bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planting Date Impacts on Soil Water Management, Plant Growth, and Weeds in Cover‐Crop‐Based No‐Till Corn Production
Authors: Wells M. Scott , Reberg‐Horton S. Chris , Mirsky Steven B.
Published: October 2015

Low input and organic farmers are utilizing cover crop mulches in corn (Zea mays L.) production. Corn planting is typically delayed to improve the efficacy of mechanical termination with roller‐crimpers. During the late spring, as cover crops are allowed to grow to maximize biomass production, soil moisture reserves can become depleted, thereby directly impacting early season growth of the subsequent cash crop. A 4 site‐year study was conducted in North Carolina (Goldsboro, Kinston, and Salisbury) to evaluate the effects of timing of corn planting after roller‐crimping a cover crop mulch, on soil moisture, crop stand, weed pressure and corn yield. Two cover crop mixtures were compared: winter pea [P/R, Pisum sativum ssp. arvense (L.) Poir.], and hairy vetch (HV/R, Vicia villosa Roth) were both mixed with cereal rye (Secale cereale L.). Both cover crop treatments produced biomass greater than 7000 kg ha−1 dry matter at all sites. Delayed planting after the cover crops were rolled‐crimped did not enhance the soil volumetric water content (VWC) within the upper 10 cm. However, at Kinston in 2012, the VWC was 23% greater in the HV/R when compared to P/R and no‐mulch treatments. The corn planting date across all 4 site‐years did not affect weed biomass. Corn (2011) in the cover crop treatments yielded equivalent to their weed‐free no‐till without cover crop mulch counterparts. These results support the viability of rolled‐crimped cover crop mulches as a lower energy input alternative to existing organic corn systems that rely solely on intensive tillage for weed management.
Retraction Notice: Generation of Knock down Tools for Transcription Factor 7-like-2 (TCF7L2) and Evaluation of its Expression Pattern in Developing Chicken Optic Tectum
Authors: Ahmad Nashrah N , Bano Shabana S
Published: October 2015

“The publishers have decided to retract the manuscript entitled “Generation of Knock Down Tools for Transcription
Factor 7-Like-2 (TCF7L2) and Evaluation of its Expression Pattern in Developing Chicken Optic Tectum” published in
MicroRNA, volume 4, issue 3, page numbers 209-216, 2015, for the following reasons”.
• Due to conflict of interests between authors and the Principal Investigator.
Performance and flow dynamics studies of polymeric optofluidic SERS sensors
Authors: Uusitalo S. , Hiltunen J. , Karioja P. , Siitonen S. , Kontturi V. , Myllylä R. , Kinnunen M. , Meglinski I.
Published: October 2015

We present a polymer-based optofluidic surface enhanced Raman scattering chip for biomolecule detection, serving as a disposable sensor choice with cost-effective production. The SERS substrate is fabricated by using industrial roll-to-roll UV-nanoimprinting equipment and integrated with adhesive-based polymeric microfluidics. The functioning of the SERS detection on-chip is confirmed and the effect of the polymer lid on the obtainable Raman spectra is analysed. Rhodamine 6G is used as a model analyte to demonstrate continuous flow measurements on a planar SERS substrate in a microchannel. The relation between the temporal response of the sensors and sample flow dynamics is studied with varied flow velocities, using SERS and fluorescence detection. The response time of the surface-dependent SERS signal is longer than the response time of the fluorescence signal of the bulk flow. This observation revealed the effect of convection on the temporal SERS responses at 25 µl/min to 1000 µl/min flow velocities. The diffusion of analyte molecules from the bulk concentration into the sensing surface induces about a 40-second lag time in the SERS detection. This lag time, and its rising trend with slower flow velocities, has to be taken into account in future trials of the optofluidic SERS sensor, with active analyte binding on the sensing surface.
Experimental demonstration of extended depth-of-field f/1.2 visible High Definition camera with jointly optimized phase mask and real-time digital processing
Authors: Burcklen M.-A. , Diaz F. , Leprêetre F. , Rollin J. , Delboulbé A. , Lee M.-S. L. , Loiseaux B. , Koudoli A. , Denel S. , Millet P. , Duhem F. , Lemonnier F. , Sauer H. , Goudail F.
Published: October 2015

