bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community-Based Recreational Football: A Novel Approach to Promote Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Prostate Cancer Survivors
Authors: Bruun Ditte , Bjerre Eik , Krustrup Peter , Brasso Klaus , Johansen Christoffer , Rørth Mikael , Midtgaard Julie
Published: May 2014

As the number of cancer survivors continues to increase, there is an increasing focus on management of the long-term consequences of cancer including health promotion and prevention of co-morbidity. Prostate cancer is the most frequent type of cancer type in men and causes increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. Epidemiological evidence points to a positive effect of regular physical activity on all-cause and prostate cancer mortality and current clinical evidence supports the use of exercise in cancer rehabilitation. However, the external validity of existing exercise studies is limited and the majority of prostate cancer survivors remain sedentary. Hence, novel approaches to evaluate and promote physical activity are warranted. This paper presents the rationale behind the delivery and evaluation of community-based recreational football offered in existing football clubs under the Danish Football Association to promote quality of life and physical activity adherence in prostate cancer survivors. The RE-AIM framework will be applied to evaluate the impact of the intervention including outcomes both at the individual and organizational level. By introducing community-based sport environments, the study offers a novel approach in the strive towards sustained physical activity adherence and accessibility in prostate cancer survivors.
Differences of Soil Fertility in Farmland Occupation and Supplement Areas in the Taihu Lake Watershed during 1985–2010
Authors: Su Weizhong , Ye Gaobin
Published: May 2014

Since the 1980s a series of farmland policies have been implemented in China to stabilize the balance of farmland quantity and quality against accelerating urbanization and industrialization processes. This paper aims to reveal differences of soil fertility in the farmland occupation area (FOA) and farmland supplement area (FSA). In 1985–2000 the decline of the FOA area was 181,000 ha, but the FSA rarely increased. In 2000–2010 the decline of the FOA area was 824,800 ha, but the FSA increased dramatically. The accelerating loss process is closely related to urbanization and industrialization of the locations. Most occupied farmland was still located in the areas with higher soil fertility. The FOA in 1985–2000 had higher soil fertility than the FSA, but the FSA in 2000–2010 significantly raised its soil fertility to close to the FOAs’ level. The rate of excellent-good levels of the FOA in 2000–2010 decreased from 46.13% to 37.61%; The development model shifts and farmland policies implementation are the chief driving factors behind AFOS changes. The TDBF policy and the main function zoning project should continue to play an effective role in balancing the farmland system.
Phthalate Exposure and Health-Related Outcomes in Specific Types of Work Environment
Authors: Kolena Branislav , Petrovicova Ida , Pilka Tomas , Pucherova Zuzana , Munk Michal , Matula Bohumil , Vankova Viera , Petlus Peter , Jenisova Zita , Rozova Zdenka , Wimmerova Sona , Trnovec Tomas
Published: May 2014

Many toxic substances in the workplace can modify human health and quality of life and there is still insufficient data on respiratory outcomes in adults exposed to phthalates. The aim of this work was to assess in waste management workers from the Nitra region of Slovakia (n = 30) the extent of exposure to phthalates and health-related outcomes. Four urinary phthalate metabolites mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), monobutyl phthalate (MnBP), monoethyl phthalate (MEP) and monoisononyl phthalate (MiNP) were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Urinary concentration of MEHP was positively associated with ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity % (FEV1/FVC) (r = 0.431; p = 0.018) and MiNP with fat free mass index (FFMI) (r = 0.439; p = 0.015). The strongest predictor of pulmonary function was the pack/year index as smoking history that predicted a decrease of pulmonary parameters, the FEV1/FVC, % of predicted values of peak expiratory flow (PEF % of PV) and FEV1 % of PV. Unexpectedly, urinary MEHP and MINP were positively associated with pulmonary function expressed as PEF % of PV and FEV1/FVC. We hypothesize that occupational exposure to phthalates estimated from urinary metabolites (MEHP, MiNP) can modify pulmonary function on top of lifestyle factors.
Engaging a Chemical Disaster Community: Lessons from Graniteville
Authors: Abara Winston , Wilson Sacoby , Vena John , Sanders Louisiana , Bevington Tina , Culley Joan , Annang Lucy , Dalemarre Laura , Svendsen Erik
Published: May 2014

Community engagement remains a primary objective of public health practice. While this approach has been adopted with success in response to many community health issues, it is rarely adopted in chemical disaster response. Empirical research suggests that management of chemical disasters focuses on the emergency response with almost no community engagement for long-term recovery. Graniteville, an unincorporated and medically underserved community in South Carolina was the site of one of the largest chlorine exposures by a general US population. Following the immediate response, we sought community participation and partnered with community stakeholders and representatives in order to address community-identified health and environmental concerns. Subsequently, we engaged the community through regular town hall meetings, harnessing community capacity, forming coalitions with existing local assets like churches, schools, health centers, and businesses, and hosting community-wide events like health picnics and screenings. Information obtained from these events through discussions, interviews, and surveys facilitated focused public health service which eventually transitioned to community-driven public health research. Specific outcomes of the community engagement efforts and steps taken to ensure sustainability of these efforts and outcomes will be discussed.
Effects of Partially Ionised Medical Oxygen, Especially with O2•−, in Vibration White Finger Patients
Authors: Perečinský Slavomír , Murínová Lenka , Engler Ivan , Donič Viliam , Murín Pavol , Varga Marek , Legáth Ľubomír
Published: May 2014

