bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chicken or the Egg: Anorexia Nervosa and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Toulany Alene , Katzman Debra K. , Kaufman Miriam , Hiraki Linda T. , Silverman Earl D.
Published: January 2014

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently has neuropsychiatric involvement including affective disorders, psychosis, and cognitive dysfunction. Evidence suggests that anorexia nervosa (AN) in adolescents with SLE may be triggered by steroid-induced changes in weight and body shape. We propose that AN may be another manifestation of neuropsychiatric SLE and should be considered in this patient population. A retrospective chart review identified 7 children/adolescents diagnosed with SLE and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition diagnostic criteria for AN, restrictive subtype, at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto between January 1989 and January 2011. One patient developed AN 15 months after being diagnosed with SLE that was attributed to prednisone-induced weight gain and cushingoid appearance. Of the remaining 6 patients, the median age at onset of AN symptoms was 12.2 years and diagnosis of AN was 13.6 years. The median age at SLE diagnosis was 14.2 years with median time after onset of AN symptoms of 20 months (7.5–32 months). All patients had evidence of joint symptoms and a positive antinuclear antibody, and 50% had lymphopenia at the time of SLE diagnosis. Treatment of SLE resulted in improvement of AN in all patients. The timing of the clinical presentation of AN in relation to the diagnosis of SLE and response to SLE treatment suggests that AN may be a novel presentation of neuropsychiatric SLE. Patients with AN who present with or develop joint symptoms, a positive antinuclear antibody, or lymphopenia should be investigated and followed for possible SLE.
Parental Permission for Pilot Newborn Screening Research: Guidelines From the NBSTRN
Authors: Botkin Jeffrey R. , Lewis Michelle Huckaby , Watson Michael S. , Swoboda Kathryn J. , Anderson Rebecca , Berry Susan A. , Bonhomme Natasha , Brosco Jeffrey P. , Comeau Anne M. , Goldenberg Aaron , Goldman Edward , Therrell Bradford , Levy-Fisch Jill , Tarini Beth , Wilfond Benjamin
Published: January 2014

There is broad recognition of the need for population-based research to assess the safety and efficacy of newborn screening (NBS) for conditions that are not on current panels. However, prospective population-based research poses significant ethical, regulatory, and logistical challenges. In the context of NBS, there have been a variety of approaches that address parental decision-making in pilot studies of new screening tests or conditions. This article presents an ethical and legal analysis of the role of parental permission by the Bioethics and Legal Work Group of the Newborn Screening Translational Research Network created under a contract from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. Circumstances are outlined in which a waiver of documentation of permission or a waiver of permission may be ethically and legally appropriate in the NBS context. These guidelines do not constitute American Academy of Pediatrics policy.
Cellulose Nanofibril (CNF) Reinforced Starch Insulating Foams
Authors: Yildirim N. , Shaler S.M. , Gardner D.J. , Rice R. , Bousfield D.W.
Published: January 2014

In this study, biodegradable foams were produced using cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and starch (S). The availability of high volumes of CNFs at lower costs is rapidly progressing with advances in pilot-scale and commercial facilities. The foams were produced using a freeze-drying process with CNF/S water suspensions ranging from 1 to 7.5 wt. % solids content. Microscopic evaluation showed that the foams have a microcellular structure and that the foam walls are covered with CNF`s. The CNF's had diameters ranging from 30 nm to 100 nm. Pore sizes within the foam walls ranged from 20 nm to 100 nm. The materials` densities ranging from 0.012 to 0.082 g/cm3 with corresponding porosities between 93.46% and 99.10%. Thermal conductivity ranged from 0.041 to 0.054 W/m-K. The mechanical performance of the foams produced from the starch control was extremely low and the material was very friable. The addition of CNF's to starch was required to produce foams, which exhibited structural integrity. The mechanical properties of materials were positively correlated with solids content and CNF/S ratios. The mechanical and thermal properties for the foams produced in this study appear promising for applications such as insulation and packaging.
Prevalência de tracoma entre escolares brasileiros
Authors: Lopes Maria de Fátima Costa , Luna Expedito José de Albuquerque , Medina Norma Helen , Cardoso Maria Regina Alves , Freitas Helen Selma de Abreu , Koizumi Inês Kazue , Bernardes Neusa Aparecida Ferreira Alves , Guimarães José Alfredo
Published: January 2014