Increasing the depth of field (DOF) of compact visible high resolution cameras while maintaining high imaging performance in the DOF range is crucial for such applications as night vision goggles or industrial inspection. In this paper, we present the end-to-end design and experimental validation of an extended depth-of-field visible High Definition camera with a very small f-number, combining a six-ring pyramidal phase mask in the aperture stop of the lens with a digital deconvolution. The phase mask and the deconvolution algorithm are jointly optimized during the design step so as to maximize the quality of the deconvolved image over the DOF range. The deconvolution processing is implemented in real-time on a Field-Programmable Gate Array and we show that it requires very low power consumption. By mean of MTF measurements and imaging experiments we experimentally characterize the performance of both cameras with and without phase mask and thereby demonstrate a significant increase in depth of field of a factor 2.5, as it was expected in the design step.
Kashmiri Orphan: Fragile Sections of Society
Authors: Irshad Irshad Ahmad
Published: October 2015

The future of child wholly and solely depends upon parents their mentality, their behavior, their assets etc. A family with sound economy can make their children sound in all walks of life. But unfortunate thing for an orphan is that he/she lacks this valuable guardian i.e, parents. The children lost the parental support while as thousands of families lost their bread earners. How an orphan can survive smoothly in this expensive and cunning world. So far as orphan of Jammu and Kashmir are concerned, they are in constant strain, anxiety, stress due to the situation of armed conflict from last two decades and Kashmir region in particular has been the most affected. The conflict has led to the loss of human resource and caused infrastructural damage to some of the important institutions. Here the orphan number is far beyond than normal as compared to other states of India. In this paper it is an attempt to showcase the condition, challenges and the position of orphans in Kashmir region. It also mentions the role of government in attempting to reduce the number of orphans and in the rehabilitation of conflict affected victims. Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-2, issue-4: 327-332
Cultural Rights of Traditional Musicians in Ethiopia: Threats and Challenges of Globalisation of Music Culture
Authors: Pati R.N. , Yousuf Shaik B. , Kiros Abebaw
Published: October 2015

Ethiopia upholds unique cultural heritage and diverse music history in entire African continent. The traditional music heritage of Ethiopia has been globally recognized with its distinct music culture and symbolic manifestation. The traditional songs and music of the country revolves around core chord of their life and culture. The modern music of Ethiopia has been blended with combination of elements from traditional Ethiopian music and western music which has created a new trend in the music world. The music tradition of the country not only maintains the cultural identity but also maintains social cohesion through cultural expression at different social occasions and resists cultural changes infused through globalization. The globalization has brought a series of transformation and changes in the world of Ethiopian music through commercialization, commodification and digitalization of cultural expressions apart from hijacking the cultural rights of traditional musicians. The younger generations have been attracted towards western music undermining the aesthetic and cultural value of music tradition of the country. The international enactments relating to protection and safeguarding of cultural rights of people are yet to be appropriately translated into reality. The emergence of culture industries and entertainment houses has posed serious threats to local culture and led to disappearance of local traditions, musical heritage and their replacement by popular global music. The cultural homogeneity and commodification has replaced the multiplicity of cultures in this globalized era. This paper based on review of published articles and content analysis critically unfolds sensitive areas of cultural shock and violation of cultural rights exposed to traditional musicians and traditional singers of Ethiopia during last couple of decades.Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-2, issue-4: 315-326
Role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Higher Education of SC/ST
Authors: Ramachandrappa S. , Ravi Kumar P. , Vinodh Kumar G.C.
Published: October 2015

Globalization process has affected many aspects of human life. Education in general and higher education in particular is no exception to it. Globalization gathered momentum in higher education in the second half of 1990. Education as a service industry is a part of globalization process becoming commodity in the third world (TW) countries like India. Universities and higher education system in India and Asia have become the agents of both internationalization and globalization. Indian society which is historically characterized by high degree of social stratification and institutional in equally governed by caste system where a huge section of SC/STs population stand at the bottom of caste hierarchy and denied equal rights in education. The objective of this paper is to find out the role of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) in promoting higher education among SC/STs and also to find out whether SC/STs are able to transform themselves to fit into the current education system and are they able to place themselves in this new knowledge economy which is the result of globalization and Information communication and Technology development in India. The findings show that SC/STs still remain discriminated in education and there are major constraints for them in taking up higher education.Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-2, issue-4: 304-307
The 600°C and 800°C isothermal sections of the Zn–V–Sb system
Authors: Peng Siyuan , Zhu Zhongxi , Ma Wenbo , Xu Qilin , Chen Meiliang , Yin Fucheng
Published: October 2015

