bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La question raciale au cœur de l’activisme étudiant sur les campus américains
Authors: Berthélémy Clémentine
Published: February 2019

L’un des traits caractéristiques des universités américaines est sans contredit leur caractère microcosmique. Ces « sociétés en miniature » ont souvent constitué un terrain fertile pour le développement de l’activisme estudiantin. Cet article propose d’apporter un éclairage sur le visage actuel de l’engagement estudiantin qui, depuis une dizaine d’années déjà, fait un retour remarqué. Cet article entend d’une part mettre en lumière la place centrale qu’occupe la question raciale dans les mobilisations étudiantes et d’autre part discuter la façon dont l’activisme se développe et se manifeste sur les campus et dans quelle mesure il peut/doit être perçu comme le signe que le seuil de tolérance du degré d’inégalité a été aujourd’hui atteint.
Les périls de l’idéologie : la droite américaine et le dérèglement climatique
Authors: Collomb Jean-Daniel
Published: February 2019

Cet article tente de mettre en lumière les ressorts idéologiques de l’hostilité du parti républicain à des politiques volontaristes en matière climatique, tout en plaçant l’argumentaire déployé par les think tanks conservateurs et libertariens qui alimentent ce parti en idées dans le contexte de la forte polarisation de la vie politique américaine. Malgré l’existence de voix dissidentes au sein des mouvements conservateurs et libertarien, l’hostilité à l’égard de l’État régulateur et la volonté de préserver totalement la souveraineté nationale américaine incitent la grande majorité des élus républicains à refuser tout compromis sur la question climatique. L’article permet de saisir l’argumentaire climato-sceptique dans sa complexité et de mesurer son importance dans un contexte où les deux grands partis coopèrent de plus en plus rarement et peuvent faire usage de nombreux mécanismes d’obstruction.
Des turbulences émotionnelles lorsque la thérapeute est enceinte
Authors: D’Orta Isabella
Published: February 2019

S’appuyant sur une expérience de suivi d’une jeune patiente, l’auteur explore les particularités dans le processus transfert-contre-transfert lorsque la thérapeute est enceinte. La réflexion est étayée à travers une revue de la littérature, qui tend à montrer que l’évolution du transfert peut être plus intense et sa dynamique se trouve ainsi accéléré. Dans ce cas, nous pouvons assister à un acting out, sous forme d’interruption du suivi au moment de l’annonce de la grossesse de la thérapeute. Dans cet article est abordé également le point de vue de la thérapeute qui vit un événement de vie qui amène en soi un intense bouleversement émotionnel, ainsi que des implications contre-transférentielles liées au travail en institution.
Quand l’échec thérapeutique confronte les cliniciens…
Authors: de Becker Emmanuel , Lescalier-Grosjean Isabelle
Published: February 2019

Dans la pratique clinique, il n’est pas rare de se heurter à des écueils dans le lien transférentiel. Bien des questionnements et sentiments d’impuissance dans le chef des thérapeutes font écho aux défaillances des systèmes humains rencontrés. A la lumière d’une vignette clinique développant un processus thérapeutique ayant débuté il y a dix ans et toujours en cours, nous observons combien un sentiment d’échec peut s’installer petit à petit, colorer la relation entre soignants et patients et questionner la fonction même des professionnels. Des mouvements peuvent alors émerger, de la lassitude au découragement en passant par l’agressivité et le rejet de ceux et celles qui, d’une certaine manière, n’acceptent point l’aide et les soins qui leur sont proposés. Il s’avère in fine utile de considérer quelques attitudes cliniques susceptibles de déjouer, parfois, l’échec dans le lien thérapeutique. Nous évoquerons ainsi trois dimensions, qui sont le cadre d’intervention et son objet, le « travail à plusieurs » et « l’enveloppe partenariale » et les notions de curiosité et de créativité.
Psychothérapie : s’inspirer de la psychanalyse ?
Authors: Grosbois Philippe
Published: February 2019

L’auteur interroge la pertinence épistémologique de la notion de psychothérapie psychanalytique via son évolution historique. Une revue de la littérature montre que les psychanalystes, après avoir partagé historiquement un consensus autour de ces aménagements techniques de la cure-type , se situent aujourd’hui différemment dans les pays où s’est développée une psychothérapie dite psychodynamique . La référence psychanalytique s’est par ailleurs développée au niveau des pratiques psychothérapiques en dehors de la pratique des psychanalystes, en particulier chez les psychiatres et les psychologues cliniciens, ce qui soulève la question des critères de formation de ces derniers à une psychothérapie dite d’orientation psychanalytique . Ce débat s’est trouvé actualisé en France par la récente réglementation relative à l’usage du titre de psychothérapeute et a engendré une polémique sur la validité des procédures d’évaluation des psychothérapies.
Quand l’armée s’en va !
Authors: Droff Josselin , Malizard Julien
Published: February 2019

