bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of a P-35S, T-nos, T-35S and P-FMV Tetraplex Real-time PCR Screening Method to Detect Regulatory Genes of Genetically Modified Organisms in Food
Authors: Eugster Albert , Murmann Petra , Kaenzig Andre , Breitenmoser Alda
Published: October 2014

In routine analysis screening methods based on real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) are most commonly used for the detection of genetically modified (GM) plant material in food and feed. Screening tests are based on sequences frequently used for GM development, allowing the detection
of a large number of GMOs (genetically modified organisms). Here, we describe the development and validation of a tetraplex real-time PCR screening assay comprising detection systems for the regulatory genes Cauliflower Mosaic Virus 35S promoter, Agrobacterium tumefaciens nos terminator, Cauliflower
Mosaic Virus 35S terminator and Figwort Mosaic Virus 34S promoter. Three of the four primer and probe combinations have already been published elsewhere, whereas primers and probe for the 35S terminator have been developed in-house. Adjustment of primer and probe concentrations revealed a
high PCR sensitivity with insignificant physical cross-talk between the four detection channels. The sensitivity of each PCR-system is sufficient to detect a GMO concentration as low as 0.05% of the containing respective element. The specificity of the described tetraplex is high when tested
on DNA from GM maize, soy, rapeseed and tomato. We also demonstrate the robustness of the system by inter-laboratory tests. In conclusion, this method provides a sensitive and reliable screening procedure for the detection of the most frequently used regulatory elements present in GM crops
either authorised or unauthorised for food.
Targeted Screening and Quantification of dl-PCBs and Dioxins in Various Foodstuffs by Programmed-temperature Vaporizer Large-volume Injection Coupled to GC–MS
Authors: Ho Ngoc Huy , Bugey Aurélie , Zimmerli Pierre , Nançoz Joëlle , Ortelli Didier , Edder Patrick
Published: October 2014

In 2009, high concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) were found in soils located near the municipal garbage incinerator of Geneva. The matter of food contamination
in this area was raised. Based on exposure criteria, a strategy of analysis of animal fats has been established with farmers in the Geneva area. Most methods of analysis of dl-PCBs, dioxins and furans, are based on gas chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS) and
considered as the reference methodology. An innovative approach was developed by programmed-temperature vaporizer large-volume injection (PTV-LV) and gas chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) analysis. This analytical method was validated and was found
suitable for screening and quantification of target compounds in animal fats (beef, pork, sheep, etc. ). PTV-LV coupled to GC-MS/MS appeared to be a good alternative compared to the GC-HRMS strategy, offering a good compromise between sensitivity, versatility of instrumentation, and economical aspects. A survey of 121 samples was conducted.
An improved two-stage sintering method for tungsten heavy alloys: conventional solid-phase sintering followed by microwave heating
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Liu Wensheng , Ma Yunzhu , Ye Xiaoshan , Wu Yayu
Published: October 2014

93W-4.9Ni-2.1Fe (wt.%) alloys were fabricated by means of conventional two-stage sintering, direct microwave sintering and improved two-stage sintering. A more homogeneous microstructure was found in both the direct microwave sintered alloy and the improved two-stage sintered alloy. Numerous pores were present in the direct microwave sintered alloy, but few could be seen in the improved two-stage sintered alloy. The mechanical properties of the improved two-stage sintered alloy were greatly enhanced as compared to those of the direct microwave sintered alloy. These findings suggested that the improved two-stage sintering had little negative effect on absorbing microwaves and could reduce pore defects, which implied a promising sintering process for tungsten heavy alloys and others with liquid stage sintering.
Synthesis and characterization of the novel nanocomposite Co(OH)2/graphene as supercapacitor materials
Authors: Zhang Danhui , Zou Wenbin
Published: October 2014

Co(OH)2–graphene composite was prepared through a simultaneous hydrothermal method. The structure, morphology and electrochemical performance of the obtained samples were systematically investigated by means of X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, cyclic voltammetry measurements showed that the Co(OH)2–graphene electrode material had an excellent electrochemical capacitance.
Self-Presentation, Individual Differences, and Gendered Evaluations of Nonverbal Greeting Behaviors among Close Male Friends
Authors: Bowman Jonathan M. , Compton Benjamin L.
Published: October 2014

Individual differences influence both relational behaviors and third-party perceptions. This study extends research on perceptions of nonverbal greetings by analyzing personality characteristics, self-presentational goals, and cognitive processing in the evaluation of ritualized nonverbal greetings between men. 146 subjects watched one of two different videos showing male friends publicly greeting one another using either intimate or non-intimate touch. Results demonstrate the influence of nonverbals and the relative appropriateness of ritualized greetings. Participants were also increasingly distracted by intimate touch in the videos if they had stronger desire for heterosexual self-presentation, indicating stressors associated with an increased cognitive load. This study highlights influences of gender orientation, self-presentation, and nonverbal norms upon both observer's cognitive processing and one's subsequent attitude towards relational behaviors.
Zionist-Nazi Collaboration and the Holocaust-A Historical Aberration? Lenni Brenner Revisited
Authors: Greenstein Tony
Published: October 2014