Phase relations in the Zn–V–Sb ternary system have been studied experimentally for the whole composition range for two temperatures, 600°C and 800°C, using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectrometry and X-ray diffraction. The ternary compound VZnSb, mentioned in the literature, still exists at 600°C, but disappears at 800°C. Moreover, the experimental results indicate that eight tri-phase regions could be confirmed in the system at 600°C, and four tri-phase regions exist in the 800°C isothermal section. The maximum solubility of Zn in V3Sb2 and V3Sb is up to 14.3 at.% and 3.6 at.% at 600°C, and 6.2 at.% and 2.7 at.% at 800°C, respectively.
Catalytic conversion of N2O over palladium catalysts based on dealuminated faujasite
Authors: Najar Hanene , Zina Mongia Saïd , Delahay Gerard , Ghorbel Abdelhamid
Published: October 2015

Dealumination of the faujasite support was realised using a hydrothermal treatment at different temperatures (625 – 700°C). Then palladium catalysts were prepared by an ion exchange method. The prepared catalysts exhibited a high and constant activity up to 100% for N2O conversion. This performance was dependent on certain parameters, such as a high Si/Al ratio, the structural properties of the zeolitic support, and the metal function provided by the palladium. In addition, it is considered that the active sites in the reaction, which are suspected to be PdO, are influenced by the acidic properties of the support.
Development of Systemic and Topical Drugs to Treat Non-muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Jarow Jonathan , Maher V. Ellen , Tang Shenghui , Ibrahim Amna , Kim Geoffrey , Sridhara Rajeshwari , Pazdur Richard
Published: October 2015

There are few approved drugs available for the treatment of patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and none have been approved in the twenty-first century. Four drugs; thiotepa in 1959, BCG Tice in 1989, BCG Connaught in 1990, and valrubicin in 1998, have been approved for the treatment of NMIBC. In addition to these four agents, mitomycin is commonly used off-label as an intravesical treatment for NMIBC. New drugs are needed for the management of NMIBC. This article outlines important aspects of the design and conduct of clinical trials to develop new therapies for these patients and to obtain marketing approval. It includes a discussion of the patient population, BCG-unresponsive disease, and the appropriate endpoints for drug approval. It is hoped that this article will spur drug development in NMIBC within the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research at the Food and Drug Administration.
The Role of Population-Based Observational Research in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Robinson Andrew G. , Izard Jason P. , Booth Christopher M.
Published: October 2015

While clinical trials have led to many advances in the treatment of bladder cancer, important gaps in knowledge persist. Population-based studies have made important contributions to what is known about bladder cancer and can contribute unique insights to practice and policy. In addition to evaluating effectiveness of interventions in routine practice, population-based studies can identify gaps between evidence and practice, and generate knowledge that cannot be gained from clinical trials. In this review we will highlight how population-based research has informed practice, policy, and the research agenda for bladder cancer.
The Prognostic Value of Previous Irradiation on Survival of Bladder Cancer Patients
Authors: Krughoff Kevin , Lhungay Tamara P. , Barqawi Zuhair , O’Donnell Colin , Kamat Ashish , Wilson Shandra
Published: October 2015

Background: Radiation exposure is an established risk factor for bladder cancer, however consensus is lacking on the survival characteristics of bladder cancer patients with a history of radiation therapy (RT). Confounding patient comorbidities and baseline characteristics hinders prior attempts at developing such a consensus.

Objective: To compare the survival characteristics of patients with suspected radiation-induced second primary cancer (RISPC) of the bladder to those with de novo bladder cancer, taking into account the patient comorbidities and baseline characteristics predictive of survival.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients with muscle-invasive (≥T2a) or BCG-refractory stage Tis-T1 urothelial bladder cancer. Patients were excluded if prior RT exposure was used as treatment for bladder cancer or if cause of death was due to post-operative complications. A digit matching propensity score algorithm was used to match patients with prior radiation treatment to those without prior treatment. Cox regression analysis for time until death was performed following creation of the propensity score matched sample.