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência e descrever a distribuição do tracoma entre escolares em municípios brasileiros.MÉTODOS: Estudo de corte transversal, usando amostragem por conglomerados, da população escolar dos municípios brasileiros com Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano-Municipal menor que a média nacional. O inquérito de prevalência de tracoma foi realizado pelo Ministério da Saúde entre 2002 e 2007. Foram selecionados 119.531 alunos de 2.270 escolas localizadas em 1.156 municípios. Os alunos foram submetidos ao exame ocular externo, com lupa (2,5X), para detecção de sinais clínicos de tracoma segundo critérios da OMS. Estimou-se a prevalência de tracoma segundo estado e em nível nacional, e seus respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança. Para a comparação de variáveis categóricas foram usados os testes do Qui-quadrado e do Qui-quadrado de tendência linear.RESULTADOS: Foram detectados 6.030 casos de tracoma, resultando em prevalência de 5,0% (IC95% 4,5;5,4). Não foi encontrada diferença significante entre os sexos. A prevalência de tracoma foi de 8,2% entre menores de cinco anos de idade, diminuindo nas faixas etárias mais altas (p < 0,01). Houve diferença significante entre as prevalências de tracoma na zona urbana e rural, 4,3% versus 6,2%, respectivamente (p < 0,01). Foram detectados casos em 901 municípios (77,7% da amostra), em todas as regiões do País. Em 36,8% dos municípios selecionados a prevalência foi superior a 5%.CONCLUSÕES: O estudo mostra que o tracoma é um importante problema de saúde pública no Brasil, contradizendo a crença de que a endemia estaria controlada no País. O inquérito realizado apresenta uma linha de base para avaliação das intervenções planejadas com vistas ao alcance da meta mundial de certificação da eliminação do tracoma como causa de cegueira no Brasil, até 2020.
Diabetes nos partos hospitalares em sistemas de saúde público e privado
Authors: Teixeira Carla Regina de Souza , Franco Laércio Joel , Monteiro Rosane Aparecida , Granado Felipe
Published: January 2014

OBJETIVO: Analisar tendências da presença do diagnóstico de diabetes mellitus em partos hospitalares.MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com dados analisados de partos hospitalares de gestantes residentes em Ribeirão Preto, SP, no período de 1998 a 2007. Os dados foram obtidos no Centro de Processamento de Dados Hospitalares da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo, referentes à categoria diabetes mellitus na gravidez. Os dados analisados foram: faixa etária, tipo de parto (vaginal ou cirúrgico), duração da internação e tipo de assistência pública (SUS) ou privada (saúde suplementar e particular).RESULTADOS: Houve aumento de 3,9 vezes na proporção de partos com menção de diabetes em relação ao total de partos (p = 0,01). Esse aumento foi de 4,5 vezes nos partos pela assistência pública (p = 0,01) e de 3 vezes na assistência privada (p = 0,01). Observou-se aumento da presença de diabetes em todas as faixas etárias, proporcionalmente mais acentuado nas mais baixas. A frequência de parto cirúrgico nas gestações com menção de diabetes diminuiu de 64,5% em 1998/1999 para 39,8% em 2006/2007 na assistência pública; e na privada a frequência se manteve sempre acima de 90%.CONCLUSÕES: Houve tendência crescente da presença de diabetes mellitus nos partos hospitalares ao longo dos biênios, apesar da tendência de diminuição do número de partos e aumento da população feminina em idade reprodutiva residente em Ribeirão Preto. Essa tendência necessita não só de sua identificação e tratamento, mas também de intervenções pré-gestacionais que possam revertê-la.
Bayesian identification of soil strata in London clay
Authors: WANG Y. , HUANG K. , CAO Z.
Published: January 2014

Identification of soil strata in the London Clay Formation (LCF) is of practical significance as it allows geotechnical property data within the same soil strata to be compared or used effectively. The soil strata in LCF are generally determined based on their lithological characters and fossil contents, with which geotechnical engineers are less familiar. To assist geotechnical engineers in identifying the soil strata in LCF, this paper aims to develop Bayesian approaches to identification of soil strata in LCF using water content data. Equations are derived for the proposed Bayesian approaches, and the approaches are illustrated using a water content profile at St James's Park, London. The proposed Bayesian approaches are shown to correctly identify the soil strata in LCF. In addition, a sensitivity study is performed to explore the effect of data quantity (i.e. both the measurement interval and number of measurements at the same depth) in a water content profile and provide guidance on the water content measurements during site investigation for optimising usage of the proposed Bayesian approaches.
Nanocrystalline zinc titanate coatings for corrosion protection
Authors: Ageh Victor , Rajamure Ravi , Ho Yee H. , Scharf Thomas W.
Published: January 2014

Nanocrystalline zinc titanate (ZnTiO3) coatings were deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) on AISI 52100 steel to study ZnTiO3 corrosion protection. The main aim of this study was to determine how the coating can inhibit pitting formation of 52100 steel in both saline solution and simulated body fluid (SBF) media. Potentiodynamic polarization tests revealed increasing corrosion potentials for the ALD ZnTiO3-coated steel specimens with protective efficiencies of 83 and 73% in saline solution and SBF, respectively. Atomic force microscopy analysis of both the ZnTiO3-coated and uncoated steel revealed a high surface potential value for the ZnTiO3-coated sample as compared to the uncoated sample with a relatively low surface potential. The corrosion rates for the coated steels in both media were calculated and observed to drop by an order of magnitude. Due to the conformality, homogeneity and density of the ALD ZnTiO3 coatings, migration of Cl− and OH− ions from the electrolytes were inhibited resulting in the improved corrosion resistance.
Sodium fertilization increases termites and enhances decomposition in an Amazonian forest
Authors: Kaspari Michael , Clay Natalie A. , Donoso David A. , Yanoviak Steven P.
Published: January 2014