Over thirty years ago Lenni Brenner's Zionism in the Age of the Dictators awakened the ghosts of Nazi-Zionist collaboration. This collaboration was an extension of Zionism's historical attitude to anti-Semitism in Europe, which saw anti-Semitism as the natural reaction of non-Jews to the abnormal presence of Jews. The Zionist movement was outraged by these public revelations of collaboration and sought to censor them. Brenner brought together some of the most damning evidence of Zionism's collaboration with the Nazis and their obstruction of the rescue of European Jews to anywhere but Palestine. This essay critiques Brenner's thesis, especially its failure to analyse the Holocaust in depth. Brenner rightly denounced this collaboration, but, as in the case of the Israeli Holocaust Memorial Museum Yad Vashem, he produced no analysis of this official Israeli memorial project. This essay furthermore explores the implications of Zionist collaboration as in the case of Argentina under the Junta and for a future resurgence of anti-Semitism.
Palestinian Oral Tradtions and the ‘Sanctity’ of Damascus: A Critical Analysis of a Palestinian Seventeenth-Century Manuscript
Authors: Anabseh Ghaleb , Masarwah Nader
Published: October 2014

This article explores the concept of the ‘Holy Land’ as reflected in a Palestinian seventeenth-century manuscript: A String of Pearls in Praise of al-Sham, by Muhammad Habib, and in light of the considerable output of works on the ‘virtues of the Holy Land’ by Muslim writers in Palestine and Syria. Although these writers composed their works using materials from traditional sources (religious, historical, geographical), the key issue explored here is the use of Palestinian oral and local traditions which were not always consistent with official or orthodox Islamic thought and thus local traditions which remained outside the bounds of official hadith compilations. This study explore the role played by local or oral traditions in highlighting the sanctity of a city or a site in Palestine and Syria.
Disconnected Democracy? A Survey of Scottish Community Councils' Online Presences
Authors: Cruickshank Peter , Ryan Bruce , Smith Colin
Published: October 2014

Community Councils are the bottom rung of Scotland's democracy ladder, having few – but highly significant – statutory consultative duties (especially with regard to planning) and no service-delivery duties. Generally they have failed to live up to expectations in terms of activity and impact, and have struggled to gain legitimacy. Despite this, they are often highlighted in policy debates around community involvement, and have been on the agenda again recently with the release of two significant reports calling for increased powers, and the publication of a Scottish Government working group report examining ways to build their resilience and capacity.

The Internet potentially offers Community Councils potentially useful capabilities. However, survey data shows that only 22% of Community Councils maintain up-to-date online public presences and only 4% have easily-accessible content relating to planning. Worse, only 14% of up-to-date presences support digital dialogue. Such poor communication is a digital symptom of a disease of poverty, namely CCs' lack of duties and relevance. This article examines these digital symptoms and suggests appropriate treatment. Without such treatment, the CC system may well just die.

The article provides detailed data and analysis to inform the ongoing debate. It updates a study carried out in 2004 to 2006, investigating how technology could be developed to help regenerate democracy at the local community level. Although the 2012 survey reveals some good examples of active online presences and support by local authorities, in general there is no sense of improvement in information provision online.
Permutation Entropy Applied to the Characterization of the Clinical Evolution of Epileptic Patients under PharmacologicalTreatment
Authors: Mateos Diego , Diaz Juan , Lamberti Pedro
Published: October 2014

Different techniques originated in information theory and tools from nonlinear systems theory have been applied to the analysis of electro-physiological time series. Several clinically relevant results have emerged from the use of concepts, such as entropy, chaos and complexity, in analyzing electrocardiograms and electroencephalographic (EEG) records. In this work, we develop a method based on permutation entropy (PE) to characterize EEG records from different stages in the treatment of a chronic epileptic patient. Our results show that the PE is useful for clearly quantifying the evolution of the patient along a certain lapse of time and allows visualizing in a very convenient way the effects of the pharmacotherapy.
A Heuristic Rule-Based Passive Design Decision Model for Reducing Heating Energy Consumption of Korean Apartment Buildings
Authors: Suh Dongjun , Chang Seongju
Published: October 2014

This research presents an evaluative energy model for estimating the energy efficiency of the design choices of architects and engineers in the early design phase. We analyze the effects of various parameters with different characteristics in various combinations for building energy consumption. With this analysis, we build a database that identifies a set of heuristic rules for energy-efficient building design to facilitate the design of sustainable apartment housing. Perturbation studies are based on a sensitivity analysis used to identify the thermal influence of the input design parameters on various simulation outputs and compare the results to a reference case. Energy sensitivity weight factors are obtained from an extensive sensitivity study using building energy simulations. The results of the energy sensitivity study summarized in a set of heuristic rules for evaluating architectural features are estimated through case studies of Korean apartment buildings. This study offers valuable guidelines for developing energy-efficient residential housing in Korea and will help architects in considering appropriate design schemes and provide a ready reference to generalized test cases for both architects and engineers so that they can zero in on a set of effective design solutions.
Effectiveness of the Electronic Cigarette: An Eight-Week Flemish Study with Six-Month Follow-up on Smoking Reduction, Craving and Experienced Benefits and Complaints
Authors: Adriaens Karolien , Van Gucht Dinska , Declerck Paul , Baeyens Frank
Published: October 2014

