bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Verification of applicability of the Trimble RTX satellite technology with xFill function in establishing surveying control networks
Authors: Krzyżek Robert
Published: January 2014

The paper presents the results of real time measurements of test geodetic control network points using the RTK GPS and RTX Extended technologies. The Trimble RTX technology uses the xFill function, which enables real measurements without the need for constant connection with the ASG EUPOS system reference stations network. Comparative analyses of the results of measurements using the methods were performed and they were compared with the test control network data assumed to be error-free. Although the Trimble RTX technology is an innovative measurement method which is rarely used now, the possibilities it provides in surveying works, including building geodetic control networks, are satisfactory and it will certainly contribute to improving the organisation of surveying works.
Electromyographic Comparison of Traditional and Suspension Push-Ups
Authors: Snarr Ronald L. , Esco Michael R.
Published: January 2014

There is very limited scientific data concerning suspension training. The purpose of this investigation was to compare the electromyographic activity of the pectoralis major, anterior deltoid, and triceps brachii between a suspension push-up and traditional push-up. Twenty-one apparently healthy men (n = 15, age = 25.93 ± 3.67 years) and women (n = 6, age = 23.5 ± 1.97 years) volunteered to participate in this study. All subjects performed four repetitions of a suspension push-up and a traditional push-up where the order of the exercises was randomized. The mean peak and normalized electromyography of the pectoralis major, anterior deltoid, and triceps brachii were compared across the two exercises. Suspension push-ups elicited the following electromyographic values: pectoralis major (3.08 ± 1.13 mV, 69.54 ± 27.6 %MVC), anterior deltoid (5.08 ± 1.55 mV, 81.13 ± 17.77 %MVC), and triceps brachii (5.11 ± 1.97 mV, 105.83 ± 18.54 %MVC). The electromyographic activities during the traditional push-up were as follows: pectoralis major (2.66 ± 1.05 mV, 63.62 ± 16.4 %MVC), anterior deltoid (4.01 ± 1.27 mV, 58.91 ± 20.3 %MVC), and triceps brachii (3.91 ± 1.36 mV, 74.32 ± 16.9 %MVC). The mean peak and normalized electromyographic values were significantly higher for all 3 muscles during the suspension push-up compared to the traditional push-up (p < 0.05). This study suggests that the suspension push-up elicited a greater activation of pectoralis major, anterior deltoid, and triceps brachii when compared to a traditional push-up. Therefore, suspension push-ups may be considered an advanced variation of a traditional push-up when a greater challenge is warranted.
Effectiveness of Injury Prevention Programs on Developing Quadriceps and Hamstrings Strength of Young Male Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Daneshjoo Abdolhamid , Rahnama Nader , Mokhtar Abdul Halim , Yusof Ashril
Published: January 2014

Muscular strength is an important factor which is crucial for performance and injury prevention in most sports. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the FIFA’s Medical Assessment and Research Centre 11+ and HarmoKnee injury prevention programs on knee strength of young professional male soccer players. Thirty-six soccer players (age: 18.9 ± 1.4 years) were divided equally into three groups; the 11+, HarmoKnee and control groups. The programs were performed for 24 sessions. Hamstring and quadriceps strength was measured using the Biodex System 3 at 30°, 60° and 90° of knee flexion. The 11+ increased quadriceps strength in the dominant leg by 19.7% and 47.8% at 60°and 90° knee flexion, respectively, and in the non-dominant leg by 16%, 35.3% and 78.1 % at 30°, 60° and 90° knee flexion, respectively. The HarmoKnee group, however, showed increased quadriceps strength only at 90° i.e., by 85.7% in the dominant leg and 73.8% in the non-dominant leg. As for hamstring strength, only the 11+ group demonstrated an increment by 24.8% and 19.8% at 30° and 60° knee flexion in the dominant leg, and in the nondominant leg, by 28.7% and 13.7% at 30° and 60° knee flexion, respectively. In conclusion, both warm-up programs improve quadriceps strength. The 11+ demonstrated improvement in hamstring strength while the HarmoKnee program did not indicate any improvement. We suggest adding eccentric hamstring components such as Nordic hamstring exercise to the HarmoKnee program in order to enhance hamstring strength.
Does an in-Season 6-Week Combined Sprint and Jump Training Program Improve Strength-Speed Abilities and Kicking Performance in Young Soccer Players?
Authors: Marques Mário C. , Pereira Ana , Reis Ivan G. , Tillaar Roland van den
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a six-week combined jump and sprint training program on strength-speed abilities in a large sample of youth competitive soccer players. It was hypothesized that the experimental training group would enhance their jumping and sprinting abilities. Enhancement of kicking performance was also hypothesized due to an expected increase in explosive strength established by a plyometric and sprinting regimen. Fiftytwo young male soccer players playing at the national level (aged 13.4 ± 1.4 years, body mass 53.4 ± 11.7 kg, body height 1.66 ± 0.11 m) took part in the study. Half of the group underwent the plyometric and sprint training program in addition to their normal soccer training, while the other half was involved in soccer training only. The plyometric training group enhanced their running (+1.7 and +3.2%) and jumping performance (+7.7%) significantly over the short period of time, while the control group did not. Furthermore, both groups increased their kicking velocity after just six weeks of training (+3.3 vs. 6.6%). The findings suggest that a short in-season 6-week sprint and jump training regimen can significantly improve explosive strength in soccer-specific skills and that these improvements can be transferred to soccer kicking performance in terms of ball speed.
Effects of Resistance Exercise Order on the Number of Repetitions Performed to Failure and Perceived Exertion in Untrained Young Males
Authors: Romano Nuno , Vilaça-Alves José , Fernandes Helder M. , Saavedra Francisco , Paz Gabriel , Miranda Humberto , Simão Roberto , Novaes Jefferson , Reis Victor
Published: January 2014

