles, is used to determine soil‐water evaporation in the 0‐ to 5‐cm soil layer. A field test showed that 4 d after irrigation, evaporation was observed in the 1.5‐ to 4‐ and 4‐ to 10‐mm soil layers and that the peak evaporation rate in the 1.5‐ to 4‐ and 4‐ to 10‐mm soil layer were 0.26 and 0.18 mm h−1, respectively. After 5 d, the bottom of the evaporation zone propagated to a depth of 17 mm, and the peak evaporation rate in the 10‐ to 17‐mm soil layer reached 0.15 mm h−1. After 6 d, there was significant evaporation occurring in the 17‐ to 23‐ mm soil layer with a peak evaporation rate of 0.15 mm h−1. The new 11‐needle heat‐pulse probe was better able to measure the depth and time dynamics of subsurface soil water evaporation for multiple soil layers by improving on the previous three‐needle design.
Characterization of Humic Carbon in Soil Aggregates in a Long‐term Experiment with Manure and Mineral Fertilization
Authors: Simonetti Gianluca , Francioso Ornella , Nardi Serenella , Berti Antonio , Brugnoli Enrico , Francesco Morari Emanuele Lugato
Published: May 2012

Carbon stabilization in soil aggregates has been proposed as an important mechanism for carbon sequestration in agricultural soils. However, few studies have investigated how long‐term strategies for accumulating C in the soil (e.g., organic fertilizers) can affect humic substance composition in aggregate‐size fractions. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of long‐term application of farmyard manure (FYM) and mineral (MIN) fertilization on the humic carbon (HC) chemical structure extracted from macroaggregates (MA) (2000–250μm), microaggregates (MI) (53–250 μm) and silt–clay (SC) (<53 μm) fractions of two different soils (clay and peaty) by using δ13C, solid‐state 13C cross‐polarization‐magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (CP MAS 13C NMR) and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) analyses. Results showed that FYM had improved the HC concentration compared with the unfertilized and MIN fertilization. In clay soil, MIN fertilization led to a significantly heavier isotope 13C enrichment in the SC than macro‐ and microaggregate fractions, suggesting that HC in this fraction was the oldest and most stabilized. This was not so evident in peaty soil, where the HC was probably in an early stage of the humification process. In addition, the HC structure changed in both soils as a consequence of the treatments. The FYM amendment caused a decrease in O, N‐alkyl‐C, and alkyl C from macroaggregate to SC fractions, suggesting an advanced state of humic component degradation. However, FYM led to a considerably positive effect on the aromatic C content in both soils. This effect was magnified in the microaggregates of clay soil. These results revealed that the structural changes of HC in different soil aggregates make it possible to understand the effects of mineral and organic fertilization on cultivated soils.
Urban Soils of Texas: Relating Irrigation Sodicity to Water‐Extractable Carbon and Nutrients
Authors: Steele M. Kate , Aitkenhead-Peterson Jacqueline A.
Published: May 2012

Effective management of urban soils and their impact on surface water requires an understanding of the mechanisms controlling soil variability within and among cities. To gain a better understanding of soil variability among the cities of Texas, where the use of irrigation is common, we investigated the relationship between irrigation water chemistry and water‐extractable soil dissolved organic C (DOC) and N (DON), NH4–N, NO3–N, and orthophosphate P in 33 irrigated soil samples under turfgrass from 26 cities. Quantified in a 1:10 soil/ distilled water extraction, DOC and nutrients were compared with the chemistry of the water used for irrigation (Na+ and Ca2+ concentrations, Na adsorption ratio [SAR], Na charge percentage [%Na(+)], alkalinity, and electrical conductivity) and several soil properties (silt+clay percentage, total soil C, and total soil N). Utilizing multiple regression analyses, SAR and total soil N explained 71% of the variability in extractable soil DOC, and SAR and alkalinity explained 72% of soil DON. The %Na (+) explained 43% of NH4–N variability and 56% of orthophosphate P variability observed among cities across Texas. Total soil N was the best predictor of water‐extractable soil NO3–N (64%). Our results showed that when irrigation water SAR was >5, there was a two‐ to threefold increase in the solubility of DOC and nutrients from urban soils of Texas, which may contributing to nonpoint sources of C and nutrients in surface waters.
Relation between Soil Order and Sorption of Dissolved Organic Carbon in Temperate Subsoils
Authors: Mayes Melanie A. , Heal Katherine R. , Brandt Craig C. , Phillips Jana R. , Jardine Philip M.
Published: May 2012

