bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination Effects of (Tri)Azole Fungicides on Hormone Production and Xenobiotic Metabolism in a Human Placental Cell Line
Authors: Rieke Svenja , Koehn Sophie , Hirsch-Ernst Karen , Pfeil Rudolf , Kneuer Carsten , Marx-Stoelting Philip
Published: September 2014

Consumers are exposed to multiple residues of different pesticides via the diet. Therefore, EU legislation for pesticides requires the evaluation of single active substances as well as the consideration of combination effects. Hence the analysis of combined effects of substances in a broad dose range represents a key challenge to current experimental and regulatory toxicology. Here we report evidence for additive effects for (tri)azole fungicides, a widely used group of antifungal agents, in the human placental cell line Jeg-3. In addition to the triazoles cyproconazole, epoxiconazole, flusilazole and tebuconazole and the azole fungicide prochloraz also pesticides from other chemical classes assumed to act via different modes of action (i.e., the organophosphate chlorpyrifos and the triazinylsulfonylurea herbicide triflusulfuron-methyl) were investigated. Endpoints analysed include synthesis of steroid hormone production (progesterone and estradiol) and gene expression of steroidogenic and non-steroidogenic cytochrome-P-450 (CYP) enzymes. For the triazoles and prochloraz, a dose dependent inhibition of progesterone production was observed and additive effects could be confirmed for several combinations of these substances in vitro. The non-triazoles chlorpyrifos and triflusulfuron-methyl did not affect this endpoint and, in line with this finding, no additivity was observed when these substances were applied in mixtures with prochloraz. While prochloraz slightly increased aromatase expression and estradiol production and triflusulfuron-methyl decreased estradiol production, none of the other substances had effects on the expression levels of steroidogenic CYP-enzymes in Jeg-3 cells. For some triazoles, prochloraz and chlorpyrifos a significant induction of CYP1A1 mRNA expression and potential combination effects for this endpoint were observed. Inhibition of CYP1A1 mRNA induction by the AhR inhibitor CH223191 indicated AhR receptor dependence this effect.
Patient Experienced Continuity of Care in the Psychiatric Healthcare System—A Study Including Immigrants, Refugees and Ethnic Danes
Authors: Jensen Natasja , Johansen Katrine , Kastrup Marianne , Krasnik Allan , Norredam Marie
Published: September 2014

Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate continuity of care in the psychiatric healthcare system from the perspective of patients, including vulnerable groups such as immigrants and refugees. Method: The study is based on 19 narrative interviews conducted with 15 patients with diverse migration backgrounds (immigrants, descendents, refugees, and ethnic Danes). Patients were recruited from a community psychiatric centre situated in an area with a high proportion of immigrants and refugees. Data were analysed through the lens of a theoretical framework of continuity of care in psychiatry, developed in 2004 by Joyce et al., which encompasses four domains: accessibility, individualised care, relationship base and service delivery. Results: Investigating continuity of care, we found issues of specific concern to immigrants and refugees, but also commonalities across the groups. For accessibility, areas pertinent to immigrants and refugees include lack of knowledge concerning mental illness and obligations towards children. In terms of individualised care, trauma, additional vulnerability, and taboo concerning mental illness were of specific concern. In the domain of service delivery, social services included assistance with immigration papers for immigrants and refugees. In the relationship base domain, no differences were identified. Implications for priority area: The treatment courses of patients in the psychiatric field are complex and diverse and the patient perspective of continuity of care provides important insight into the delivery of care. The study highlights the importance of person-centred care irrespective of migration background though it may be beneficial to have an awareness of areas that may be of more specific concern to immigrants and refugees. Conclusions: The study sheds light on concerns specific to immigrants and refugees in a framework of continuity of care, but also commonalities across the patient groups.
Mercury Exposure in Ireland: Results of the DEMOCOPHES Human Biomonitoring Study
Authors: Cullen Elizabeth , Evans David , Davidson Fred , Burke Padraig , Burns Damien , Flanagan Andrew , Griffin Chris , Kellegher Anne , Mannion Rory , Mulcahy Maurice , Ryan Michael , Biot Pierre , Casteleyn Ludwine , Castaño Argelia , Angerer Jürgen , Koch Holger , Esteban Marta , Schindler Birgit , Navarro Carmen , Kolossa-Gehring Marike , Fiddicke Ulrike , Schoeters Greet , Hond Elly , Sepai Ovnair , Exley Karen , Bloemen Louis , Knudsen Lisbeth , Joas Reinhard , Joas Anke , Aerts Dominique
Published: September 2014