Exercise order is an essential variable of resistance training (RT) programs which is usually related to repetition performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effect of different resistance exercise order on the number of repetitions performed to failure and related ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). Thirteen male adolescents (age: 14.46 ± 1.39 years, body height: 165.31 ± 12.75 cm, body mass: 58.73 ± 12.27 kg, estimated body fat: 21.32 ± 2.84%), without previous experience in RT, performed four resistance exercises: incline leg press (ILP), dumbbell lunge (DL), bench press (BP) and lying barbell triceps extension (TE) in two sequences - Sequence A (SEQA): ILP, DL, BP and TE; sequence B (SEQB): ILP, BP, DL and TE. The exercise sequences were performed in a randomized crossover design with a rest interval of 72h between sessions. Within-subjects analysis showed significant differences in the number of repetitions performed to failure in both sequences, but not in the RPE. Post-hoc tests revealed significant decrements in the number of repetitions from the first to the remaining exercises in both sequences. However, pairwise comparisons did not indicate significant differences between the same exercises performed in different sequences. In conclusion, the results of the current study in adolescents suggest that the main exercises should be performed at the beginning of the RT session.
Wave Characteristics in Breaststroke Technique with and Without Snorkel Use
Authors: Conceição Ana , Silva António J. , Boaventura José , Marinho Daniel A. , Louro Hugo
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this paper was to examine the characteristics of waves generated when swimming with and without the use of Aquatrainer® snorkels. Eight male swimmers performed two maximal bouts of 25 m breaststroke, first without the use of a snorkel (normal condition) and then using a snorkel (snorkel condition). The body landmarks, centre of the mass velocity, stroke rate, stroke length, stroke index, and Strouhal number (St) were quantified. Fourier analysis was conducted to determine the frequency, amplitude, and phase characteristics of the vertical undulations. We also determined the undulation period, the first and second harmonic wave percentage, and the contribution of these components to the power of each of the wave signals. The first wave harmonics had a frequency of 0.76 Hz (normal condition) and 0.78 Hz (snorkel condition), and the second wave harmonics had a frequency of 1.52 Hz (normal condition) and 1.56 Hz (snorkel condition). Under the normal conditions, the wave amplitude was higher on the vertex (0.72 m) and cervical (0.32 m) than that produced under snorkel conditions (0.71 m and 0.28 m, respectively). The lowest values were found in the hip (0.03 m in normal conditions, and 0.02 m in snorkel conditions) and in the trunk (0.06 m in normal conditions, and 0.04 m in snorkel conditions). It can be concluded that snorkel use seems to lead to slight changes in the biomechanical pattern in swimming velocity, as well as several stroke mechanical variables.
A conceptual study of a cranktrain with low friction losses
Authors: Drápal Lubomír , Novotný Pavel , Maršálek Ondřej , Raffai Peter , Píštěk Václav
Published: January 2014

Shrnutí

Tento článek popisuje výpočtový přístup pro ověření koncepční studie klikového mechanismu s nízkými třecími ztrátami a analysu jeho vibrací. Snížení třecích ztrát je dosaženo snížením počtu hlavních ložisek klikového hřídele, přičemž se sleduje torsní kmitání řemenice klikového hřídele a zatížení hlavních ložisek. Výpočtový model zahrnuje modálně redukovaná pružná tělesa, hydrodynamická ložiska a je sestaven i numericky řešen v prostředí Multi-Body System.
Influence of viscosity and compressibility of aerated oil on determination of volumetric losses in a variable capacity piston pump
Authors: Koralewski Jan
Published: January 2014

Modulus B of the liquid volume elasticity of non-aerated and aerated oil is defined in the paper as relation to the indicated increase of pressure in the pump working chambers, with the change of oil temperature and degree of aeration. In evaluation of the losses due to oil compressibility in a variable capacity displacement pump, the volume of compressed liquid at each pump setting is taken into account. Volumetric losses have been divided into leakage losses in the pump chambers and losses due to liquid compressibility. The need of accounting for only the leakage losses for pump evaluation is pointed out.
Stress-corrosion resistance of the EN AW-AlZn5Mg1,5CuZr alloy in different heat treatment states
Authors: Kyzioł Lesław
Published: January 2014