Soils have historically been considered a temporary sink for organic C, but deeper soils may serve as longer term C sinks due to the sorption of dissolved organic C (DOC) onto Fe‐ and clay‐rich mineral soil particles. This project provides an improved understanding and predictive capability of the physical and chemical properties of deep soils that control their sorptive capacities for DOC. Two hundred thirteen subsurface soil samples (72 series from five orders) were selected from the eastern and central United States. A characterized natural DOC source was added to the soils, and the Langmuir sorption equation was fitted to the observed data by adjusting the maximum DOC sorption capacity (Qmax) and the binding coefficient (k). Different isotherm shapes were observed for Ultisols, Alfisols, and Mollisols due to statistically significant differences in the magnitude ofk, whileQmaxwas statistically invariant among these three orders. Linear regressions were performed on the entire database and as a function of soil order to correlate Langmuir fitted parameters with measured soil properties, e.g., pH, clay content, total organic C (TOC), and total Fe oxide content. Together, textural clay and Fe oxide content accounted for 35% of the variation inQmaxin the database, and clay was most important for Alfisols and Ultisols. The TOC content, however, accounted for 27% of the variation inQmaxin Mollisols. Soil pH accounted for 45% of the variation inkfor the entire database, 41% for Mollisols, and 22% for Alfisols. Our findings demonstrate that correlations between Langmuir parameters and soil properties are different for different soil orders and thatkis a more sensitive parameter for DOC sorption than isQmaxfor temperate soils from the central and eastern United States.
Global sensitivity analysis of the BSM2 dynamic influent disturbance scenario generator
Authors: Flores-Alsina Xavier , Gernaey Krist V. , Jeppsson Ulf
Published: May 2012

This paper presents the results of a global sensitivity analysis (GSA) of a phenomenological model that generates dynamic wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) influent disturbance scenarios. This influent model is part of the Benchmark Simulation Model (BSM) family and creates realistic dry/wet weather files describing diurnal, weekend and seasonal variations through the combination of different generic model blocks, i.e. households, industry, rainfall and infiltration. The GSA is carried out by combining Monte Carlo simulations and standardized regression coefficients (SRC). Cluster analysis is then applied, classifying the influence of the model parameters into strong, medium and weak. The results show that the method is able to decompose the variance of the model predictions (R2> 0.9) satisfactorily, thus identifying the model parameters with strongest impact on several flow rate descriptors calculated at different time resolutions. Catchment size (PE) and the production of wastewater per person equivalent (QperPE) are two parameters that strongly influence the yearly average dry weather flow rate and its variability. Wet weather conditions are mainly affected by three parameters: (1) the probability of occurrence of a rain event (Llrain); (2) the catchment size, incorporated in the model as a parameter representing the conversion from mm rain · day−1 to m3 · day−1 (Qpermm); and, (3) the quantity of rain falling on permeable areas (aH). The case study also shows that in both dry and wet weather conditions the SRC ranking changes when the time scale of the analysis is modified, thus demonstrating the potential to identify the effect of the model parameters on the fast/medium/slow dynamics of the flow rate. The paper ends with a discussion on the interpretation of GSA results and of the advantages of using synthetic dynamic flow rate data for WWTP influent scenario generation. This section also includes general suggestions on how to use the proposed methodology to any influent generator to adapt the created time series to a modeller's demands.
Organic biowastes blend selection for composting industrial eggshell by-product: experimental and statistical mixture design
Authors: Soares Micaela A. R. , Andrade Sandra R. , Martins Rui C. , Quina Margarida J. , Quinta-Ferreira Rosa M.
Published: May 2012