A major symptom of hand-arm vibration syndrome is a secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon—vibration white finger (VWF)—which results from a vasospasm of the digital arteries caused by work with vibration devices leading to occupational disease. Pharmacotherapy of VWF is often ineffective or has adverse effects. The aim of this work was to verify the influence of inhalation of partially ionized oxygen (O2•−) on peripheral blood vessels in the hands of patients with VWF. Ninety one (91)patients with VWF underwent four-finger adsorption plethysmography, and the pulse wave amplitude was recorded expressed in numeric parameters—called the native record. Next, a cold water test was conducted following with second plethysmography. The patients were divided in to the three groups. First and second inhaled 20-min of ionized oxygen O2•− or oxygen O2 respectively. Thirth group was control without treatment. All three groups a follow-up third plethysmography—the post-therapy record. Changes in the pulse wave amplitudes were evaluated. Inpatients group inhaling O2•− a modest increase of pulse wave amplitude was observed compared to the native record; patients inhaling medical oxygen O2 and the control showed a undesirable decline of pulse wave amplitude in VWF fingers. Strong vasodilatation were more frequent in the group inhaling O2•− compare to O2 (p < 0.05). Peripheral vasodilatation achieved by inhalation of O2•− could be used for VWF treatment without undesirable side effect in hospital as well as at home environment.
A Geographical-Based Multi-Criteria Approach for Marine Energy Farm Planning
Authors: Maslov Nicolas , Brosset David , Claramunt Christophe , Charpentier Jean-Frédéric
Published: May 2014

The objective of this paper is to devise a strategy for developing a flexible tool to efficiently install a marine energy farm in a suitable area. The current methodology is applied to marine tidal current, although it can be extended to other energy contexts with some adaptations. We introduce a three-step approach that searches for marine farm sites and technological solutions. The methodology applied is based on a combination of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), multi-criteria analysis (MCA) and an optimization algorithm. The integration of GIS and MCA is at the core of the search process for the best-suited marine areas, taking into account geographical constraints, such as human activity, pressure on the environment and technological opportunities. The optimization step of the approach evaluates the most appropriate technologies and farm configurations in order to maximize the quantity of energy produced while minimizing the cost of the farm. Three main criteria are applied to finally characterize a location for a marine energy farm: the global cost of the project, the quantity of energy produced and social acceptance. The social acceptance criterion is evaluated by the MCA method, Electre III, while the optimization of the energy cost is approximated by a genetic algorithm. The whole approach is illustrated by a case study applied to a maritime area in North-West France.
A Simple Three-Step Method for Design and Affinity Testing of New Antisense Peptides: An Example of Erythropoietin
Authors: Štambuk Nikola , Manojlović Zoran , Turčić Petra , Martinić Roko , Konjevoda Paško , Weitner Tin , Wardega Piotr , Gabričević Mario
Published: May 2014

Antisense peptide technology is a valuable tool for deriving new biologically active molecules and performing peptide–receptor modulation. It is based on the fact that peptides specified by the complementary (antisense) nucleotide sequences often bind to each other with a higher specificity and efficacy. We tested the validity of this concept on the example of human erythropoietin, a well-characterized and pharmacologically relevant hematopoietic growth factor. The purpose of the work was to present and test simple and efficient three-step procedure for the design of an antisense peptide targeting receptor-binding site of human erythropoietin. Firstly, we selected the carboxyl-terminal receptor binding region of the molecule (epitope) as a template for the antisense peptide modeling; Secondly, we designed an antisense peptide using mRNA transcription of the epitope sequence in the 3'→5' direction and computational screening of potential paratope structures with BLAST; Thirdly, we evaluated sense–antisense (epitope–paratope) peptide binding and affinity by means of fluorescence spectroscopy and microscale thermophoresis. Both methods showed similar Kd values of 850 and 816 µM, respectively. The advantages of the methods were: fast screening with a small quantity of the sample needed, and measurements done within the range of physicochemical parameters resembling physiological conditions. Antisense peptides targeting specific erythropoietin region(s) could be used for the development of new immunochemical methods. Selected antisense peptides with optimal affinity are potential lead compounds for the development of novel diagnostic substances, biopharmaceuticals and vaccines.
MicroRNA Function in the Profibrogenic Interplay upon Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Huang Jia , Yu Xiaojie , Fries Jochen , Zhang Li'ang , Odenthal Margarete
Published: May 2014