À l'intersection entre l’évaluation des politiques publiques et l'économie régionale, cet article évalue à partir d’une base de données originale, la cohérence de la politique d’accompagnement à la restructuration territoriale de la défense réalisée en France depuis la fin des années 2000. Sur la base de données collectées à l’échelle départementale, une analyse économétrique met en relation la situation démographique, économique et politique des territoires avec les compensations financières reçues. Cette analyse questionne les logiques d’aménagement du territoire présentes dans la politique de rationalisation du ministère des armées. Dans l’ensemble, les résultats montrent que les réorganisations de la défense ne se font pas « hors-sol » et que les territoires et leur situation économique sont intégrés dans la stratégie globale du décideur public. Ces résultats permettent de nourrir le débat sur l’intérêt et l’efficacité de ce type de politique publique lorsqu’elle est entreprise par un acteur, dont ce n’est a priori pas la fonction première. Classification JEL  : D61, R38, H56
L’attractivité comme objectif stratégique des collectivités locales
Authors: Houllier-Guibert Charles-Edouard
Published: February 2019

L’évolution de l’expression « Attractivité des territoires » depuis la Décentralisation en France, montre son émergence au regard du terme Compétitivité, puis l’intérêt de son découpage entre Attraction et Attrait, qui prend en compte de manière importante la part non-mesurable de l’attractivité. Il en résulte la proposition d’un tableau qui recense comment différentes actions publiques sont empruntes aujourd’hui d’une dimension attractive. Cette dissolution dans les politiques locales confirme la néolibéralisation des villes.
Quel financement pour les jeunes entreprises technologiques bruxelloises
Authors: Pary Nicolas , Witmeur Olivier
Published: February 2019

Les jeunes entreprises technologiques connaissent un financement parfois difficile et peuvent compter sur des dispositifs et aides publiques pour les aider aux premiers stades. Dans cet article, nous examinons à l’aide d’études de cas comment les entrepreneurs bruxellois se sont financés et, en particulier, l’usage qu’ils font des dispositifs publics. Au final, nous dressons le portrait d’un système efficace mais où les subsides, très présents, sont parfois déviés de leur objectif. Sur base de ces résultats et d’un focus group avec des acteurs de terrain, nous adressons des recommandations en insistant sur l’importance d’une refonte des subsides pour limiter les effets d’aubaine, d’un refinancement des structures d’investissement et de prêts publics et d’une meilleure coordination générale de ces dispositifs.
Financing for new technology-based firms in Brussels
Authors: Pary Nicolas , Witmeur Olivier
Published: February 2019

New technology-based firms are sometimes faced with financing difficulties and are able to count on various schemes and public aid to help them in their start-up phase. In this article, through case studies, we examine the ways in which entrepreneurs in Brussels have obtained financing and, in particular, their use of public schemes. We end with the description of an efficient system in which, nevertheless, the numerous grants are sometimes diverted from their objective. Based on these results and a focus group with stakeholders in the field, we discuss recommendations by insisting on the importance of a revision of grants in order to limit deadweight effects, a refinancing of investment structures and public loans, and better general coordination of these schemes.
Implementation of Green Considerations in Public Procurement
Authors: Appolloni Andrea , Coppola Maria Antonietta , Piga Gustavo
Published: February 2019

Green considerations can be applied during all phases of the public procurement process: from the pre-award to the award and post-award phase. They can be included in technical specifications, award criteria, and contract performance clauses. Technical specifications provide a detailed description to the market of the good, work, or service to be procured. They constitute the basis for drafting green award criteria, which allow contracting entities to evaluate the received bids and award the contract. Contract performance clauses can also be used by public contracting entities to introduce environmental considerations in the procurement process. These clauses are based on the capacity of the winning bidder to perform the negotiated environmental criteria. Notwithstanding the importance of GPP, green considerations are seldom applied in public procurement. Reasons can be found in the lack of appropriate regulations at national and international level, or in the actual lack of training of the procurement workforce.
An Approach on Attachment in Public Marketing and Higher Education Management Contexts
Authors: Sousa Bruno Barbosa , Magalhães Filipa Costa
Published: February 2019

In the recent years, the educational market has become more dynamic and complex. There are many market forces that are trying to shape the educational environment. The competition between universities is increasing. Public marketing is a fundamental tool in the promotion of places, one that must be present in the strategies of local government representatives, helping and promoting a sustainable economic and social development of the regions and universities. The prupose of this chapter is to analyze, measure, and perceive the impact of brand attachment on consumer behavior in the specific context of higher education in Portugal, based on the affective and emotional relationship between students and the higher education institutions. The results allowed us to conclude that the brand attachment has a preponderant role and impact in the relationship between the student and the institution of higher education. This chapter aims to further develop the understanding of the educational marketing for higher education institutions. Implications for future research are also presented.
International Students' Use of Social Media as Information Sources
Authors: Ekundayo Samuel , Arasanmi Chris Niyi , Aliyu Olayemi Abdulateef
Published: February 2019

International students face tremendous challenges adapting to a new environment. From the pressure to learn a new language, new approach to learning to making new friends, it can sometimes be a daunting and challenging experience for students. In order to cope, they need to access and process large amount of information very quickly, otherwise their mission and purpose of earning foreign certificates might be jeopardized. For this reason, this chapter looks addresses the limited knowledge around the information needs, seeking behavior, and use of international students. This knowledge is important for educators, institutions, and societies to be able to provide the necessary support to help international students cope and adapt to their new environment.
The Digital Divide and Usability
Authors: Elliott Lisa Jo
Published: February 2019