Composting is one of the technologies recommended for pre-treating industrial eggshells (ES) before its application in soils, for calcium recycling. However, due to the high inorganic content of ES, a mixture of biodegradable materials is required to assure a successful procedure. In this study, an adequate organic blend composition containing potato peel (PP), grass clippings (GC) and wheat straw (WS) was determined by applying the simplex-centroid mixture design method to achieve a desired moisture content, carbon: nitrogen ratio and free air space for effective composting of ES. A blend of 56% PP, 37% GC and 7% WS was selected and tested in a self heating reactor, where 10% (w/w) of ES was incorporated. After 29 days of reactor operation, a dry matter reduction of 46% was achieved and thermophilic temperatures were maintained during 15 days, indicating that the blend selected by statistical approach was adequate for composting of ES.
Solar degradation of Direct Blue 71 using surface modified iron doped ZnO hybrid nanomaterials
Authors: Maleki A. , Shahmoradi B.
Published: May 2012

This paper reports photodegradation of Direct Blue 71 under irradiation by sunlight. We synthesized Fe:ZnO nanomaterials under mild hydrothermal conditions (P = autogenous, T = 100 °C, t = 18 h). The precursors were Fe2O3 as dopant, n-butylamine as surface modifier, NaOH as mineralizer and reagent grade ZnO. The systematic experiments on the photodegradation of Direct Blue 71 were carried out by changing different effective parameters. The variables in this study were type of nanomaterials synthesized (4 types), nanomaterial dosage (0.4–1.0 g/L), contact time (30–120 min), pH (3–11), and dye concentration (20–100 ppm). The photodegradation efficiency was determined using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Determination of total organic carbon (TOC) amount was used to find out mineralization efficiency. Our experimental results revealed that the nanomaterials synthesized had higher efficiency compared with the reagent grade ZnO. The best efficiency was achieved at the following conditions: 1.0 g/L nanomaterials loading, 120 min contact time, pH 5, and photodegradation efficiency from more than 75 up to 99% depending upon the dye concentration.
Photodegradation of aqueous reactive dye using TiO2/zeolite admixtures in a continuous flow reactor
Authors: Kuo Chao-Yin , Pai Chueh-Ying , He Cheng-Chun , Lin Chin-Jung , Cheng Chin-Min
Published: May 2012

The photocatalytic degradation of an organic dye, i.e. reactive blue 19 (RB19), was studied by employing different TiO2/zeolite (TZ) photocatalysts, which have TiO2/(TiO2 + zeolite) weight ratios ranging from 20 to 80%, in a continuous flow system. Three light sources including two UV lights (i.e. λmax,254 nm and λmax,365 nm) and natural sunlight were used. The results showed that the decoloring rate of RB19 increased as the amount of TiO2 in the TZ catalyst increased. The photodegradation of RB19 exhibited pseudo-first-order kinetics with respect to the concentration of RB19. Almost 100% of initial RB19 was mineralized under the controlled conditions in this study. And the activities of the prepared photocatalysts were retained after long-term durability experiments. Compared with UV lights (i.e. λmax,254 nm and λmax,365 nm), the decoloring efficiency of RB19 was significantly increased under natural sunlight illumination, which is likely due to the long-wavelength incident light that photoexcited RB19 and accelerated the degradation rate of RB19 radicals by the UV fraction of sunlight.
Nutrient recovery from swine waste and protein biomass production using duckweed ponds (Landoltia punctata): Southern Brazil
Authors: Mohedano R. A. , Velho V. F. , Costa R. H. R. , Hofmann S. M. , Belli Filho P.
Published: May 2012

Brazil is one of the most important countries in pork production worldwide, ranking third. This activity has an important role in the national economic scenario. However, the fast growth of this activity has caused major environmental impacts, especially in developing countries. The large amount of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds found in pig manure has caused ecological imbalances, with eutrophication of major river basins in the producing regions. Moreover, much of the pig production in developing countries occurs on small farms, and therefore causes diffuse pollution. Therefore, duckweed pond have been successfully used in the swine waste polishing, generating further a biomass with high protein content. The present study evaluated the efficiency of two full scale duckweed ponds for the polishing of a small pig farm effluent, biomass yield and crude protein (CP) content. Duckweed pond series received the effluent from a biodigester-storage pond, with a flow rate of 1 m3/day (chemical oxygen demand rate = 186 kg/ha day) produced by 300 animals. After 1 year a great improvement of effluent quality was observed, with removal of 96% of total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) and 89% of total phosphorus (TP), on average. Nitrogen removal rate is one of the highest ever found (4.4 g TKN/m2 day). Also, the dissolved oxygen rose from 0.0 to 3.0 mg/L. The two ponds produced together over 13 tons of fresh biomass (90.5% moisture), with 35% of CP content, which represents a productivity of 24 tonsCP/ha year. Due to the high rate of nutrient removal, and also the high protein biomass production, duckweed ponds revealed, under the presented conditions, a great potential for the polishing and valorization of swine waste. Nevertheless, this technology should be better exploited to improve the sustainability of small pig farms in order to minimize the impacts of this activity on the environment.
Adsorption of polyvinyl alcohol from wastewater by sintered porous red mud
Authors: Zhang Yihe , Chen Wei , Lv Guocheng , Lv Fengzhu , Chu Paul K. , Guo Wenmin , Cui Baolin , Zhang Rui , Wang Hell
Published: May 2012