In chronic liver disease leading to fibrosis, hepatic stellate cells (HSC) differentiate into myofibroblasts. Myofibroblastic HSC have taken center stage during liver fibrogenesis, due to their remarkable synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins, their secretion of profibrogenic mediators and their contribution to hypertension, due to elevated contractility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNA molecules of 19–24 nucleotides in length. By either RNA interference or inhibition of translational initiation and elongation, each miRNA is able to inhibit the gene expression of a wide panel of targeted transcripts. Recently, it was shown that altered miRNA patterns after chronic liver disease highly affect the progression of fibrosis by their potential to target the expression of extracellular matrix proteins and the synthesis of mediators of profibrogenic pathways. Here, we underline the role of miRNAs in the interplay of the profibrogenic cell communication pathways upon myofibroblastic differentiation of hepatic stellate cells in the chronically injured liver.
Quantitative Proteomics to Characterize Specific Histone H2A Proteolysis in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and the Myeloid THP-1 Cell Line
Authors: Glibert Pieter , Vossaert Liesbeth , Van Steendam Katleen , Lambrecht Stijn , Van Nieuwerburgh Filip , Offner Fritz , Kipps Thomas , Dhaenens Maarten , Deforce Dieter
Published: May 2014

Proteome studies on hematological malignancies contribute to the understanding of the disease mechanism and to the identification of new biomarker candidates. With the isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) method we analyzed the protein expression between B-cells of healthy people and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) B-cells. CLL is the most common lymphoid cancer of the blood and is characterized by a variable clinical course. By comparing samples of patients with an aggressive vs. indolent disease, we identified a limited list of differentially regulated proteins. The enhanced sensitivity attributed to the iTRAQ labels led to the discovery of a previously reported but still not clarified proteolytic product of histone H2A (cH2A) which we further investigated in light of the suggested functional properties of this modification. In the exploratory proteome study the Histone H2A peptide was up-regulated in CLL samples but a more specific and sensitive screening of a larger patient cohort indicated that cH2A is of myeloid origin. Our subsequent quantitative analysis led to a more profound characterization of the clipping in acute monocytic leukemia THP-1 cells subjected to induced differentiation.
On the Optimization of Point Absorber Buoys
Authors: Sjökvist Linnea , Krishna Remya , Rahm Magnus , Castellucci Valeria , Anders Hagnestål , Leijon Mats
Published: May 2014

A point absorbing wave energy converter (WEC) is a complicated dynamical system. A semi-submerged buoy drives a power take-off device (PTO), which acts as a linear or non-linear damper of the WEC system. The buoy motion depends on the buoy geometry and dimensions, the mass of the moving parts of the system and on the damping force from the generator. The electromagnetic damping in the generator depends on both the generator specifications, the connected load and the buoy velocity. In this paper a velocity ratio has been used to study how the geometric parameters buoy draft and radius, assuming constant generator damping coefficient, affects the motion and the energy absorption of a WEC. It have been concluded that an optimal buoy geometry can be identified for a specific generator damping. The simulated WEC performance have been compared with experimental values from two WECs with similar generators but different buoys. Conclusions have been drawn about their behaviour.
Research on the Micro Sheet Stamping Process Using Plasticine as Soft Punch
Authors: Wang Xiao , Zhang Di , Gu Chunxing , Shen Zongbao , Liu Huixia
Published: May 2014

Plasticine is widely used in the analysis of metal forming processes, due to its excellent material flow ability. In this study, plasticine is used as the soft punch to fabricate array micro-channels on metal sheet in the micro sheet stamping process. This is because plasticine can produce a large material flow after being subjected to force and through the material flow, the plasticine can cause the sheet to fill into the micro-channels of the rigid die, leading to the generation of micro-channels in the sheet. The distribution of array micro-channels was investigated as well as the influence of load forces on the sheet deformations. It was found that the depth of micro-channels increases as the load force increases. When the load force reaches a certain level, a crack can be observed. The micro sheet stamping process was also investigated by the method of numerical simulation. The obtained experimental and numerical results for the stamping process showed that they were in good agreement. Additionally, from the simulation results, it can be seen that the corner region of the micro-channel-shape work piece has a risk to crack due to the existence of maximum von Mises stress and significant thinning.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antipruritic Effects of Luteolin from Perilla (P. frutescens L.) Leaves
Authors: Jeon In , Kim Hyeon , Kang Hyun , Lee Hyun-Seo , Jeong Seung , Kim Sang , Jang Seon
Published: May 2014

Perilla (Perilla frutescens L.) leaves have shown therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of inflammatory disorders, allergies, bronchial asthma, and systemic damage due to free radicals. In the present study we analyzed the active constituents in perilla leaves using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and isolated luteolin, a polyphenolic flavonoid. We investigated the anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties of luteolin. Luteolin inhibited the secretion of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (IL-1 β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) from human mast cells (HMC-1) stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187 in a dose-dependent manner. Luteolin also significantly reduced the histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells stimulated by compound 48/80, a potent histamine liberator. Furthermore, the administration of luteolin markedly inhibited the scratching behavior and vascular permeability induced by pruritogens, such as compound 48/80 or serotonin, in ICR mice. These results suggested that luteolin has potential as a therapeutic agent against inflammation and itch-related skin diseases.
Novel Gram-Scale Production of Enantiopure R-Sulforaphane from Tuscan Black Kale Seeds
Authors: De Nicola Gina , Rollin Patrick , Mazzon Emanuela , Iori Renato
Published: May 2014

