bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Layer-by-Layer Structured Membranes of Silk Fibroin and Polyethylenimine on Electrospun Silk Fibroin Nanofibers
Authors: Weitao Zhou , Haitao Huang , Shan Du , Yingdong Huo , Jianxin He , JianxinShizhong Cui
Published: October 2014

Self-assembled silk fibroin (SF)-polyethylenimine (PEI) multilayered films were fabricated on ethanol treated
electrospun SF nanofibrous substrates via the electrostatic layer-by-layer (LBL) adsorption. The film coated membranes
were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X-ray
photoelectron spectrophotometer (XPS). The SEM images showed that the multilayers of SF-PEI were formed on the
surface of the ethanol treated SF nanofibres. The characteristics such as the fiber shape and porous structure were well
maintained as the number of the coated SF-PEI bilayers was less than five. However, obvious adhesive substances and
blocked pores were observed on the surface of the fibers as the number of bilayers of SF-PEI increased to six.
Furthermore, the obvious core-shell structures were observed by TEM. The thickness of five SF-PEI bilayers was
approximately 80nm. Additionally, the XPS results also revealed that the SF-PEI multilayer composite membranes
formed. The adsorption mainly depended on a simple electrostatic interaction between the layers of SF and PEI. These
SF-PEI multilayer assembled nanofibrous membranes could be a promising material for use as a sensor, gene delivery
agent and scaffolds.
Mitigation of Progressive Collapse by the Activation of the Elasto-Plastic Catenary Behaviour of R.C. Slab Structures
Authors: Palmisano Fabrizio
Published: October 2014

Mitigation of progressive collapse was highlighted in 1968 with the collapse of the Ronan Point building in the
United Kingdom. Technical standards followed suit with increased requirements and recommendations to encourage the
design and construction of more robust buildings. The intent has been to establish a design process that recognizes and
considers the potential that buildings could experience abnormal and extreme loads or events that seriously compromise
one or more critical load-carrying elements.

This article aims to show that if the main goal of the design is to protect human lives in these extreme conditions, even
sacrificing the building functionality, simple measures such as the activation of the elasto-plastic catenary behaviour of
the slab reinforcement, could be very effective to increase the building robustness without substantially increasing the cost
of a structural system.
Experimental and Analytical Study on Reinforced Concrete Beams in Bending Strengthened with FRP
Authors: C. Spyrakos C. , G. Raftoyiannis I. , Credali L. , Ussia J.
Published: October 2014

The performance of the interface between fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites and concrete is one of the
key factors affecting the behavior of strengthened reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Existing laboratory research has
shown that RC beams strengthened with FRP sheets usually fail because of either debonding of the impregnated fabric
from the concrete substrate or fracture of the FRP. This work presents an experimental and analytical investigation of the
effectiveness of FRP strengthening sheets on RC beams aiming at increasing their flexural strength and stiffness. Experimental
results obtained from beam specimens tested under four-point bending are examined with main parameters being
the resin type and the anchoring system. In addition, the procedure suggested by the EC8 - Greek Assessment & Retrofitting
Code (EC8-GARC) provisions is applied and compared with the experimental results.
Empirical Study on Ecological Niche Evaluation on Regional Construction Industry in China
Authors: Wang Yousong , Zhang Yufan , Li Yang , H. Asare Martin , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2014

The ecological system of the construction industry had been divided into three aspects, i.e.economy, scale and
technology. Basing on the ecological niche theory, this paper established the evaluation model and studied on the ecologi-cal niche status about national regional construction industry in China using statistical data from 2007 to 2012. The analy-sis results show that Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Liaoning have the highest scores in the economic and the scaled niche. Tianjin,
Beijing and Jiangsu’s technology niche are better. Overall, Integrated niche still has a better performance in Jiangsu, Zhe-jiang and Liaoning. The calculated values are 0.1002, 0.0696 and 0.0592 respectively. In terms of the discreteness and the
diversity, the score of the scaled niche is the highest. The economic niche’s score is the second. And the lowest score is
belonged to the technology niche. It is also found that the national construction industry has an unbalanced development
in each area. The construction industry depends on the advantage of the economic investment and scaled advantage in the
eastern coastal and the central regions. The level of the management and the technology is still low in the whole industry.
Therefore, it is suggested that the Chinese government should enhance the strength of the construction investment and de-velopment in the north and west regions, ensuring the good developmental situation in the eastern and central regions. The
R&D and the spreading of the technological advanced achievement should be strengthened. And the management and the
technology level of the construction industry should be improved.
Kinetics of degradation of ascorbic acid by cyclic voltammetry method
Authors: Grudic Veselinka , Blagojevic Nada , Vukasinovic-Pesic Vesna , Brasanac Snezana
Published: October 2014