The digital divide refers to the differences between people who use technology on a regular basis (technology-enabled) and those who do not use technology regularly (technology-disabled). Van Dijk describes three mechanisms that affect the use of technological resources. These are social exclusion, exploitation, and control. In addition to these three mechanisms, the technology itself may exclude potential users through the application design process. The design method used most frequently relies on convenience sampling of current users. The choices that these technology familiar users make in testing lead development teams to interaction design decisions that may exclude novice users. Several theories of technology adoption are reviewed as well as past and potential ways to address the digital divide.
Alternate Dimensions of Cognitive Presence for Blended Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Taylor Maurice C. , Atas Sait , Ghani Shehzad
Published: February 2019

This exploratory study sought to understand the meaning of cognitive presence for graduate students in a blended learning course. Four research questions guided the investigation, which employed a qualitative instrumental case study approach as the research design. Several data sources were used including: semi structured interviews with graduate students; a cognitive presence questionnaire; a focus group of graduate students; and a text analysis grid examining new dimensions of cognitive presence in 100 discussion posts and 20 student learning autobiographies. Findings suggest that there are alternate dimensions to understanding the concept of cognitive presence. In addition, graduate students have distinct ideas about these various dimensions and the types of pedagogical strategies that enhance cognitive development and learning outcomes. The discussion provides insights into these alternate dimensions of cognitive presence and how to help graduate students acquire higher order thinking skills in a blended learning course through the lens of adult learning.
An Improved Naive Bayes Classifier on Imbalanced Attributes
Authors: Geetha S , Maniyosai R
Published: February 2019

Data plays a major and prominent role in this modern information era. Classification is a data mining task to discover the hidden information from large amounts of data stored in the repository. This process becomes extremely challenging in case of highly imbalanced dataset. Prediction from imbalanced attributes cannot be done accurately in the following case: During the training phase, the categorical variable is not observed but the test phase encounters the categorical variable and hence it assigns zero probability which leads to false prediction. To overcome this scenario, this article proposes a novel smoothing technique called optimized laplace smoothing estimation. This technique adds a bias value function to improve the accuracy of imbalanced attributes. For example, a child dataset has more attributes and the classification model is used to predict the child weight. Some of the attribute values may not be present in the child dataset due to which Naive Bayes assigns a zero for incomplete and an empty attribute. This leads to inaccurate prediction. In such cases, Naive Bayes can be further tuned by adding some new parameters as well as altering the existing optimization method. Experimental analysis shows that this novel smoothing technique enhances the classification accuracy by means of accurate predictions for imbalanced attributes.
Identification of Selective Receptor Modulators Using Pharmacoinformatics Approaches for Therapeutic Application in Estrogen Therapy
Authors: Islam Md Ataul , Bhowmick Shovonlal , Saha Achintya
Published: February 2019

Pharmacoinformatics strategies have been applied to explore promising selective estrogen receptor (ER) modulators (SERMs). A set of non-steroidal ligands was considered for both ERα and ERβ subtypes. Best pharmacophore models revealed with importance of hydrogen bond acceptor and hydrophobicity for both subtypes, along with an aromatic ring and hydrogen bond donor for α and β subtypes, respectively. Both models were validated, and further considered for virtual screening of National Cancer Institute database. Initial hits were sorted with a number of criteria, and finally the molecules have been proposed as promising SERMs. A molecular docking study explained that screened ligands formed a number of binding interactions with both ERs. The subtype receptors in complex with active and screened compounds were considered for molecular simulations to compare stability of the complexes. An analysis of binding energy found that screened ligands hold a strong affinity towards the selective receptor cavity. The proposed ligands might be promising leads for estrogen therapy after experimental validation tests.
QSAR and Anticancer Drug Design on Benzothienopyrimidinones as Promising Pim Kinase Inhibitors Utilizing Structural Descriptors
Authors: Salman Mohd , Ahmed Sarfaraz , Nandi Sisir
Published: February 2019

Pim kinase is a major target of anticancer chemotherapeutics. There are a number of pim kinase inhibitors which are being under clinical trials. But there are only a few QSAR and drug design attempts targeting pim kinase inhibition reported as of yet. Several 3H-Benzo[4,5]thieno[3,2-d]pyrimidin-4-one derivatives are taken into consideration here for the development of QSAR models utilizing topological and three dimensional structural indices against pim-1 and pim-2 kinase. Interesting results were found out where a model can produce an external prediction of 62.2% and 58.4% of variances for the inhibition of pim 1 and pim 2 kinases of the benzothienopyrimidinone compounds. Validated models have captured important structural features including electronegativity, polarizability and radial distribution function necessary for the inhibition of pim kinase. Such models have been utilized to screen a number of congeneric compounds from external ChMBL database. Further molecular docking was done to predict the mode of which may help to design new active congeners which are potent to inhibit pim kinase.
A QSAR Study on the Persistence of Fungicides in the Environment
Authors: Chang Len , Chang Chia Ming
Published: February 2019