Added Na was used to determine whether litter decomposition and associated fungal biomass and termites are limited by Na availability in a lowland tropical rainforest at Yasuni, Ecuador. This is a partial test of the “sodium ecosystem respiration” (SER) hypothesis that posits Na is critical for consumers but not plants, that Na shortfall is more likely on highly weathered soils inland from oceanic aerosols, and that this shortfall results in decreased decomposer activity. We fertilized 4 × 4 m plots twice a month for a year with quantities of Na comparable to those falling on a coastal tropical rainforest. Decomposition rates of four substrates were consistently higher on +NaCl plots by up to 70% for cellulose, and 78%, 68%, and 29% for three woods of increasing percentage lignin. The density of termite workers averaged 17‐fold higher on +NaCl plots; fungal biomass failed to differ. After controlling for temperature and precipitation, which co‐limit gross primay productivity (GPP) and ecosystem respiration (ER), these results suggest that Na shortfall is an agent enhancing the storage of coarse woody debris in inland tropical forests.
Influence of Long‐Term Fertilization on Crop Production and Soil Quality of a Recent Alluvial Soil
Authors: Li Jing , Li Fadong , Liu Qiang , Zhang Yan , Zhao Guangshuai , Ouyang Zhu
Published: January 2014

The Yellow River Delta (YRD) has been formed during the last 150 yr and is the youngest land in China. Identifying the current soil quality, the impact of long‐term fertilization on crop production, and how to improve crop production in this region are of great concern to scientists and the government. The objectives of this research were to analyze the trends of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and corn (Zea mays L.) production and fertilizer application using data covering a period of about 25 yr, determine the current soil quality and compare the changes of that with soils collected in the second national soil census, and discuss the impact of long‐term fertilization on crop production and soil quality in the YRD. Records indicated that crop production increased 2.1‐fold from 1984 to 2008, with an approximate 3.5‐fold increase in fertilizer application. A fuzzy comprehensive assessment of soil quality indicated an improvement during this same time period, but the average soil quality was still low relative to national standards, particularly due to low N availability. Although fertilization strategies appeared to have been successful in this region, declines in fertilizer use efficiency and the currently poor soil quality indicate a need for improved management strategies. Effective technology and education programs are required to improve fertilizer application practices and the management of soil quality, which would increase crop production.
Continued No‐Till and Subsoiling Improved Soil Organic Carbon and Soil Aggregation Levels
Authors: Tian Shenzhong , Wang Yu , Ning Tangyuan , Li Na , Zhao Hongxiang , Wang Bingwen , Li Zengjia , Chi Shuyun
Published: January 2014

Tillage and crop residue inputs are important factors that impact soil aggregation and soil organic C (SOC) decomposition. This study evaluated the impacts of tillage and 10 yr of crop residue removal on aggregate stability, distribution, and associated C. The research was conducted in North China between 2002 and 2011. The treatments were five tillage systems that included conventional tillage (CT), subsoiling (ST), harrow tillage (HT), rotary tillage (RT), and no‐till (NT) in combination with crop residue retention (P) or residue removal (A). The results indicate that 74 to 82% of aggregates were macroaggregates (0.25–5 mm) and that these aggregates contained from 53 to 87% of the SOC in the 0‐ to 30‐cm depth. Tillage and residue removal reduced macroaggregates and SOC levels, especially under the RT treatment, but residue inputs slowed down the rate of SOC depletion in the soil. The treatments of no‐till with residue retention (NTP) and subsoiling with residue retention (STP), accumulated more C in stable macroaggregates and significantly increased SOC levels, which increased 13.37 and 9.59 Mg C ha–1, respectively, in 10 yr. Crop residue input combined with an appropriate tillage system is an effective method for maintaining and improving low‐quality soil and SOC levels in the widespread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–maize (Zea mays L.) cropping system of North China.
Sugarcane Genotype Selection on a Sand Soil with and without Added Mill Mud
Authors: Todd James , Glaz Barry , Irey Michael S. , Zhao Duli , Hu Chen‐Jian , El‐Hout Nael
Published: January 2014

In Florida, long‐term results for identifying high yielding sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) cultivars have been better for Histosols (muck soils) than sand soils. We examined whether selection could be improved by comparing genotypes on a sand soil with and without added mill mud (MM) (in Florida, MM is primarily muck soil). One Erianthus and 31 sugarcane genotypes were planted in 2007 with MM at 0 or 1510 m3 ha–1 in main plots and genotypes as subplots in a 3‐yr field experiment on a Margate sand soil (siliceous, hyperthermic Mollic Psammaquent). Commercial recoverable sucrose (CRS) (g kg–1), and cane (CY) and sucrose (SY) yields (Mg ha–1) were determined during the next 3 yr. Mill mud reduced CRS from 127 to 111 g kg–1 but increased cane and sucrose yields from 80 to 150 and 10 to 17 Mg ha–1, respectively. Compared with the check of CP 89‐2143, 2, 10, and 8 genotypes were differentially affected by soil treatment (P = 0.10) for CRS, CY, and SY, respectively. CP 01‐2390 was the most adapted sand genotype; its CYs on sand with and without MM were 147 and 143 Mg ha–1, respectively. Compared with previous research, CY responses were well predicted for five genotypes, but poorly predicted for four genotypes in this study. Multiple locations are needed for sugarcane genotype selection on sand soils. Using a sand soil with and without added MM can be a useful supplemental, rather than singular approach for improving sugarcane genotype selection in Florida.
Managing Agricultural Nutrients for Food Security in China: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Cui Zhenling , Dou Zhengxia , Chen Xinping , Ju Xiaotang , Zhang Fusuo
Published: January 2014