Several types of red mud-based porous materials (RMPM) and other raw minerals via different processes were prepared and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations. Using the polymer sponge method, a 72% apparent porosity could be reached compared with 64% by adding a pore-forming agent. These materials were tested for their adsorption of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) from simulated textile wastewater. The best mass ratio of RMPM to PVA solution was 50:100 with a removal maximum of 25.8% after they were in contact for 50 min. The adsorption rate and kinetics could be better described by Lagergren's pseudo-second-order model in comparison with the pseudo-first-order model.
Characterizing Protein Shape by a Volume Distribution Asymmetry Index
Authors: Arrigo Nicola , Paci Paola , Di Paola Luisa , Santoni Daniele , De Ruvo Micol , Giuliani Alessandro , Castiglione Filippo
Published: May 2012

A fully quantitative shape index relying upon the asymmetry of mass distribution of protein molecules along the three space dimensions is proposed. Multidimensional statistical analysis, based on principal component extraction and subsequent linear discriminant analysis, showed the presence of three major ‘attractor forms’ roughly correspondent to rod-like, discoidal and spherical shapes. This classification of protein shapes was in turn demonstrated to be strictly connected with topological features of proteins, as emerging from complex network invariants of their contact maps.
Preparation of needle-like aragonite particles from calcium nitrate solution in batch and flow reactors
Authors: Fellner Pavel , Jurišová Jana , Kozánková Jana , Pach Ladislav
Published: May 2012

Preparation of needle-like aragonite particles from calcium nitrate solution in batch and flow reactors

Needle-like aragonite particles for application in paper industry were synthesised from calcium nitrate solution. Calcium nitrate was prepared from waste lime. Samples of precipitated aragonite were prepared both in batch and flow reactors, respectively. Conditions (concentration of calcium nitrate, temperature, and flow rate of CO2) were optimized for achieving high yield of aragonite in the product.
Biosensors - classification, characterization and new trends
Authors: Monošík Rastislav , Streďanský Miroslav , Šturdík Ernest
Published: May 2012

Biosensors - classification, characterization and new trends

Biosensors represent promising analytical tools applicable in areas such as clinical diagnosis, food industry, environment monitoring and in other fields, where rapid and reliable analyses are needed. Some biosensors were successfully implemented in the commercial sphere, but majority needs to be improved in order to overcome some imperfections. This review covers the basic types, principles, constructions and use of biosensors as well as new trends used for their fabrication.
L'extrême droite en Hongrie. Racines, culture, espace
Authors: Ablonczy Balázs , Ablonczy Bálint
Published: May 2012

Le score aux élections européennes de 2009 (14,77% des voix) et aux élections législatives de 2010 (16,67% des voix au premier tour) de Jobbik Magyarországért Mozgalom (Mouvement pour une Hongrie meilleure, communément appelé Jobbik) en Hongrie avait attiré l’attention internationale sur l’émergence d’une nouvelle droite radicale dans la région. Au bout d’une crise politique qui a envenimé la situation politique hongroise depuis 2006 et la crise économique mondiale aidant, 855000 électeurs hongrois (sur environ 5 millions de votants) se sont prononcés en faveur d’une option politique totalement étrangère aux valeurs déclarées de l’Union européenne. Il serait tentant de parler d’un phénomène inédit, spécifiquement hongrois, sans racine et sans commune mesure avec des forces politiques similaires d’autres pays, et d’établir une affiliation directe des « démons du passé ». Dans cet essai nous tenterons de démontrer que la résurgence de ces idées est le fruit de processus socioéconomiques et culturels complexes ayant trait aux événements récents tout aussi bien qu’à certaines spécificités de l’histoire des idées politiques en Hongrie, et à certaines questions qui n’ont pas été posées depuis la transition démocratique de 1990.
« Ceci n'est pas un parti » : le véhicule fantôme de l'anti-islamisme de Geert Wilders
Authors: Mamadouh Virginie , van der Wusten Herman
Published: May 2012