Dietary R-sulforaphane is a highly potent inducer of the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway. Furthermore, sulforaphane is currently being used in clinical trials to assess its effects against different tumour processes. This study reports an efficient preparation of enantiopure R-sulforaphane based on the enzymatic hydrolysis of its natural precursor glucoraphanin. As an alternative to broccoli seeds, we have exploited Tuscan black kale seeds as a suitable source for gram-scale production of glucoraphanin. The defatted seed meal contained 5.1% (w/w) of glucoraphanin that was first isolated through an anion exchange chromatographic process, and then purified by gel filtration. The availability of glucoraphanin (purity ≈ 95%, weight basis) has allowed us to develop a novel simple hydrolytic process involving myrosinase (EC 3.2.1.147) in a biphasic system to directly produce R-sulforaphane. In a typical experiment, 1.09 g of enantiopure R-sulforaphane was obtained from 150 g of defatted Tuscan black kale seed meal.
Microreactor-Assisted Solution Deposition for Compound Semiconductor Thin Films
Authors: Choi Chang-Ho , Paul Brian , Chang Chih-Hung
Published: May 2014

State-of-the-art techniques for the fabrication of compound semiconductors are mostly vacuum-based physical vapor or chemical vapor deposition processes. These vacuum-based techniques typically operate at high temperatures and normally require higher capital costs. Solution-based techniques offer opportunities to fabricate compound semiconductors at lower temperatures and lower capital costs. Among many solution-based deposition processes, chemical bath deposition is an attractive technique for depositing semiconductor films, owing to its low temperature, low cost and large area deposition capability. Chemical bath deposition processes are mainly performed using batch reactors, where all reactants are fed into the reactor simultaneously and products are removed after the processing is finished. Consequently, reaction selectivity is difficult, which can lead to unwanted secondary reactions. Microreactor-assisted solution deposition processes can overcome this limitation by producing short-life molecular intermediates used for heterogeneous thin film synthesis and quenching the reaction prior to homogeneous reactions. In this paper, we present progress in the synthesis and deposition of semiconductor thin films with a focus on CdS using microreactor-assisted solution deposition and provide an overview of its prospect for scale-up.
Improving the Geolocation Algorithm for Sensors Onboard the ISS: Effect of Drift Angle
Authors: Dou Changyong , Zhang Xiaodong , Guo Huadong , Han Chunming , Liu Ming
Published: May 2014

The drift angle caused by the Earth’s self-rotation may introduce rotational displacement artifact on the geolocation results of imagery acquired by an Earth observing sensor onboard the International Space Station (ISS). If uncorrected, it would cause a gradual degradation of positional accuracy from the center towards the edges of an image. One correction method to account for the drift angle effect was developed. The drift angle was calculated from the ISS state vectors and positional information of the ground nadir point of the imagery. Tests with images acquired by the International Space Station Agriculture Camera (ISSAC) using Google EarthTM as a reference indicated that applying the drift angle correction can reduce the residual geolocation error for the corner points of the ISSAC images from over 1000 to less than 500 m. The improved geolocation accuracy is well within the inherent geolocation uncertainty of up to 800 m, mainly due to imprecise knowledge of the ISS attitude and state parameters required to perform the geolocation algorithm.
Developing Two Spectral Disease Indices for Detection of Wheat Leaf Rust (Pucciniatriticina)
Authors: Ashourloo Davoud , Mobasheri Mohammad , Huete Alfredo
Published: May 2014

Spectral vegetation indices (SVIs) have been widely used to detect different plant diseases. Wheat leaf rust manifests itself as an early symptom with the leaves turning yellow and orange. The sign of advancing disease is the leaf colour changing to brown while the final symptom is when the leaf becomes dry. The goal of this work is to develop spectral disease indices for the detection of leaf rust. The reflectance spectra of the wheat’s infected and non-infected leaves at different disease stages were collected using a spectroradiometer. As ground truth, the ratio of the disease-affected area to the total leaf area and the fractions of the different symptoms were extracted using an RGB digital camera. Fractions of the various disease symptoms extracted by the digital camera and the measured reflectance spectra of the infected leaves were used as input to the spectral mixture analysis (SMA). Then, the spectral reflectance of the different disease symptoms were estimated using SMA and the least squares method. The reflectance of different disease symptoms in the 450~1000 nm were studied carefully using the Fisher function. Two spectral disease indices were developed based on the reflectance at the 605, 695 and 455 nm wavelengths. In both indices, the R2 between the estimated and the observed was as highas 0.94.
Empirical Regression Models for Estimating Multiyear Leaf Area Index of Rice from Several Vegetation Indices at the Field Scale
Authors: Maki Masayasu , Homma Koki
Published: May 2014