The effect of heat treatment of the plastically worked 7000 series Al-Zn-Mg aluminium alloy system on its stress-corrosion resistance is examined. For the same chemical constitution, the effect of heat treatment on mechanical and corrosion properties of Al-Zn-Mg alloys systems is remarkable. It was proved that a parameter having significant effect on corrosion properties of the alloy is the rate of alloy cooling after heat treatment. This conclusion is confirmed by observation of structural forms which fully reflect mechanical and corrosion properties of the alloy.
Test research on the resistance performance of high-speed trimaran planing hull
Authors: Ma Weijia , Sun Huawei , Zou Jin , Yang Heng
Published: January 2014

In order to identify high-speed navigation ability of trimaran planing hull, as well as investigate the characteristics of its resistance and hull form, ship model tests were conducted to measure resistance, trim and heaving under different displacements and gravity centre locations. The test results were then used to study the influence of spray strips on resistance and sea-keeping qualities. Moreover, different planing surfaces were compared in the model tests which helped to look into influence of steps on hull resistance and its moving position. Also, the resistance features of monohull and trimaran planing hulls, both with and without steps, were compared to each other. From the tests it can be concluded that: the two auxiliary side hulls increase aerodynamic lift at high-speed motion, which improves the hydrodynamic performance; the trimaran planing hull has also excellent longitudinal stability and low wave-making action; when Fr∇ > 8, its motion is still stable and two distinct resistance peaks and two changes of sailing state (the second change is smaller) appear; spray strips are favourable for sea-keeping qualities at high speed. The change trends before the second resistance peak as to the resistance and sailing behaviour of trimaran planing hull without steps are the same as for monohull planing hull without steps. but when steps in both hulls exist the change trends are different; more specifically: trimaran planing hull with steps has only one resistance peak and its resistance increases along with its speed increasing, and the resistance is improved at the increasing speed as the number of steps increases.
The role of ultrasound and ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy of lymph nodes in patients with skin tumours
Authors: Solivetti Francesco Maria , Elia Fulvia , Santaguida Maria Giulia , Guerrisi Antonino , Visca Paolo , Cercato Maria Cecilia , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: January 2014

Background. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound (US) in the study of superficial lymph nodes during the follow-up of patients surgically treated for skin tumours. The secondary objective was to compare positive cytological results with histological reports.

Patients and methods. From 2004 to 2011, 480 patients (male/female: 285/195; median age 57 years; prevalent skin tumour: melanoma) underwent US-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of suspicious recurrent lymph nodes. An expert radiologist first performed US testing of the lymph nodes, expressing either a negative or positive outcome of the test. Subsequently, US-guided FNAB was performed. FNAB positive patients were subjected to lymphadenectomy; the patients who tested negative underwent the follow-up.

Results. The size of lymph nodes was ≤ 2 cm in 90% of cases. Out of the 336 (70%) US “positive” patients, 231 (68.8%) were FNAB positives. Out of the 144 (30%) US “negatives”, 132 (91.7%) were FNAB negatives. The sensitivity and specificity of the US were 95% and 55.7%, respectively; the negative predictive value was 91.7% and the positive predictive value was 68.8%. Definitive histological results confirmed FNAB positivity in 97.5% of lymphadenectomies.

Conclusions. US is a sensitive method in the evaluation of superficial lymph nodes during the follow-up of patients with skin tumours. High positive predictive value of cytology was confirmed.
New records of Compsopogon aeruginosus (Rhodophyta) in rivers of central Europe
Authors: Žáková Zdeňka , Pum Manfred , Sedláček Pavel , Mlejnková Hana , Hindák František
Published: January 2014

The representatives of the genus Compsopogon Montagne in Bory et Durieaux (Rhodophyta) are basically tropical or subtropical algae. In central Europe they are only found in aquaria and in water bodies affected by thermal effluents, like the species C. aeruginosus (J. Agardh) Kützing in the Pulkau River (Austria), a tributary of the Dyje /Thaya River (Austria, Czech Republic). The first observation of this species was made in 2007 in the Pulkau River. In autumn 2010 the species was also observed at lower densities in an approximately 20 km section of the Dyje/Thaya River between the mouth of the Pulkau River (A) and the Nové Mlýny Reservoir (CR). Recently, the species was found also in Skryjský Brook, a tributary of the Jihlava River, below the cooling water effluent from the Dukovany Nuclear Power Plant, South Moravia, Czech Republic. This is the second finding of representatives of the genus Compsopogon in rivers in central Europe.
Changing Attitude of Women towards Infertility and Motherhood
Authors: Harasankar Adhikari
Published: January 2014