Le Parti pour la liberté (PVV) de Geert Wilders est depuis les législatives de 2010 le troisième des Pays-Bas, qui plus est un partenaire indispensable du gouvernement minoritaire de la coalition des conservateurs du VVD et des chrétiens-démocrates du CDA. Cette contribution retrace le parcours politique de Geert Wilders depuis ses débuts comme assistant du groupe parlementaire de Frits Bolkestein en 1990. Elle retrace le succès de son parti (qui en vérité n’en est pas un puisqu’il n’a pas de membres), dans le contexte du débat sur l’immigration, l’intégration et l’islam, des assassinats politiques de Pim Fortuijn en 2002 et Theo van Gogh en 2004 et de la montée de mouvements populistes anti-islamistes aux Pays-Bas. Elle présente enfin les grands traits de la géographie électorale du PVV.
Network centrality and multiplexity: a study of sales performance
Authors: Claro D.P. , Gonzalez G.R. , Claro P.B.O.
Published: May 2012

Network literature suggests that individual embeddedness leads to performance. The authors argue that resources from intra-firm social networks are critical for gaining advantages. The contribution of the paper lies at the performance impact of the network position. Previous studies have considered two alternative views, degree and closeness, of network centrality that have been shown to impact job promotion, innovation diffusion, and wage increase. To our knowledge no work has been done to identify the specific impact of the network on sales performance. Moreover, two different types of network relations were focused on in order to analyze the multiplexity of ties: friendship and advice. Conceptual work has suggested the impact of overlapping ties on performance, however elaborated empirical evidence is lacking. Estimates from a sample of salespeople in a focal firm of input supplies reveal that having many direct ties (degree centrality) and multi-dimensional relations (advice and friendship) positively influences a salesperson’s performance. The results demonstrate that salespeople can structure intra-firm ties in order to leverage firm resources and enhance individual performance.
Reallocation of property rights in agro-food systems: addressing diffuse stakeholders’ rights
Authors: Zylbersztajn D.
Published: May 2012

Stakeholders are individuals who can substantially affect the decision-making and sharing part of the value created by firms. This paper explains how parties that have not exercised cooperative production efforts, hold decision-making rights and share rights to the value created. The objective of this paper is to present a theoretical explanation for the existence of stakeholder activity, based on the property rights theory. In addition, the paper explores examples of development banks and a system of certification of sustainable forest production, exploring strategic implications. The paper is organized into four parts. Following the introduction, part two presents a selective literature review, part three presents a property rights allocation model and part four presents cases and conclusions.
Susceptibility to Entamoeba histolytica Intestinal Infection Is Related to Reduction in Natural Killer T-Lymphocytes in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Oliveira Fabrício M.S. , Horta Bernardo C. , Prata Luana O. , Santiago Andrezza F. , Alves Andréa C. , Faria Ana M.C. , Gomes Maria A. , Caliari Marcelo V.
Published: May 2012

Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan that causes amoebiasis. Recent studies demonstrated that natural killer T lymphocytes (NKT) are critical for preventing the development of amoebic liver abscess. In spite of that, there are only a handful of studies in the area. Herein, we explored the role of NKT cells in E. histolytica infection using C57BL/6 wild-type and CD1-/- mice. Animals were inoculated with E. histolytica and sacrificed 48 hours later to collect caecum samples that were used for quantitative analyses of lesions, trophozoites, NK1.1+ T lymphocytes and expression of the mucus protein MUC-2 by immunohistochemistry technique. Quantitative analyses confirmed that the frequency of NK1.1+ T cells was significantly lower in samples from C57BL/6 CD1-/- mice as compared to their wild type (WT) counterparts. The extension of necrotic mucosa was larger and the number of trophozoites higher in Entamoeba (Eh)-infected CD1-/- mice when compared with Eh-infected WT mice. In mice from both groups, noninfected (CTRL) and Eh-infected CD1-/-, there was a reduction in the thickness of the caecal mucosa and in the MUC-2-stained area in comparison with CTRL- and Eh-WT mice. Our results showed that NKT lymphocytes contribute to resistance against Entamoeba histolytica infection and to the control of inflammation in the colitis induced by infection. The presence of a normal epithelial layer containing appropriate levels of mucus had also a protective role against infection.
Absence of Chronic Hepatitis E in a German Cohort of Common Variable Immunodeficiency Patients
Authors: Pischke Sven , Horn-Wichmann Ruediger , Ernst Diana , Meyer Bjoern Georg , Raupach Regina , Ahrenstorf Gerrit , Schmidt Reinhold Ernst , Manns Michael Peter , Witte Torsten , Wedemeyer Heiner
Published: May 2012