Cyclic voltammetry was used to examine the kinetics of degradation of
ascorbic acid (AA) at different temperatures. It has been shown that the
reduction of the concentration of AA in all temperatures follow the kinetics
of the first order reaction. The rate constant of the oxidation reaction
increases with temperature as follows: 5x10-5; 2x10-4; 1x10-3 and 3x10-3
min-1 at temperatures of 25?C, 35?C, 65?C and 90?C, respectively. The
temperature dependence of the rate constant follows Arrhenius equation, and
the value of activation energy of the reaction degradation is 48.2 kJ mol-1 .
The effect of storage time at a temperature of 90 ?C on AA content in fresh
juice of green peppers was investigated. It was shown that AA oxidation
reaction in the juice is also the first order reaction, while the lower rate
constant in relation to the pure AA (5x10-3 min-1) indicates the influence of
other substances present in peppers.
Influence of Process Parameters on Content Uniformity of a Low Dose Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient in a Tablet Formulation According to GMP
Authors: Muselík Jan , Franc Aleš , Doležel Petr , Goněc Roman , Krondlová Anna , Lukášová Ivana
Published: October 2014

The article describes the development and production of tablets using direct compression of powder mixtures. The aim was to describe the impact of filler particle size and the time of lubricant addition during mixing on content uniformity according to the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) process validation requirements. Processes are regulated by complex directives, forcing the producers to validate, using sophisticated methods, the content uniformity of intermediates as well as final products. Cutting down of production time and material, shortening of analyses, and fast and reliable statistic evaluation of results can reduce the final price without affecting product quality. The manufacturing process of directly compressed tablets containing the low dose active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) warfarin, with content uniformity passing validation criteria, is used as a model example. Statistic methods have proved that the manufacturing process is reproducible. Methods suitable for elucidation of various properties of the final blend, e.g., measurement of electrostatic charge by Faraday pail and evaluation of mutual influences of researched variables by partial least square (PLS) regression, were used. Using these methods, it was proved that the filler with higher particle size increased the content uniformity of both blends and the ensuing tablets. Addition of the lubricant, magnesium stearate, during the blending process improved the content uniformity of blends containing the filler with larger particles. This seems to be caused by reduced sampling error due to the suppression of electrostatic charge.
Identification of a Source Term in a Semilinear Evolution Delay Equation
Authors: Lorenzi Alfredo , Vrabie Ioan I.
Published: October 2014

An existence, uniqueness and continuous dependence on the data result for a source term identification problem in a semilinear functional delay differential equation in a general Banach space is established. As additional condition, it is assumed that the mean of the solution, with respect to a non-atomic Borel measure, is a preassigned element in the domain of the linear part of the right-hand side of the equation. Two applications to source identification, one in a parabolic functional delay equation and another one in a hyperbolic delay equation, are also discussed.
Natural Selection or Problem Solving. Critical Re-evaluation of Karl Popper's Evolutionism
Authors: Boldachev Alexander
Published: October 2014

Among the philosophers and the educated audience the name of Sir Karl Popper is usually associated with the critical method, evolutionary epistemology, falsification as a criterion for the demarcation of scientific knowledge, the concept of the third world and with his dislike to dialectics and contradictions. This article is aimed to show in what way all these things are connected in the evolutionary researches of the philosopher and the new conceptions, which he contributed to studying the mechanisms of evolution. Also there is an attempt to comprehend the evolutionary views of Popper, test them for falsification, relate his epistemology with his claims, which he puts forward to the theory of objective knowledge evolution and show the obvious contradiction between them.
Chronic Complaints After Ankle Sprains: A Systematic Review on Effectiveness of Treatments
Authors: van Ochten John M. , van Middelkoop Marienke , Meuffels Duncan , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M.A.
Published: October 2014

Study Design

Systematic review.

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of treatments for patients with chronic complaints after ankle sprain.

Background

Though most people recover completely after a lateral inversion ankle injury, a considerable percentage have persistent complaints. Currently, it is still unclear which treatment options are best for these patients.

Methods

Major databases, including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PEDro, were searched for randomized controlled trials and controlled clinical trials conducted from 1966 to October 2012. Due to clinical heterogeneity, the data were analyzed using a best-evidence synthesis.

Results

A total of 20 randomized controlled trials and 1 controlled clinical trial were included in the analysis. The included studies compared different treatments (training programs, physiotherapy, chiropractic/manual therapy, surgery, postoperative training, and functional treatment). For pain and function outcomes, limited to moderate evidence was found for effectiveness of a training program compared to conservative treatment. Two studies found a decrease of recurrences after a proprioceptive training program. Four studies showed good results for different surgical methods but did not include a nonsurgical control group for comparison. Limited evidence was found for the effectiveness of an early mobilization program after surgery.

Conclusion

In chronic ankle complaints after an ankle sprain, a training program gives better results for pain and function, and a decrease of recurrent ankle sprains, than a wait-and-see policy. There was insufficient evidence to determine the most effective surgical treatment, but limited evidence suggests that postoperative, early mobilization was more effective than a plaster cast.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1a-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(11):862–871. Epub 9 October 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.5221
Persons With Chronic Hip Joint Pain Exhibit Reduced Hip Muscle Strength
Authors: Harris-Hayes Marcie , Mueller Michael J. , Sahrmann Shirley A. , Bloom Nancy J. , Steger-May Karen , Clohisy John C. , Salsich Gretchen B.
Published: October 2014

Study Design

Controlled laboratory cross-sectional study.