Background: Smoking reduction remains a pivotal issue in public health policy, but quit rates obtained with traditional quit-smoking therapies remain disappointingly low. Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR), aiming at less harmful ways of consuming nicotine, may provide a more effective alternative. One promising candidate for THR are electronic cigarettes (e-cigs). The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of second-generation e-cigs both in terms of acute craving-reduction in the lab and in terms of smoking reduction and experienced benefits/complaints in an eight-month Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT). Design: RCT with three arms. Methods: Participants (N = 48) unwilling to quit smoking were randomized into two e-cig groups and one control group. During three lab sessions (over two months) participants, who had been abstinent for four hours, vaped/smoked for five minutes, after which we monitored the effect on craving and withdrawal symptoms. eCO and saliva cotinine levels were also measured. In between lab sessions, participants in the e-cig groups could use e-cigs or smoke ad libitum, whereas the control group could only smoke. After the lab sessions, the control group also received an e-cig. The RCT included several questionnaires, which repeatedly monitored the effect of ad libitum e-cig use on the use of tobacco cigarettes and the experienced benefits/complaints up to six months after the last lab session. Results: From the first lab session on, e-cig use after four hours of abstinence resulted in a reduction in cigarette craving which was of the same magnitude as when a cigarette was smoked, while eCO was unaffected. After two months, we observed that 34% of the e-cig groups had stopped smoking tobacco cigarettes, versus 0% of the control group (difference p < 0.01). After five months, the e-cig groups demonstrated a total quit-rate of 37%, whereas the control group showed a quit rate of 38% three months after initiating e-cig use. At the end of the eight-month study, 19% of the e-cig groups and 25% of the control group were totally abstinent from smoking, while an overall reduction of 60% in the number of cigarettes smoked per day was observed (compared to intake). eCO levels decreased, whereas cotinine levels were the same in all groups at each moment of measurement. Reported benefits far outweighed the reported complaints. Conclusion: In a series of controlled lab sessions with e-cig naïve tobacco smokers, second generation e-cigs were shown to be immediately and highly effective in reducing abstinence induced cigarette craving and withdrawal symptoms, while not resulting in increases in eCO. Remarkable (>50 pc) eight-month reductions in, or complete abstinence from tobacco smoking was achieved with the e-cig in almost half (44%) of the participants.
Polymorphism of the DNA Base Excision Repair Genes in Keratoconus
Authors: Wojcik Katarzyna , Synowiec Ewelina , Sobierajczyk Katarzyna , Izdebska Justyna , Blasiak Janusz , Szaflik Jerzy , Szaflik Jacek
Published: October 2014

Keratoconus (KC) is a degenerative corneal disorder for which the exact pathogenesis is not yet known. Oxidative stress is reported to be associated with this disease. The stress may damage corneal biomolecules, including DNA, and such damage is primarily removed by base excision repair (BER). Variation in genes encoding BER components may influence the effectiveness of corneal cells to cope with oxidative stress. In the present work we genotyped 5 polymorphisms of 4 BER genes in 284 patients and 353 controls. The A/A genotype of the c.–1370T>A polymorphism of the DNA polymerase γ (POLG) gene was associated with increased occurrence of KC, while the A/T genotype was associated with decreased occurrence of KC. The A/G genotype and the A allele of the c.1196A>G polymorphism of the X-ray repair cross-complementing group 1 (XRCC1) were associated with increased, and the G/G genotype and the G allele, with decreased KC occurrence. Also, the C/T and T as well as C/C genotypes and alleles of the c.580C>T polymorphism of the same gene displayed relationship with KC occurrence. Neither the g.46438521G>C polymorphism of the Nei endonuclease VIII-like 1 (NEIL1) nor the c.2285T>C polymorphism of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) was associated with KC. In conclusion, the variability of the XRCC1 and POLG genes may play a role in KC pathogenesis and determine the risk of this disease.
Compartmentalization and Cell Division through Molecular Discreteness and Crowding in a Catalytic Reaction Network
Authors: Kamimura Atsushi , Kaneko Kunihiko
Published: October 2014

Explanation of the emergence of primitive cellular structures from a set of chemical reactions is necessary to unveil the origin of life and to experimentally synthesize protocells. By simulating a cellular automaton model with a two-species hypercycle, we demonstrate the reproduction of a localized cluster; that is, a protocell with a growth-division process emerges when the replication and degradation speeds of one species are respectively slower than those of the other species, because of overcrowding of molecules as a natural outcome of the replication. The protocell exhibits synchrony between its division process and replication of the minority molecule. We discuss the effects of the crowding molecule on the formation of primitive structures. The generality of this result is demonstrated through the extension of our model to a hypercycle with three molecular species, where a localized layered structure of molecules continues to divide, triggered by the replication of a minority molecule at the center.
Effects of Temperature and Axial Strain on Four-Wave Mixing Parametric Frequencies in Microstructured Optical Fibers Pumped in the Normal Dispersion Regime
Authors: Abreu-Afonso Javier , Díez Antonio , Cruz Jose , Andrés Miguel
Published: October 2014