Results: 29 patients with history of RT were matched with two controls each, resulting in a dataset of 87 observations in the event model. Results from the Cox model indicate a significantly increased hazard ratio for death at 2.22 ( p = 0.047, 95% CI: 1.015–4.860) given a history of prior radiation therapy.

Conclusions: In a small cohort, bladder cancer patients who underwent cystectomy had a significantly higher risk of death in the face of prior pelvic RT. This effect was found to be independent of surgical complications, numerous established patient characteristics and comorbidities traditionally predictive of survival.
Suitability study of some surface water samples of Madhupur tract for irrigation, aquaculture and livestock consumption
Authors: Nizam MU , Zaman MW , Rahman MM , Islam MS
Published: October 2015

Surface water samples from beel, river and canal of Madhupur Tract in Bangladesh were collected and analysed to find out the suitability of those water for irrigation, aquaculture and livestock consumption. Most of the samples were alkaline in nature only two samples were found acidic (pH 4.25 and 4.00). Out of 17 samples, 11 were limiting for irrigation and 15 were unsuitable for aquaculture with respect to pH values. Electrical conductivity (EC) rated maximum samples as good category for irrigation. TDS categorized the samples as fresh water for irrigation and were suitable for livestock, drinking and aquaculture. Chloride content of a few samples were beyond recommended limit for livestock. Micronutrient concentrations were alarming for livestock and aquaculture. Cu, Mn, Fe and Zn quantities categorized all the samples unsuitable for aquaculture. Most of the samples were also unsuitable for livestock due to higher Fe and Mn contents. Ca, Na, K and P quantities of all the samples were within safe limit for irrigation, aquaculture and livestock, but Mg contents of 8 samples were above recommended limit for aquaculture. Boron level classified 4 samples as good13 as excellent for irrigation. SAR and EC combinedly rated all the samples as medium salinity and low alkalinity class (C2S1) and hardness categorized the waters in soft, moderately hard and hard water class for irrigation. Considering all parameters not a single sample was found suitable for irrigation, livestock consumption, and aquaculture.Progress. Agric. 2014. 25: 9-16
Constraints and opportunities of raw jute production: a household level analysis in Bangladesh
Authors: Sheheli S , Roy B
Published: October 2015

The study was conducted to investigate the existing status and practices of jute cultivation. A total of 100 farmers were interviewed by using a structured interview schedule from two villages (Damor and Nathpara) of Kishoregonj sadar upazila of Kishoregonj district at their houses and/or farm sites during April to June 2014. The study confirmed that most farmers have improved their socio-economic conditions through jute cultivation. The impact analysis of jute cultivation on livelihood of jute farmers shows that overall 61% jute farmers have increased overall livelihood from jute cultivation during the last four years (2011-2014). Deshi variety of jute has been widely grown across the region due to its wider adaptability and quality fiber. Jute area has been increased and some rice field has been replaced by jute due to its high demand in country. In addition, farmers are motivated to cultivate jute. But study revealed that productivity ranged from 750 kg to 1022 kg per hectare that are lower than other jute growing areas of Bangladesh. Average cost of production of fiber was estimated at Tk 15/kg. The study indicates that the maximum production cost has involved in fiber extraction (20%) and weeding (20%). The study also revealed that lack of quality seed, high cost of jute production, lack of training facilities, inadequate credit facilities, high disease infestation, high price of inputs, unstable jute price, shortage of labor at peak period, lack of retting water and weed problem were the main constraints in jute production and processing. For the sustain of jute cultivation in the study area, it would be better to provide subsidies on seeds and fertilizer to jute farmers thereby profit margin becomes high and will encourage growers in producing more raw jute within the country for the fulfillment of raw jute requirement of local jute industries. Cost effective technologies have to be developed in jute production and processing aspects for lowering the production cost and increasing the profit margin.Progress. Agric. 2014. 25: 38-46
Introduction: Cultures of Disaster
Authors: Ekström Anders , Kverndokk Kyrre
Published: October 2015

No abstract available.
Who’s Calling the Emergency? The Black Panthers, Securitisation and the Question of Identity
Authors: Illner Peer
Published: October 2015