Leaf area index (LAI) is among the most important variables for monitoring crop growth and estimating grain yield. Previous reports have shown that LAI derived from remote sensing data can be effectively applied in crop growth simulation models for improving the accuracy of grain yield estimation. Therefore, precise estimation of LAI from remote sensing data is expected to be useful for global monitoring of crop growth. In this study, as a preliminary step toward application at the regional and global scale, the suitability of several vegetation indices for estimating multi-year LAI were validated against field survey data. In particular, the performance of a vegetation index known as time-series index of plant structure (TIPS), which was developed by the authors, was evaluated by comparison with other well-known vegetation indices. The estimated equation derived from the relationship between TIPS and LAI was more accurate at estimating LAI than were equations derived from other vegetation indices. Although further research is required to demonstrate the effectiveness of TIPS, this study indicates that TIPS has the potential to provide accurate estimates for multi-year LAI at the field scale.
Sparse Representation for Infrared Dim Target Detection via a Discriminative Over-Complete Dictionary Learned Online
Authors: Li Zheng-Zhou , Chen Jing , Hou Qian , Fu Hong-Xia , Dai Zhen , Jin Gang , Li Ru-Zhang , Liu Chang-Ju
Published: May 2014

It is difficult for structural over-complete dictionaries such as the Gabor function and discriminative over-complete dictionary, which are learned offline and classified manually, to represent natural images with the goal of ideal sparseness and to enhance the difference between background clutter and target signals. This paper proposes an infrared dim target detection approach based on sparse representation on a discriminative over-complete dictionary. An adaptive morphological over-complete dictionary is trained and constructed online according to the content of infrared image by K-singular value decomposition (K-SVD) algorithm. Then the adaptive morphological over-complete dictionary is divided automatically into a target over-complete dictionary describing target signals, and a background over-complete dictionary embedding background by the criteria that the atoms in the target over-complete dictionary could be decomposed more sparsely based on a Gaussian over-complete dictionary than the one in the background over-complete dictionary. This discriminative over-complete dictionary can not only capture significant features of background clutter and dim targets better than a structural over-complete dictionary, but also strengthens the sparse feature difference between background and target more efficiently than a discriminative over-complete dictionary learned offline and classified manually. The target and background clutter can be sparsely decomposed over their corresponding over-complete dictionaries, yet couldn’t be sparsely decomposed based on their opposite over-complete dictionary, so their residuals after reconstruction by the prescribed number of target and background atoms differ very visibly. Some experiments are included and the results show that this proposed approach could not only improve the sparsity more efficiently, but also enhance the performance of small target detection more effectively.
The Touch Pad Body: A Generative Transcultural Digital Device Interrupting Received Ideas and Practices in Aboriginal Health
Authors: Christie Michael , Verran Helen
Published: May 2014

Yolŋu Aboriginal understandings of the body, health, life and sickness, and roles their ancestral epistemologies and knowledge practices play in making agreement have seldom been taken seriously in the biomedical world. In this paper, we describe how insights developed in three different cross-cultural collaborative transdisciplinary research projects led to the design of a digital device aimed at intervening in communicative practices around body, health, life and sickness, interrupting the received practices and assumptions on both sides of the practitioner-client divide. The interrupting device slows down and opens up communication practices potentially leading to mutual understanding, collective agreement making, and bottom-up changes in remote Aboriginal health policy and practice.
Stagnating Jatropha Biofuel Development in Southwest China: An Institutional Approach
Authors: Li Jia , Bluemling Bettina , Mol Arthur , Herzfeld Thomas
Published: May 2014

Biodiesel from jatropha has been considered as a promising alternative to fossil fuels for some time. Consequently, China started promoting jatropha as one of the options to meet its ever-increasing energy consumption, and the Chinese biodiesel industry also gained interest. However, the excitement of the biofuel industry in jatropha faded after it did not bring about the expected results. This article investigates the stagnation in jatropha development and production for biodiesel in China, using two detailed case studies of jatropha biofuel production in southeast China. It is found that the underdeveloped biodiesel policy and regulation, such as a rather late formulation of standards for biodiesel (especially the B5) and the absence of mandatory targets, is an important reason for hampering jatropha development. Besides that, lack of financial support undermined sustained jatropha planting at the farm level and lack of sustained commitment from state-owned enterprises or private companies over a long time span further contributed to jatropha project’s failure. Better implementation of the rule of law, mandatory blending requirements, hazard insurance, as well as continuous financial support, might improve the continuation of jatropha plantation schemes.
Exploring Reasons for the Resistance to Sustainable Management within Non-Profit Organizations
Authors: Daub Claus-Heinrich , Scherrer Yvonne , Verkuil Arie
Published: May 2014

The numerous empirical and conceptual studies that have been conducted over recent years concerning the social responsibility of enterprises and their contributions towards sustainable development have given very little consideration to non-profit organizations (NPOs). This is surprising, because NPOs are confronted with very similar challenges to profit-orientated enterprises regarding their evolution into sustainable organizations. This paper is a preliminary conceptual study and explores the question of why the corporate social responsibility, or corporate sustainability, of NPOs has to date been both neglected by research establishments and also extensively ignored by the NPOs during their day-to-day practical management. The example of church and pastoral institutions in Germany is used to demonstrate the extent to which they take account of ecological and social aspects in their management systems and processes and, thus, implement sustainable management within their day-to-day practice. The paper concludes with some proposals for further empirical and conceptual research projects, which are designed to analyze developments within NPOs with relation to the integration of sustainability into their management systems and processes.
Supporting the Integration of Sustainability into Higher Education Curricula—A Case Study from Switzerland
Authors: Hamiti Sandra , Wydler Hans
Published: May 2014