Background: Monitoring of human exposure to mercury is important due to its adverse health effects. This study aimed to determine the extent of mercury exposure among mothers and their children in Ireland, and to identify factors associated with elevated levels. It formed part of the Demonstration of a study to Coordinate and Perform Human Biomonitoring on a European Scale (DEMOCOPHES) pilot biomonitoring study. Methods: Hair mercury concentrations were determined from a convenience sample of 120 mother/child pairs. Mothers also completed a questionnaire. Rigorous quality assurance within DEMOCOPHES guaranteed the accuracy and international comparability of results. Results: Mercury was detected in 79.2% of the samples from mothers, and 62.5% of children’s samples. Arithmetic mean levels in mothers (0.262 µg/g hair) and children (0.149 µg /g hair) did not exceed the US EPA guidance value. Levels were significantly higher for those with higher education, and those who consumed more fish. Conclusions: The study demonstrates the benefit of human biomonitoring for assessing and comparing internal exposure levels, both on a population and an individual basis. It enables the potential harmful impact of mercury to be minimised in those highly exposed, and can therefore significantly contribute to population health.
Emodin Protects against Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by Regulating the AKT/GSK-3β Signaling Pathway in the Rat Model
Authors: Wu Zhiqin , Chen Qingwei , Ke Dazhi , Li Guiqiong , Deng Wei
Published: September 2014

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been recognized as a major health problem. Emodin (Emo) has been reported to exhibit protective effects against diabetic nephropathy. However, little has been known about the effect of Emo on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). A type 2 DM model was induced in rats by low dose streptozotocin (STZ) combined with high energy intake. We found that Emo-treated groups displayed significantly higher body weight (BW) and lower heart weight (HW)/BW. Furthermore, Emo could significantly decrease blood glucose, total cholesterol (TG) levels, and triglyceride (TC) levels in diabetic rats. Moreover, the Emo-treated group showed a marked increase in heart rate (HR) and showed lower left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LWPWT), and interventricular septal diastolic wall thickness (IVSD). Emo induced a significant increase in phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β in myocardium. These results suggest that Emo may have great therapeutic potential in the treatment of DCM by Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway.
Recovery of Biomolecules from Food Wastes — A Review
Authors: Baiano Antonietta
Published: September 2014

Food wastes are produced by a variety of sources, ranging from agricultural operations to household consumption. About 38% occurs during food processing. At present, the European Union legislation encourages the exploitation of co-products. This valorisation can be achieved through the extraction of high-value components such as proteins, polysaccharides, fibres, flavour compounds, and phytochemicals, which can be re-used as nutritionally and pharmacologically functional ingredients. Extraction can proceed according to solid-liquid extraction, Soxhlet extraction, pressurized fluid extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, pulsed electric field extraction, and enzyme-assisted extraction. Nevertheless, these techniques cannot be used indiscriminately and their choice depends on the type of biomolecules and matrix, the scale processing (laboratory or industrial), the ratio between production costs and economic values of the compounds to be extracted. The vegetable wastes include trimmings, peelings, stems, seeds, shells, bran, residues remaining after extraction of oil, starch, sugar, and juice. The animal-derived wastes include wastes from bred animals, wastes from seafood, wastes from dairy processing. The recovered biomolecules and by-products can be used to produce functional foods or as adjuvants in food processing or in medicinal and pharmaceutical preparations. This work is an overview of the type and amounts of food wastes; food waste legislation; conventional and novel techniques suitable for extracting biomolecules; food, medicinal and pharmaceutical uses of the recovered biomolecules and by-products, and future trends in these areas.
Integration of Multisensor Hybrid Reasoners to Support Personal Autonomy in the Smart Home
Authors: Valero Miguel , Bravo José , Chamizo Juan , López-de-Ipiña Diego
Published: September 2014

The deployment of the Ambient Intelligence (AmI) paradigm requires designing and integrating user-centered smart environments to assist people in their daily life activities. This research paper details an integration and validation of multiple heterogeneous sensors with hybrid reasoners that support decision making in order to monitor personal and environmental data at a smart home in a private way. The results innovate on knowledge-based platforms, distributed sensors, connected objects, accessibility and authentication methods to promote independent living for elderly people. TALISMAN+, the AmI framework deployed, integrates four subsystems in the smart home: (i) a mobile biomedical telemonitoring platform to provide elderly patients with continuous disease management; (ii) an integration middleware that allows context capture from heterogeneous sensors to program environment´s reaction; (iii) a vision system for intelligent monitoring of daily activities in the home; and (iv) an ontologies-based integrated reasoning platform to trigger local actions and manage private information in the smart home. The framework was integrated in two real running environments, the UPM Accessible Digital Home and MetalTIC house, and successfully validated by five experts in home care, elderly people and personal autonomy.
An NN-Based SRD Decomposition Algorithm and Its Application in Nonlinear Compensation
Authors: Yan Honghang , Deng Fang , Sun Jian , Chen Jie
Published: September 2014