Objectives

To assess strength differences of the hip rotator and abductor muscle groups in young adults with chronic hip joint pain (CHJP) and asymptomatic controls. A secondary objective was to determine if strength in the uninvolved hip of those with unilateral CHJP differs from that in asymptomatic controls.

Background

Little is known about the relationship between hip muscle strength and CHJP in young adults.

Methods

Thirty-five participants with CHJP and 35 matched controls (18 to 40 years of age) participated. Using handheld dynamometry, strength of the hip external rotators and internal rotators was assessed with the hip flexed to 90° and 0°. To assess external rotator and internal rotator strength, the hip was placed at the end range of external rotation and internal rotation, respectively. Strength of the hip abductors was assessed in sidelying, with the hip in 15° of abduction. Break tests were performed to determine maximum muscle force, and the average torque was calculated using the corresponding moment arm. Independent-sample t tests were used to compare strength values between (1) the involved limb in participants with CHJP and the corresponding limb in the matched controls, and (2) the uninvolved limb in participants with unilateral CHJP and the corresponding limb in the matched controls.

Results

Compared to controls, participants with CHJP demonstrated weakness of 16% to 28% (P<.01) in all muscle groups tested in the involved hip. The uninvolved hip of 22 subjects with unilateral CHJP demonstrated weakness of 18% and 16% (P<.05) in the external rotators (0°) and abductors, respectively, when compared to the corresponding limb of the matched controls.

Conclusion

The results of the present study demonstrate that persons with CHJP have weakness in the hip rotator and hip abductor muscles. Weakness also was found in the uninvolved hip of persons with CHJP. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(11):890–898. Epub 9 October 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.5268
Modernity and Medieval Muck
Authors: Jørgensen Dolly
Published: October 2014

This article challenges the common presentation of the medieval street as a mud- and muck-filled cesspit. Using the television episode “Medieval London” of the Filthy Cities series aired by BBC Two in 2011 as a springboard, I discuss the realities of medieval waste management and modern conceptions of it. Through an examination of historical records from London, I show that the early fourteenth-century medieval street was not nearly as filthy as portrayed in Filthy Cities. Rather than being based on medieval evidence, our notion of the dirty medieval city is built on modern ideas of civility and scientific progress. Interpretations like that in Filthy Cities reflect more on our modern condition than the medieval one. The constructed dichotomy of medieval filth versus modern cleanliness obscures our contemporary waste problems and reinforces a physical and mental distance from our own waste.
Examining Restoration Goals at a Former Military Site: Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Colorado
Authors: Havlick David G. , Hourdequin Marion , John Matthew
Published: October 2014

Identifying appropriate restoration goals has long posed a challenge in ecological restoration. The task becomes even more difficult in settings with diverse land use histories. After two decades of remediation, a former chemical weapons facility near Denver, Colorado, has become a national wildlife refuge. Restoration efforts have isolated contaminants and restored bison and native prairie, but the site's complex history invites a deeper consideration of reference conditions. This article presents data from a visitor survey and interviews with land managers and citizen groups to examine conceptions of historical fidelity at this site. Results indicate that visitors and land managers orient toward restoration that features a traditional reference condition. Citizen groups point to restoration of cultural features as the highest priorities. This research highlights disparities between constituencies and suggests that restoration work itself may shape values that inform visitors and affirm how a landscape ought to exist.
Higher stress scores for female medical students measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) in Pakistan
Authors: Qamar Khadija , Kiani Muhammad Rizwan Bash , Ayyub Aisha , Khan Atif Ahmed , Osama Mohammad
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the stress level of medical students and the relationship between stress and academic year. A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted at an undergraduate medical school with a five-year curriculum, in Pakistan, from January 2014 to April 2014. Medical students in the first four years were included in the study. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), a self-administered questionnaire, was distributed to the students. A total of 445 medical students completed the questionnaire. The average stress score was 19.61 (SD = 6.76) with a range from 10 to 43. Stress was experienced by 169 students (41.7%). The scores of female students were higher than scores of males, indicating a higher stress level (P = 0.011). The relationship between stress and academic year was insignificant (P = 0.392).
Social housing, multi-ethnic environments and the training of social educators: combined anthropological and educational perspectives
Authors: Virgilio Flavia
Published: October 2014

The paper presents part of a broader project that explores the role played by informal citizenship learning in social housing urban environments (SHe) and the related educational challenges for social educators, NGO practitioners and also researchers. In this article, in particular, I focus on issues related with social educators' and NGO practitioners' professional training. The aim of the paper, in this perspective, is to offer some introductory theoretical and methodological remarks for the training of NGO practitioners working in SHe. The basis for this reflection is the idea of informal learning (Schugurensky, 2000), the concepts of learning for reflexive citizenship and learning for active citizenship (Johnston, 2005) and anthropology of citizenship (Ong, 1999, 2003). In the research process, we have intersected instruments and methodologies coming from the different fields of anthropology and educational sciences. Our hypothesis consists in considering the possibility that exploring the professional field of social educators in SHe with an ethnographic approach could contribute to improve reflexive attitudes of social educators and shape their educational attitudes.
Out of Europe
Authors: Evans Rob
Published: October 2014