Over the past 2000 yr, agriculture in China has transformed from a low‐input, low‐output organic‐based system to an intensive production system that relies heavily on inorganic inputs. The modern high‐input, high‐output system has provided the nation with basic food self‐sufficiency, although at escalating environmental costs. Meanwhile, crop production has been nearly stagnant since the mid‐1990s, despite continued increases in production inputs, such as chemical fertilizers. In the future, China must increase agricultural output by 50% to meet its growing food demand. New advances to increase agricultural productivity and improve resource (e.g., N and P) use efficiency will be critical in China for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem services. Here, we discuss an integrated soil‐crop system management (ISSM) paradigm that may help achieve the sustainable intensification goal. This paradigm features (i) improving soil quality, (ii) enhancing the use of various nutrient resources, (iii) closing the yield gap, and (iv) effectively reducing N losses. Recent on‐farm trials based on ISSM principles almost doubled corn yield, while fertilizer N amounts were similar to current farming methods. This ISSM in China is a novel agricultural paradigm that can improve food security and environmental quality worldwide, especially in regions of high input with low‐efficiency systems.
Self-presentation in “unsuitable” resumes: A case from Serbia
Authors: Simic Natasa , Vukelic Milica , Djordjevic Vesna
Published: January 2014

The main goal of this research was to explore the ways people portray
themselves in resumes, labelled as ?unsuitable? after the first review of the
recruiters in a manufacturing company in Serbia. The form and the content of
fifty resumes were analyzed using qualitative content analysis, inductive
approach. Personal life stories described in an intimate and submissive tone
were predominantly present in resumes, compared to the description of work
experience and competencies. Concerning the content of the resumes, two core
categories emerged - I as a worker and Employment needs. Finding support in
the literature dealing with postsocialist transformation in Serbia and
Hofstede?s theory, results are interpreted as pointing to the opposition of
two value systems in Serbia: that of the authors of ?unsuitable? resumes,
reflecting collectivistic and feminine values and that of the job market in
Serbia, reflecting manly individualistic and masculine values. The authors of
"unsuitable" resumes display interdependent self-construal, use defensive
impression management strategies and their need to work is exclusively
financial in nature. Finally, the need for better understanding between job
candidates and employers, having different value systems, especially in the
context of actual socio-economic changes in Serbia is discussed.
Bolivia under the Left-Wing Presidency of Evo Morales—Indigenous People and the End of Postcolonialism?
Authors: Nilsson Martin
Published: January 2014

This article explores the development in Bolivia under president Evo Morales, through a critical postcolonial approach. From a traditional liberal perspective, this article concludes that the liberal democratic system under Morales has not been deepening, though certain new participatory aspects of democracy, including socio-economic reforms have been carried out. In contrast, this article analyses to what extent the presidency of Evo Morales may be seen as the end of the postcolonialism, and the beginning of a new era in which Bolivia’s indigenous people finally have been incorporated into the forward development of a multi-ethnic society. By analysing issues such as time, nation, land, space, globalization and language, the conclusion is that the new constitution marks a fresh beginning, one beyond the colonial and postcolonial eras, for indigenous groups, but it will not bring back the old indigenous societies as was dominating the territory of today’s modern state.
Leaching of vanadium(V) from the mixture after potassium metavanadate synthesis based on KCl and spent vanadium catalyst
Authors: Kiełkowska Urszula , Białowicz Katarzyna , Drużyński Sebastian
Published: January 2014

The results of the leaching of vanadium(V) from the mixture after potassium metavanadate synthesis from KCl and spent vanadium catalyst in the presence of steam were presented. Spent vanadium catalyst was obtained from the waste storage of a chemical plant producing sulfuric acid(VI) by the contact method. The reaction mixture was leached using different solutions: 1 M Na2CO3, 20% CO(NH2)2, 15% NaOH, 15% KOH, 2 M H2SO4. The effect of time and temperature was studied. The results showed that for reaction mixture leached for 4 h at 303 K in the presence of 15% sodium hydroxide solution at a liquid:solid ratio of 10:1, the extent of leaching of vanadium(V) was 95.43%.
Investigations on the synthesis and properties of biodegradable poly(ester-carbonate-urea-urethane)s
Authors: Mazurek Magdalena M. , Rokicki Gabriel
Published: January 2014

A new method of the synthesis of oligo(tetramethylene succinate-co-carbonate) diols using dimethyl succinate, 1,4-butanediol and tetramethylene bis(methyl carbonate) was elaborated. The resultant oligomerols (Mn = 2600- 3700) were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, GPC and DSC analysis. Depending on the content of carbonate units in the polymer molecules, the melting point of the crystalline phase changes significantly. The synthesis of poly(ester-carbonate-urea-urethane)s was carried out with two aliphatic diisocyanates - cyclic IPDI or linear HDI. The resultant products exhibited very good mechanical properties - tensile strength up to 60 MPa and elongation at break about 500%. Preliminary studies confirmed that the presence of ester units in the soft segments as well as lack of crystalline phase significantly enhances the biodegradability of the PUR in comparison to that of polyurethanes based on carbonate oligomers.
Influence of the kind and concentration of ethoxylated alcohols on the transport of citric acid through polymer inclusion membranes
Authors: Dudek Marcin , Przewoźna Marta , Gajewski Piotr , Bogacki Mariusz B.
Published: January 2014