A study of the effect of temperature and axial strain on the parametric wavelengths produced by four-wave mixing in microstructured optical fibers is presented. Degenerate four-wave mixing was generated in the fibers by pumping at normal dispersion, near the zero-dispersion wavelength, causing the appearance of two widely-spaced four-wave mixing spectral bands. Temperature changes, and/or axial strain applied to the fiber, affects the dispersion characteristics of the fiber, which can result in the shift of the parametric wavelengths. We show that the increase of temperature causes the signal and idler wavelengths to shift linearly towards shorter and longer wavelengths, respectively. For the specific fiber of the experiment, the band shift at rates ­–0.04 nm/ºC and 0.3 nm/ºC, respectively. Strain causes the parametric bands to shift in the opposite way. The signal band shifted 2.8 nm/me and the idler -5.4 nm/me. Experimental observations are backed by numerical simulations.
Monitoring the Fluctuation of Lake Qinghai Using Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Zhu Wenbin , Jia Shaofeng , Lv Aifeng
Published: October 2014

The knowledge of water storage variations in ungauged lakes is of fundamental importance to understanding the water balance on the Tibetan Plateau. In this paper, a simple framework was presented to monitor the fluctuation of inland water bodies by the combination of satellite altimetry measurements and optical satellite imagery without any in situ measurements. The fluctuation of water level, surface area, and water storage variations in Lake Qinghai were estimated to demonstrate this framework. Water levels retrieved from ICESat (Ice, Cloud, and and Elevation Satellite) elevation data and lake surface area derived from MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) product were fitted by linear regression during the period from 2003 to 2009 when the overpass time for both of them was coincident. Based on this relationship, the time series of water levels from 1999 to 2002 were extended by using the water surface area extracted from Landsat TM/ETM+ images as inputs, and finally the variations of water volume in Lake Qinghai were estimated from 1999 to 2009. The overall errors of water levels retrieved by the simple method in our work were comparable with other globally available test results with r = 0.93, MAE = 0.07 m, and RMSE = 0.09 m. The annual average rate of increase was 0.11 m/yr, which was very close to the results obtained from in situ measurements. High accuracy was obtained in the estimation of surface areas. The MAE and RMSE were only 6 km2, and 8 km2, respectively, which were even lower than the MAE and RMAE of surface area extracted from Landsat TM images. The estimated water volume variations effectively captured the trend of annual variation of Lake Qinghai. Good agreement was achieved between the estimated and measured water volume variations with MAE = 0.4 billion m3, and RMSE = 0.5 billion m3, which only account for 0.7% of the total water volume of Lake Qinghai. This study demonstrates that it is feasible to monitor comprehensively the fluctuation of large water bodies based entirely on remote sensing data.
Design and Application of Quadrature Compensation Patterns in Bulk Silicon Micro-Gyroscopes
Authors: Ni Yunfang , Li Hongsheng , Huang Libin
Published: October 2014

This paper focuses on the detailed design issues of a peculiar quadrature reduction method named system stiffness matrix diagonalization, whose key technology is the design and application of quadrature compensation patterns. For bulk silicon micro-gyroscopes, a complete design and application case was presented. The compensation principle was described first. In the mechanical design, four types of basic structure units were presented to obtain the basic compensation function. A novel layout design was proposed to eliminate the additional disturbing static forces and torques. Parameter optimization was carried out to maximize the available compensation capability in a limited layout area. Two types of voltage loading methods were presented. Their influences on the sense mode dynamics were analyzed. The proposed design was applied on a dual-mass silicon micro-gyroscope developed in our laboratory. The theoretical compensation capability of a quadrature equivalent angular rate no more than 412 °/s was designed. In experiments, an actual quadrature equivalent angular rate of 357 °/s was compensated successfully. The actual compensation voltages were a little larger than the theoretical ones. The correctness of the design and the theoretical analyses was verified. They can be commonly used in planar linear vibratory silicon micro-gyroscopes for quadrature compensation purpose.
Pricing or Quota? A Solution to Water Scarcity in Oasis Regions in China: A Case Study in the Heihe River Basin
Authors: Shi Minjun , Wang Xiaojun , Yang Hong , Wang Tao
Published: October 2014

The conflict between increasing water demand and limited water resources has become a serious threat to oasis regions in China. Solutions to water scarcity have to curb overall water demands, especially reducing agricultural water use. Price control and quantitative control are the two most commonly applied policy instruments for water demand management. This paper used a bio-economic model (BEM) to examine the shadow price of water resources and to investigate farmers’ response to water demand management policies in water scarce regions based on a study in the Heihe River Basin in northwest China. The results indicate that farmers are not very responsive to changes in water price, because it is currently far below the shadow price of water resources in most irrigation zones. A reduction of agricultural water demand could occur only with a large rise in the water price. In comparison, a quantitative control measure is more effective at reducing water use. Concerning the effects on farm income, a price control will cost much more than a quantitative control to save the same volume of water. Hence, a water quota is a more suitable choice for the purpose of reducing agricultural water use, while minimizing farm income loss in the region of this case study.
Comportement cross-canaux /cross-enseignes de la génération Y : étude comparative avec la génération X et les Baby Boomers
Authors: Heitz-Spahn Sandrine
Published: October 2014