Cases of chronic or prolonged hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections have been described in solid organ transplant recipients, HIV infected patients and in patients with malignancies or idiopathic CD4+ T lymphopenia. It is unknown if HEV infection also takes chronic courses in patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). We studied a cohort of 73 CVID patients recruited in a low endemic Central European country. None of the subjects tested positive for HEV RNA or anti-HEV IgG. Immunoglobulin transfusions (n=10) tested negative for HEV RNA but all were anti-HEV positive. To verify that such pooled blood products contain anti-HEV protective antibodies we measured the anti-HEV IgG optical density (OD) values in patients before and after transfusion. Anti-HEV OD values increased after infusion but did not reach the cut-off considered as positive. Thus, chronic HEV infections seem to be rare events in CVID patients in Germany. Commercially available immuno globulin infusions contain anti HEV antibodies and may contribute to protection from HEV infection
CystiC Pancreatic Lymphangioma
Authors: Gureş Nazim , Gurluler Ercument , Alim Altan , Berber Ibrahim , Gurkan Alihan
Published: May 2012

Lymphangioma of the pancreas is a rare benign tumor of lymphatic origin. Retroperitoneal lymphangiomas account for 1% of all lymphangiomas. Herein, we report a case of cystic pancreatic lymphangioma diagnosed in 34 year-old female patient who was hospitalized for a slight pain in the epigastrium and vomiting. Radiological imaging revealed a large multiloculated cystic abdominal mass with enhancing septations involving the upper retroperitoneum. During the laparoscopic surgery, a well circumscribed polycystic tumor was completely excised preserving the pancreatic duct. The patient made a complete recovery and is disease-free 12 months postoperatively.
Metastatic Melanoma and Vemurafenib: Novel Approaches
Authors: De Mello Ramon Andrade
Published: May 2012

Metastatic melanoma (MM) presents a treatment challenge to oncologists worldwide. Dacarbazine is the first line chemotherapy treatment for MM, though the overall response rates are very poor. Recently, the v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 ( BRAF) V600 mutation was found to play a main role in MM. This mutation is present in 40–60% of melanoma patients. Vemurafenib is a BRAF kinase inhibitor that showed impressive results in phase I-III trials and was thus recently approved for the treatment of MM. This paper will briefly focus on vemurafenib in the treatment of MM and highlight concerns
Study of Waste Plastic Mix Concrete with Plasticizer
Authors: Rai Baboo , Rushad S. Tabin , Kr Bhavesh , Duggal S. K.
Published: May 2012

The fresh and hardened properties of waste virgin plastic mix concrete have been studied (CUR Report 1991). A number of concrete mixes were prepared in which sand was partially replaced by waste plastic flakes in varying percentages by volume. Waste plastic mix concrete with and without superplasticizer was tested at room temperature. Forty-eight cube samples were moulded for compressive strength tests at three, seven, and twenty-eight days. Eight beams were also cast to study the flexural strength characteristic of waste plastic mix concrete. It was found that the reduction in workability and compressive strength, due to partially replacement of sand by waste plastic, is minimal and can be enhanced by addition of superplasticizer.
Overview of Achievements and Challenges of the Fight against AIDS in China
Authors: Kang Laiyi
Published: May 2012