The main purpose of this article is to investigate the persistence of fungicides in the environment. QSAR models using four types of reactivity descriptors were constructed to predict the degradation rate constants and examine chemical interactions, to further assess and classify the environmental risks of fungicides. Two major findings emerged. First, the model results show that the degradation in surface water of fungicides is mainly affected by the polarization. The maximum nucleophilic condensed local softness is the most important descriptor. Second, both polarization and chemical potential affect degradation in the soil. The maximum electrophilic condensed local softness is the most important descriptor. The findings not only identified 20 kinds of high ecological risk fungicides, but also showed that phthalimides, sulfamides, and antibiotics are less harmful to the environment because of low persistence and low bioconcentration factors. This approach provides a basis for interpreting chemical interactions between fungicides and environment.
Implementation of the Blue Ocean Strategy in Healthcare
Authors: Mourtzikou Antonia , Stamouli Marilena , Emmanouil Dimitrios
Published: February 2019

The business strategy of “blue ocean” is focused on creating demand through an impressive improvement in value for buyers at an affordable price. There are already many international references regarding the “blue oceans” in the field of health. What technological advances have also offered to the modern healthcare environment is a great variety of management and operational tools from electronic health records to telecare systems. While these technologies have different implementation backgrounds, what they all present as a competitive advantage is a promising era of efficiency and an opportunity to contain medical costs better. These technologies could obviously present a great opportunity in Greece's main organizational problem, the vast fragmentation of healthcare system. So far, many of these technologies have entered as part of the restructuring efforts, including electronic prescription systems and electronic auditing concerning drug reimbursement. What is needed, in order to fully incorporate these tools, is that systems are fully integrated.
A Torque-Sensorless Viscometer for Food Processing Applications
Authors: Jiang Y. , Hashimoto S. , Yamakoshi Y. , Otomo Takashi
Published: February 2019

Our study aims to develop a small handy low-cost viscometer for nursing care food management. There are many methods to measure the viscosity of a fluid. In this research, the rotational viscometer employing the observer-based method instead of the actual torque transducer has been developed. The digitally controlled motor has been used to estimate the viscosity in real time with high accuracy. In order to verify the effectiveness of the developed viscosity estimation method, a prototype viscometer has been constructed and tested the viscosity estimation accuracy with standard liquids. As a result, the viscosity accuracy is equivalent to that of the conventional torque transducer-equipped viscometer.
Influence of Oil Sludge on Properties of Asphalt Concretes Used in Regions of the Far North
Authors: Kopylov V. , Burenina O.N.
Published: February 2019

The paper considers the physicochemical activation of mineral powders used in asphalt concretes. Oil storage wastes, called oil sludges, are proposed to use as a surfactant. Activation of the surface of mineral powders is accomplished during the joint grinding of powder and oil sludge in a ball mill. As a result, the surface of mineral powders acquires hydrophobic properties; their physico-mechanical characteristics are improved: the reduction of porosity, bitumen content, and of the swelling index of asphaltic substances are observed. The introduction of activated powders into the composition of asphalt concretes can significantly reduce the amount of the required bitumen in the mixture. Decrease in water saturation index is detected in asphaltic concrete with activated mineral powders unlike in the test specimen. This implies an improvement in the index of resistance to atmospheric corrosion.
Lightweight Concrete Based on Gypseous Binding Materials, Modified with Microcrystalline Cellulose, and Cavitationly Processed Sawdust
Authors: Pykin A.A. , Gornostaeva E.Y. , Lukutsova N.P. , Pykina J.S.
Published: February 2019

The physical and mechanical properties of lightweight constructional heat-insulating concrete (sawdust gypsum concrete) with high-strength gypsum binder, modified by food cotton microcrystalline cellulose and organic fillers of plant origin from the waste wood of coniferous and deciduous species in the form of cavitationly processed pine and birch sawdust have been studied. The dependence of the cavitation extraction time of water-soluble reducing substances (sugars) from sawdust on the strength of sawdust gypsum concrete is established. The changes in microstructure of the gypsum matrix, the mean density, bending tension strength and compression strength, the thermal conductivity coefficient of sawdust gypsum concrete on the basis of the cavitationly processed sawdust with the introduction of microcrystalline cellulose are analyzed. It is proven that microcrystalline cellulose compacts the space between the crystalline hydrates of calcium sulfate dihydrate in the gypsum matrix microstructure and improves the physical and mechanical properties of sawdust gypsum concrete.
The Influence of Concrete Class on Vibrations of Thin-Walled Cylindrical Reinforced Concrete Shells
Authors: Qahorov K.Q. , Sysoev Y.O. , Dobryshkin A.Y.
Published: February 2019

The article deals with the theoretical calculation of the cylindrical thin-walled shell of concrete of different classes with different modules of elasticity. Constructions in the form of a cylindrical shell are widely used in the construction of hydraulic facilities, nuclear power plants, stadiums and other large-span structures. During the operation of such facilities, they are affected by wind and snow loads, including the operation of equipment from the action of which there are forced oscillations. The imposition of own fluctuations of thin shells and forced vibration from external loads, which have not been taken into account by the designer or improper work in the course of construction that result in emergency situations. In addition to the theoretical calculation of the cylindrical closed thin-walled reinforced concrete shell, the article considers the results of the study as a practical part where it is shown how the forced oscillation occurs in different concrete classes and how the concrete class affects the Frequency spectrum of forced oscillations.
Development of Polymer Composite Materials Based on Ultrahigh-Molecular Weight Polyethylene and Carbon Fillers
Authors: Gogoleva O.V. , Petrova P.N. , Kolesova E.S.
Published: February 2019