The demands laid on the individual by increasingly fragmented life-wide learning imperatives lead to constant pressure on adults of 'migratory background' to display agency and take up a position vis-à-vis cultural-ethnic 'belonging', while around them an integration/assimilation debate continues to rage in German public discourse. The focus of this paper will therefore be the experiences of transition and transformation in learning biographies which are often experienced as self-'translation'. The paper will address agency, inclusion/exclusion in the learning biographies of young adults who straddle the precarious identity of German-Turk/Turk-German. I use here talk elicited in the learning biography of a student of Turkish origin. The assertion of agency-in-diversity is given voice in uneven ways. The extracts allow us to listen closely to the workings of agency in the subjective, shared experience related in auto/biographical narratives.
Performance Evaluation of a Continuous Operation Adsorption Chiller Powered by Solar Energy Using Silica Gel and Water as the Working Pair
Authors: Hassan Hassan
Published: October 2014

In the present study, dynamic analysis and performance evaluation of a solar-powered continuous operation adsorption chiller are introduced. The adsorption chiller uses silica gel and water as the working pair. The developed mathematical model represents the heat and mass transfer within the reactor coupled with the energy balance of the collector plate and the glass cover. Moreover, a non-equilibrium adsorption kinetic model is taken into account by using the linear driving force equation. The variation of solar radiation, wind speed, and atmospheric temperature along a complete cycle are considered for a more realistic simulation. Based on the case studied and the baseline parameters, the chiller is found to acquire a coefficient of performance of 0.402. The average thermal efficiency of the solar collector is estimated to be 62.96% and the average total efficiency approaches a value of 50.91%. Other performance parameters obtained are 363.8 W and 1.82 W/kg for the cooling capacity and the specific cooling power of the chiller, respectively. Furthermore, every 1 kg of silica gel inside the adsorption reactor produces a daily chilled water mass of 3 kg at a temperature of 10 ◦C. In addition, the cooling system harnesses 25.35% of the total available solar radiation and converts it to a cooling effect.
An Improved Genetic Algorithm for Optimal Stationary Energy Storage System Locating and Sizing
Authors: Wang Bin , Yang Zhongping , Lin Fei , Zhao Wei
Published: October 2014

The application of a stationary ultra-capacitor energy storage system (ESS) in urban rail transit allows for the recuperation of vehicle braking energy for increasing energy savings as well as for a better vehicle voltage profile. This paper aims to obtain the best energy savings and voltage profile by optimizing the location and size of ultra-capacitors. This paper firstly raises the optimization objective functions from the perspectives of energy savings, regenerative braking cancellation and installation cost, respectively. Then, proper mathematical models of the DC (direct current) traction power supply system are established to simulate the electrical load-flow of the traction supply network, and the optimization objections are evaluated in the example of a Chinese metro line. Ultimately, a methodology for optimal ultra-capacitor energy storage system locating and sizing is put forward based on the improved genetic algorithm. The optimized result shows that certain preferable and compromised schemes of ESSs’ location and size can be obtained, acting as a compromise between satisfying better energy savings, voltage profile and lower installation cost.
Optimization of a DNA Nicking Assay to Evaluate Oenocarpus bataua and Camellia sinensis Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Leba Louis-Jérôme , Brunschwig Christel , Saout Mona , Martial Karine , Vulcain Emmanuelle , Bereau Didier , Robinson Jean-Charles
Published: October 2014

This study was aimed at assessing the DNA damage protective activity of different types of extracts (aqueous, methanolic and acetonic) using an in vitro DNA nicking assay. Several parameters were optimized using the pUC18 plasmid, especially FeSO4, EDTA, solvent concentrations and incubation time. Special attention has been paid to removing the protective and damaging effect of the solvent and FeSO4 respectively, as well as to identifying the relevant positive and negative controls. For each solvent, the optimal conditions were determined: (i) for aqueous extracts, 0.33 mM of FeSO4 and 0.62 mM of EDTA were incubated for 20 min at 37 °C; (ii) for acetone extracts, 1.16% solvent were incubated for 15 min at 37 °C with 1.3 mM of FeSO4 and 2.5 mM of EDTA and (iii) for methanol extracts, 0.16% solvent, were incubated for 1.5 h at 37 °C with 0.33 mM of FeSO4 and 0.62 mM of EDTA. Using the optimized conditions, the DNA damage protective activity of aqueous, methanolic and acetonic extracts of an Amazonian palm berry (Oenocarpus bataua) and green tea (Camellia sinensis) was assessed. Aqueous and acetonic Oenocarpus bataua extracts were protective against DNA damage, whereas aqueous, methanolic and acetonic extracts of Camellia sinensis extracts induced DNA damage.
Novel Formulations for Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Carmona-Ribeiro Ana , De Melo Carrasco Letícia
Published: October 2014