This article intervenes in a debate in cultural disaster studies that interprets disasters as objects, whose study opens up an understanding of societies’ fears, anxieties and vulnerabilities. Widening the scope of disaster studies, it proposes to view disaster not as an object but as an optics, a matrix that frames elements of social life as an emergency. Presenting the case of the American Black Panther Party for Self-Defense through a framework of security studies, the article explores the Black Panthers’ politics as a process of societal securitisation that allowed African Americans to mobilise politically by proclaiming an emergency. It traces a political trajectory that ranged from an early endorsement of revolutionary violence to the promotion of community services and casts this journey as a negotiation of the question of identity and ontological security in times of crisis. Drawing on Black studies and on stigma theory, it suggests finally, that the Panthers’ abandonment of violence represented a shift from identity-politics to an engagement with structural positionality.
Towards an integrated approach to emergency management: interdisciplinary challenges for research and practice
Authors: Webersik Christian , Gonzalez Jose J , Dugdale Julie , Munkvold Bjørn Erik , Granmo Ole-Christoffer
Published: October 2015

This article presents an interdisciplinary vision for large-scale integrated emergency management that has been inspired by the transition from platform centric to integrated operations in the oil and gas fields, which uses remote emergency control centres collaborating virtually with local responders. The article discusses some of the most salient research challenges for integrated emergency management, including the role of mobile technology, human-centred sensing, citizen participation and social media, and the socio-cultural determinants of disaster management. The purpose of this article is to frame an integrated emergency management approach that adopts a multi-disciplinary approach, including human computer interaction, information systems, computer science, development studies and organization science employing different methodologies.Most importantly, we need to better understand the socio-cultural determinants of how people prepare to, respond and perceive disasters, in order to evaluate whether and what kind of information and communication technology (ICT) support is appropriate. There is need for more research as to why in some regions local people ignore official orders to evacuate, and rather follow the advice of local leaders, elders or religious leaders. In other instances, disasters are seen as ‘acts of God’ thus shaping disaster preparedness and response.
The Role of Environmental Factors in the Development of Celiac Disease: What Is New?
Authors: Lionetti Elena , Catassi Carlo
Published: October 2015

Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic immune-mediated disorder caused by the ingestion of gluten-containing grains in genetically susceptible persons. It is one of the most common lifelong disorders, affecting approximately 1% of the general population. The prevalence of CD has increased in developed countries over recent decades, pointing to the role of additional environmental triggers other than gluten. It has been hypothesized that intestinal infections, the amount and quality of gluten, the intestinal microbiota, and early nutrition are all possible triggers of the switch from tolerance to an immune response to gluten. Two recent randomized controlled trials have been performed to clarify the relationship between the age at which gluten is introduced to a child’s diet and the risk of CD, showing that timing of gluten introduction does not modify the risk of CD. Both trials also showed that breastfeeding compared with no breastfeeding or breastfeeding duration or breastfeeding during gluten introduction have no effect on the risk of CD. The two trials, although not designed to address this issue, have shown that intestinal infections seem not to influence the risk of CD. Further studies are still needed to explore the missing environmental factors of CD for future prevention.
Economically Efficient Power Storage Operation by Dealing with the Non-Normality of Power Prediction
Authors: Yano Shiro , Taniguchi Tadahiro
Published: October 2015

Various predictive models about the residential energy demand and residential renewable energy production have been proposed. Recent studies have confirmed that they are not normally distributed over time. The increase in renewable energy installation has brought the issue of energy storage charge and discharge control. Thus, storage control methods that properly address non-normality are required. In this paper, we formulated the economically optimal storage control problem using Markov decision process (MDP) and the conditional value at risk (CVaR) measure to deal with the non-normality of predictive distribution about the household’s net load. The CVaR measure was employed to treat with the chance constraint on the battery capacitor, in other words, overcharge risk and over-discharge risk. We conducted a simulation to compare the annual economic saving performances between two MDPs: one is the MDP with a Gaussian predictive distribution and the other is the MDP with a normalized frequency distribution (non-normal). We used the real time series of 35 residential energy consumption and PV generation data in Japan. The importance of addressing the non-normality of random variables was shown by our simulation.
Altered Hippocampal Lipid Profile Following Acute Postnatal Exposure to Di(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate in Rats
Authors: Smith Catherine , Farmer Kyle , Lee Hyunmin , Holahan Matthew , Smith Jeffrey
Published: October 2015