Cette recherche étudie les motivations de la génération Y à adopter un comportement cross-canaux /cross-enseignes et les compare à celles de la génération X et des Baby Boomers adoptant ce comportement. Les motivations des trois générations sont utilitaires (besoin de comparer le prix des produits) cependant la génération Y diffère des deux autres générations par des motivations plus hédoniques (besoin d’interaction sociale et besoin d’expérience récréationnelle plus forts). Des leviers d’action à destination des enseignes et fabricants ciblant la génération Y sont proposés.
Pouvoir et bien commun. Une lecture non théologico-politique de Rm 13,1
Authors: Tardivel Émilie
Published: October 2014

« Tout pouvoir vient de Dieu » (Rm 13,1). La pensée juridique et politique a souvent vu dans cette parole de saint Paul la source d’un modèle théologico-politique chrétien, impliquant nécessairement une doctrine antidémocratique, uniquement orientée vers le bien des ministres de la volonté de Dieu. En replaçant la parole de Paul et sa réception par les Pères de l’Église dans leur contexte, il est toutefois possible de montrer que cette lecture de Rm 13,1 est nulle et non avenue. Bien plus : Rm 13,1 explicite les conditions minimales de la démocratie et du bien commun en tant que bien de tous – la non-idolâtrie du pouvoir (le pouvoir comme lieu inappropriable), la liberté religieuse (le respect des droits) et le maintien de la paix (la finalité de la loi). Ces trois conditions sont reprises dans la lecture économique de la pensée sociale de l’Église que propose Elena Lasida, qui confirme l’idée d’une catégorie spécifiquement chrétienne du bien commun : le « Bien de la Communion » (Fessard).
Varying degrees of running incline: Implications for chronic injury aetiology and rehabilitation
Authors: Sinclair J. , Greenhalgh A. , Taylor P.J. , Bentley I.
Published: October 2014

There has yet to be a combined analysis of the kinetics and three-dimensional kinematics of running at various degrees of inclination. The aim of the current study was to investigate the influence of treadmill running at various inclines (flat, 5, 10 and 15 degrees) on three-dimensional kinematics of the lower extremities and accelerations measured at the tibia. Ten male participants ran at 4.0 m/s at the four different inclinations. Three-dimensional lower extremity kinematics and tibial accelerations were quantified and contrasted using repeated measures ANOVA's. Tibial acceleration parameters were reduced significantly as a function of running incline, whilst tibial internal rotation was significant greater at 15° compared to flat. This study confirms that differences in both kinetics and kinematics are mediated through alterations in running inclination. From a clinical perspective, those who are susceptible/ recovering from injury may wish to utilise an incline in their training.
Rewards and Penalties
Authors: Caton Hope , Greenhill Darrel
Published: October 2014

This paper describes how a gamified rewards and penalties framework was used to increase attendance and engagement in a level six undergraduate computing module teaching game production. The framework was applied to the same module over two consecutive years: a control year and a trial year. In both years the tutor, assignments and assessment strategies were the same and daily attendance was recorded. In the module, students work in multi-disciplinary teams to complete an assignment to build a computer game prototype. Unequal contribution to team projects by other students is a frequently voiced complaint to lecturers setting team assignments: a problem which is only partially solved by peer assessments, which are a retrospective analysis. The gamification framework provides a method for the lecturer to quickly identify disengaging students and to re-motivate them. Partnership between student and teacher, both parties must present themselves in order for that exchange of knowledge to take place. If unequal team contribution is a constant problem for students, then empty lecture halls can be considered similarly difficult for educators. This paper addresses three key points: 1) Does the rewards/penalties framework improve attendance? 2) If yes, does improved attendance result in improved assessments? 3) Does the framework improve engagement and performance in student teams? This paper presents quantitative evidence to answer the first two and offers speculative comments on the third. Initial results suggest that the rewards and penalties framework improves attendance and increases student performance and overall grade. Speculatively, the framework appears to be effective in increasing motivation. Informal student commentary indicates that while motivation is not improved across the cohort, those that are motivated contribute significantly more time and effort to the project. Rewards proved successful in improving completion of previously resisted tasks and in attracting students to attend classes they would otherwise miss.
EVALUATION OF L-MOMENT AND PPCC METHOD TO DETERMINE THE BEST REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF MONTHLY RAINFALL DATA (CASE STUDY: NORTHWEST OF IRAN)
Authors: Amirataee Babak , Montaseri Majid
Published: October 2014