In this study, a neural network-based square root of descending (SRD) order decomposition algorithm for compensating for nonlinear data generated by sensors is presented. The study aims at exploring the optimized decomposition of data 1.00,0.00,0.00 and minimizing the computational complexity and memory space of the training process. A linear decomposition algorithm, which automatically finds the optimal decomposition N and reduces the training time to 1 N and memory cost to 1 N , has been implemented on nonlinear data obtained from an encoder. Particular focus is given to the theoretical access of estimating the numbers of hidden nodes and the precision of varying the decomposition method. Numerical experiments are designed to evaluate the effect of this algorithm. Moreover, a designed device for angular sensor calibration is presented. We conduct an experiment that samples the data of an encoder and compensates for the nonlinearity of the encoder to testify this novel algorithm.
A new approach for the synthesis of bisindoles through AgOTf as catalyst
Authors: Beltrá Jorge , Gimeno M Concepción , Herrera Raquel P
Published: September 2014

A novel approach for the catalyzed formation of bisindolylmethane derivatives (BIMs) is described. This methodology is the unique example where AgOTf has been successfully used for the activation of aldehydes, giving easy access to a broad range of bisindolyl derivatives with excellent results. Moreover, the simplicity and easy operational methodology using a small amount of commercially available AgOTf (1–3 mol %), one of the lowest catalytic charge used in this process to date, makes this procedure an alternative approach for this interesting and appealing reaction.
Transferts de fonds internes, Sud-Sud et Nord-Sud : une analyse comparative
Authors: Kuhn-Le Braz Mélanie
Published: September 2014

À l’aide d’enquêtes menées par la Banque mondiale en 2009 et 2010 dans divers pays africains, ce papier vise à dresser le profil des migrants, à identifier les facteurs influençant les transferts et à établir s’il existe des différences de profil et de comportement selon le type de migration entrepris (migration interne, entre pays en développement ou vers des pays développés). Les résultats montrent que les migrants internes présentent des caractéristiques qui les distinguent des migrants internationaux et que certains déterminants des transferts varient selon le type de migration entrepris. Ils suggèrent par ailleurs que les migrants, en particulier internes et Sud-Nord, transfèrent par altruisme.
Des espaces parcourus aux lieux investis. Enquête auprès des Sénégalais installés en Europe
Authors: Lessault David
Published: September 2014

« L’argent de la migration » est souvent perçu au Sénégal comme une manne financière à mobiliser pour le développement du pays. Au-delà du comportement en termes de transferts de biens et d’argent adressés aux familles restées sur place, la construction du « patrimoine » (foncier, immobilier ou commercial) des migrants internationaux obéit à des logiques encore mal connues. Cet article propose d’apporter un éclairage sur les pratiques d’investissement économique réalisés par les ressortissants sénégalais. Il privilégie une approche spatiale, celle des lieux investis en rapport avec les espaces parcourus. La géographie obtenue, résultat de l’histoire collective d’une cohorte de Sénégalais enquêtés en Europe, interpelle la pertinence du débat qui porte sur les liens entre la migration internationale et le développement des « localités d’origine », en axant la discussion sur la diversité des logiques de patrimonialisation de migrants sénégalais.
Contraintes financières et sensibilité aux cash flows : influence de l'affiliation des firmes japonaises à un groupe industriel
Authors: Nguyen Pascal , Nivoix Sophie , Saidani Wiem
Published: September 2014

Nous étudions la notion de contrainte financière via la sensibilité de la trésorerie aux cash flows. L’apport de ce travail tient au contexte financier japonais, avec prise en compte de l’affiliation ou non à un groupe industriel (keiretsu) des firmes cotées. La sensibilité de la trésorerie aux cash flows s’avère forte pour les firmes affiliées et faible pour les non affiliées, ce qui indique que les firmes non affiliées seraient moins contraintes que les affiliées.
Efforts d'innovation et choix technologiques des firmes tunisiennes : proposition d'une grille d'évaluation
Authors: Hamed Mounira Sidhom , Omri Mohamed Ali
Published: September 2014

Cet article cherche à combler les carences des mécanismes de communication comptable traditionnels en informations reflétant le positionnement technologique et les efforts d’innovation (I&T). Faisant appel à l’analyse factorielle exploratoire, nous avons pu élaborer un outil de mesure dont la fiabilité a été étudiée. Cet outil, composé de 30 items, est scindé en six axes dont la moitié traite du processus d’innovation alors que l’autre s’intéresse à la structure technologique.
Les ordres de la mesure des prix
Authors: Touchelay Béatrice
Published: September 2014

Dans l’espace social, politique et économique, rien ne semble aujourd’hui plus évident et naturel que de mesurer l’évolution de prix. Pourtant, la carrière de l’indice des prix depuis sa création n’est pas rectiligne et ne s’est pas accomplie sans heurts. Cet article se propose de suivre la carrière de cette technique de quantification dans trois configurations historiques successives marquées par l’intensité des controverses autour de l’indice des prix : ces trois périodes se caractérisent chacune par des formes différentes de « mise en ordre » de l’économie.
Frapper aux portes pour gagner les élections ?
Authors: Talpin Julien , Belkacem Romain
Published: September 2014