Slight changes in the abundance of certain lipid species in the brain may drastically alter normal neurodevelopment via membrane stability, cell signalling, and cell survival. Previous findings have demonstrated that postnatal exposure to di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) disrupts normal axonal and neural development in the hippocampus. The goal of the current study was to determine whether postnatal exposure to DEHP alters the lipid profile in the hippocampus during postnatal development. Systemic treatment with 10 mg/kg DEHP during postnatal development led to elevated levels of phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin in the hippocampus of female rats. There was no effect of DEHP exposure on the overall abundance of phosphatidylcholine or sphingomyelin in male rats or of lysophosphatidylcholine in male or female rats. Individual analyses of each identified lipid species revealed 10 phosphatidylcholine and six sphingomyelin lipids in DEHP-treated females and a single lysophosphatidylcholine in DEHP-treated males with a two-fold or higher increase in relative abundance. Our results are congruent with previous work that found that postnatal exposure to DEHP had a near-selective detrimental effect on hippocampal development in males but not females. Together, results suggest a neuroprotective effect of these elevated lipid species in females.
Rare Titin (TTN) Variants in Diseases Associated with Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Campuzano Oscar , Sanchez-Molero Olallo , Mademont-Soler Irene , Riuró Helena , Allegue Catarina , Coll Monica , Pérez-Serra Alexandra , Mates Jesus , Picó Ferran , Iglesias Anna , Brugada Ramon
Published: October 2015

A leading cause of death in western countries is sudden cardiac death, and can be associated with genetic disease. Next-generation sequencing has allowed thorough analysis of genes associated with this entity, including, most recently, titin. We aimed to identify potentially pathogenic genetic variants in titin. A total of 1126 samples were analyzed using a custom sequencing panel including major genes related to sudden cardiac death. Our cohort was divided into three groups: 432 cases from patients with cardiomyopathies, 130 cases from patients with channelopathies, and 564 post-mortem samples from individuals showing anatomical healthy hearts and non-conclusive causes of death after comprehensive autopsy. None of the patients included had definite pathogenic variants in the genes analyzed by our custom cardio-panel. Retrospective analysis comparing the in-house database and available public databases also was performed. We identified 554 rare variants in titin, 282 of which were novel. Seven were previously reported as pathogenic. Of these 554 variants, 493 were missense variants, 233 of which were novel. Of all variants identified, 399 were unique and 155 were identified at least twice. No definite pathogenic variants were identified in any of genes analyzed. We identified rare, mostly novel, titin variants that seem to play a potentially pathogenic role in sudden cardiac death. Additional studies should be performed to clarify the role of these variants in sudden cardiac death.
Multivariate Quantification of the Solid State Phase Composition of Co-Amorphous Naproxen-Indomethacin
Authors: Beyer Andreas , Grohganz Holger , Löbmann Korbinian , Rades Thomas , Leopold Claudia
Published: October 2015

To benefit from the optimized dissolution properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients in their amorphous forms, co-amorphisation as a viable tool to stabilize these amorphous phases is of both academic and industrial interest. Reports dealing with the physical stability and recrystallization behavior of co-amorphous systems are however limited to qualitative evaluations based on the corresponding X-ray powder diffractograms. Therefore, the objective of the study was to develop a quantification model based on X-ray powder diffractometry (XRPD), followed by a multivariate partial least squares regression approach that enables the simultaneous determination of up to four solid state fractions: crystalline naproxen, γ-indomethacin, α-indomethacin as well as co-amorphous naproxen-indomethacin. For this purpose, a calibration set that covers the whole range of possible combinations of the four components was prepared and analyzed by XRPD. In order to test the model performances, leave-one-out cross validation was performed and revealed root mean square errors of validation between 3.11% and 3.45% for the crystalline molar fractions and 5.57% for the co-amorphous molar fraction. In summary, even four solid state phases, involving one co-amorphous phase, can be quantified with this XRPD data-based approach.
Supramolecular Complexation of Carbohydrates for the Bioavailability Enhancement of Poorly Soluble Drugs
Authors: Cho Eunae , Jung Seunho
Published: October 2015