The present study investigates the influence of carbon fibers of LO-1-12N/40 brand and modified carbon fibers of "Belum" brand on performance properties and structure of polymer composite materials based on UHMWPE of Gur-4150 grade. It has been established that introduction of both modified carbon fibers and LO-1-12N/40 carbon fiber in an amount of from 1 to 10 wt.% into the polymer matrix does not lead to significant changes in stress-strain properties of composites compared to the starting polymer. It is shown that the wear resistance of the obtained materials is significantly increased when filling with 5 wt.% carbon fibers of "Belum" brand. The rate of mass wear of polymer composite materials is reduced by 3.3 times; the friction coefficient of PCM is lowered by 3.5 times relative to the starting polymer.
The Properties of Polytetrafluoroethylene Modified by Electrical Discharge of Alternating Current
Authors: Khagleev A.N. , Ayurova O.Z. , Chuckreev D.A.
Published: February 2019

It is experimentally established that the action of an alternating current glow discharge under a reduced air pressure is an effective method to modify the surface of the polymer, that allows to have high adhesion performance at low processing times (Θ = 18-23 deg°, Wa= 142-139 mJ/m2). IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy methods show improvement of the contact properties of modified polytetrafluoroethylene films, which go with a change in the chemical structure of the surface. It means that the formation of unsaturated C = C, hydroperoxide, hydroxyl groups causes high adhesive properties of the polymer. The installation created by the authors allows to adjust the area of the treated polymer depending on the power consumption. To compare with other methods of surface modification, it is a resource-efficient and an environmentally sound method to process polytetrafluoroethylene films in a low-temperature glow discharge plasma.
Complex Protection of Pipelines Using Silicate Materials Based on Local Raw Materials of the Far East
Authors: Yatsenko Elena A. , Goltsman B.M. , Ryabova A.V.
Published: February 2019

Modern trends in the development of the oil and gas infrastructure of the Russian Far East are considered. The main threats in the operation of oil and gas pipelines are described. The technology of complex protection of pipeline surfaces is proposed. Protection of the inner surface is achieved through the use of silicate enamel coatings, protection of the external surface – through the use of foam glass. On the basis of local silicate raw materials the technology of the described materials is developed, and their main properties are determined. Recommendations on the application of the developed technology for the protection of pipelines are given.
The Effect of Heating on Phase Composition of the Cr3C2- Ti System Hard Alloys Fabricated by the Explosive Compaction of Powder Mixtures
Authors: Kharlamov V.O. , Krokhalev Aleksandr Vasilevich , Kuz’min S.V. , Lysak V.I.
Published: February 2019

The article reports findings on theoretically-calculated data and experimental results obtained with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy methods of the analysis of hard alloys produced by the explosive compaction of the Cr3C2 chromium carbide powders with titanium, first in the original condition and then after heating to 1200 °C. It was established that when heated to 600 °С the phase composition of hard alloys does not change and corresponds to the composition of the original components of the powder mixture. When the heating temperature was increased to 650 °С, new fine powder fractions emerged at the “chromium carbide – titanium” interface. At the temperature of 700 °С two separate diffusion layers emerged and grew in the opposite directions. Due to this growth the source phases in the alloy fully disappeared at 1200 °С and two equilibrium phases were formed.
Crystallization Peculiarities of White Glass-Enamel Coatings for Steel Products
Authors: Klimova L.V. , Ryabova A.V. , Fanda A.Yu.
Published: February 2019

The aim of the research was to study the influence of small additives on the crystallization of titanium-containing phases in glass and the influence of the process parameters on the whiteness of the covering glass enamel coatings. A number of compositions of initial glasses (frits) were synthesized to produce glass coatings with high whiteness. Their physical and chemical properties were analyzed. A titanium-containing glass enamel coatings were developed, the composition of which contains compounds that promote bulk crystallization, which ensures a high whiteness index.
Study on microbial communities in domestic kitchen sponges: Evidence of Cronobacter sakazakii and Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria
Authors: Marotta Stefania Maria , Giarratana Filippo , Calvagna Anastasia , Ziino Graziella , Giuffrida Alessandro , Panebianco Antonio
Published: February 2019