The present study was conducted among the employed women (N=50) at their reproductive age (25-35 years) of urban Kolkata to elucidate their changing attitudes towards infertility and motherhood. We found that the women were very much attentive to their personal happiness and career. They did not believe to perform their traditional female roles because in their opinion it was a restriction of achieving their equity and justice in our patriarchal society. They were engrossed into most modern urban mode of life. They did not prefer to enter into their marital relation because it would be a threat to cherish their happiness. Even in their opinion infertility would not be a stigma in women’s lives because it would be an obstacle for their freedom and self progress in their working life. But they would prefer to enjoy the taste of motherhood otherwise rather than biologically. Thus reproductive rights of women were violated through their overall behaviour.
A clinical comparison of high dose and low dose of Suxamethonium
Authors: Yadav RK , Majhi PC , Tiwari D
Published: January 2014

Background: Suxamethonium having its rapid onset and short duration of action makes this drug unique amongst the neuromuscular blocking drugs described so far. However, use of suxamethonium is associated with a large number of undesirable side effects. Objective: To evaluate clinical effects of high and low dose of suxamethonium and to determine whether lower dose of suxamethonium can be used for any beneficial effects in terms of its various adverse effects e.g. cardiovascular responses, post-operative muscle pains and intraocular pressure. Methods: A total of 100 patients were included in this prospective study. All these patients on preoperative clinical evaluation were assessed to have adequate airway. All the patients were divided in two groups, low dose group (group I) and High dose group (group II) with 50 patients in each at random. A standard anesthetic technique was adhered to all the patients and following parameters were observed on comparative basis: a. Fasciculation and post operative myalgia. b. Cardiovascular effects, c. Intraocular pressure. Observation: The incidence of post Suxamethonium pain was significantly greater in group II. Increase in heart rate from baseline was significant in both groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the diastolic pressure but rise in systolic blood pressure was significant at all assessment times in both groups. This rise from control was statistically significant. Conclusion: Suxamethonium can be used in lower doses (0.5 mg/kg) in elective cases without airway compromise. It gives benefits of reduced muscle pains, cardiovascular responses and intraocular hypertension. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-2, 1-8 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i2.9677
Evaluation of surgical outcome in open globe injuries in a tertiary ophthalmological centre
Authors: Dahal Polina , Byenju RN
Published: January 2014

Aims: To evaluate the clinical presentations and surgical outcome in patients with open globe injuries in a tertiary ophthalmological centre in Bharatpur Eye Hospital, Bharatpur. Methods: Seventy nine patients with ocular injury who underwent surgery were included in the study. The type of injury, surgical interventions and final visual outcome were recorded. The period of study was from 2012 May to 2013 May. Results: Injury was mild in 48 (60.8 %), moderate in 17 (21.5 %) & severe in 14 (17.7 %) cases (International Ocular Trauma Classification). Forty six (58.2 %) cases had only primary repair, 27 (34.2 %) had associated lens extraction, 12(15.2 % )had vitrectomy, 2 (2.5 %) had retinal detachment surgery, one (1.3 %) had intra-ocular foreign body removal, one (1.3 %) evisceration. Thirteen 16.5 %) cases underwent secondary procedures. Final vision was 6\18 or better in 20 (25.3 %), 6\18-6\60 in 14 (17.7 %) and <6\60 in 15 (18.9 %) cases. 10 (12.7 %) cases developed phthisical changes. Conclusion: Present analysis reveals that open globe injuries can present in varying severity &though the overall prognosis is grave, prompt surgical intervention can result in better visual outcome. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-2, 9-14 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i2.9678
Toxic shock syndrome following inguinal hernia repair: a rare condition
Authors: Yadav Rohit Prasad , Bhattarai BK , Gupta RK , Shrestha N , Ghimire A
Published: January 2014

A 25-year-old man developed fulminant multisystem failure 28 hours after elective repair of an inguinal hernia. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) was diagnosed. The patient recovered fully with supportive care in ICU, antibiotics, and IV human immunoglobin . To the best of our knowledge, only one case of TSS following inguinal hernia repair have ever been previously published. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-2, 57-59 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i2.9689
Tragedy and Theatricality in The Island
Authors: Dahl Christian
Published: January 2014

The article discusses the theoretical and generic problems of defining classical and modern tragedy vis à vis contemporary re-adaptations of Greek tragedy. It argues in favour of combining studies in reception history with the aesthetics of genre, and it does so through a re-examination of Fugard, Kani, and Ntshona’s re-adaptation of Sophocles’s Antigone in their famous anti-apartheid play, The Island (1973). Through the analysis of this particular play and its relation to Sophoclean tragedy, the article seeks to explain why the modern aesthetics of theatricality, which has often been invested with a potential to liberate by modern dramatists and theorists, has always been difficult to reconcile with tragic drama; more specifically it thus argues that the conflict of tragedy and play, role and player, action and play, which is crucial to the performance of The Island, has a more general relevance.
A Survey of Physiotherapists' Experience Using Outcome Measures in Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: McAuley C. , Westby M.D. , Hoens A. , Troughton D. , Field R. , Duggan M. , Reid W.D.
Published: January 2014