Le porte-à-porte a connu un développement important au cours de la dernière décennie, d’abord aux États-Unis puis en France, ayant été présenté, et légitimé scientifiquement, comme la technique de mobilisation électorale la plus efficace. À partir d’une étude ethnographique dans deux villes du Nord de la France, nous avons suivi le travail militant de deux sections socialistes lors de la campagne présidentielle de 2012. Après avoir souligné les difficultés de la réception locale d’une injonction au démarchage électoral personnalisé venu de l’appareil socialiste, nous analysons les ressorts de cette situation politique extraordinaire. Loin de la rationalisation annoncée, les interactions observées se sont avérées le plus souvent superficielles. Nous dégageons plusieurs types de situations, et interrogeons les conditions sociales et politiques d’enclenchement de discussions sur les pas-de-porte. À cet égard, la pratique s’avère très différente quand elle met en situation de coprésence habitants et élus plutôt que de simples militants, le rappel à l’ordre électoral cédant le pas à une relation clientéliste. Au regard de ces résultats, nous mettons en doute les effets électoraux jusqu’alors repérés par les recherches expérimentales. Si influence il y a, elle relève davantage du symbolique que des conséquences directes des interactions observées.
RFID Technology and Privacy
Authors: Chen Edward T.
Published: September 2014

RFID plays a critical role in the improvement of supply chain management and consumer applications. This chapter introduces a brief history of RFID and how it works. The recent shift of incorporating RFID into consumer-oriented products has raised serious concerns of customer privacy and security. These concerns are rooted in the fact that consumers are typically unaware that their purchases are being tracked and monitored, as well as the fear of private information being hacked or stolen via insecure RFID systems. This chapter provides a theoretical debate over the privacy rights and addresses the consumer role in the RFID technology. This chapter concludes that the government must ensure legislation to maintain protections on the individual's security and privacy in the society.
Operational Strategies Associated with RFID Applications in Healthcare Systems
Authors: Smith Alan D.
Published: September 2014

An effective information system is essential for a business or industry to be successful in today's highly competitive market. Perhaps the most compelling case for RFID-embedded technologies in the healthcare field has been increased efficiency in supply chain performance measurements, which generally consist of financial and non-financial indicators. Many research studies have assumed that these efficiency measures are transferrable in the medical services field. Such optimism is fuelled by the expectations that such supply chain measures will result in equally impressive results in the healthcare field. Although this transfer may be somewhat flawed and imperfectly applied, research has verified certain elements of operational optimism. There are still a number of technical, ethical, and legal issues or hurdles that surround RFID applications in the healthcare industry that must be successfully overcome. However, few can successfully argue against freeing hospital staff from the routine duties associated with traditional inventory so that they may be free to serve patients. With recent governmental regulations and the concern for increased access to universal medical care and its astronomical costs, these issues need to be addressed.
An Analysis of the Diffusion of RFID in the UK Logistics Sector Using a Technology-Acceptance Perspective
Authors: Ramanathan Ramakrishnan , Ramanathan Usha , Ko Lok Wan Lorraine
Published: September 2014

In this chapter, the authors explore the factors affecting the UK logistics service providers' intention to use RFID technology from the theoretical perspective of a Technology-Acceptance Model (TAM). The survey data analysis shows that perceived usability of RFID has a significant relationship with the levels of adoption of the technology, but perceived privacy issues and perceived security issues do not have such a significant relationship. Using further moderation analysis, the authors find that the relationship between usability and adoption becomes stronger if there is a high level of support for RFID projects within an organisation. The study points to the need to improve the appreciation and support in an organisation for RFID projects. For example, top management should be well informed so as to provide good support, while employees should be motivated to back the use of RFID in their operations. An appropriate level of the required infrastructure will also help increase the usability and hence the adoption of RFID in UK logistics.
Green Technology for Green Schools
Authors: Woodard Howard C. , Orr Robert L.
Published: September 2014

Technology systems typically are high-energy consumers especially when considering the distinct number of systems encountered in education. Efforts at curbing this consumption to create an efficient technology environment require well-developed tactical and strategic plans. Organizations can begin this journey by developing a road map for a sustainability program. Three technologies, cloud computing, server virtualization, and desktop virtualization, offer great promise and should be a part of the green roadmap for schools. Cloud computing capitalizes on the power of broadband networking to engage needed resources regardless of location and thus creates synergies to reduce energy consumption. Server virtualization allows the school to reduce the number of servers needed while increasing server optimization within the organization. Desktop virtualization meets multiple goals and objectives; it reduces energy and lowers related costs, while at the same time providing more control and flexibility in meeting the technology needs of the organization. This chapter discusses these technologies, their impact, and encourages school administrators to develop strategic as well as tactical plans for creating an energy efficient technology approach.
The Places Where Children Play
Authors: Lemasters Linda K. , Greve Andrew W.
Published: September 2014

