bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
How Are Secondary Vocational Schools in China Measuring up to Government Benchmarks?
Authors: Yi Hongmei , Zhang Linxiu , Liu Chengfang , Chu James , Loyalka Prashant , Maani May , Wei Jianguo 
Published: May 2013

AbstractDrawing on a survey of 106 secondary vocational schools and 7309 students in two provinces of China, this descriptive paper assesses whether vocational schooling is measuring up to government benchmarks for quality and whether poor students are able to access quality schools. We find that secondary vocational schools have met government benchmarks for teacher qualification and training, student opportunities for practical training and adequate facilities. Furthermore, poor students access schools of similar quality to non‐poor students, even though 34 percent of poor students do not receive financial aid. We conclude that recent policies are successfully ensuring secondary vocational school quality and equity of access to school quality between poor and non‐poor students. However, financial aid policies should be re‐examined, such that poor students receive sufficient coverage. Moreover, given that input‐based measures only proxy school quality, the government should consider holding schools accountable for outcomes such as student learning.
The Influence of Slate Waste Activation Conditions on Mineralogical Changes and Pozzolanic Behavior
Authors: Frías Moisés , Vigil de la Villa Raquel , García Rosario , Sánchez de Rojas M. Isabel , Juan Valdés Andrés 
Published: May 2013

The transformation process of clay minerals into pozzolanic products for use as active additives in cement matrixes has been closely studied by both the scientific community and the cement industry. Sourcing these additions from recycled waste products is widely prioritized in environmental policies, because of their associated environmental benefits. This article reports an exhaustive analysis of slate waste in Spain, for its eventual use as an alternative source of pozzolans, based on activated phyllosilicates. The analysis examines the effect of activation conditions on mineralogy and the formation and evolution of the hydrated phases that form during the pozzolanic reaction at 28 days. The results show good pozzolanic activity in the starting slate wastes activated between 800°C and 1100°C of temperature for 2 h of retention, on which basis 1000°C and 2 h were recommended as the more suitable activation conditions for these activated slate wastes (ASW), as total destruction of all phyllosilicates is ensured under those conditions. The hydrated phases formed during the pozzolanic reaction in theASW/Ca(\OH)2system were calcium silicate hydrate gels (CSH), randomly interstratified chlorite (Cl) /smectite with variables containing chlorite/smectite ratios 30% chlorite, 40% chlorite, 50% chlorite, 60% chlorite, respectively, and monosulfoaluminate (C3A·SO4Ca·12H2O) directly related to the activation process used in this article. All of these findings support the viability of slate waste for use as a pozzolanic addition.
Piezoelectric Property and Strain Behavior ofPb(Yb0.5Nb0.5)O3–PbHfO3–PbTiO3Polycrystalline Ceramics
Authors: Tang Hua , Zhang Shujun , Feng Yujun , Li Fei , Shrout Thomas R. 
Published: May 2013

(1−x)Pb(Hf1−yTiy)O3–xPb(Yb0.5Nb0.5)O3(x = 0.10–0.44,y = 0.55–0.80) ceramics were fabricated. The morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) of the ternary system was determined byX‐ray powder diffraction. The optimum dielectric and piezoelectric properties were achieved in 0.8Pb(Hf0.4Ti0.6)O3–0.2Pb(Yb0.5Nb0.5)O3ceramics withMPBcomposition, where the dielectric permittivity εr, piezoelectric coefficientd33, planar electromechanical couplingkp, and Curie temperatureTcwere found to be on the order of 1930,480 pC/N, 62%, and 360°C, respectively. The unipolar strain behavior was evaluated as a function of applied electric field up to 50 kV/cm to investigate the strain nonlinearity and domain wall motion under large drive field, where the high field piezoelectricd33* was found to be 620 pm/V for 0.82Pb(Hf0.4Ti0.6)O3–0.18Pb(Yb0.5Nb0.5)O3. In addition, Rayleigh analysis was carried out to study the extrinsic contribution, where the value was found to be in the range 2%–18%.
Silicon Carbide Whiskers: Preparation and High Dielectric Permittivity
Authors: Kuang Jianlei , Cao Wenbin 
Published: May 2013

Silicon Carbide whiskers have been synthesized using silica sol and activated carbon as reagents via microwave heating without the presence of any of the catalysts, such as Fe, Ni, and Al etc.. The synthesized whiskers were separated and concentrated from the as‐synthesized products using the gravity concentration process. The dielectric properties of the concentrated SiC whiskers were investigated in the frequency range 2–18 GHz. The results indicate that the SiC whiskers exhibit higher dielectric permittivity and loss tangent than those of SiC powders, respectively, due to the high density of stacking faults formed in the SiC whiskers prepared by microwave heating.
Correlation Between Crystallization Behavior and Network Structure in GeS2–Ga2S3–CsI Chalcogenide Glasses
Authors: Lin Changgui , Qu Guoshun , Li Zhuobin , Dai Shixun , Ma Hongli , Xu Tiefeng , Nie Qiuhua , Zhang Xianghua 
Published: May 2013