Purpose: To identify physiotherapists' familiarity with and experience using outcome measures (OMs) along the care continuum for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA) of the hip and knee. Views on future use and barriers were also captured. Methods: A stratified random sample of physiotherapists in one Canadian province completed a questionnaire about 19 standardized and clinically feasible OMs. Analyses included descriptive statistics and chi-square and McNemar tests to compare use of OMs for clinical decision making and program evaluation. Results: Of 694 physiotherapists surveyed, 298 (43%) responded. Of these, 172 (58%) treated TJA clients and completed the full questionnaire. A majority worked in public practice settings and >1 care phase (e.g., pre-op, acute, rehab). All physiotherapists reported using ≥1 OM and having greater experience using performance-based measures than patient-reported OMs. OMs were used more often for clinical decision making than for program evaluation. Dissatisfaction with available tools was evident from respondents' comments. Several barriers to using OMs were identified in varied clinical settings and care phases. Conclusions: While physiotherapists use a variety of OMs along the TJA continuum, there remain challenges to routine use across clinical settings, care phases, and patient sub-groups.
Dealing with the Legacy of Native Residential School Abuse in Canada: Litigation, ADR, and Restorative Justice
Authors: Llewellyn Jennifer J.
Published: January 2014

The recent flood of civil litigation suits filed against the federal government and four major Christian churches by former students of Canadian Native residential schools threatens to overwhelm the court system and bankrupt several of the Church organizations involved. Litigation has proved problematic as a mechanism through which to respond to the abuse and other harms experienced in, and by, the residential school system for all the parties involved. Dissatisfaction with the court process has led those involved to look to the mechanisms collected under the umbrella term ‘alternative dispute resolution’ (ADR) in order to find an alternative to litigation. This article suggests that an appropriate resolution to residential school claims cannot be found via the ADR mechanisms currently being suggested or utilized. These ADR mechanisms do not challenge those assumptions underlying the current tort litigation system that are most problematic as applied to the residential school situation. Specifically, they do not challenge the theory of justice animating the current tort law system. As a result, they cannot provide a meaningful alternative to litigation for the parties involved in the residential school cases. Instead, a genuine alternative to the current justice system requires a new lens through which to understand the nature of the conflicts and harms resulting from residential schools. Restorative justice offers just such a lens. In my previous work, I have developed a conceptual framework that views restorative justice as not simply alternative practice but, rather, a comprehensive theory of justice. I will draw upon this work to argue, in this article, that restorative justice provides a new lens through which to envision meaningful alternatives for dealing with the residential school situation in Canada. Grounding alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in this theory of justice would significantly alter their design, process, and purpose.
Short-Term Effect of Feedstock and Pyrolysis Temperature on Biochar Characteristics, Soil and Crop Response in Temperate Soils
Authors: Nelissen Victoria , Ruysschaert Greet , Müller-Stöver Dorette , Bodé Samuel , Cook Jason , Ronsse Frederik , Shackley Simon , Boeckx Pascal , Hauggaard-Nielsen Henrik
Published: January 2014

At present, there is limited understanding of how biochar application to soil could be beneficial to crop growth in temperate regions and which biochar types are most suitable. Biochar’s (two feedstocks: willow, pine; three pyrolysis temperatures: 450 °C, 550 °C, 650 °C) effect on nitrogen (N) availability, N use efficiency and crop yield was studied in northwestern European soils using a combined approach of process-based and agronomic experiments. Biochar labile carbon (C) fractions were determined and a phytotoxicity test, sorption experiment, N incubation experiment and two pot trials were conducted. Generally, biochar caused decreased soil NO3− availability and N use efficiency, and reduced biomass yields compared to a control soil. Soil NO3− concentrations were more reduced in the willow compared to the pine biochar treatments and the reduction increased with increasing pyrolysis temperatures, which was also reflected in the biomass yields. Woody biochar types can cause short-term reductions in biomass production due to reduced N availability. This effect is biochar feedstock and pyrolysis temperature dependent. Reduced mineral N availability was not caused by labile biochar C nor electrostatic NH4+/NO3− sorption. Hence, the addition of fresh biochar might in some cases require increased fertilizer N application to avoid short-term crop growth retardation.
Two-Photon Absorbing Molecules as Potential Materials for 3D Optical Memory
Authors: Ogawa Kazuya
Published: January 2014

In this review, recent advances in two-photon absorbing photochromic molecules, as potential materials for 3D optical memory, are presented. The investigations introduced in this review indicate that 3D data storage processing at the molecular level is possible. As 3D memory using two-photon absorption allows advantages over existing systems, the use of two-photon absorbing photochromic molecules is preferable. Although there are some photochromic molecules with good properties for memory, in most cases, the two-photon absorption efficiency is not high. Photochromic molecules with high two-photon absorption efficiency are desired. Recently, molecules having much larger two-photon absorption cross sections over 10,000 GM (GM= 10−50 cm4 s molecule−1 photon−1) have been discovered and are expected to open the way to realize two-photon absorption 3D data storage.
Intravitreal Injection of Ranibizumab and CTGF shRNA Improves Retinal Gene Expression and Microvessel Ultrastructure in a Rodent Model of Diabetes
Authors: Hu Bojie , Zhang Yan , Zeng Qing , Han Qian , Zhang Lijuan , Liu Mian , Li Xiaorong
Published: January 2014