Domestic environment, in particular, kitchen setting is a well-established source of microbial contamination. Kitchen sponges represent an important vehicle of microbial transmission and maintenance of spoilage bacteria and pathogenic strains responsible for food borne diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbial communities of 100 ‘in-use’ kitchen sponges, improving the knowledge on their role in cross-contamination in domestic environment and transmission of ESBLproducing strains. Sponges were processed for: aerobic mesophilic bacteria (AMB), Enterobacteriaceae (EB), yeasts and molds (YM), coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS), micrococci (MCC), anaerobic sulfite reducing bacteria (ASR), and for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp. and Yersinia enterocolitica. A total of 309 enterobacteria strains were identified and then processed for ESBL (Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase) phenotypical expression. A high contamination level of kitchen sponges was observed (mean value AMB 8.25±1.1; EB 5.89±1.2; YM 5.57±1.1; MCC 4.82±0.1 log CFU/g). Identified enterobacteria strains revealed several opportunistic and pathogenic agents such as Enterobacter cloacae (28%), Citrobacter freundii (23.3%), Cronobacter sakazakii (14.6%) and other strains in lower percentage. Listeria monocytogenes was found in only one sponge (1%). A total of 69 (22.3%) enterobacteria resulted ESBL+, with the following prevalence: P. rettgeri (50%), L. adenocarboxilata (30%), K. pneumoniae (25%), K. oxytoca (25%), C. sakazakii (20%), E. cloacae (20.7%), C. freundii (20.1%). Results confirm the potential role of kitchen sponges as vehicle for food-borne pathogens such as, C. sakazakii for the first time, infectious agents and spoilage microorganisms. The observed high contamination level and the presence of several ESBLs opportunistic pathogens, stresses the necessity to improve a proper education of the consumers on the effective treatment to reduce their microbial loads.
Microbiota analysis and microbiological hazard assessment in poultry carcasses from conventional and antibiotic free farms
Authors: De Cesare Alessandra , Parisi Antonio , Lucchi Alex , Capozzi Loredana , Bianco Angela , Pasquali Frederique , Manfreda Gerardo
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to assess microbiota and microbiological hazards in poultry carcasses from animals reared in conventional (n=15) and antibiotic free (n=15) farms. An aliquot of neck and breast skin was obtained from each individual carcass at the end of the refrigeration tunnel and submitted to DNA extraction. Total DNA was sequenced in the 16S rRNA and reads analysed with MG-RAST to classify the colonising bacteria up to the genus level and compare each taxonomic group in terms of mean relative frequency of abundance in conventional and antibiotic free carcasses. Firmicutes displayed abundances always higher than 38% but did not show statistically significative differences between conventional and antibiotic free carcasses. On the contrary, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria were significantly higher in antibiotic free then conventional carcasses (21.57 vs 10.95%; 19.29 vs 12.05%), whereas Proteobacteria were higher in the latter (33.19 vs 19.52%). The genera significantly higher in antibiotic free than conventional carcasses were Chryseobacterium (10.07 vs 1.94%), Rothia (3.08 vs 0.77%) and Micrococcus (1.12 vs 0.16%), while Shewanella was significantly higher in conventional carcasses (1.38 vs 0.26%). Among Firmicutes, the genera significantly higher in conventional carcasses were Ureibacillus (1.45 vs 0.11%) and Bacillus (3.28 vs 0.56%). The higher abundance of Proteobacteria in conventional carcasses might suggest that hygienic conditions in conventional farms are worse than antibiotic free farms. However, from a food safety point of view, Salmonella was not detected in both kinds of carcasses and the Campylobacter mean relative frequency of abundance was always lower than 0.4%.
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Disablement in the Physically Active Scale and Preliminary Testing of Short-Form Versions: A Calibration and Validation Study
Authors: Baker Russell T. , Burton Damon , Pickering Michael A. , Start Amanda
Published: February 2019

Context

The Disablement in the Physically Active (DPA) scale is a patient-reported outcome instrument recommended for use in clinical practice and research. Analysis of the scale has indicated a need for further psychometric testing.

Objective

To assess the model fit of the original DPA scale using a larger and more diverse sample and explore the potential for a short-form (SF) version.

Design

Observational study.

Setting

Twenty-four clinical settings.

Patients or Other Participants

Responses were randomly split into 2 samples: sample 1 (n = 690: 353 males, 330 females, and 7 not reported; mean age = 23.1 ± 9.3 years, age range = 11–75 years) and sample 2 (n = 690: 351 males, 337 females, and 2 not reported; mean age = 22.9 ± 9.3 years, age range = 8–74 years). Participants were physically active individuals who were healthy or experiencing acute, subacute, or persistent musculoskeletal injury.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to assess the factor structure of the original DPA scale. Exploratory factor, internal consistency, covariance modeling, correlational, and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to assess potential DPA scale SFs.

Results

The subdimensions of the disablement construct were highly correlated (≥0.89). The fit indices for the DPA scale approached recommended levels, but the first-order correlational values and second-order path coefficients provided evidence for multicollinearity, suggesting that clear distinctions between the disablement subdimensions cannot be made. An 8-item, 2-dimensional solution and a 10-item, 3-dimensional solution were extracted to produce SF versions. The DPA SF-8 was highly correlated (r = 0.94, P ≤ .001, R2 = 0.88) with the DPA scale, and the fit indices exceeded all of the strictest recommendations. The DPA SF-10 was highly correlated (r = 0.97, P ≤ .001, R2 = 0.94) with the DPA scale, and its fit indices values also exceeded the strictest recommendations.