Peptides in general hold much promise as a major ingredient in novel supramolecular assemblies. They may become essential in vaccine design, antimicrobial chemotherapy, cancer immunotherapy, food preservation, organs transplants, design of novel materials for dentistry, formulations against diabetes and other important strategical applications. This review discusses how novel formulations may improve the therapeutic index of antimicrobial peptides by protecting their activity and improving their bioavailability. The diversity of novel formulations using lipids, liposomes, nanoparticles, polymers, micelles, etc., within the limits of nanotechnology may also provide novel applications going beyond antimicrobial chemotherapy.
The Roles of Monomeric GTP-Binding Proteins in Macroautophagy in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Yang Shu , Rosenwald Anne
Published: October 2014

Autophagy is a cellular degradation process that sequesters components into a double-membrane structure called the autophagosome, which then fuses with the lysosome or vacuole for hydrolysis and recycling of building blocks. Bulk phase autophagy, also known as macroautophagy, controlled by specific Atg proteins, can be triggered by a variety of stresses, including starvation. Because autophagy relies extensively on membrane traffic to form the membranous structures, factors that control membrane traffic are essential for autophagy. Among these factors, the monomeric GTP-binding proteins that cycle between active and inactive conformations form an important group. In this review, we summarize the functions of the monomeric GTP-binding proteins in autophagy, especially with reference to experiments in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Thermoase-Derived Flaxseed Protein Hydrolysates and Membrane Ultrafiltration Peptide Fractions Have Systolic Blood Pressure-Lowering Effects in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Nwachukwu Ifeanyi , Girgih Abraham , Malomo Sunday , Onuh John , Aluko Rotimi
Published: October 2014

Thermoase-digested flaxseed protein hydrolysate (FPH) samples and ultrafiltration membrane-separated peptide fractions were initially evaluated for in vitro inhibition of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) and renin activities. The two most active FPH samples and their corresponding peptide fractions were subsequently tested for in vivo antihypertensive activity in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). The FPH produced with 3% thermoase digestion showed the highest ACE- and renin-inhibitory activities. Whereas membrane ultrafiltration resulted in significant (p < 0.05) increases in ACE inhibition by the <1 and 1–3 kDa peptides, only a marginal improvement in renin-inhibitory activity was observed for virtually all the samples after membrane ultrafiltration. The FPH samples and membrane fractions were also effective in lowering systolic blood pressure (SBP) in SHR with the largest effect occurring after oral administration (200 mg/kg body weight) of the 1–3 kDa peptide fraction of the 2.5% FPH and the 3–5 kDa fraction of the 3% FPH. Such potent SBP-lowering capacity indicates the potential of flaxseed protein-derived bioactive peptides as ingredients for the formulation of antihypertensive functional foods and nutraceuticals.
Tracking Electrification in Vietnam Using Nighttime Lights
Authors: Min Brian , Gaba Kwawu
Published: October 2014

We report on a systematic ground-based validation of DMSP-OLS night lights imagery to detect rural electrification in Vietnam. Based on an original survey of village-level units in Vietnam, this study compares nighttime light output from the U.S. Air Force Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s Operational Linescan System (DMSP-OLS) against ground-based survey data on electrical infrastructure and electricity use in 200 electrified villages. Monthly and annual composites record a one-point increase in brightness along DMSP-OLS’s 63-point brightness scale for every 60–70 additional streetlights or 240–270 electrified homes. Using a time series of 90 nightly images, the data show a one-point increase in brightness for every 125–200 additional streetlights, or 550–700 additional electrified homes. The results highlight the potential to use night lights imagery to support efforts to connect the 1.2 billion people who lack electricity around the world.
Ion-Channel Genosensor for the Detection of Specific DNA Sequences Derived from Plum Pox Virus in Plant Extracts
Authors: Malecka Kamila , Michalczuk Lech , Radecka Hanna , Radecki Jerzy
Published: October 2014

A DNA biosensor for detection of specific oligonucleotides sequences of Plum Pox Virus (PPV) in plant extracts and buffer is proposed. The working principles of a genosensor are based on the ion-channel mechanism. The NH2-ssDNA probe was deposited onto a glassy carbon electrode surface to form an amide bond between the carboxyl group of oxidized electrode surface and amino group from ssDNA probe. The analytical signals generated as a result of hybridization were registered in Osteryoung square wave voltammetry in the presence of [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− as a redox marker. The 22-mer and 42-mer complementary ssDNA sequences derived from PPV and DNA samples from plants infected with PPV were used as targets. Similar detection limits of 2.4 pM (31.0 pg/mL) and 2.3 pM (29.5 pg/mL) in the concentration range 1–8 pM were observed in the presence of the 22-mer ssDNA and 42-mer complementary ssDNA sequences of PPV, respectively. The genosensor was capable of discriminating between samples consisting of extracts from healthy plants and leaf extracts from infected plants in the concentration range 10–50 pg/mL. The detection limit was 12.8 pg/mL. The genosensor displayed good selectivity and sensitivity. The 20-mer partially complementary DNA sequences with four complementary bases and DNA samples from healthy plants used as negative controls generated low signal.
A Context-Aware-Based Audio Guidance System for Blind People Using a Multimodal Profile Model
Authors: Lin Qing , Han Youngjoon
Published: October 2014