Most of us remember playgrounds that consisted of an asphalt or gravel lot with swings, teeter-totters, and monkey bars. When recess came, we went outdoors to play tag, Simon says, or kick ball. Just as educational reform has changed the classroom and the curricula, concern about the environment has changed school design and construction. This chapter examines the evolving changes in playing at school and on playgrounds. The chapter introduces the reader to general information about playgrounds and discusses the importance of green construction and sustainability. This includes a closer look at playgrounds from the perspectives of health, child development, and related moral issues. Children need to play in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Environmental Considerations of Green School Grounds
Authors: Gallo W. Cory , Seymour Michael W.
Published: September 2014

This chapter explores environmental issues related to the school grounds, provides background information regarding critical terms, site sustainability theories, and the concept of ecosystem services, and includes a review of current sustainable site rating systems such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and the Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES). The chapter also provides an overview of the issues related to site selection and discussion of the most useful and relevant sustainable programming and practices for both new and existing schools. Site program and amenities are discussed in the six categories of process, play, gardens, water, habitat, and energy; examples of schools where such programs have been implemented are provided. The chapter concludes with recommendations for educational leaders who are tasked with conceiving, renovating, or managing a school campus.
Using Environment-Based Education to Transform the School Campus
Authors: Greer Deirdre C. , Wetherington Pam
Published: September 2014

A focus on building environmentally sustainable schools emerged in the 1990s; however, building green schools is cost prohibitive due to limited education construction budgets. One solution is to engage children in transforming existing schools while incorporating environment-based education. Environment-based education is a form of project-based learning that employs a student-centered approach to teaching integrated curriculum. Project-based learning has been shown to be beneficial in supporting the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of students. Benefits of project-based learning include building a sense of community within the classroom, encouraging parent involvement, increased motivation and engagement, and increased academic achievement. This chapter explores possibilities for transforming existing schools to be more environmentally friendly, considering the benefits of engaging students in authentic projects and providing examples of ways to get students of all ages involved in projects that can extend environmental awareness from the school to home and into the community.
Cyberlearning in Green Schools
Authors: Lemoine Pamela A. , Richardson Michael D. , McCormack Thomas J.
Published: September 2014

In this chapter, the authors speculate on changes to communication and social media. The authors explore the current environment, where students use digital media for communication and share information at an increasing rate including the focus on learning with digital media or cyberlearning, which has escalate dramatically. The authors contend that cyberlearning is a trend creating a flexibility that is dependent on learning needs, motivations, and contexts where students can use mobile devices for personalized learning anytime and anywhere: one of the major advantages of green schools.
The Green School
Authors: Shook Maggie , Richardson Michael D.
Published: September 2014

Green schools are supportive and efficient spaces, the places that the authors speculate should inspire others to value students, sustain the environment, and promote learning. They illustrate that the benefits of a green school go far beyond the environment to include student health and student academic performance. Seen from a superintendent's perspective, the authors conclude that green schools also help lower operational costs and reduce waste, while also encouraging the active involvement of occupants in these conservation efforts, teaching them to be responsible stewards of the environment and learning.
Legal Issues for Green Schools
Authors: Waller Robert , Artman Elaine M.
Published: September 2014

School systems will need to stay abreast of the various levels of legal changes as global green sustainability programs expand during the 21th century. This chapter explains the legal guidelines and legislation that direct green school design, green operations, connection between environment and cognitive functioning, and equity. The final topic in this chapter is supportive legislative currently in place to support green schools and suggestions for future legislation needed for future green school construction.
Return on Investment
Authors: Lemoine Pamela A. , Woodard Howard C. , Richardson Michael D.
Published: September 2014

The authors illustrate how school leaders are faced with many difficult choices, particularly as funding decreases and demands for student productivity increase. They explore how politicians reject the notion of green schools because they are more expensive than traditionally built schools. However, with energy costs for school districts second only to personnel costs, the return on investment in green schools can be found in both retrofitting schools and/or in new school construction. The authors conclude that, using the business technique of examining Return on Investment (ROI) for comparison, green schools can yield significant returns when efficiently managed.
Sleep Disorder Diagnosis
Authors: Blake Jacqueline , Kerr Don
Published: September 2014

Sleep disorders are a significant and growing problem, both for the economy of the nation and for the physical and psychological well-being of individual sufferers. Physicians are under pressure to find ways of dealing with the backlog of patients. The purpose of this chapter is to investigate the operational, administrative, and medical environment within which sleep physicians diagnose patients with sleep disorders and develop an online support system that would efficiently gather patient history data and improve the effectiveness of patient-physician consultations, the diagnoses, and patients' self-management of any subsequent treatment plans. Investigations confirm that the physicians spend a large portion of the available consultation time on routine questions. In the new system, the patient information is captured by the patient completing an online questionnaire. Due to the reduction in time given for data collection, the physician can spend time with the patients discussing patient-specific symptoms and life-styles.
Use and Reuse of Electronic Health Records
Authors: Ceruti Michele , Geninatti Silvio , Siliquini Roberta
Published: September 2014