In this review, a comprehensive overview of advances in the supramolecular complexes of carbohydrates and poorly soluble drugs is presented. Through the complexation process, poorly soluble drugs could be efficiently delivered to their desired destinations. Carbohydrates, the most abundant biomolecules, have diverse physicochemical properties owing to their inherent three-dimensional structures, hydrogen bonding, and molecular recognition abilities. In this regard, oligosaccharides and their derivatives have been utilized for the bioavailability enhancement of hydrophobic drugs via increasing the solubility or stability. By extension, polysaccharides and their derivatives can form self-assembled architectures with poorly soluble drugs and have shown increased bioavailability in terms of the sustained or controlled drug release. These supramolecular systems using carbohydrate will be developed consistently in the field of pharmaceutical and medical application.
Enhancing Solar Cell Efficiency Using Photon Upconversion Materials
Authors: Shang Yunfei , Hao Shuwei , Yang Chunhui , Chen Guanying
Published: October 2015

Photovoltaic cells are able to convert sunlight into electricity, providing enough of the most abundant and cleanest energy to cover our energy needs. However, the efficiency of current photovoltaics is significantly impeded by the transmission loss of sub-band-gap photons. Photon upconversion is a promising route to circumvent this problem by converting these transmitted sub-band-gap photons into above-band-gap light, where solar cells typically have high quantum efficiency. Here, we summarize recent progress on varying types of efficient upconversion materials as well as their outstanding uses in a series of solar cells, including silicon solar cells (crystalline and amorphous), gallium arsenide (GaAs) solar cells, dye-sensitized solar cells, and other types of solar cells. The challenge and prospect of upconversion materials for photovoltaic applications are also discussed
The Domains of Organizational Learning Practices: An Agency-Structure Perspective
Authors: Beauregard Nancy , Lemyre Louise , Barrette Jacques
Published: October 2015

Background: Organizational learning theory has retained considerable attention in the past decades from a wide array of academic disciplines in social sciences. Yet few integrative efforts have satisfactorily offered a comprehensive and systematic articulation of the concept of organizational learning with regards to: (a) its core constitutive dimensions and associated mechanisms; (b) the analytical levels from such mechanisms operate (e.g., workers, teams, organizations); as well as (c) their interplay. Methods: This article builds on a critical synthesis of predominant approaches in organizational learning theory (i.e., structural functionalist, social constructivist and middle range approaches), highlighting the contributions of each approach on the key analytical elements guiding our inquiry (i.e., core dimensions and associated mechanisms, analytical levels, interplay). Drawing from the work of sociologists Anthony Giddens and Margaret Archer on agency-structure theory, we develop a series of theoretical propositions supporting the Organizational Learning Practices (OLP) concept as a unifying heuristic tool. Results: OLP are defined as a set of collectively shared practices held by members of a given organization embedded in normative, political, and semantic dynamics. At the heart of such dynamics lies organizational knowledge as a power resource pivotal to the sustainable development of organizations, as well as that of their members. Conclusion: OLP offer promising answers to on-going debates in organizational learning theory, and we conclude by discussing concrete guidelines to advance research and practice on OLP.
The Effect of Contralateral Pure Tones on the Compound Action Potential in Humans: Efferent Tuning Curves
Authors: Najem Fadi , Ferraro John , Chertoff Mark
Published: October 2015