Research into the influence of ethoxylated alcohols on the citric acid transport through polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) has been carried out. This process may be used in the future as one of the methods of citric acid isolation. Ethoxylated alcohols, which were GENAPOL® X020, X060 and X150, served as both: plasticizer and carrier. The results showed that the maximum values of citric acid fl ux [mol/(m2.s)] were equal to: 1.02.10-4 (X020), 1.57.10-4 (X060) and 1.77.10-4 (X150). The obtained results allow proceeding further study on using the polymer inclusion membranes, as an alternative to traditional methods of citric acid separation, which are precipitation and extraction.
Utilization of spent brewer’s yeast for supplementation of distillery corn mashes
Authors: Pietrzak Witold , Kawa-Rygielska Joanna
Published: January 2014

The aim of the study was to use spent brewer’s yeast biomass (SBY) as a nutrient adjunct of distillery type corn mashes to improve the process of ethanol fermentation by yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. There were prepared corn mashes with raw material loading at 20% ww. with SBY addition at solids loadings of 0 (control); 0.1; 0.5; 0.7; 1.0; 3.0 and 5.0% ww. The obtained mashes were inoculated with yeast and subjected to batch fermentation for 72 h. It was observed that supplementation of corn mashes with SBY improved the process of fermentation. The consumption of sugars and production of ethanol by yeast in supplemented mashes was accelerated and the overall ethanol yield was improved by 6.5 to 11% depending on the amount of added SBY. It was also observed that the fermentation could be shortened by 24 h in mashes enriched with SBY.
Canine Theriogenology for Dog Enthusiasts: Teaching Methodology and Outcomes in a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)
Authors: Root Kustritz Margaret V.
Published: January 2014

A massive open online course (MOOC) in canine theriogenology was offered for dog owners and breeders and for veterinary professionals as a partnership between the University of Minnesota and Coursera. The six-week course was composed of short video lectures, multiple-choice quizzes with instant feedback to assess understanding, weekly case studies with peer evaluation to promote integration of course materials, and discussion forums to promote participant interaction. Peak enrollment was 8,796 students. The grading policy for completion was strict and was upheld; completion rate for all participants was 7.5%. About 12% of participants achieved a grade of over 90% in the course, with those who had any deficiency mostly missing one quiz or assignment. Ninety-nine individuals were enrolled in a for-cost, credentialed pathway, and 50% of those individuals completed all required course components. Pre- and postcourse surveys were used to demonstrate that learning objectives were met by the participants and to identify that lack of time to commit to study was the biggest impediment to completion. Positive aspects of the course were active engagement by participants from all over the world and the ability of this university and instructor to reach those learners. Negative aspects concerned technical support and negative feedback from some participants who were unable to meet course requirements for reasons beyond the control of the instructor.
Enhancing photocatalytic activity of ZnO nanostructures by doping with Ce+4 ions prepared in water using ultrasonic irradiation
Authors: Omidi Amir , Habibi-Yangjeh Aziz
Published: January 2014

Ultrasound was applied for preparation of ZnO nanostructures doped with different Ce/Zn ratios in water by irradiation for 60 min. In this method, zinc acetate, cerium sulfate and sodium hydroxide were used as starting materials without using any organic additives or post preparation treatments. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns indicate that the nanostructures are excellently crystallized in the form of wurtzite hexagonal phase. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images show that the morphology of the nanostructures changes by doping with Ce+4 ions. The presence of the elements in the nanostructures was verified by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra of the nanostructures are similar to each other and they have a maximum at about 361 nm. The nanostructures with 0.025 mole fraction of Ce+4 ions exhibit the highest activity for degradation of methylene blue under UV irradiation. The reaction rate constant decreases with calcination temperature. Moreover, the rate constants in more acidic and alkaline solutions are lower than those of the neutral conditions. The photocatalyst retains 90 % of activity after being used four times.
Synthesis of Pyrazolylthiazole and Pyrazolyl-1,2,4-Triazepine Derivatives
Authors: Hassan Alaa A. , Bebair Tarek M. , El-Gamal Mohammed I.
Published: January 2014

In a multistep reaction, ( Z)-methyl 2-[( Z)-2-hydrazono-4-oxo-]-(3-substituted-1 H-pyrazol-5-yl)thiazolidin-5-ylidine)acetate, ( Z)-methyl-1-(2-methoxy-2-oxoethyl)-2-[( Z)-5-(2-methoxy-2-oxoethylidene)-4-oxo-3-(3-substituted-1 H-pyrazol-5-yl)-thiazolidin-2-ylidine)hydrazinecarboxylates and methyl 5-oxo-4-(3-substituted-1 H-pyrazol-5-yl)-3-thioxo-3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2 H-1,2,4-triazepine-7-carboxylates have been formed in good yield from the reaction of N-(3-substituted-1 H-pyrazol-5-yl)-hydrazinecarbothioamides with dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate. Explanations of these conversions involving nucleophilic reactions and condensations are presented.
Brachysides A and B, New Lignan Glucosides from Caragana Brachyantha
Authors: Perveen Shagufta , Al-Musayeib Nawal , Malik Abdul , Tareen Rasool Bakhsh
Published: January 2014