Electronic Health Record (EHR) is a term with several meanings, even if its very definition allows distinguishing it from other electronic records of healthcare interest, such as Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and Personal Health Records (PHR). EMR is the electronic evolution of paper-based medical records, while PHR is mainly the collection of health-related information of a single individual. All of these have many points in common, but the interchangeable use of the terms leads to several misunderstandings and may threaten the validity and reliability of EHR applications. EHRs are more structured and conform to interoperability standards, and include a huge quantity of data of very large populations. Thus, they have proven to be useful for both theoretical and practical purposes, especially for Public Health issues. In this chapter, the authors argue that the appropriate use of EHR requires a realistic comprehensive concept of e-health by all the involved professions. They also show that a change in the “thinking” of e-health is necessary in order to achieve tangible results of improvement in healthcare services through the use of EHR.
The E-Learning Experience in Medical School of Casablanca
Authors: Lembachar Ihssane , Diouny Samir , Serhier Zineb , Othmani Mohammed Bennani
Published: September 2014

In recent years, higher education has witnessed significant growth. This unprecedented phenomenon can be attributed to distance education through the application of ICTs. The purpose of this chapter is to bring into focus the experience of e-learning implementation at Casablanca Medical School and investigate learners' attitudes towards e-learning strategy. Of particular relevance to this study are the implementation of two e-learning projects, namely the “Digital Environment Work” (DEW), which allows medical students, faculty, and administrators to access information and online services, and the “@U-PEL 2010 program,” which was launched by Hassan II University in 2010 with a view to supporting holders of a comprehensive strategy for the development of e-learning institutions on the basis of clearly identified projects.
Use of SNSs, Political Efficacy, and Civic Engagement among Chinese College Students
Authors: Xu Qian , Qi Lingling
Published: September 2014

Almost half of China's 564 million netizens are using social networking websites (SNSs). Based on the growing popularity of native SNSs, this study aims to examine whether the younger generation feels more actively engaged in civic and political activities. A survey of 471 Chinese college students in Mainland China explored the effects of SNS use on political efficacy and civic engagement. Among the four identified gratifications of SNS use, social connection significantly predicted internal political efficacy and political voice. Entertainment negatively predicted both external political efficacy and political voice, while information seeking had no influence on either political efficacy or civic engagement. SNS network size emerged as a positive predictor of civic engagement, including electoral activities and political voice. Intensity of SNS use had no significant effect on any of the political outcomes. The results of the study shed light on the role of SNSs in the democratization of Chinese society.
An ethical analysis of the implementation of poverty reduction policies in South Africa and Chile and their implications for the Church
Authors: Kretzschmar Louise
Published: September 2014

The focus of this contribution is the issue of poverty reduction within the South African and Chilean contexts. It is rooted in the academic field of Christian Ethics and also draws on several texts from the human and economic sciences. Policies adopted and practical steps taken to overcome poverty by the respective governments between 1990 and 2012 are evaluated and the theological and practical implications of poverty for the church are briefly highlighted. Despite differences between these two countries, South Africans can learn much from the Chilean policy and its implementation.
A Clinical Perspective of Canagliflozin in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Nardolillo AnneMarie , Kane Michael P. , Busch Robert S. , Watsky Jay , Hamilton Robert A.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To assess the real-world efficacy and safety of the first sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor, canagliflozin, in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

This observational study assessed the efficacy and tolerability of canagliflozin in T2DM patients. Primary study outcomes were changes in HbAlC and weight, and percentage of patients reporting adverse effects of therapy.

Results

The study criteria were met by 111 patient records. Baseline patient characteristics were: average age, 59 ± 9 years; mean duration of T2DM, 11.9 ± 7.3 years; 57.6% of patients were male; 92.8% were Caucasian; baseline BMI, 38.9 ± 11 kg/m2; and mean baseline HbAlC, 7.53 (58.8 mmol/mol) ± 1.08%. HbAlC and weight were significantly reduced by 0.37% and 4.4 kg, respectively. Adverse effects were reported by 21 patients, and 17 (15.3%) discontinued canagliflozin because of adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Canagliflozin was generally well tolerated and significantly reduced HbAlC levels and body weight in patients with T2DM when added to a regimen of other anti-hyperglycemic agents.
Imbalanced Kynurenine Pathway in Schizophrenia
Authors: Kegel Magdalena E. , Bhat Maria , Skogh Elisabeth , Samuelsson Martin , Lundberg Kristina , Dahl Marja-Liisa , Sellgren Carl , Schwieler Lilly , Engberg Göran , Schuppe-Koistinen Ina , Erhardt Sophie
Published: September 2014