The epidemic of HIV/AIDS exists in China from more than 26 years and is still at a low prevalence (<0.06%) on the global level. The purpose of this paper is to disclose the rational of how to keep the low rate through strenthening key strategies and comprehensive measures for prevention and control of the disease using collecting, reviewing, and analyzing surveillance data, special materials from publications, national meetings, symposiums, and forums, major research results as well as the personal experiences within the period of 1985–2011. In the meantime, the paper mentions that currently China is facing challenges and also going to carry out its actions concerning how to deal with the problems in order to respond to the UN CALL on “Getting to Zero”.
The Usefulness of the Endonasal Incisional Approach for the Treatment of Nasal Bone Fracture
Authors: Kim Hyo Seong , Suh Hyeun Woo , Ha Ki Young , Kim Boo Yeong , Kim Tae Yeon
Published: May 2012

Background Among all facial fractures, nasal bone fractures are the most common, and they have been reduced by closed reduction (CR) for a long time. But several authors have reported suboptimal results when using CR, and the best method of nasal bone reduction is still being debated. We have found that indirect open reduction (IOR) through an endonasal incisional approach is a useful method for more accurate reduction of the nasal bone.

Methods A retrospective chart review was performed of 356 patients who underwent reduction of a nasal bone fracture in our department from January, 2006, to July, 2011. We treated 263 patients with IOR. We assessed patients' and doctors' satisfaction with surgical outcomes after IOR or CR. We evaluated the frequency of nasal bleeding owing to mucosal injury, and followed the surgical outcomes of patients who had simultaneous dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty.

Results According to the analysis of the satisfaction scores, both patients and doctors were significantly more satisfied in the IOR group than the CR group (P<0.05). Mucosal injury with nasal bleeding occurred much less in the IOR group (5.3%) than the CR group (12.9%). Dorsal augmentation rhinoplasty with IOR was performed simultaneously in 34 cases. Most of them (31/34) showed satisfaction with the outcomes.

Conclusions IOR enables surgeons to manipulate the bony fragment directly through the endonasal incisional approach. However, we propose that CR is the proper technique for patients under 16 and for those with comminuted nasal bone fractures because submucosal dissection in IOR can damage the growth or circulation of nasal bone.
Influence of γ‐α′‐Phase Transformation in Metastable Austenitic Steels on the Mechanical Behavior During Tensile and Fatigue Loading at Ambient and Lower Temperatures
Authors: Hahnenberger Frank , Smaga Marek , Eifler Dietmar
Published: May 2012

The present investigation is concerned with the three metastable austenitic steels AISI 304 (X5CrNi1810), 321 (X6CrNiTi1810), and 348 (X10CrNiNb189). In the temperature range −60 °C ≤ T ≤ 25 °C tensile and fatigue tests were performed to characterize the mechanical and phase transformation behavior using stress‐elongation, stress–strain hysteresis, and magnetic measurements. The mechanical properties are significantly influenced by the temperature dependent deformation induced phase transformation from austenite to α′‐martensite which are combined with pronounced hardening processes. Furthermore microhardness measurements after fracture could be correlated with the results of the fatigue tests.
On the Correlation Between Thermal Cycle and Formation of Intermetallic Phases at the Interface of Laser‐Welded Aluminum‐Steel Overlap Joints
Authors: Szczepaniak Agnieszka , Fan Jianfeng , Kostka Aleksander , Raabe Dierk
Published: May 2012

A laser beam welding process via heat conduction was applied to join DC01 steel with aluminum (Al) in overlap configuration without filler wire. The effect of the applied laser power (1.7, 1.8, 2.1, and 2.4 kW) on the formation and evolution of the interfaces between steel and Al was analyzed. Two intermetallic compounds were found at the interface, namely, one adjacent to the steel layer (Al5Fe2) and one close to the solidified Al (Al13Fe4). The thickness of the intermetallic reaction layer increases with laser power, while the morphology of its individual components evolves due to differences in accumulated thermal cycles. Correlations between simulations and measurements show that the peak temperature has significantly stronger influence on the thickness of the intermetallic reaction layer than cooling time and the integral of temperature over the time. Shear/tensile strength tests reveal that all the specimens fail in the Al heat affected zone.
Preparation of water‐compatible molecularly imprinted polymers for caffeine with a novel ionic liquid as a functional monomer
Authors: Luo Xubiao , Dong Ruizhi , Luo Shenglian , Zhan Youcai , Tu Xinman , Yang Lixia
Published: May 2012