Brachysides A and B, new lignan glucosides, have been isolated from the n-butanol soluble fraction of Caragana brachyantha, along with four known lignan glucosides, acanthoside B, tortoside B, lariciresinol 4'- O-β-D-glucopyranoside and pinoresinol 4,4'-di-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, reported for the first time from the genus Caragana. Antioxidant activities were evaluated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging assay.
Justice in Building, Building in Justice: The Reconstruction of Intragenerational Equity in Framings of Sustainability in the Eco-Building Movement
Authors: Mason Kelvin
Published: January 2014

This paper begins with the observation that the contemporary eco-building movement in the UK focuses on technology with the principal aim of reducing carbon emissions and so combating climate change. While this focus may translate into justice for future generations, there seems markedly less regard for justice for others in intragenerational space. I analyse the eco-building movement's framings of sustainable development and sustainability, seeking out statements of equity via the criteria used for building materials selection. Closely defining equity as theory and practice, analysis reveals that framings of sustainable development and sustainability in the eco-building movement vary considerably in their engagement with intragenerational equity. This begs the question of whether the movement has a shared political critique. There is a marked tendency to view discourses of environmental sustainability and social justice as distinct rather than mutually constitutive. I propose that the eco-building movement should engage in a politics of the common good (Sandel, 2010), contesting equity in the public domain. Wary of the reach of markets, the eco-building movement should debate not only the right way to distribute building materials and shelter but also the right way to value them.
Cancer statistics, 2014
Authors: Siegel Rebecca , Ma Jiemin , Zou Zhaohui , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: January 2014

Each year, the American Cancer Society estimates the numbers of new cancer cases and deaths that will occur in the United States in the current year and compiles the most recent data on cancer incidence, mortality, and survival. Incidence data were collected by the National Cancer Institute, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries and mortality data were collected by the National Center for Health Statistics. A total of 1,665,540 new cancer cases and 585,720 cancer deaths are projected to occur in the United States in 2014. During the most recent 5 years for which there are data (2006‐2010), delay‐adjusted cancer incidence rates declined slightly in men (by 0.6% per year) and were stable in women, while cancer death rates decreased by 1.8% per year in men and by 1.4% per year in women. The combined cancer death rate (deaths per 100,000 population) has been continuously declining for 2 decades, from a peak of 215.1 in 1991 to 171.8 in 2010. This 20% decline translates to the avoidance of approximately 1,340,400 cancer deaths (952,700 among men and 387,700 among women) during this time period. The magnitude of the decline in cancer death rates from 1991 to 2010 varies substantially by age, race, and sex, ranging from no decline among white women aged 80 years and older to a 55% decline among black men aged 40 years to 49 years. Notably, black men experienced the largest drop within every 10‐year age group. Further progress can be accelerated by applying existing cancer control knowledge across all segments of the population. CA Cancer J Clin 2014;64:9–29. © 2014 American Cancer Society, Inc.
Adaptive Tele-Therapies Based on Serious Games for Health for People with Time-Management and Organisational Problems: Preliminary Results
Authors: Frutos-Pascual Maite , Zapirain Begoña , Zorrilla Amaia
Published: January 2014

Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent disorders within the child population today. Inattention problems can lead to greater difficulties in completing assignments, as well as problems with time management and prioritisation of tasks. This article presents an intelligent tele-therapy tool based on Serious Games for Health, aimed at the improvement of time management skills and the prioritisation of tasks. This tele-system is based on the use of decision trees within Django, a high-level Python Web framework. The technologies and techniques used were selected so as to boost user involvement and to enable the system to be easily customised. This article shows the preliminary results of the pilot-phase in an experiment performed to evaluate the use of adaptive tele-therapies within a group of typically developing children and adolescents aged between 12 and 19 years old without ADHD. To do so, we relied on the collection of parameters and the conduct of surveys for assessing time management skills, as well as measuring system usability and availability. The results of a time management survey highlighted that the users involved in the trial did not use any specific or effective time management techniques, scoring 1.98 and 2.30 out of 5 points in this area for ages under 15 and over 16 years old, respectively. The final calculations based on the usability questionnaire resulted in an average score of 78.75 out of 100. The creation of a customisable tool capable of working with different skills, in conjunction with the replication of the current study, may help to understand these users’ needs, as well as boosting time management skills among teenagers with and without ADHD.
Determinants of Sedentary Behavior, Motivation, Barriers and Strategies to Reduce Sitting Time in Older Women: A Qualitative Investigation
Authors: Chastin Sebastien , Fitzpatrick Nicole , Andrews Michelle , DiCroce Natalie
Published: January 2014

Sedentary behavior defined as time spent non-exercising seated or reclining posture has been identified has a health risk and associated with frailty and disablement for older adults. Older adults are the most sedentary segment of society. To date no study has investigated the determinants of sedentary behavior in older adults. This study reports a qualitative investigation of the determinants of sedentary behavior, strategies and motivator to reduce sitting time by structured interviews in a group of community dwelling older women (N = 11, age 65 and over). Older women expressed the view that their sedentary behavior is mostly determined by pain which acts both as an incentive to sit and a motivator to stand up, lack of energy in the afternoon, pressure from direct social circle to sit and rest, societal and environmental typecasting that older adult are meant to sit, lack of environmental facilities to allow activity pacing. This qualitative investigation highlighted some factors that older adults consider determinants of their sedentary behavior. Some are identical to those affecting physical activity (self-efficacy, functional limitations, ageist stereotyping) but some appear specific to sedentary behavior (locus of control, pain) and should be further investigated and considered during intervention design. Tailored interventions that pay attention to the pattern of sedentary behavior of individuals appear to be supported by the views of older women on their sedentary behavior.
Study on the Mechanism of Intestinal Absorption of Epimedins A, B and C in the Caco-2 Cell Model
Authors: Chen Yan , Wang Ying , Zhou Jing , Gao Xia , Qu Ding , Liu Congyan
Published: January 2014