From the perspective of different stakeholders, education for sustainable development (ESD) in higher education is highly desirable. In practice, however, this may present challenges, as it involves systemic and cultural changes as well as organizational transformation. A working group at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences supported such a transformative process with the aim of fostering, linking and subsequently deepening the dimensions of sustainable development in the existing curricula. By means of an assessment tool (spider diagram) developed through a bottom-up action research procedure, the working group initiated a discussion on sustainability among university lecturers, research associates and students. Results support the hypothesis that resistance to incorporating dimensions of sustainability into the curriculum can effectively be avoided by such an approach. The effectiveness of the assessment tool increased the commitment and the willingness of lecturers to share a common goal of demonstrating the relevance of sustainability in higher education.
An Extended Input Output Table Compiled for Analyzing Water Demand and Consumption at County Level in China
Authors: Deng Xiangzheng , Zhang Fan , Wang Zhan , Li Xing , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2014

This paper attempts to propose hybrid methodology of compiling water resource extended input-output (IO) table at county level (According to administrative structure of China, a county is subordinate to its province, and provincial level is parallel to state level of other countries). By combining Non-Survey-based RAS-technique for possible iterated results and Partial-Survey-based current situation for actual ongoing resource-consumption, we aimed to depict a more accurate structure for water resource consumption and regional economic impact analysis at a county level in the arid area. Additionally, non-parameter methodology was adopted to interpolate missing data. Since human interventions continually have impacted on the natural environment that would finally lead to over-consumption of natural resources, we introduced water consumption caused by cultivation in the Primary Industry and water usage in other industries into a local input-output matrix of Shandan County in Gansu Province, China. Evidence of empirical analysis shows that the modified IO table can more accurately describe economic structure than weighted provincial average IO table does. Moreover, industrialization is ongoing with economic diversity and continually generating water use demand even though also stimulating imports of light industrial products according to the Partial-Survey reports. It demonstrates that industrialization and increasing household consumption drive a high speed of economic growth but with a high cost of water consumption through the Secondary and Tertiary Industries, even at a far rural area. Hence, water scarcity would be a constraint on sustainable development in regions such as Shandan County when taking economic valuation of natural water consumption into account.
Can Companies Induce Sustainable Consumption? The Impact of Knowledge and Social Embeddedness on Airline Sustainability Programs in the U.S.
Authors: Kim Yohan , Yun Sunyoung , Lee Joosung
Published: May 2014

This paper investigates how consumers’ level of knowledge and social embeddedness can influence sustainable consumption. An extended model of goal-directed behavior (MGB) is tested by U.S. airline consumers who have participated in UNICEF’s Change for Good (CFG) and voluntary carbon offsetting (VCO) programs. Results show that consumers’ knowledge positively influenced their subjective norms and attitudes towards participation of VCO and CFG. Increasing consumers’ sense of social embeddedness is also found to be crucial in forming their subjective norms for both CFG and VCO. Moreover, positive anticipated emotion is found to influence consumers’ desire to participate in VCO, while negative anticipated emotion influences desire towards CFG participation. The findings of this research provide a practical implication on strategies for the airline industry to induce sustainable consumption behavior, as well as demonstrate the need for different emotional elicitation strategies for different sustainability programs.
Symmetry Detection in Visual Impairment: Behavioral Evidence and Neural Correlates
Authors: Cattaneo Zaira , Bona Silvia , Bauer Corinna , Silvanto Juha , Herbert Andrew , Vecchi Tomaso , Merabet Lotfi
Published: May 2014

Bilateral symmetry is an extremely salient feature for the human visual system. An interesting issue is whether the perceptual salience of symmetry is rooted in normal visual development. In this review, we discuss empirical work on visual and tactile symmetry detection in normally sighted and visually impaired individuals. On the one hand, available evidence suggests that efficient visual symmetry detection may need normal binocular vision development. On the other hand, converging evidence suggests that symmetry can develop as a principle of haptic perceptual organization in individuals lacking visual experience. Certain features of visual symmetry detection, however, such as the higher salience of the patterns containing a vertical axis of symmetry, do not systematically apply to the haptic modality. The neural correlates (revealed with neuroimaging) associated with visual and haptic symmetry detection are also discussed.
Controlling Cytomegalovirus: Helping the Immune System Take the Lead
Authors: Hanley Patrick , Bollard Catherine
Published: May 2014

Cytomegalovirus, of the Herpesviridae family, has evolved alongside humans for thousands of years with an intricate balance of latency, immune evasion, and transmission. While upwards of 70% of humans have evidence of CMV infection, the majority of healthy people show little to no clinical symptoms of primary infection and CMV disease is rarely observed during persistent infection in immunocompetent hosts. Despite the fact that the majority of infected individuals are asymptomatic, immunologically, CMV hijacks the immune system by infecting and remaining latent in antigen-presenting cells that occasionally reactivate subclinically and present antigen to T cells, eventually causing the inflation of CMV-specific T cells until they can compromise up to 10% of the entire T cell repertoire. Because of this impact on the immune system, as well as its importance in fields such as stem cell and organ transplant, the relationship between CMV and the immune response has been studied in depth. Here we provide a review of many of these studies and insights into how CMV-specific T cells are currently being used therapeutically.
« This is, and is not, Cressid » : la vérité en question dans Troilus and Cressida
Authors: Guinle Francis
Published: May 2014