Therapeutic modalities targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have been used to treat neovascularization and macular edema. However, anti-VEGF treatment alone may cause up-regulation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in the retina, increasing the risk of fibrosis and tractional retinal detachment. Therefore, in this study, we employ a novel dual-target intervention that involves intravitreal injection of the VEGF inhibitor ranibizumab and a transfection reagent-treated non-viral vector carrying anti-CTGF short hairpin RNA (shRNA) driven by human RNA polymerase III promoter U6. The effects of the dual-target intervention on the expression of VEGF and CTGF and on microvessel ultrastructure were examined in retina of streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. CTGF was significantly up-regulated at week 8 after diabetic induction, whereas VEGF was not up-regulated until week 10. The high expression of both genes was maintained at week 12. Transmission electron microscopy also revealed progressive exacerbation of microvessel ultrastructure during the same period. In addition, ranibizumab significantly lowered VEGF but elevated CTGF mRNA, whereas CTGF shRNA significantly reduced the mRNA levels of both CTGF and VEGF in diabetic retinas. Importantly, dual-target intervention normalized the transcript levels of both target genes and ameliorated retinal microvessel ultrastructural damage better than either single-target intervention. These results suggest the advantages of dual-target over single-target interventions in diabetic retina and reveal a novel therapeutic modality for diabetic retinopathy.
Nutrition Prescription to Achieve Positive Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ash Susan , Campbell Katrina , Bogard Jessica , Millichamp Anna
Published: January 2014

In Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), management of diet is important in prevention of disease progression and symptom management, however evidence on nutrition prescription is limited. Recent international CKD guidelines and literature was reviewed to address the following question “What is the appropriate nutrition prescription to achieve positive outcomes in adult patients with chronic kidney disease?” Databases included in the search were Medline and CINAHL using EBSCOhost search engine, Embase and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews published from 2000 to 2009. International guidelines pertaining to nutrition prescription in CKD were also reviewed from 2000 to 2013. Three hundred and eleven papers and eight guidelines were reviewed by three reviewers. Evidence was graded as per the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia criteria. The evidence from thirty six papers was tabulated under the following headings: protein, weight loss, enteral support, vitamin D, sodium, fat, fibre, oral nutrition supplements, nutrition counselling, including protein and phosphate, nutrients in peritoneal dialysis solution and intradialytic parenteral nutrition, and was compared to international guidelines. While more evidence based studies are warranted, the customary nutrition prescription remains satisfactory with the exception of Vitamin D and phosphate. In these two areas, additional research is urgently needed given the potential of adverse outcomes for the CKD patient.
Life-Cycle Analysis of Building Retrofits at the Urban Scale—A Case Study in United Arab Emirates
Authors: Afshari Afshin , Nikolopoulou Christina , Martin Miguel
Published: January 2014

A consensus is forming among experts that the best way to achieve emissions’ reduction in the near and mid-term is increasing the demand-side energy efficiency—this is especially true in developing countries where the potential for demand reduction is significant and achievable at relatively lower cost. Enhanced energy efficiency also reduces energy costs and can result in a financial benefit to end-users, if the life-cycle value of energy savings offsets the upfront cost of implementing the measure. At the same time, reducing energy demand translates into lower pull for fossil fuel import and supply/distribution capacity expansion. An ideal candidate for the implementation of demand-side energy efficiency measures is the building sector, since it contributes to a large extent to the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted worldwide. In most developing countries, the contribution of the building sector to the total national GHG emissions is significantly higher than the worldwide average. This is in part due to the lower level of industrial activity. Other drivers of the high emissions of the building sector are the inefficiency of the envelope and technical systems of the existing buildings, as well as harsh climatic conditions requiring the use of energy intensive air-conditioning equipment. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) currently have the highest ecological footprint per capita in the world. The Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the focus of this study, can be expected to have a footprint that is even higher, being the largest economy and the major oil producer among the seven Emirates. In addition to the environmental consequences of unrestrained energy consumption, the fact that energy prices are heavily subsidized in Abu Dhabi results in a significant financial burden for the government. In the UAE and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the air-conditioning load in buildings is the ideal target for demand-side management because it constitutes more than 60% of the total energy consumption. However, many sources of uncertainty still remain. How should we assess the life-cycle cost/benefit of candidate demand-side interventions? Which ones to choose in order to maximize national utility? This study will start to answer those questions by using a detailed engineering model of a typical Abu Dhabi building as specified by the Emirate’s Urban Planning Council. Using the model building as a baseline, we then proceed to evaluate the energy impact of different retrofits through numerical simulation. We present a novel Marginal Abatement Cost Curve (MACC) for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi focusing exclusively on demand-side measures having an impact on the air-conditioning load. A surprising number of the abatement levers analyzed in this study exhibit a positive net present value (NPV), if the cost-reflective price of electricity is used for the life-cycle assessment.
Ḫišni, prince of Kargamiš
Authors: de Martino Stefano
Published: January 2014