Epimedium spp. is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Epimedins A, B, and C are three major bioactive flavonoids found in Epimedium spp. that share similar chemical structures. In this study, the intestinal absorption mechanism of these three compounds was investigated using the Caco-2 cell monolayer model in both the apical-to-basolateral (A-B) and the basolateral-to-apical (B-A) direction. The absorption permeability (PAB) of epimedins A, B, and C were extremely low and increased as the concentration of the epimedins increased from 5 to 20 μM, but, at 40 μM, the PAB values were reduced. Meanwhile, the amount of transported compounds increased in a time-dependent manner. The PAB of epimedins A and C were significantly increased and efflux ratios decreased in the presence of verapamil (an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein) and dipyridamole (an inhibitor of breast cancer resistance protein) while, in the presence of MK571 (an inhibitor of multidrug resistance proteins), the absorption of epimedins A and C did not change significantly, indicating that P-gp and BCRP might be involved in the transport of epimedins A and C. The PAB of epimedin B significantly increased while its secretory permeability (PBA) significantly decreased in the presence of dipyridamole, indicating that BCRP might be involved in the transport of epimedin B. No obvious changes in the transport of epimedin B were observed in the presence of verapamil and MK571. In summary, our results clearly demonstrate, for the first time, that poor bioavailability of these three prenylated flavonoids is the result of poor intrinsic permeability and efflux by apical efflux transporters.
Automatic Rice Crop Height Measurement Using a Field Server and Digital Image Processing
Authors: Sritarapipat Tanakorn , Rakwatin Preesan , Kasetkasem Teerasit
Published: January 2014

Rice crop height is an important agronomic trait linked to plant type and yield potential. This research developed an automatic image processing technique to detect rice crop height based on images taken by a digital camera attached to a field server. The camera acquires rice paddy images daily at a consistent time of day. The images include the rice plants and a marker bar used to provide a height reference. The rice crop height can be indirectly measured from the images by measuring the height of the marker bar compared to the height of the initial marker bar. Four digital image processing steps are employed to automatically measure the rice crop height: band selection, filtering, thresholding, and height measurement. Band selection is used to remove redundant features. Filtering extracts significant features of the marker bar. The thresholding method is applied to separate objects and boundaries of the marker bar versus other areas. The marker bar is detected and compared with the initial marker bar to measure the rice crop height. Our experiment used a field server with a digital camera to continuously monitor a rice field located in Suphanburi Province, Thailand. The experimental results show that the proposed method measures rice crop height effectively, with no human intervention required.
The E. coli CNF1 as a Pioneering Therapy for the Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: Travaglione Sara , Loizzo Stefano , Ballan Giulia , Fiorentini Carla , Fabbri Alessia
Published: January 2014

The Cytotoxic Necrotizing Factor 1 (CNF1), a protein toxin from pathogenic E. coli, modulates the Rho GTPases, thus, directing the organization of the actin cytoskeleton. In the nervous system, the Rho GTPases play a key role in several processes, controlling the morphogenesis of dendritic spines and synaptic plasticity in brain tissues. This review is focused on the peculiar property of CNF1 to enhance brain plasticity in in vivo animal models of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, and on its possible application in therapy.
La loi de la République populaire de Chine sur les droits réels: principes fondamentaux et notions de base
Authors: LI Shigang
Published: January 2014

Une loi organisant le droit de propriété et ses démembrements ainsi que les sûretés réelles est entré en vigueur le 1er octobre 2007 dans un pays dont la Constitution dit que seuls «les biens publics sont sacrés » . Si l’on observe les principes fondamentaux et les notions de base employés dans cette loi, à l’égard de la technique législative, on constate que cette branche du droit est déjà entrée dans la famille des droits romano-germaniques traditionnels. Cependant, une étude approfondie va mettre à jour certaines différences essentielles. Cette loi est la Loi de la République populaire de Chine sur les droits réels (LDR).
L’interdit matrimonial induit par le co-allaitement en droit musulman
Authors: Ossoukine Abdelhafid
Published: January 2014

On ne sait pas encore pourquoi en droit musulman et dans les anciennes sociétés qui l’ont adopté, le co-allaitement induit un interdit matrimonial perpétuel. Ni la biologie, ni la médecine, encore moins la théorie de l’inceste ne peuvent expliquer pour le moment les effets juridiques qui conduiront à inscrire des enfants ayant tété le même sein dans une même lignée. Comment une sécrétion biologique aussi banale dans sa composition puisse asseoir une autre forme d’adoption et créer des obligations tant du côté de la mère que du père… Ne serait-ce que par ces intrusions dans les rapports humains, le droit se trouve interpellé. Afin de répondre à ces questions, cette contribution tente de formuler deux hypothèses ; d’abord l’interdiction serait induite par la relation de cause à effet entre le sperme et le lait et ensuite le sein serait le prolongement de l’utérus.
Le nouveau droit français de la prescription extinctive à la lumière d’expériences étrangères récentes ou en gestation (Louisiane, Allemagne, Israël)
Authors: Licari François-Xavier
Published: January 2014