A wearable guidance system is designed to provide context-dependent guidance messages to blind people while they traverse local pathways. The system is composed of three parts: moving scene analysis, walking context estimation and audio message delivery. The combination of a downward-pointing laser scanner and a camera is used to solve the challenging problem of moving scene analysis. By integrating laser data profiles and image edge profiles, a multimodal profile model is constructed to estimate jointly the ground plane, object locations and object types, by using a Bayesian network. The outputs of the moving scene analysis are further employed to estimate the walking context, which is defined as a fuzzy safety level that is inferred through a fuzzy logic model. Depending on the estimated walking context, the audio messages that best suit the current context are delivered to the user in a flexible manner. The proposed system is tested under various local pathway scenes, and the results confirm its efficiency in assisting blind people to attain autonomous mobility.
Optical Fiber Sensor Based on Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Using Silver Nanoparticles Photodeposited on the Optical Fiber End
Authors: Ortega-Mendoza J. , Padilla-Vivanco Alfonso , Toxqui-Quitl Carina , Zaca-Morán Placido , Villegas-Hernández David , Chávez Fernando
Published: October 2014

This paper reports the implementation of an optical fiber sensor to measure the refractive index in aqueous media based on localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). We have used a novel technique known as photodeposition to immobilize silver nanoparticles on the optical fiber end. This technique has a simple instrumentation, involves laser light via an optical fiber and silver nanoparticles suspended in an aqueous medium. The optical sensor was assembled using a tungsten lamp as white light, a spectrometer, and an optical fiber with silver nanoparticles. The response of this sensor is such that the LSPR peak wavelength is linearly shifted to longer wavelengths as the refractive index is increased, showing a sensitivity of 67.6 nm/RIU. Experimental results are presented.
Laser Gyro Temperature Compensation Using Modified RBFNN
Authors: Ding Jicheng , Zhang Jian , Huang Weiquan , Chen Shuai
Published: October 2014

To overcome the effect of temperature on laser gyro zero bias and to stabilize the laser gyro output, this study proposes a modified radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) based on a Kohonen network and an orthogonal least squares (OLS) algorithm. The modified method, which combines the pattern classification capability of the Kohonen network and the optimal choice capacity of OLS, avoids the random selection of RBFNN centers and improves the compensation accuracy of the RBFNN. It can quickly and accurately identify the effect of temperature on laser gyro zero bias. A number of comparable identification and compensation tests on a variety of temperature-changing situations are completed using the multiple linear regression (MLR), RBFNN and modified RBFNN methods. The test results based on several sets of gyro output in constant and changing temperature conditions demonstrate that the proposed method is able to overcome the effect of randomly selected RBFNN centers. The running time of the method is about 60 s shorter than that of traditional RBFNN under the same test conditions, which suggests that the calculations are reduced. Meanwhile, the compensated gyro output accuracy using the modified method is about 7.0 × 10−4 °/h; comparatively, the traditional RBFNN is about 9.0 × 10−4 °/h and the MLR is about 1.4 × 10−3 °/h.
UASB followed by Sub-Surface Horizontal Flow Phytodepuration for the Treatment of the Sewage Generated by a Small Rural Community
Authors: Raboni Massimo , Gavasci Renato , Urbini Giordano
Published: October 2014

The paper presents the results of an experimental process designed for the treatment of the sewage generated by a rural community located in the north-east of Brazil. The process consists of a preliminary mechanical treatment adopting coarse screens and grit traps, followed by a biological treatment in a UASB reactor and a sub-surface horizontal flow phytodepuration step. The use of a UASB reactor equipped with a top cover, as well as of the phytodepuration process employing a porous medium, showed to present important health advantages. In particular, there were no significant odor emissions and there was no evidence of the proliferation of insects and other disease vectors. The plant achieved the following mean abatement efficiencies: 92.9% for BOD5, 79.2% for COD and 94% for Suspended Solids. With regard to fecal indicators average efficiencies of 98.8% for fecal coliforms and 97.9% for fecal enterococci were achieved. The UASB reactor showed an important role in achieving this result. The research was also aimed at evaluating the optimal operating conditions for the UASB reactor in terms of hydraulic load and organic volumetric loading. The achieved results hence indicated that the process may be highly effective for small rural communities in tropical and sub-tropical areas.
La participation en irrigation : quels changements depuis la loi de l'an 2000 au Tamil Nadu ? (Participation in irrigation: which changes in Tamil Nadu, since the Act of 2000?)
Authors: Aubriot Olivia
Published: October 2014

En l'an 2000, l'Etat du Tamil Nadu a voté une loi de gestion paysanne de l 'irrigation. Afin de saisir l 'intérêt pour le gouvernement de légiférer sur le sujet, un bref rappel de l'histoire de l'irrigation en Inde est présenté. Ainsi, la politique de gestion participative s 'explique par l 'héritage de l'appropriation par l'Etat depuis l'époque coloniale des étangs-réservoirs, ces systèmes d'irrigation villageois séculaires, et par le mouvement planétaire - soutenu par la Banque mondiale -de désengagement de l'Etat vis-à-vis de la maintenance des infrastructures d'irrigation collective. L'exemple d'un tank est donné pour montrer les changements que la création d'une association formelle implique au niveau villageois, et quel type de participation s 'observe.
A l'heure de la participation pour la desserte des services urbains : le cas de Mumbai (Inde) (Participation in urban service delivery : the case of Mumbai, India)
Authors: Zérah Marie-Hélène
Published: October 2014