Si la pièce de Shakespeare Troilus and Cressida est classée comme «a problem play » , ce n’est pas seulement pour une question de genre, ou encore parce qu’il n’est pas possible de savoir si elle a été représentée du vivant de son auteur. La pièce met en oeuvre une série de débats contradictoires sur des notions telles que la valeur, la réputation, l’opinion ou l’honneur, et laisse les personnages s’enliser dans de fausses arguties. Qu’en est-il alors de la vérité ? S’agit-il de remettre l’Histoire en question ? La vérité se cache-t-elle dans la légende ? Quelle vérité pour des personnages prisonniers de l’Histoire et de leur légende ? Dans un tel contexte, la tâche du metteur en scène n’est pas simple. Il doit chercher à dramatiser les débats, c’est-à-dire les transformer en action dramatique, et trouver les indications scéniques au sein même du dialogue.
Utilitarisme et vérité : la vérité n’est-elle pas la version aliénée du savoir ?
Authors: Cléro Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2014

L’utilitarisme inaugure une nouvelle façon de penser la notion de vérité ; certes, cette doctrine n’est pas la première à mettre l’accent sur la production du vrai par l’homme plutôt que sur la découverte d’une valeur qu’il n’a pas fabriquée. Elle est, toutefois, en Angleterre, depuis l’âge classique, une façon de problématiser le vrai – ce que n’avait fait ni Hobbes, ni Berkeley (qui avait reculé avec effroi devant la montée de l’utile dans les mathématiques de son temps), ni Hume qui se contente de parler de l’amour de la vérité. Les conséquences de ce constructivisme sont essentielles, tant dans les sciences, qui promeuvent la notion de probabilité que dans les questions de justice où apparaît une nouvelle forme de preuve.
Évaluation des politiques publiques : trois illustrations dans le champ culturel
Authors: Brodaty Thibault
Published: May 2014

L’évaluation des politiques publiques permet de mesurer l’effectivité de la mise en œuvre d’une mesure et son efficacité, évaluée selon les objectifs définis et justifiant l’intervention publique. Les méthodologies d’évaluation des politiques publiques peuvent être de différentes natures et les sciences économiques disposent d’outils permettant une évaluation d’ordre économétrique. Comparer directement les bénéficiaires et les non-bénéficiaires d’une mesure fournit une évaluation biaisée dans la mesure où ces deux groupes ont en général des caractéristiques différentes. Les méthodes économétriques ont en commun de résoudre ce problème en permettant de raisonner « toutes choses égales par ailleurs », c’est-à-dire d’isoler l’effet de la mesure afin d’en apprécier l’impact propre. Conformément au modèle causal de Rubin, l’évaluation consiste ainsi à comparer la situation que l’on peut observer avec celle que l’on observerait en l’absence d’intervention publique. Cette dernière, appelée situation contrefactuelle, est fondamentalement inobservable et tout l’enjeu des méthodes économétriques est d’en fournir une estimation la plus précise possible. Les trois outils les plus classiques sont présentés ici et illustrés par trois dispositifs d’intervention publique dans le champ de la culture : le label lir , le dispositif École et cinéma et le crédit d’impôt audiovisuel. Dans le cas du label lir , il est proposé d’évaluer si le label a permis à certaines librairies d’améliorer leur taux de rentabilité. Le label lir permet d’exposer théoriquement la méthode des différences de différences ou estimateur en double différences, qui consiste à comparer avant et après la création du label les librairies labellisées et non labellisées pour évaluer son efficacité. Avec le dispositif École et cinéma, l’évaluateur se demande si le programme a permis de développer le goût des enfants pour le cinéma en analysant le taux de fréquentation annuelle des salles obscures des jeunes adultes. École et cinéma permet d’illustrer la méthode des variables instrumentales qui consiste à utiliser une source de variation exogène qui n’a pas d’effet direct sur le nombre d’entrées au cinéma des jeunes adultes mais qui explique la participation au programme de ces jeunes à l’école primaire. Enfin, la méthode de la régression avec discontinuité est proposée pour l’évaluation du crédit d’impôt audiovisuel afin d’analyser l’objectif de localisation française des dépenses de production en mesurant le nombre de jours de tournage sur le sol français des sociétés de production. Cette méthode consiste à profiter de l’existence d’un score de sélection des participants au programme, et de restreindre l’évaluation au voisinage du seuil donnant l’accès au crédit d’impôt afin de mimer une affectation aléatoire des individus dans le programme. Plutôt qu’une évaluation des dispositifs proposés ici à titre illustratif, cette publication vise à exposer des outils encore peu mobilisés pour l’évaluation de politiques culturelles.
Du « corps-handicap » au « corps pensant ». A propos d'une rencontre au psychodrame
Authors: Léon Julien , Denans Julien
Published: May 2014