Rares sont les réformes législatives françaises qui ont puisé aussi abondamment dans les sources codifiées étrangères ou savantes du droit que celle de la prescription extinctive. Le nouveau droit français ne peut donc se comprendre que par une connaissance de ces sources. Il est permis de voir dans ces droits existants ou en gestation, ainsi que dans l’interprétation prétorienne ou doctrinale qu’ils ont engendrées, une sorte de commentaire anticipé de la nouvelle loi française. La méthode comparative permettra aussi de mettre en lumière les importantes divergences qui subsistent entre les droits examinés, malgré cette circularité des modèles et les fertilisations croisées. La présente étude se concentre sur les trois piliers du nouveau droit de la prescription extinctive : sa durée, son point de départ et le délai butoir. Des réflexions sur les buts et les justifications de l’institution sont aussi développées.
Wnt Antagonist, Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 4 (sFRP4), Increases Chemotherapeutic Response of Glioma Stem-Like Cells
Authors: Warrier Sudha , Balu Senthil Kumar , Kumar Alan Prem , Millward Michael , Dharmarajan Arunasalam
Published: January 2014

Malignant gliomas have a highly tumorigenic subpopulation, termed cancer stem cells (CSCs), that drives tumor formation and proliferation. CSCs possess inherent resistance mechanisms against radiation- and chemotherapy-induced cancer cell death, enabling them to survive and initiate tumor recurrence. We examined the effect of secreted frizzled-related protein 4 (sFRP4), a Wnt signaling antagonist, in chemosensitizing the glioma cell line U138MG and glioma stem cells (GSCs) enriched from U138MG to chemotherapeutics. We found that sFRP4 alone and in combination with either doxorubicin or cisplatin induced apoptosis. Proliferation decreased substantially in GSC-enriched population as measured by MTT and BrdU assays. JC-1 and caspase-3 assays demonstrated that cell death was through the apoptotic pathway. sFRP4 treatment also decreased neurosphere formation and induced neuronal differentiation. Inhibition by sFRP4 was abolished by Wnt3a, indicating that sFRP4 acts through the frizzled receptor. Further indication that sFRP4 acts through the Wnt β-catenin pathway was provided by decrease in the β-catenin protein and decrease in the β-catenin-stimulated gene cyclin D1 upon sFRP4 induction. By real-time PCR, an increase in apoptotic markers Bax and p21, a decrease in pro-proliferative marker CycD1, and a decrease in the GSC marker CD133 were observed. These observations indicate that sFRP4 is able to sensitize glioma cells and stem cells to chemotherapeutics. We thus identified for the first time that sFRP4 could help to destroy cancer stem cells of glioma cell line, which would lead to effective treatment regimen to combat brain tumors.
Note sur le vocabulaire de l'idéal en psychanalyse
Authors: Bourdin Dominique
Published: January 2014

Au fil des textes freudiens, sont dégagées les notions d’idéalisation, de formation d’idéal et d’idéal du Moi. La distinction post-freudienne entre idéal du Moi et Moi idéal est explicitée. Le parcours se conclut par la distinction entre idéalisation et sublimation.
« Allah guide et égare qui il veut »
Authors: Saglio-Yatzimirsky Marie-Caroline
Published: January 2014

La consultation transculturelle avec des adolescents migrants venus seuls en France et porteurs d’un vécu traumatique exprime la mobilisation de référentiels religieux qui permet de mieux penser l’articulation entre adolescence, trauma et religion. La référence à la religion par le patient s’élabore à travers trois espaces, l’espace symbolique de la parole du père, l’espace du discours social qui historicise le sujet et l’affilie à sa culture, l’espace du mythe et des questions universelles qui lient l’individu au collectif. Un regard clinique sur la dynamique de la consultation avec deux jeunes patients musulmans d’Afrique noire permet de considérer la mobilisation du sentiment religieux comme un outil thérapeutique.
Le fantasme du pale
Authors: Falque Odile
Published: January 2014

À partir d’un cas de cure pour troubles obsessionnels et à travers les échanges de thérapeutes au cours du Séminaire de Psychothérapie de l’Adolescent, il s’agit de repérer ce que sous-tend la question de la conquête de l’identité et le problème de l’homosexualité à l’adolescence. Le « fantasme du pale », en référence à la figure religieuse identificatoire de saint Georges, permet d’organiser les élaborations théorico-cliniques.
Michael Jackson ou l'adolescence incarnée
Authors: Dalmazzo Amélie
Published: January 2014

Michael Jackson figure une adolescence éternelle, rejoue le scénario d’une individuation pénible et inaccessible. Ses métamorphoses se font l’écho des transformations psychiques et physiques des jeunes pubères. Son mythe fortement imprégné de ruptures généalogiques, évoque un personnage en prise avec un puissant désir d’auto-engendrement. Son polymorphisme maximise les possibilités identificatoires des adolescents, et sa médiagénie favorise son appropriation sur le mode de la revendication sociale. Sa capacité à incarner la toute-puissance le place comme un formidable support de projection, faisant écho aux désirs narcissiques des jeunes.