Plusieurs textes hittites mentionnent le nom propre ?išni. Ils font référence au moins à trois homonymes différents : un prince royal hittite, un prince de Karkemiš et un scribe.
Sanga 2 : a graphic story
Authors: Rubio Gonzalo
Published: January 2014

La forme de SANGA 2 à Ebla met en lumière les deux variétés graphiques de ce signe dans les textes d’Ur III et paléo-babyloniens. À l’origine, aux périodes ED et Ur III, il y avait une tendance parfois à distinguer SANGA 2 et LAK-175 ( hurin/hirin x ). Ebla témoigne de cette situation. Cependant, avec la période paléo-babylonienne, les descendants de SANGA 2 et LAK-175 devinrent de simples variantes graphiques.
“It is for this reason that i have not come down to my lord ...” visit obligations and vassal pretexts in the Mari archives
Authors: Sasson Jack M.
Published: January 2014

Dans la correspondance de Mari, nombreux sont les vassaux qui manifestent de l’angoisse à accomplir les voyages périodiques qu’ils doivent faire à la capitale de leur suzerain. Dans cet article, je commente aussi bien le riche panel d’excuses qu’ils livrent que les raisons de leur répugnance.
Dieser Ur-Namma hier... Eine auf die Darstellung weisende Statueninschrift
Authors: Wilcke Claus
Published: January 2014

La statue ou les statues du roi Ur-Namma d’Ur qui est (sont) inscrite(s) avec la collection de ses lois (‘Codex d’Ur- Namma’) est(/sont) perdue(s). Seules des copies fragmentaires en argile sont préservées. Le texte reconstruit à partir de ces copies emploie fréquemment le suffixe démonstratif /-e/ pour désigner le roi et d’autres personnes et objets représentés sur la statue ou sur son socle. Un emploi similaire du suffixe démonstratif se retrouve dans des inscriptions monumentales plus ou moins contemporaines, tandis qu’une copie paléo-babylonienne des lois l’emploie à des fins de reprises anaphoriques internes au texte.
L'écoute anonyme, une attention particulière
Authors: Mathiot Alain
Published: January 2014

Dans une société qui valorise la mise en avant de soi, la communication plutôt que l’échange, qu’advient-il de ceux auxquels on ne prête pas attention ? L’association Sos Amitié a pour vocation de créer cette attention à travers l’écoute anonyme, une aide à distance dont le développement donne à voir un sentiment d’isolement croissant.
Karoo, la répression jusqu'à la mort
Authors: Nayrou Félicie
Published: January 2014

Dans un roman étonnant, le personnage central, Karoo, donne à voir de façon spectaculaire le déploiement de la répression sous plusieurs aspects. La répression consciente et travaillée des affects devient peu à peu recherche et tentative d’écrasement de tout mouvement pulsionnel – sexuel et/ou agressif – et de toute émergence psychique. Elle s’accompagne de clivages et de dénis ainsi que de pressions d’un moi idéal dont les impératifs finissent par aveugler le héros. In fine , le lecteur psychosomaticien peut reconstruire l’enchaînement traumatisme/répression/somatisation, sous le règne de la destructivité.
Creating an Authentic Space for a Private and Public Self through E-Portfolios
Authors: Lygo-Baker Simon , Hatzipanagos Stylianos
Published: January 2014

The chapter reports work that investigated the use of e-portfolios developed by teaching practitioners as part of an award-bearing academic development programme in the UK. The project aimed to enable teaching practitioners to access and gain familiarity with pedagogically sound e-portfolio opportunities. The project was designed to foster a reflective approach, promote critical thinking focused on learning and teaching, and enhance continuing professional development. The outcomes of this project are discussed in terms of an appreciation of e-assessment by the teaching practitioners involved, recommendations for an e-portfolio environment that uses technology enhanced learning resources to foster a reflective approach that can enable and enhance continuous professional development for academic staff.
Neural Network Model to Estimate and Predict Cell Mass Concentration in Lipase Fermentation
Authors: Daniel David K. , Bhandari Vikramaditya
Published: January 2014

Lipase is an industrially important enzyme with major use in food industries. The demand of lipase is increasing every year. An online prediction of cell mass concentration is of great value in real time process involving the production of lipase. In the current work, the use of a back-propagation multilayer neural network to predict cell mass during lipase production by Rhizopus delemar NRRL 1472 is targeted. Network training data with respect to time is generated by carrying out experiments in laboratory. The fungus is grown in erlenmeyer flasks at initial pH of 5.6, temperature of 30ºC, and at 150 rpm. During the experiments, readings for cell mass growth are collected in specific period of time. By the training data, an artificial neural network model programmed in MATLAB for Windows is trained and used for prediction of cell mass. The Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm with back-propagation is used in the network to get the optimized weights. The optimum network configuration with different activation function and the number of nodes in the hidden layer are identified by trial and error method. Sigmoid unipolar activation function is 2-5-1, whereas logarithmoid and sigmoid bipolar is 2-3-1. These are chosen according to the values of Sum of Square of Errors (SSE), Root Mean Square (RMS) training and testing. The sigmoid unipolar activation function gives a good fit for estimated value with network configuration 2-5-1, which could be used for generalization.
Prediction of Structural and Functional Aspects of Protein
Authors: Ingale Arun G.
Published: January 2014