Cet article porte sur la mise en œuvre de la notion de participation dans des projets visant à améliorer la desserte des services urbains. A travers l 'étude dans le cas de Mumbai de deux programmes concernant l 'assainissement et la collecte des déchets ménagers, on montre dans un premier temps comment différents points de vue se rejoignent pour affirmer la notion de participation. Il s 'agit ensuite de souligner comment différents groupes sociaux se confrontent différemment à la gestion participative avant de s 'interroger sur les implications spatiales et leurs conséquences en matière de ségrégation urbaines des projets participatifs.
La décollectivisation dans les montagnes d'Asie centrale (Tadjikistan , Kirghizistan) : transformations agricoles et crise sociale (Decollectivisation in the mountains of central Asia (Tadjikistan, Kirghizistan) : agricultural transformations and social crisis)
Authors: Thorez Julien
Published: October 2014

La transformation post-soviétique constitue un moment de bouleversement des sociétés et des espaces montagnards d'Asie centrale. Au Kirghizstan comme au Tadjikistan, la décollectivisation et la désorganisation du système économique planifié ont conduit à une crise agricole (élevage, etc.). Si des formes d'adaptation au nouveau contexte économique et territorial se développent dans certaines vallées du Kirghizstan, l'expansion de l 'autoconsommation révèle la paupérisation de nombreux habitants du Tian-Chan et du Pamir. En réponse à la dégradation des conditions de vie, les populations montagnardes, qui étaient enracinées pendant la période soviétique, migrent temporairement à destination de la Russie et, en second lieu, du Kazakhstan.
Sud-Caucase : conflit du Karabagh et nettoyage ethnique (South Caucasus : Nagorny Karabagh conflict and ethnic cleansing)
Authors: Ardillier-Carras Françoise
Published: October 2014

According to the collapse of USSR, in all parts of former Soviet Union, as a legacy of the stalinian politics, the interethnic relations became stressly, driving to territorial claims. Nagorny Karabagh (NKR) situation catch in fire all South Caucasus and led to a military conflict between Azéris and Armenian peoples, associated with radical ethnic cleansing on nationalism background. For Armenia, it is a real security implication, due to many tragic historic facts, but Azerbeidjan looks at this situation as an offense to its territory integrity. A lot of people were displaced as a continual coming and going, while many villages were destroyed. NKR war cause serious consequences on social and spatial organization in this part of Caucasus, meaning hard geopolitical uncertainties about future in this region under interests of superpowers.
Implementing a Regional Oncology Information System: Approach and Lessons Learned
Authors: Evans W.K. , Ashbury F.D. , Hogue G.L. , Smith A. , Pun J.
Published: October 2014

(1) Rationale: Paper-based medical record systems are known to have major problems of inaccuracy, incomplete data, poor accessibility, and challenges to patient confidentiality. They are also an inefficient mechanism of record-sharing for interdisciplinary patient assessment and management, and represent a major problem for keeping current and monitoring quality control to facilitate improvement. To address those concerns, national, regional, and local health care authorities have increased the pressure on oncology practices to upgrade from paper-based systems to electronic health records. (2) Objectives: Here, we describe and discuss the challenges to implementing a region-wide oncology information system across four independent health care organizations, and we describe the lessons learned from the initial phases that are now being applied in subsequent activities of this complex project. (3) Results: The need for change must be shared across centres to increase buy-in, adoption, and implementation. It is essential to establish physician leadership, commitment, and engagement in the process. Work processes had to be revised to optimize use of the new system. Culture change must be included in the change management strategy. Furthermore, training and resource requirements must be thoroughly planned, implemented, monitored, and modified as required for effective adoption of new work processes and technology. Interfaces must be established with multiple existing electronic systems across the region to ensure appropriate patient flow. Periodic assessment of the existing project structure is necessary, and adjustments are often required to ensure that the project meets its objectives. (4) Conclusions: The implementation of region-wide oncology information systems across different health practice locations has many challenges. Leadership is essential. A strong, collaborative information-sharing strategy across the region and with the supplier is essential to identify, discuss, and resolve implementation problems. A structure that supports project management and accountability contributes to success.
Risk Factors for Locoregional Recurrence After Postmastectomy Radiotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients with Four or More Positive Axillary Lymph Nodes
Authors: Li Q. , Wu S. , Zhou J. , Sun J. , Li F. , Lin Q. , Guan X. , Lin H. , He Z.
Published: October 2014