Diagram of the phase transformation behavior of GeS2–Ga2S3–CsI glasses is realized in this article and the structure‐property dependence of the chalcogenide glasses is elucidated using differential scanning calorimetry and Raman spectroscopy. We observe the compositional threshold of crystallization behavior locates at x = 6–7 mol% in (100−x)(0.8GeS2–0.2Ga2S3)–xCsI glasses, which is confirmed by the thermodynamic studies. Structural motifs are derived from the Raman result that [Ge(Ga)S4], [S2GeI2], [S3GaI], and [S3Ga–GaS3] were identified to exist in this glass network. Combined with the information of structural threshold, local arrangement of these structural motifs is proposed to explain all the experimental observations, which provides a new way to understand the correlation between crystallization behavior and network structure in chalcogenide glasses.
Modification of a simple clinical scoring system as a diagnostic screening tool for non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis in Japanese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Nakamura Akinobu , Yoneda Masato , Sumida Yoshio , Eguchi Yuichiro , Fujii Hideki , Hyogo Hideyuki , Ono Masafumi , Suzuki Yasuaki , Kawaguchi Takumi , Aoki Noriaki , Okanoue Takeshi , Nakajima Atsushi , Maeda Shin , Terauchi Yasuo 
Published: May 2013

AbstractAims/IntroductionWe reinvestigated the clinical usefulness of the modified NAFIC scoring system, modified by changing the weightage assigned to the fasting serum insulin level based on the importance of hyperinsulinemia in the pathogenesis of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), in Japanese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) who had undergone liver biopsy.Materials and MethodsThe NAFIC score is conventionally calculated as follows: serum ferritin ≥200 ng/mL (female) or ≥300 ng/mL (male), 1 point; serum fasting insulin ≥10 μU/mL, 1 point; and serum type IV collagen 7 s ≥5.0 ng/mL, 2 points. A total of 147 patients with NAFLD who had undergone liver biopsies were included in the estimation group. To validate the modified scoring system, 355 patients from nine hepatology centers in Japan were also enrolled.ResultsIn the estimation group, 74 (50.3%) patients were histologically diagnosed as having NASH, whereas the remaining 73 (49.7%) were diagnosed as not having NASH. As the percentage of NASH patients increased not only among participants with serum insulin levels greater than 10 μU/mL, but also in those with serum levels greater than 15 μU/mL, we advocated use of the modified NAFIC score, as follows: serum fasting insulin 10–15 μU/mL, 1 point and ≥15 μU/mL, 2 points. The modified NAFIC score showed improved sensitivity and negative predictive value for the diagnosis of NASH. This finding was also confirmed in the validation group.ConclusionsThe modified NAFIC scoring system could be a clinically useful diagnostic screening tool for NASH.
Ontogenetic trajectories in the ornithischian endocranium
Authors: Lautenschlager S. , Hübner T. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractUnderstanding ontogenetic and developmental patterns is critical for reconstructing the life history of fossil vertebrates. In dinosaurs, ontogenetic studies have nearly exclusively focused on changes in the cranial and post‐cranial skeleton, whereas ontogenetic changes in the endocranium have received little attention. Here, we present digital reconstructions of the brain and inner ear anatomy of two ontogenetic stages of the Jurassic ornithischian dinosaur Dysalotosaurus lettowvorbecki. Results show that the endocranial anatomy underwent considerable changes during growth, including a rostrocaudal elongation of the olfactory apparatus, a reduction in the cephalic and pontine flexure and an increase in cerebellum size. Functional elements, such as the cerebral hemispheres and the inner ear, were already well developed in early ontogenetic stages, indicating a large degree of precociality. The anisotropic pattern of size and shape changes in the endocranium further indicates that ontogenetic trajectories may be controlled by functional and environmental demands in the different growth stages in Dysalotosaurus lettowvorbecki. The occurrence of similar ontogenetic patterns in the endocranial anatomy of derived ornithopod dinosaurs suggests a more widespread distribution of this growth trajectory.
Sociodemographic and Health Indicators of Older Women with Urinary Incontinence: 2010 National Survey of Residential Care Facilities
Authors: De Gagne Jennie C. , So Aeyoung , Oh Jina , Park Sunah , Palmer Mary H. 
Published: May 2013