The analysis and use of hydrological data for decision making in water resources planning and management can only be meaningful if the data possess the appropriate characteristics. Whereas, rainfall stations are relation together in the studying area, so that choosing a best regionally probability distribution is necessary. In this paper, probability plot correlation coefficient (PPCC) test statistics and L-moment ratio diagrams are used to determine the goodness of fit the regional distribution of monthly rainfall data in 11 stations that located in Northwest of Iran. Two methods provide Pearson III as a best regional distribution of monthly rainfall data in our study area. As regards, PPCC test has been known as a powerful single-site test among many goodness of fit, but L-Moment approach is easy and can compare the fit of several distributions to many samples of data using a single graphical instrument.
REUSE OF TREATED SEWAGE EFFLUENT IN AIRPORTS: IRRIGATION OF ORNAMENTAL PLANT NURSERY
Authors: Do Couto Eduardo de Aguiar , Assemany Paula Peixoto , Calijuri Maria Lúcia , Santiago Aníbal da Fonseca , Simões Alves Luna Gripp
Published: October 2014

Airports consume significant amounts of water which can be compared to the volume consumed by mid-size cities, thus practices aimed at reducing water consumption are important and necessary. The objective of this study was to assess the reuse potential of sewage effluent produced at a mid-size international airport for nursery irrigation. The sewage treatment system consisted of a facultative pond followed by a constructed wetland, which were monitored during one hydrological year and the parameters COD, pH, solids, nitrogen, phosphorus and Escherichia coli were analyzed. Removal efficiencies of 85% and 91% were achieved for COD and solids, respectively. Removal efficiencies for ammonia nitrogen and total phosphorus were 77% and 59%, respectively. In terms of E. coli concentration, the treated effluent met the recommendations by the World Health Organization for reuse in irrigation with the advantage of providing high levels of residual nutrient. The ornamental species Impatiens walleriana was irrigated with treated sewage effluent and plant growth characteristics were evaluated. The experiment showed that reuse can enhance plant growth without significantly affecting leaf tissue and soil characteristics. This study highlighted the importance of simple technologies for sewage treatment especially in countries which still do not present great investment in sanitation and proved that effluent reuse for landscape irrigation can provide great savings of water and financial resources for airport environments.
Re-envisioning paediatric nurse training in a re-engineered health care system
Authors: Coetzee Minette
Published: October 2014

Background: South African’s infant and child mortality rates remain high and at the current rate of decline will not meet the Millennium Development Goals of a two thirds decrease by 2015. At the latest available count, there were fewer than 1500 qualified paediatric nurses on the National South African Nursing Council register, with only about 100 nurses graduating with this qualification from South African nursing schools annually. It is not clear, however, if current paediatric nurse training programmes adequately equip nurses to make a real impact on reducing the under-5 mortality rate. In their 2011 interim report, the Ministerial Committee on Morbidity and Mortality in Children under 5 years recommended strengthening paediatric nurses’ training as a strategy to reduce the under-5 mortality rate.Method: In response to the Committee on Morbidity and Mortality in Children recommendation, a colloquium was convened as a national forum for schools of nursing, departments of health, health care facilities, clinicians and regulatory bodies to advance children’s nursing in South Africa.Objectives: The goals of the colloquium were to thoroughly investigate the situation in South Africa’s paediatric nurse training, plot ways to strengthen and expand postgraduate paediatric programmes to meet priority child health needs, and to build relationships between the various schools and stakeholders.Results: Outcomes included the clarification and strengthening of a ‘stakeholder grid’ in nurse training, recognition of the need for more active teaching and learning strategies in curricula linked to national child health priorities, as well as the need to develop and support clinical nursing practice in facilities.
Nanoclay addition to a conventional glass ionomer cements: Influence on physical properties
Authors: Fareed Muhammad A. , Stamboulis Artemis
Published: October 2014

Objective: The objective of the present study is to investigate the reinforcement effect of polymer-grade montmorillonite (PGN nanoclay) on physical properties of glass ionomer cement (GIC). Materials and Methods: The PGN nanoclay was dispersed in the liquid portion of GIC (HiFi, Advanced Healthcare, Kent, UK) at 1%, 2% and 4% (w/w). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to quantify the polymer liquid of GICs after dispersion of nanoclay. The molecular weight (Mw) of HiFi liquid was determined by gel permeation chromatography. The compressive strength (CS), diametral-tensile strength, flexural strength (FS) and flexural modulus (Ef) of cements (n = 20) were measured after storage for 1 day, 1 week and 1 month. Fractured surface was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The working and setting time (WT and ST) of cements was measured by a modified Wilson's rheometer. Results: The FTIR results showed a new peak at 1041 cm−1 which increased in intensity with an increase in the nanoclay content and was related to the Si-O stretching mode in PGN nanoclay. The Mw of poly (acrylic acid) used to form cement was in the range of 53,000 g/mol. The nanoclay reinforced GICs containing <2% nanoclays exhibited higher CS and FS. The Ef cement with 1% nanoclays was significantly higher. The WT and ST of 1% nanoclay reinforced cement were similar to the control cement but were reduced with 2% and 4% nanoclay addition. Conclusion: The dispersion of nanoclays in GICs was achieved, and GIC containing 2 wt% nanoclay is a promising restorative materials with improved physical properties.
Shear bond strength of novel calcium aluminate-based cement (EndoBinder) to root dentine
Authors: Garcia Lucas da Fonseca Roberti , Rossetto Hebert Luis , Pires-de-Souza Fernanda de Carvalho Panzeri
Published: October 2014