Several studies suggest a role for kynurenic acid (KYNA) in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. It has been proposed that increased brain KYNA levels in schizophrenia result from a pathological shift in the kynurenine pathway toward enhanced KYNA formation, away from the other branch of the pathway leading to quinolinic acid (QUIN). Here we investigate the levels of QUIN in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls, and relate those to CSF levels of KYNA and other kynurenine metabolites from the same individuals. CSF QUIN levels from stable outpatients treated with olanzapine (n = 22) and those of controls (n = 26) were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. No difference in CSF QUIN levels between patients and controls was observed (20.6 ± 1.5 nM vs. 18.2 ± 1.1 nM, P = 0.36). CSF QUIN was positively correlated to CSF kynurenine and CSF KYNA in patients but not in controls. The CSF QUIN/KYNA ratio was lower in patients than in controls ( P = 0.027). In summary, the present study offers support for an over-activated and imbalanced kynurenine pathway, favoring the production of KYNA over QUIN in patients with schizophrenia.
Sleep Disturbances in Individuals with Alcohol-Related Disorders: A Review of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and Associated Non-Pharmacological Therapies
Authors: Brooks Alyssa T. , Wallen Gwenyth R.
Published: September 2014

Sleep disturbances are common among alcohol-dependent individuals and are often associated with relapse. The utility of behavioral therapies for sleep disturbances, including cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), among those with alcohol-related disorders is not well understood. This review systematically evaluates the evidence of CBT-I and related behavioral therapies applied to those with alcohol-related disorders and accompanying sleep disturbances. A search of four research databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, and CINAHL Plus) yielded six studies that met selection criteria. Articles were reviewed using Cochrane's Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) scoring system. A majority of the studies demonstrated significant improvements in sleep efficiency among behavioral therapy treatment group(s), including but not limited to CBT-I. While behavioral sleep interventions have been successful in varied populations, they may not be utilized to their full potential among those with alcohol-related disorders as evidenced by the low number of studies found. These findings suggest a need for mixed-methods research on individuals’ sleep experience to inform interventions that are acceptable to the target population.
High-resolution mapping of vehicle emissions in China in 2008
Authors: Zheng B. , Huo H. , Zhang Q. , Yao Z. L. , Wang X. T. , Yang X. F. , Liu H. , He K. B.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. This study is the first in a series of papers that aim to develop high-resolution emission databases for different anthropogenic sources in China. Here we focus on on-road transportation. Because of the increasing impact of on-road transportation on regional air quality, developing an accurate and high-resolution vehicle emission inventory is important for both the research community and air quality management. This work proposes a new inventory methodology to improve the spatial and temporal accuracy and resolution of vehicle emissions in China. We calculate, for the first time, the monthly vehicle emissions for 2008 in 2364 counties (an administrative unit one level lower than city) by developing a set of approaches to estimate vehicle stock and monthly emission factors at county-level, and technology distribution at provincial level. We then introduce allocation weights for the vehicle kilometers traveled to assign the county-level emissions onto 0.05° × 0.05° grids based on the China Digital Road-network Map (CDRM). The new methodology overcomes the common shortcomings of previous inventory methods, including neglecting the geographical differences between key parameters and using surrogates that are weakly related to vehicle activities to allocate vehicle emissions. The new method has great advantages over previous methods in depicting the spatial distribution characteristics of vehicle activities and emissions. This work provides a better understanding of the spatial representation of vehicle emissions in China and can benefit both air quality modeling and management with improved spatial accuracy.
A comparison of ice water content measurement techniques on the FAAM BAe-146 aircraft
Authors: Abel S. J. , Cotton R. J. , Barrett P. A. , Vance A. K.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. This paper presents a comparison of ice water content (qi) data from a variety of measurement techniques on the Facility for Airborne Atmospheric Measurements (FAAM) BAe-146 research aircraft. Data are presented from a range of cloud types measured during the PIKNMIX field experiment that include mixed-phase stratocumulus, cumulus congestus and cirrus clouds. These measurements cover a broad range of conditions in which atmospheric ice particles are found in nature, such as the low-ice-water-content environments typically found in midlatitude cirrus and the environments with much higher ice water content often observed in cold convective clouds. The techniques include bulk measurements from (i) a Nevzorov hot-wire probe, (ii) the difference between the measured total water content (condensed plus vapour) and the water vapour content of the atmosphere and (iii) a counterflow virtual impactor (CVI) (only for cirrus measurements). We also estimate the qi from integration of the measured particle size distribution (PSD) with assumptions on how the density of ice particles varies as a function of size. The results show that the only bulk ice water content technique capable of measuring high qi values (several g m−3) was the method of total water content minus water vapour. For low ice water contents we develop a new parametrisation of the Nevzorov baseline drift that enables the probe to be sensitive to qi ± 0.002 g m−3. In cirrus clouds the agreement between the Nevzorov and other bulk measurements was typically better than a factor of 2 for the CVI (qi > 0.008 g m−3) and the method of total water content minus water vapour (qi > 0.02 g m−3). Good agreement with the bulk measurements for all cases could be obtained with the estimate from the PSD provided that appropriate a priori assumptions on the mass–dimension relationship were made. This is problematic in the convective clouds sampled because pristine ice particles, heavily rimed particles and supercooled liquid drops were all present. In a cirrus case, we show that using a temperature-dependent mass–dimension relation was required to match the bulk measurement of qi.