ObjectivesTo describe the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics, health status, and urinary incontinence (UI) in older women (≥65) living in residential care facilities (RCFs).DesignCross‐sectional, retrospective survey of a population‐based sample, the 2010 National Survey of Residential Care Facilities (NSRCF).SettingUnited States.ParticipantsParticipants in the 2010 NSRCF (N = 8,094).MeasurementsSociodemographic and health indicators associated with UI.ResultsData from 4,930 women were available for analysis, 44.6% of whom had UI. Statistically significant differences were found between the samples of continent women and incontinent women in marital status (P = .001), educational level (P = .04), and length of stay (P = .03). Significant differences were also found between continent and incontinent women in activity of daily living (ADL) scores (P < .001), overall health status (P < .001), and comorbidities (P < .001). The strongest association was severe impairment in ADLs (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 21.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 16.07–29.01), followed by moderate impairment in ADLs (OR = 3.41, 95% CI = 2.61–4.44).ConclusionUI is highly prevalent in older women residing in RCFs and is associated with severe impairment in ADLs. A comprehensive assessment including physical function status or early detection in physically functional impairment in RCFs is suggested to prevent or delay onset of or improve existing UI.
Systematic Review: Health‐Related Characteristics of Elderly Hospitalized Adults and Nursing Home Residents Associated with Short‐Term Mortality
Authors: Thomas John M. , Cooney Leo M. , Fried Terri R. 
Published: May 2013

ObjectivesTo identify the domains of health‐related characteristics of older hospitalized adults and nursing home residents most strongly associated with short‐term mortality.DesignSystematic review.SettingStudies published in English in MEDLINE, Scopus, or Web of Science before August 1, 2010.ParticipantsProspective studies consisting of persons aged 65 and older that evaluated the association between at least one health‐related participant characteristic and mortality within a year in multivariable analysis.MeasurementsAll health‐related characteristics associated with mortality in multivariable analysis were extracted and categorized into domains. The frequency, with all studies combined, with which particular domains were associated with mortality in multivariable analysis was determined.ResultsThirty‐three studies (28 in hospitalized individuals, five in nursing home residents) reported a large number of characteristics associated with mortality that could be categorized in seven domains: cognitive function, disease diagnosis, laboratory values, nutrition, physical function, pressure ulcers, and shortness of breath. Measures of physical function and nutrition were the domains most frequently associated with mortality up to 1 year from the time of evaluation for hospitalized individuals and nursing home residents; measures of physical function, cognitive function, and nutrition were the domains most frequently associated with in‐hospital mortality for hospitalized individuals.ConclusionOf a large number of health‐related characteristics of older persons shown to be associated with short‐term mortality, measures of nutrition, physical function, and cognitive function were the domains of health most frequently associated with mortality. These domains provide easily measurable factors that may serve as helpful markers for individuals at high mortality risk.
Acute Care for Elders Components of Acute Geriatric Unit Care: Systematic Descriptive Review
Authors: Fox Mary T. , Sidani Souraya , Persaud Malini , Tregunno Deborah , Maimets Ilo , Brooks Dina , O'Brien Kelly 
Published: May 2013

ObjectivesTo describe the Acute Care for Elders (ACE) model components implemented as part of acute geriatric unit care and explore the association between each ACE component and outcomes of iatrogenic complications, functional decline, length of hospital stay, nursing home discharges, costs, and discharges home.DesignSystematic descriptive review of 32 articles, including 14 trials reporting on the implementation of ACE components or the effectiveness of their implementation in improving outcomes. Mean effect sizes (ESs) were calculated using trial outcome data. Information describing implementation of the ACE components in the trials was analyzed using content analysis.SettingAcute care geriatric units.ParticipantsAcutely ill or injured adults (N = 6,839) with an average age of 81.InterventionsAcute geriatric unit care was characterized by the implementation of one or more ACE components: medical review, early rehabilitation, early discharge planning, prepared environment, patient‐centered care.MeasurementsFalls, pressure ulcers, delirium, functional decline, length of hospital stay, discharge destination (home or nursing home), and costs.ResultsMedical review, early rehabilitation, and patient‐centered care, characterized by the implementation of standardized and individualized function‐focused interventions, had larger standardized mean ESs (all ES = 0.20) averaged across all outcomes, than did early discharge planning (ES = 0.17) or prepared environment (ES = 0.11).ConclusionSpecific ACE component interventions of medical review, early rehabilitation, and patient‐centered care appear to be optimal for overall positive outcomes. These findings can help service providers design and evaluate the most‐effective ACE model within the contexts of their respective institutions to improve outcomes for acutely ill or injured older adults.
Genome‐Wide Analysis of the Sus Gene Family in Cotton
Authors: Zou Changsong , Lu Cairui , Shang Haihong , Jing Xinrui , Cheng Hailiang , Zhang Youping , Song Guoli 
Published: May 2013