Objective: To evaluate the shear bond strength of a novel calcium aluminate-based cement, EndoBinder (EB), to dentine in comparison with Grey and White Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA). Materials and Methods: Root canal hemi-sections obtained from 30 extracted molar teeth were embedded in self-polymerized acrylic resin and were grounded wet in order to obtain a flat dentine surface. Next, the roots were randomly assigned into three groups (n = 10), according to the cement used, as follows: EB: EndoBinder; WMTA: White MTA and GMTA: Grey MTA. The shear bond strength test was performed using a Universal Testing Machine (0.5 mm/min) and the data were submitted to statistical analysis (1-way ANOVA and Tukey tests, P < 0.05). Results: EB presented the highest shear bond strength values; however, there was no statistically significant difference in comparison with GMTA (P > 0.05). WMTA presented the lowest mean values, which were significant in comparison with EB (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The novel calcium aluminate-based cement presented higher shear bond strength than WMTA, and should be considered as a promising alternative in endodontic therapy.
Comparative evaluation of photodynamic therapy using LASER or light emitting diode on cariogenic bacteria: An in vitro study
Authors: Ricatto Liliana Guimarães Oliveira , Conrado Luis Augusto Lopato , Turssi Cecilia Pedroso , França Fabiana Mantovani Gomes , Basting Roberta Tarkany , Amaral Flávia Lucisano Botelho
Published: October 2014

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using LASER or light emitting diode (LED) on cariogenic bacteria (Streptococcus mutans [SM] and Lactobacillus casei [LC]) in bovine dentin. Materials and Methods: Twenty five fragments of dentin were contaminated with SM and LC strands and divided into five experimental groups according to the therapy they received (n = 5): C – control (no treatment), SCLED – no dye/LED application (94 J/cm2), SCLASER – no dye/LASER application (94 J/cm2), CCLED – dye/LED application (94 J/cm2) and CCLASER – dye/LASER application (94 J/cm2). The dye used was methylene blue at 10 mM. Dentin scrapes were harvested from each fragment and prepared for counts of colony forming units (CFU)/mL. The data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis, followed by Student–Newman–Keuls (⍺ =0.05). Results: Regarding SM, groups CCLASER and CCLED showed a significant reduction in CFU/mL, which was statistically superior to the SCLASER, SCLED and C groups. Regarding LC, the groups CCLASER and CCLED caused a significant reduction in CFU/mL when compared with SCLASER, which showed intermediate values. SCLED and C had a lesser effect on reducing CFU/mL, where the former showed values similar to those of SCLASER. Conclusions: In conclusion, PDT combined with LASER or LED and methylene blue had a significant antimicrobial effect on cariogenic bacteria in the dentin.
From Bed to Bench: Bridging from Informatics Practice to Theory
Authors: Lehmann C.U. , Haux R.
Published: October 2014

Background: In 2009, Applied Clinical Informatics (ACI) – focused on applications in clinical informatics – was launched as a companion journal to Methods of Information in Medicine (MIM). Both journals are official journals of the International Medical Informatics Association.

Objectives: To explore which congruencies and interdependencies exist in publications from theory to practice and from practice to theory and to determine existing gaps. Major topics discussed in ACI and MIM were analyzed. We explored if the intention of publishing companion journals to provide an information bridge from informatics theory to informatics practice and vice versa could be supported by this model. In this manuscript we will report on congruencies and interdependences from practice to theory and on major topics in MIM.

Methods: Retrospective, prolective observational study on recent publications of ACI and MIM. All publications of the years 2012 and 2013 were indexed and analyzed.

Results: Hundred and ninety-six publications were analyzed (ACI 87, MIM 109). In MIM publications, modelling aspects as well as methodological and evaluation approaches for the analysis of data, information, and knowledge in biomedicine and health care were frequently raised – and often discussed from an interdisciplinary point of view. Important themes were ambient-assisted living, anatomic spatial relations, biomedical informatics as scientific discipline, boosting, coding, computerized physician order entry, data analysis, grid and cloud computing, health care systems and services, health-enabling technologies, health information search, health information systems, imaging, knowledge-based decision support, patient records, signal analysis, and web science. Congruencies between journals could be found in themes, but with a different focus on content. Interdependencies from practice to theory, found in these publications, were only limited.

Conclusions: Bridging from informatics theory to practice and vice versa remains a major component of successful research and practice as well as a major challenge.