To predict the structure of protein from a primary amino acid sequence is computationally difficult. An investigation of the methods and algorithms used to predict protein structure and a thorough knowledge of the function and structure of proteins are critical for the advancement of biology and the life sciences as well as the development of better drugs, higher-yield crops, and even synthetic bio-fuels. To that end, this chapter sheds light on the methods used for protein structure prediction. This chapter covers the applications of modeled protein structures and unravels the relationship between pure sequence information and three-dimensional structure, which continues to be one of the greatest challenges in molecular biology. With this resource, it presents an all-encompassing examination of the problems, methods, tools, servers, databases, and applications of protein structure prediction, giving unique insight into the future applications of the modeled protein structures. In this chapter, current protein structure prediction methods are reviewed for a milieu on structure prediction, the prediction of structural fundamentals, tertiary structure prediction, and functional imminent. The basic ideas and advances of these directions are discussed in detail.
Addressing Executive Function Using Assistive Technology to Increase Access to the 21st Century Skills
Authors: Myles Brenda Smith , Rogers Jan
Published: January 2014

Access to the common core and the general education environment are attainable goals for learners on the autism spectrum when their autism is clearly understood and meaningful supports and instruction are in place. This chapter focuses on one area that is often not addressed for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) yet is critical to academic success: executive function. Specifically, this chapter overviews the executive function challenges related to ASD and technology supports in the executive functions areas of (a) information management, (b) materials management, (c) time management, and (d) self-management.
Video Modeling for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Ogilvie Christine R. , Whitby Peggy
Published: January 2014

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) will struggle to different degrees with social communication skills. To facilitate the learning of new social skills and to allow for repetition and practice, video modeling is being utilized in the PreK-12 setting. This chapter describes behaviors inherent to individuals with autism spectrum disorders that could benefit from the use of video modeling as an intervention, or part of an intervention, as well as a step-by-step description on how to effectively implement video modeling. Additionally, examples of data collection forms, permission forms, and other helpful resources are provided.
Realabilities
Authors: Silton Nava R. , Arucevic Senada , Ruchlin Rebecca , Norkus Vanessa
Published: January 2014

This chapter explores Realabilities, a video-based children’s television program featuring unique characters, each with a distinct disability. Beyond utilizing video technology to directly teach cognitive and social-emotional skills to children with autism, Realabilities demonstrates how video can be used to foster positive behavioral intentions and cognitive attitudes towards children with autism and other disabilities. Realabilities also reveals how a video medium can promote a stop bullying platform, especially since children with disabilities are at least two to three times more victimized by bullying than their typical peers. One hundred and sixty-six students from schools in Manhattan, NY, and Baltimore, MD, showed more favorable behavioral intentions and cognitive attitudes towards hypothetical peers with disabilities following a three episode viewing of Realabilities. Finally, Realabilities not only showcases the realities of disabilities but shares the potential strengths that children with disabilities possess. This is particularly illuminating, since the Affect/Effort Theory suggests that children are more motivated to interact with others when they possess positive expectancies of their social interaction partners.
Perceptions and Reality: Revealing the BIM Gap Between the UK and Turkey
Authors: Ezcan Volkan , Goulding Jack S. , Kuruoglu Murat , Pour Rahimian Farzad
Published: January 2014

The complex nature of the construction process needs an intensive control and management mechanism in order to manage and process information flow. Current deficiencies in managing construction related information have been highlighted by a range of industry reports, the consensus of which has reinforced the lack of performance in the construction industry. Given this, recent research on the role of Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been proffered as a potential solution for covering these deficiencies, along with improving competitive advantage. Although limited research has concentrated on measuring BIM awareness and use, findings have been somewhat parochial and non-specific. This paper addresses this gap by concentrating on two markets: Turkey and the UK. The aim of the paper is to determine the BIM gap in terms of awareness and use, in order to form a basis for the development of future adoption strategies. A web-based questionnaire was used mirror the National Building Specification (NBS) survey (previously undertaken) in order to capture data from a new context (Turkey). The descriptive analyses of the findings and a comparison of the two countries are presented. The findings identify significant differences in BIM awareness the influence of which could provide insight for both mature and emerging markets.
Knowledge Co-Creation Process Based on Informal Learning Competences Tagging and Recognition
Authors: García-Peñalvo Francisco J. , Conde Miguel Á. , Johnson Mark , Alier Marc
Published: January 2014

The present paper deals with the problem of tagging, acknowledge and recognize of informal learning activities. It describes TRAILER project, a solution based on a methodology and a technology framework that facilitates learners/employees and institutions the co-creation of knowledge from informal learning instances. The TRAILER architecture has been implemented as a proof of concept and it is initially validated through some expert testing, from which is possible appreciate the integration difficulties of the co-creation processes.