Water‐compatible molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for caffeine were synthesized in aqueous medium with a new functional monomer, 1‐(α‐methyl acrylate)‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide (1‐MA‐3MI‐Br), which had π–π and hydrogen‐bonding interactions. Caffeine‐imprinted polymers were prepared in suspension polymerization with 1‐MA‐3MI‐Br and methacrylic acid (MAA), which only had hydrogen bonding, as a functional monomer. For the specific binding characteristics of the new functional monomer 1‐MA‐3MI‐Br, the adsorption capacity and relative separation factor (β) of MIPs for caffeine were significantly enhanced. The maximum adsorption capacities of 1‐MA‐3MI‐Br–MIP and MAA–MIP imprinted microspheres for caffeine were 53.80 and 28.90 μmol/g, respectively. Moreover, the relative separation factors were measured by comparison of the separation characteristics under competitive adsorption conditions. The results showed that the β of MAA–MIP for caffeine relative to theophylline was only 1.65; this showed a very poor recognition selectivity for caffeine, but β of 1‐MA‐3MI‐Br–MIP for caffeine with respect to theophylline was remarkably enhanced to 3.19; this showed an excellent recognition selectivity and binding affinity toward caffeine molecules in an aqueous environment. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Optimization of rotor speed based on stretching, efficiency, and viscous heating in nonintermeshing internal batch mixer: Simulation and experimental verification
Authors: Salahudeen Shafaat Ahmed , AlOthman Othman , Elleithy Rabeh H. , Al‐Zahrani S. M. , Rahmat Abdul Razak Bin
Published: May 2012

Optimization of rotor speed based on stretching, efficiency, and viscous heating in nonintermeshing internal batch mixer has been investigated using polymer melt. A practical optimization technique was followed for optimization. Four different rotor speeds were used and characterized numerically with viscous dissipation and stretching. The heat distribution between rotor edge and mixer wall was calculated. Stretching experienced by the fluid was analyzed and the result was verified experimentally using particle tracking method. Exponential increase of energy dissipation between the rotor edge and the barrel at higher speed highlighted the importance of choosing the thermal properties of the polymer to avoid thermal degradation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Ultraviolet light aging properties of PVC/CaCO3 composites
Authors: Liu Hai , Dong Lijie , Xie Haian , Wan Lipeng , Liu Zhukai , Xiong Chuanxi
Published: May 2012

The ultraviolet radiation aging behaviors of PVC/CaCO3 and PVC/CaCO3/macromolecular modifier composites were studied through whiteness measurement, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical properties test. It was found that nano‐CaCO3 particles used as ultraviolet light screening agents could significantly enhance the antiaging properties of PVC materials. Due to the macromolecular modifier coated on nano‐CaCO3 particles, the compatibility of nano‐CaCO3 and PVC matrix was improved, resulting in uniform dispersion of nano‐CaCO3 in PVC matrix. Therefore, the PVC/CaCO3/MP composite exhibited better antiaging properties than PVC/CaCO3 composite. After 12 h of ultraviolet irradiation, the tensile strength retention, elongation at break retention, and impact strength retention of PVC/CaCO3/MP composite were 79.5%, 74.5%, and 75.3%, which were much higher than that of neat PVC and PVC/CaCO3 composite. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and properties of silver nanoparticles in chitosan‐based thermosensitive semi‐interpenetrating hydrogels
Authors: Li Guiying , Wen Quanwu , Zhang Ting , Ju Yuanyuan
Published: May 2012

In this article, thermosensitive poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide‐co‐vinyl pyrrolidone)/chitosan [P(NIPAM‐co‐NVP)/CS] semi‐interpenetrating (semi‐IPN) hydrogels were prepared by redox‐polymerization using N,N‐methylenebisacrylamide as crosslinker and ammonium persulfate/N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine as initiator. Highly stable and uniformly distributed Ag nanoparticles were prepared by using the semihydrogel networks as templates via in situ reduction of silver nitrate in the presence of sodium borohydride as a reducing agent. Introduction of CS improves the hydrogels swelling ratio (SR) and stabilizes the formed Ag nanoparticles in networks. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy revealed that Ag nanoparticles were well dispersed with diameters of 10 nm. The semi‐IPN hydrogel/Ag composites had higher SR and thermal stability than its corresponding semi‐IPN hydrogels. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013