Dans cet article, les auteurs interrogent à partir de leur pratique du psychodrame le paradigme psychopathologique du retard mental, cela à contre-courant de l’idée d’un patient trop souvent réduit au corps-handicap, essentialisé dans son déficit et quelque part déclaré « inapte » à l’approche psychothérapique. Qu’il s’agisse de motricité élaborative, de processus de pensée, de capacité de représentation, l’enjeu devrait bien se cristalliser autour de la dimension éthique : se défaire du simple prisme imaginaire du handicap et favoriser alors la rencontre en ses fondements langagiers et symboliques.
Prendre le temps : pourquoi, comment ?
Authors: Schwab Emmanuel
Published: May 2014

Si le temps s’accélère, il devient plus difficile de le « prendre. » Cela réinterroge les fondements du rapport de l’homme au temps. Cet article développe l’idée d’une temporalité humaine plurielle, faite de crises réorganisatrices. Il montre comment les négociations du cadre sont une façon d’inviter le dialogue avec le temps dans l’espace thérapeutique.
Les temps de la thérapie... les temps de la coopération
Authors: Real del Sarte Olivier
Published: May 2014

L’exercice thérapeutique réactive les étapes fondamentales de la construction des échanges coopératifs telles que J. Piaget a su les opérationnaliser au cours du développement de l’enfant. Notamment cet événement essentiel du développement psychologique où l’enfant entre dans ses premières activités de proto-coopération avec ses figures d’attachement. L’enfant y démontre un certain nombre de compétences qui pourront contribuer à la construction d’un attachement suffisamment sûr. Dans le contexte des thérapies avec les couples en souffrance, ce seront ces compétences de base que le système thérapeutique pourra réactiver pour que le couple puisse dépasser le choc de ses antagonismes.
Complexité et transfert dans l'acquisition du français langue étrangère : le cas des apprenants chypriotes du FLE
Authors: Monville-Burston Monique
Published: May 2014

Le but de cet article est de montrer l’intérêt que peut avoir le recours au concept de complexité dans l’étude de l’acquisition des langues étrangères. On examine d’abord certaines des perspectives dominantes récentes concernant la complexité en linguistique, sa définition et sa mesure. La complexité linguistique absolue (objective) et la complexité d’usage (relative) sont distinguées, la première étant une composante de la seconde dans l’appropriation des langues étrangères. Une fois ce cadre établi, suit une discussion de l’acquisition de deux domaines complexes du français, du point de vue d’apprenants chypriotes grecs : l’un est grammatical (la formation des relatives) et l’autre phonologique (l’opposition [+/- voisé] dans les occlusives). Une strate supplémentaire de complexité s’ajoute, du fait de la diglossie chypriote et donc de la dualité de la langue source (variété basse-dialecte chypriote et variété haute-grec standard soutenu). Les deux types de complexité, objective et relative, conspirent pour rendre l’acquisition difficile et pour provoquer des transferts et des restructurations – qui sont décrits et analysés.
The Psychiatric/Pediatric Interface
Authors: Shulman Stanford T
Published: May 2014

Collaboration between specialists may lead to a better understanding of each speciality's characteristics.
Communication Disorders in Children
Authors: Van Dyke Don C , Holte Lenore
Published: May 2014

THIS ISSUE
Neonatal Screening, Updated
Authors: Shulman Stanford T
Published: May 2014

Practicing pediatricians should be aware of the specific panel of diseases that are screened for in their states.
Understanding and Treating Childhood Bellyaches
Authors: Hyman Paul E , Danda Caroline Elder
Published: May 2014

Application of the pediatrie Rome criteria permits a rapid, positive diagnosis, enabling the patient and family to understand and cope with abdominal pain.
Febrile Seizures
Authors: Shinnar Shlomo , O'Dell Christine
Published: May 2014

Common neurological condition requires careful evaluation but generally nonaggressive treatment.
Pediatricians and the Rights of the Child
Authors: Kasper Jennifer
Published: May 2014

UN Convention provides blueprint for monitoring the well-being of children worldwide.
The Pharmacology of Sedation
Authors: Boswinkel Jan P , Litman Ronald S
Published: May 2014

How to determine the best agent for each procedure and patient
Respiratory Distress
Authors: Fallot André
Published: May 2014

Evaluating and treating common pulmonary emergencies in the office
Abuse-resistant Drug Delivery
Authors: DuPont Robert , Bensinger Peter B
Published: May 2014

New strategies may help reduce the nonmedical use of prescription stimulants
The Male Adolescent Athlete: Specific Concerns
Authors: Diamond Alex , Gregory Andrew
Published: May 2014

A 15-year-old high school football player presents to clinic with his father, who is a novice bodybuilder, for evaluation of shoulder pain. After the discussion regarding his son's shoulder pain, the father asks about creatine for strength training for football. The son wants to bulk-up during the off season and get stronger. The son is taking creatine monohydrate at the recommended dose of 10 g/day for one week then 5 g/day thereafter. He has no past history or family history of kidney disease or transplant. He has no significant medical problems and is on no medications. They want to know your recommendations regarding creatine for strength and weight gain.