Citation: Haux R, Lehmann CU. From bed to bench: Bridging from informatics practice to theory – an exploratory analysis. Appl Clin Inf 2014; 5: 907–915

http://dx.doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2014-10-RA-0095
Thermal imaging as a modern form of pyrometry
Authors: Kienitz U.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Pyrometers and thermography cameras used to be characterized by different specifications and technical definitions. After an analysis of the market situation and the physical basics, the following article describes common methods to determine optical and thermal key parameters. Based on this, aspects of future sensor developments and certain applications of infrared (IR) cameras are discussed. (This article was first published in the journal tm – Technisches Messen, Vol. 81, No. 3, 2014, a volume which is dedicated to the memory of Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Ludwig Walther.)
Stand and tree-level variability on stem form and tree volume in Pinus pinea L.: A multilevel random components approach
Authors: Calama R. , Montero G.
Published: October 2014

Stem analysis data from 536 sampled trees located in 36 permanent sample plots were used to develop a taper function which allows flexible end products volume estimation for stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) in Spain. To alleviate inference problems derived from high correlation among observations a multilevel linear mixed approach, including random coefficients varying at both plot and tree levels, was used. The proposed taper function expresses the section diameter as a function of breast height diameter and relative height of the section, showing a logical behaviour at both breast and total height. Between and within plot stem form variability was explained by including explanatory covariates as basal area or distance independent competition indices. Mixed models allow calibration of the model for new locations, by predicting random coefficients if additional stem form measurements are available. Several alternatives of calibration, considering section diameters measured at different heights in a variable number of trees per plot, were compared between them, and with the basic marginal model and the marginal model including covariates. The best calibration alternative was to use additional section diameter measurements taken at 0.5 m height above ground. This model results in substantial improvement in stem form and single tree volume predictive ability over previously existing volume functions for the species, allowing size end-use classification for timber products.
Spatial surface-pattern analyses and boundary detection techniques applied in forest ecology
Authors: Camarero J. J. , Rozas V.
Published: October 2014

We review methods for uni- and multivariate surface pattern analysis and boundary detection used in forest ecology. A continuous surface pattern is defined as the locations of points (trees) in the space and the associated variable or variables. We illustrate useful methods to describe spatial patterns and infer the generating processes. We show the statistical basis and applied examples of univariate methods for binary (join counts) and quantitative variables (Moran and Geary correlograms, semivariograms, fractal dimension). We explain the calculus and interpretation of multivariate methods to describe surface patterns (Mantel test and correlogram) and their relationships with ordination methods. Finally, we show examples of techniques for boundary detection. Most analysed patterns corresponded to Pinus uncinata forests from the upper altitudinal limit in the Pyrenees or from a relict population. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each methodology and their applications in forest ecology.
Selección de especies y efecto del ciervo (Cervus elaphus L.) sobre arbustedos y matorrales de los Montes de Toledo, España central
Authors: Fernández-Olalla M. , Muñoz-Igualada J. , Martínez-Jauregui M. , Rodríguez-Vigal C. , San Miguel-Ayanz A.
Published: October 2014

Los sistemas agroforestales (mosaicos de bosques, arbustedos, matorrales, pastos herbáceos y cultivos) dedicados a la caza del ciervo constituyen una forma rentable y creciente de uso territorial en la España mediterránea desde la década de 1960. Como consecuencia, las cargas cinegéticas han aumentado mucho y sobrepasan con frecuencia los 50 individuos/km2. Ello origina un nuevo problema de sustentabilidad para esos nuevos sistemas agroforestales. Este trabajo analiza la selección de especies leñosas por el ciervo y el efecto de sus poblaciones sobre arbustedos y matorrales de los Montes de Toledo. Se obtuvieron índices de selección para 33 especies leñosas comparando sus porcentajes de utilización (ramoneo) con los de disponibilidad. Phillyrea angustifolia, Arbutus unedo y Quercus faginea presentaron los máximos índices mientras que Thymus mastichina, Daphne gnidium y Pinus pinea exhibieron los más bajos. Las preferencias alimenticias no varíaron significativamente al hacerlo las cargas cinegéticas. El efecto de una carga del orden de 35 ciervos/km2 parece superar el límite de sustentabilidad, incluso teniendo en cuenta que en el área de estudio existen pastos sembrados y cultivos disponibles para los ciervos.
Spatial distribution of sporocarp production of ECM fungi Amanita ponderosa Malençon & R. Heim during six consecutive years at a holm-oak forest (dehesa) in the Sierra de Aracena (Huelva)
Authors: Daza A. , Camacho M. , Romero de la Osa L. , Manjón J. L. , Moreno G. , Santamaría C.
Published: October 2014

Number and location of Amanita ponderosa Malençon & R. Heim sporocarps was followed through six years in a 3 ha holm-oak forest located in the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Natural Park (Huelva), at the Southwest of Spain. The data indicated that patches of sporocarp production showed a very similar shape each year, but some spots showed differences seeming crop alternance or mast years. This species only fructifies in spring, being the fruiting period from 6 to 8 weeks, what coincides with the increasing of air-temperature from mid February to April. Differences in fruiting period length and total sporocarp production are related to rainfall and temperature. Results suggest that rainfalls at the end of summer and early autumn are crucial for the next spring fruiting, but rainfalls during fruiting period seem to have less influence in sporocarp production. During the sporocarp production period, it was related to soil temperature.