Conclusions

The DPA SF-8 and SF-10 are psychometrically sound alternatives to the DPA scale.
Late Cretaceous uplift of northern Axel Heiberg Island, Nunavut, revealed by apatite fission track data, and a schematic model related to Baffin Bay extension
Authors: Hadlari T , Issler D R
Published: February 2019

A sample of Cambrian sandstone from northern Axel Heiberg Island near Rens Fiord has yielded apatite fission track data indicating Late Cretaceous cooling. The preferred thermal model shows fairly rapid cooling (~2 °C/m.y.) from the Cenomanian to early
Paleocene followed by modest Paleogene burial-related heating (~50±10 °C) and subsequent late Cenozoic exhumation and cooling (~1 °C/m.y.). An alternate model shows continuous Late Cretaceous-Cenozoic cooling at an average rate of ~1.1 °C/m.y. The Late Cretaceous
exhumation event is interpreted as reactivation and uplift of a rift shoulder, which a new schematic model relates to modest southward motion of the northern Canadian Arctic Islands relative to Greenland and Eurasia during rifting of Baffin Bay.
Endoscopic Management of an Iatrogenic Colonic Perforation Using Standard Hemoclips
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Kumar Saket , Kumar Sujit , Prakash Vijay
Published: February 2019

Iatrogenic colonic perforation is an unusual but life‑threatening complication of colonoscopy. The recent advancement in endoscopy technology has made nonoperative treatment a safe and effective option for managing such perforations. A 70‑year‑old man sustained an iatrogenic sigmoid perforation during diagnostic colonoscopy. The abdominal X‑ray showed free gas under diaphragm. He was started on conservative management and intravenous antibiotics. He underwent a second colonoscopy after 2.5‑h, perforation was identified and closed with standard hemoclips. He recovered well and was discharged from hospital 6 days later. There are only a handful of reports in the medical literature describing successful outcomes following endoscopic management. Most of the cases have been managed with over‑the‑scope clips or endoscopic sutures that are quite expensive. In the present report, an iatrogenic sigmoid perforation was managed endoscopically with standard hemoclips. The hemoclip can be an effective, yet economical method of perforation repair in selected cases.
Carcinoma Colon in a Patient with Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis
Authors: Agarwal Rachit , Ranjan Piyush , Bhalla Sunita
Published: February 2019

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is an uncommon disease which can involve all layers of the gastrointestinal tract anywhere from the esophagus to colon. Clinical features depend upon the site of involvement and layer of GI tract involved. It is an inflammatory disease with remitting and relapsing course. We report a case which presented with discharging fecal fistula in lower abdomen after emergency laparotomy. Initial colonoscopy showed stricture with nodularity of the IC junction and biopsy showed features of eosinophilic gastroenteritis. Due to persistence of fistula he underwent right hemicolectomy with illeo-transverse anastomosis. Biopsy from surgical specimen showed well differentiated adenocarcinoma and eosinophilic infiltrate in muscularis. Surveillance colonoscopy done six months later showed ulcer at anastomotic site and biopsy showed features of eosinophilic colitis. The clinical course of this patient circumstantially indicates a linkage of eosinophilic colitis with carcinoma colon. This is the first reported case of association of eosinophilic colitis with carcinoma colon. We discuss in detail the clinical and pathological features of eosinophilic enteritis and possible mechanisms linking eosinophilc enteritis with carcinoma.
Thickened Gastric Folds: Approach
Authors: Agarwala Roshan , Shah Jimil , Dutta Usha
Published: February 2019

Thickened gastric folds (TGF) are not an uncommon finding on radiological imaging or endoscopy. It is an enigmatic condition requiring a systematic approach with correlation between clinical, laboratory, radiological, endoscopic, and histological parameters to reach a final diagnosis. It has a varied number of differential diagnosis and reaching the final diagnosis is often challenging even to an astute clinician. Findings on endoscopy are similar and biopsy results often equivocal. Differentiating between benign and malignant conditions is challenging. Routine pinch biopsy usually does not sample deep enough to get an adequate tissue sample, and other methods of biopsy may be required. Newer modalities, such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and EUS‑guided sampling, are helpful in differentiating benign from malignant causes. At times, exploratory laparotomy and full‑thickness biopsy may be required for final diagnosis. In this review, we discuss the various differentials of TGF, with special emphasis on how to approach a case of TGF.
Complicated Cases of Lithium Battery Ingestion: Delay can be Deadly
Authors: Suchismita Arya , Ranjan Ravish , Jha Ashish Kumar , Jha Praveen , Choudhary Madhur , Dayal Vishwa Mohan , Sehrawat Kuldeep
Published: February 2019

Increasing use of button battery (BB) in household products and toys is responsible for the growing incidence of button battery ingestion (BBI). The BBI may cause life‑threatening complications. We present a series of three cases of complicated BBI (lithium cell) with delayed presentation; one of them could not survive due to tracheoesophageal fistula and sepsis. Here, we highlight the importance of early endoscopic intervention and careful follow‑up in children with lithium battery ingestion.
Feasibility of, Adherence to, and Satisfaction With Video Game Versus Traditional Self-Training of the Upper Extremity in People With Chronic Stroke: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yacoby Anat , Zeilig Gabi , Weingarden Harold , Weiss Ronit , Rand Debbie
Published: February 2019

OBJECTIVE. We compared the feasibility of, adherence to, and satisfaction with a newly developed upper extremity (UE) self-training protocol using commercial video games with a traditional self-training program for people with chronic stroke.