Backgroud: We investigated risk factors for locoregional recurrence (lrr) in breast cancer patients with 4 or more positive axillary lymph nodes receiving postmastectomy radiotherapy (pmrt). Methods: Medical records (1998–2007) were retrospectively reviewed for the population of interest. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate the survival rate; Cox regression models were used for univariate and multivariate analysis of predictors of breast cancer lrr. Results: The study enrolled 439 patients. Median duration of follow-up was 54 months. The 5-year rates of locoregional recurrence-free survival (lrrfs), distant metastasis–free survival (dmfs), and breast cancer–specific survival (bcss) were 87.8%, 59.5%, and 70.7% respectively. In patients with lrr and no concomitant metastasis, and in those without lrr, the 5-year rates of dmfs were 21.1% and 65.7% respectively (p < 0.001), and the 5-year rates of bcss were 34.5% and 76.4% respectively (p < 0.001). Univariate analysis showed that menopausal status (p = 0.041), pN stage (p = 0.006), and positivity for her2 [human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (p = 0.003)] or the triple-negative disease subtype (p < 0.001) were determinants of lrrfs. Multivariate analysis showed that pN3 stage [hazard ratio (hr): 2.241; 95% confidence interval (ci): 1.270 to 3.957; p = 0.005], her2 positivity (hr: 2.705; 95% ci: 1.371 to 5.335; p = 0.004), and triple-negative disease subtype (hr: 4.617; 95% ci: 2.192 to 9.723; p < 0.001) were independent prognostic factors of lrrfs. Conclusions: In breast cancer patients with 4 or more positive axillary lymph nodes who undergo pmrt for breast cancer, lrr significantly influences survival. Patients who developed lrr carried a high risk for distant metastasis and death. Pathologic stage (pN3), her2 positivity, and the triple-negative disease subtype are risk factors that significantly influence lrrfs.
Shame, Guilt, and Communication in Lung Cancer Patients and Their Partners
Authors: Dirkse D. , Lamont L. , Li Y. , Simonič A. , Bebb G. , Giese–Davis J.
Published: October 2014

Lung cancer patients report the highest distress levels of all cancer groups. In addition to poor prognosis, the self-blame and stigma associated with smoking might partially account for that distress and prevent patients from requesting help and communicating with their partners. The present study used innovative methods to investigate potential links of shame and guilt in lung cancer recovery with distress and marital adjustment. A specific emphasis was an examination of the impact of shame on partner communication. Lung cancer patients (n = 8) and their partners (n = 8) completed questionnaires and interviews that were videotaped. We report descriptive statistics and Spearman correlations between shame and guilt, relationship talk, marital satisfaction, distress, and smoking status. We coded the interviews for nonverbal expressions of shame. Greater self-reported shame was associated with decreased relationship-talk frequency and marital satisfaction, and with increased depression and smoking behaviour. Nonverbal shame behaviour also correlated with higher depression and increased smoking behaviour. Guilt results were more mixed. More recent smoking behaviour also correlated with higher depression. At a time when lung cancer patients often do not request help for distress, possibly because of shame, our preliminary study suggests that shame can also disrupt important partner relationships and might prevent patients from disclosing to physicians their need for psychosocial intervention and might increase their social isolation. Even if patients cannot verbally disclose their distress, nonverbal cues could potentially give clinicians an opportunity to intervene.
Severe Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage During Targeted Therapy for Advanced Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Assi H. , Abdel–Samad N.
Published: October 2014

The introduction of targeted agents has improved survival for patients with a number of types of cancer, including several breast cancer subtypes. However, these agents are not without toxicities, and the fact that many patients are now on targeted therapy for extended periods of time has presented new challenges for the management of adverse effects. Everolimus is an inhibitor of mTOR (the mammalian target of rapamycin) that is used as targeted therapy for advanced, hormone receptor–positive, HER2-negative breast cancer in postmenopausal women in combination with exemestane, after treatment failure with letrozole or anastrozole. Minor hemorrhagic events are relatively common with targeted agents, but life-threatening hemorrhages, although uncommon, can also occur. We report a case of life-threatening gastrointestinal bleeding in a 48-year-old woman being treated with everolimus for advanced infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the breast. The bleeding was successfully treated with 13 sessions of endoscopic hemostasis using argon plasma coagulation.
Reflections on Screening Mammography and the Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Authors: Narod S.A.
Published: October 2014

A little learning is a dangerous thing.[...]
Hyperammonemic Encephalopathy in An Adenocarcinoma Patient Managed with Carglumic Acid
Authors: Lazier J. , Lupichuk S.M. , Sosova I. , Khan A.A.
Published: October 2014

Hyperammonemic encephalopathy (HE) is a rare complication of malignancy and chemotherapy. Although the cause of HE is unclear, a functional arginine deficiency secondary to increased catabolism has been suggested as a possible mechanism. Either that deficiency or an undetermined metabolite could lead to inhibition of N-acetylglutamate synthase (NAGS), a urea cycle enzyme, resulting in hyperammonemia. We present a case of chemotherapy-induced HE in a patient with no underlying primary urea cycle disorder. The patient had a successful trial of carglumic acid (a synthetic analog of the product of NAGS), which suggests that, at least in some cases, HE can be treated by overcoming proximal inhibition of the urea cycle. Further, our case is the first in the literature to exclude genetic defects and disorders of the proximal urea cycle, suggesting that hyperammonemia in these patients is probably secondary to chemotherapy.