AbstractSucrose synthase (Sus) is a key enzyme in plant sucrose metabolism. In cotton, Sus (EC 2.4.1.13) is the main enzyme that degrades sucrose imported into cotton fibers from the phloem of the seed coat. This study demonstrated that the genomes of Gossypium arboreum L., G. raimondii Ulbr., and G. hirsutum L., contained 8, 8, and 15 Sus genes, respectively. Their structural organizations, phylogenetic relationships, and expression profiles were characterized. Comparisons of genomic and coding sequences identified multiple introns, the number and positions of which were highly conserved between diploid and allotetraploid cotton species. Most of the phylogenetic clades contained sequences from all three species, suggesting that the Sus genes of tetraploid G. hirsutum derived from those of its diploid ancestors. One Sus group (Sus I) underwent expansion during cotton evolution. Expression analyses indicated that most Sus genes were differentially expressed in various tissues and had development‐dependent expression profiles in cotton fiber cells. Members of the same orthologous group had very similar expression patterns in all three species. These results provide new insights into the evolution of the cotton Sus gene family, and insight into its members' physiological functions during fiber growth and development.
Family demands, social support and family functioning in Taiwanese families rearing children with Down syndrome
Authors: Hsiao C‐Y. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractBackgroundDown syndrome (DS) affects not only children but also their families. Much remains to be learned about factors that influence how families of children with DS function, especially families in non‐Western populations. The purpose of this cross‐sectional, correlational study was to examine how family demographics, family demands and social support relate to family functioning as well as the potential mediating effect of social support on the relationship between family demands and family functioning in Taiwanese families of children with DS.MethodOne hundred and fifty‐five parents (80 mothers and 75 fathers) from 83 families independently completed mailed questionnaires. Data were analysed using a principal component analysis and mixed linear modelling.ResultsFamilies having older children with DS, greater parental education, higher family income, fewer family demands and greater social support contributed to healthier family functioning. Social support partially mediated the effects of family demands on family functioning.ConclusionsFamily demographics, family demands and social support appear to be important factors that may play a critical role in how Taiwanese families respond to the birth of a child with DS. Care of children with DS and their families is likely to be more effective if professionals working with these families are aware of factors that contribute to healthy family functioning.
Application of combined EBSD and 3D‐SEM technique on crystallographic facet analysis of steel at low temperature
Authors: MOHSENI P. , SOLBERG J.K. , KARLSEN M. , AKSELSEN O.M. , ØSTBY E. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryElectron backscatter diffraction has been increasingly used to identify the crystallographic planes and orientation of cleavage facets with respect to the rolling direction in fracture surfaces. The crystallographic indices of cleavage planes can be determined either directly from the fracture surface or indirectly from metallographic sections perpendicular to the plane of the fracture surface. A combination of electron backscatter diffraction and 3D scanning electron microscopy imaging technique has been modified to determine crystallographic facet orientations. The main purpose of this work has been to identify the macroscopic crystallographic orientations of cleavage facets in the fracture surfaces of weld heat affected zones in a well‐known steel fractured at low temperatures. The material used for the work was an American Petroleum Institute (API) X80 grade steel developed for applications at low temperatures, and typical heat affected zone microstructures were obtained by carrying out weld thermal simulation. The fracture toughness was measured at different temperatures (0°C, −30°C, −60°C and −90°C) by using Crack Tip Opening Displacement testing. Fracture surfaces and changes in microstructure were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy. Crystallographic orientations were identified by electron backscatter diffraction, indirectly from a polished section perpendicular to the major fracture surface of the samples. Computer assisted 3D imaging was used to measure the angles between the cleavage facets and the adjacent polished surface, and then these angles were combined with electron backscatter diffraction measurements to determine the macroscopic crystallographic planes of the facets. The crystallographic indices of the macroscopic cleavage facet planes were identified to be {100}, {110}, {211} and {310} at all temperatures.
Segmentation of clustered nuclei based on concave curve expansion
Authors: ZHANG C. , SUN C. , PHAM T.D. 
Published: May 2013

SummarySegmentation of nuclei from images of tissue sections is important for many biological and biomedical studies. Many existing image segmentation algorithms may lead to oversegmentation or undersegmentation for clustered nuclei images. In this paper, we proposed a new image segmentation algorithm based on concave curve expansion to correctly and accurately extract markers from the original images. Marker‐controlled watershed is then used to segment the clustered nuclei. The algorithm was tested on both synthetic and real images and better results are achieved compared with some other state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Very low energy electron microscopy of graphene flakes
Authors: MIKMEKOVÁ E. , BOUYANFIF H. , LEJEUNE M. , MÜLLEROVÁ I. , HOVORKA M. , UNČOVSKÝ M. , FRANK L. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryCommercially available graphene samples are examined by Raman spectroscopy and very low energy scanning transmission electron microscopy. Limited lateral resolution of Raman spectroscopy may produce a Raman spectrum corresponding to a single graphene layer even for flakes that can be identified by very low energy electron microscopy as an aggregate of smaller flakes of various thicknesses. In addition to diagnostics of graphene samples at larger dimensions, their electron transmittance can also be measured at very low energies.