Characterising Brazilian biomass burning emissions using WRF-Chem with MOSAIC sectional aerosol
Authors: Archer-Nicholls S. , Lowe D. , Darbyshire E. , Morgan W. T. , Bela M. M. , Pereira G. , Trembath J. , Kaiser J. W. , Longo K. M. , Freitas S. R. , Coe H. , McFiggans G.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. The South American Biomass Burning Analysis (SAMBBA) field campaign took detailed in-situ flight measurements of aerosol during the 2012 dry season to characterise biomass burning aerosol and improve understanding of its impacts on weather and climate. Developments have been made to the Weather research and Forecast model with chemistry (WRF-Chem) model to improve the representation of biomass burning aerosol in the region by coupling a sectional aerosol scheme to the plume rise parameterisation. Brazilian Biomass Burning Emissions Model (3BEM) fire emissions are used, prepared using PREP-CHEM-SRC, and mapped to CBM-Z and MOSAIC species. Model results have been evaluated against remote sensing products, AERONET sites, and four case studies of flight measurements from the SAMBBA campaign. WRF-Chem predicted layers of elevated aerosol loadings (5–20 μg sm−3) of particulate organic matter at high altitude (6–8 km) over tropical forest regions, while flight measurements showed a sharp decrease above 2–4 km altitude. This difference was attributed to the plume-rise parameterisation overestimating injection height. The 3BEM emissions product was modified using estimates of active fire size and burned area for the 2012 fire season, which reduced the fire size. The enhancement factor for fire emissions was increased from 1.3 to 5 to retain reasonable aerosol optical depths (AOD). The smaller fire size lowered the injection height of the emissions, but WRF-Chem still showed elevated aerosol loadings between 4–5 km altitude. Over eastern Cerrado (savannah-like) regions, both modelled and measured aerosol loadings decreased above approximately 4 km altitude. Compared with MODIS satellite data and AERONET sites, WRF-Chem represented AOD magnitude well (between 0.3–1.5) over western tropical forest fire regions in the first half of the campaign, but tended to over-predict them in the second half, when precipitation was more significant. Over eastern Cerrado regions, WRF-Chem tended to under-predict AOD. Modeled aerosol loadings in the east were higher in the modified emission scenario. The primary organic matter to black carbon ratio was typically between 8–10 in WRF-Chem. This was lower than western flights measurements (interquartile range of 11.6–15.7 in B734, 14.7–24.0 in B739), but similar to the eastern flight B742 (8.1–10.4). However, single scattering albedo was close to measured over the western flights (0.87–0.89 in model; 0.88–0.91 in flight B734, and 0.86–0.95 in flight B739 measurements) but too high over the eastern flight B742 (0.86–0.87 in model, 0.81–0.84 in measurements). This suggests that improvements are needed to both modeled aerosol composition and optical properties calculations in WRF-Chem.
Linkages between ENSO/PDO signals and precipitation, streamflow in China during the last 100 years
Authors: Ouyang R. , Liu W. , Fu G. , Liu C. , Hu L. , Wang H.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. This paper investigates the single and combined impacts of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) on precipitation and streamflow in China over the last century. Results indicate that the precipitation and streamflow overall decrease during El Niño/PDO warm phase periods and increase during La Niña/PDO cool phase periods in the majority of China, although there are regional and seasonal differences. Precipitation and streamflow in the Yellow River basin, Yangtze River basin and Pearl River basin are more significantly influenced by El Niño and La Niña events than is precipitation and streamflow in the Songhua River basin, especially in October and November. Moreover, significant influence of ENSO on streamflow in the Yangtze River mainly occurs in summer and autumn while in the Pearl River influence primarily occurs in the winter and spring. The precipitation and streamflow are relatively greater in the warm PDO phase in the Songhua River basin and several parts of the Yellow River basin and relatively less in the Pearl River basin and most parts of Northwest China compared to those in the cool PDO phase, though there is little significance detected by Wilcoxon signed-rank test. When considering the combined influence of ENSO and PDO, the responses of precipitation/streamflow are shown to be opposite in northern China and southern China, with ENSO-related precipitation/streamflow enhanced in northern China and decreased in southern China during the warm PDO phases, and enhanced in southern China and decreased in northern China during the cool PDO phases. It is hoped that this study will be beneficial for understanding the precipitation/streamflow responses to the changing climate and will correspondingly provide valuable reference for water resources prediction and management across China.