METHOD. Twenty-four participants with mild to moderate UE weakness were randomized to a video game (n = 13) or traditional (n = 11) self-training program. Participants were requested to train 60 min/day, 6×/wk. During the 5-wk self-training program and 4-wk follow-up, participants documented their self-training time and rated their perceived enjoyment and exertion.

RESULTS. Eleven participants completed video game training; 9 completed traditional self-training. During the follow-up period, 8 participants (72.7%) continued the video game training, and 4 (44.4%) continued traditional training. Perceived enjoyment, satisfaction, and benefit for UE improvement were relatively high.

CONCLUSIONS. Participants demonstrated high adherence to and satisfaction with both self-training programs. More participants continued to play video games after the intervention, indicating its potential to maintain ongoing activity.
Contexto Físico e Sociocultural de uma Aldeia Indígena “Tembé” na Amazônia Brasileira
Authors: Almeida Miriam Dantas de , Pedroso Janari Da Silva , Magalhães Celina Maria Colino , Aido Estela Márcia França
Published: February 2019

O estudo do desenvolvimento humano se faz necessário nos diversos contextos socioculturais, pois a partir dele é possível identificar as variáveis que influenciam no ciclo da vida. O contexto para realização da pesquisa foi a aldeia indígena Tenetehar-Tembé, localizada na Terra Indígena do Alto Rio Guamá (TIARG), na Amazônia brasileira. Realizou-se uma pesquisa qualitativa, com utilização de instrumentos de observação participante e diário de campo, que permitiram a descrição do contexto físico e social dessa comunidade. Houve a participação do cacique, das lideranças e dos professores indígenas da aldeia Sede. Objetivou-se com este estudo relatar a estruturação física e sociocultural da aldeia Sede, onde residem os Tenetehar-Tembé, à luz da Teoria do Nicho Desenvolvimental, com enfoque no subsistema denominado de Contexto Físico e Social. Os dados coletados foram sistematizados em eixos temáticos para melhor compreensão e análise, a saber: a aldeia como lugar de todos os indígenas; espaço social da aldeia sede; ambientes sagrados da aldeia; e o tempo na aldeia. Tais categorias revelaram o conceito que os indígenas têm sobre ambiente físico e social, do lugar que eles habitam e o respeito que possuem dos lugares sagrados em determinados horários. Práticas que abrangem desde crianças até as pessoas idosas da aldeia, o que exerce influência direta no curso desenvolvimental. Entende-se ser necessário refletir sobre a maneira como os cuidadores tratam suas crianças e no que acreditam ser adequado ao cuidado delas, correlacionando com o ambiente em que são cuidadas, uma vez que essa relação se configura e é construída no meio sociocultural em que estão inseridos.
MICS-Asia III: Multi-model comparison and evaluation of aerosol
over East Asia
Authors: Chen Lei , Gao Yi , Zhang Meigen , Fu Joshua S. , Zhu Jia , Liao Hong , Li Jialin , Huang Kan , Ge Baozhu , Wang Xuemei , LAM Yun Fat , Lin Chuan Yao , Itahashi Syuichi , Nagashima Tatsuya , Kajino Mizuo , Yamaji Kazuyo , Wang Zifa , Kurokawa Jun-ichi
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Fourteen chemical transport models (CTMs) participate in the MICS–Asia Phase III Topic 1. Their simulation results are compared with each other and with an extensive set of measurements, aiming to evaluate the current multi–scale air quality models’ ability in simulating aerosol species and to document similarities and differences among model performances, also to reveal the characteristics of aerosol chemical components over big cities in East Asia. In general, all participant models can reproduce the spatial distribution and seasonal variability of aerosol concentrations in the year 2010, and multi–model ensemble mean (EM) shows better performance than most individual models, with Rs ranging from 0.65 (NO3−) to 0.83 (PM2.5). Underestimations of BC (NMB = −17.0 %), SO42− (NMB = −19.1 %) and PM10 (NMB = −32.6 %) are simulated by EM, but positive biases are shown in NO3− (NMB = 4.9 %), NH4+ (NMB = 14.0 %) and PM2.5 (NMB = 4.4 %). Simulation results of BC, OC, SO42−, NO3− and NH4+ among CTMs are in good agreements, especially over polluted areas, such as the eastern China and the northern part of India. But large coefficients of variations (CV > 1.5) are also calculated over arid and semi–arid regions. This poor consistency among CTMs may attribute to their different processing capacities for dust aerosols. According to the simulation results in the six Asian cities from EM, different air–pollution control plans should be made due to their different major air pollutants in different seasons. Although a more considerable capacity for reproducing the concentrations of aerosol chemical compositions and their variation tendencies is shown in current CTMs by comparing statistics (e.g. RMSE and R) between MICS–Asia Phase II and Phase III, detailed process analysis and a fully understanding of the source–receptor relationship in each process may be helpful to explain and to reduce large diversities of simulated aerosol concentrations among CTMs, and these may be the potential development directions for future modeling studies in East Asia.