Background:The compound action potential (CAP) has been suggested in the literature as an alternative to otoacoustic emissions for evaluating the efferent auditory system. However, very few studies have examined efferent influence on auditory nerve potentials in humans.Purpose:This
study examines the effects of presenting contralateral pure tones on the ipsilateral CAP onset and offset amplitudes as a potential clinical tool for the assessment of efferent auditory function.Research Design:CAPs for 1- and 4-kHz tone pips (TPs) and clicks were recorded from 9, 9,
and 8 participants, respectively. Contralateral tones were presented at levels ranging from 20 to 70 dB HL in 10-dB steps. The frequencies of the contralateral tones were 0.5, 1, 2 kHz for the 1-kHz TP CAP; 2, 4, 8 kHz for the 4-kHz TP CAP; and 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8 kHz for the click CAP.Data
Analysis:The CAP onset and offset amplitudes in all experimental conditions were analyzed and compared to the CAP amplitude without contralateral stimulation (i.e., baseline).Results:Maximum suppression of 1-kHz TP CAP onset amplitude was obtained in seven out of nine participants
by the 1-kHz contralateral pure tone at 40 dB HL. The 4-kHz TP CAP onset amplitude was maximally suppressed in eight out of nine participants by the 8-kHz contralateral pure tone at 30 dB HL. The click CAP offset amplitude was maximally suppressed in four out of eight participants by the 8-kHz
contralateral tone presented at 40 dB HL. The 1- and 4-kHz TP CAP offset and click CAP onset amplitudes were not affected by contralateral stimulation.Conclusions:These results along with the previous studies may suggest that the efferent system is maximally stimulated by moderate signal-level
tones (i.e., 30‐40 dB HL), and that efferent activity is dependent on frequency cues of both the stimulus and suppressor tones. Other factors that might be affecting efferent influence on the CAP in humans such as sound duration, phase, bandwidth, and periodicity need to be further
investigated.
Calcium phosphate supplementation increases faecal Lactobacillus spp. in a randomised trial of young adults
Authors: Dahl W.J. , Ford A.L. , Coppola J.A. , Lopez D. , Combs W. , Rohani A. , Ukhanova M. , Culpepper T. , Tompkins T.A. , Christman M. , Mai V.
Published: October 2015

The aim of the studies was to determine the effects of calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate supplementation on faecal Lactobacillus spp., with and without a probiotic supplement, in healthy adults. Study 1 comprised of a randomised, double-blind, crossover design; participants (n=15) received 2 capsules/d of 250 mg elemental calcium as calcium carbonate (Ca1) and calcium phosphate (Ca2) each for 2-week periods, with 2-week baseline and washout periods. Study 2 was a randomised, double-blind, crossover design; participants (n=17) received 2 capsules/d of Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011 (probiotic) alone, the probiotic with 2 capsules/d of Ca1, and probiotic with 2 capsules/d of Ca2 each for 2-week periods with 2-week baseline and washout periods. In both studies, stools were collected during the baseline, intervention and washout periods for Lactobacillus spp. quantification and qPCR analyses. Participants completed daily questionnaires of stool frequency and compliance. In Study 1, neither calcium supplement influenced viable counts of resident Lactobacillus spp., genome equivalents of lactic acid bacteria or stool frequency. In Study 2, faecal Lactobacillus spp. counts were significantly enhanced from baseline when the probiotic was administered with Ca2 (4.83±0.30, 5.79±0.31) (P=0.02), but not with Ca1 (4.98±0.31) or with the probiotic alone (5.36±0.31, 5.55±0.29) (not significant). Detection of L. helveticus R0052 and L. rhamnosus R0011 was significantly increased with all treatments, but did not differ among treatments. There were no changes in weekly stool frequency. Calcium phosphate co-administration may increase gastrointestinal survival of orally-administered Lactobacillus spp.
Decreasing Psychiatric Admission Wait Time in the Emergency Department by Facilitating Psychiatric Discharges
Authors: Stover Pamela R. , Harpin Scott
Published: October 2015

Limited capacity in a psychiatric unit contributes to long emergency department (ED) admission wait times. Regulatory and accrediting agencies urge hospitals nationally to improve patient flow for better access to care for all types of patients. The purpose of the current study was to decrease psychiatric admission wait time from 10.5 to 8 hours and increase the proportion of patients discharged by 11 a.m. from 20% to 50%. The current study compared pre- and post-intervention data. Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles aimed to improve discharge processes and timeliness through initiation of new practices. Admission wait time improved to an average of 5.1 hours (
t
= 3.87,
p
= 0.006). The proportion of discharges occurring by 11 a.m. increased to 46% (odds ratio = 3.42,
p
< 0.0001). Improving discharge planning processes and timeliness in a psychiatric unit significantly decreased admission wait time from the ED, improving access to psychiatric care. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
,
53
(12), 20–27.]
Industrial and Agricultural Sources and Pathways of Aquatic Pollution
Authors: Voulvoulis Nikolaos , Georges Karyn
Published: October 2015

This chapter provides an introduction to the topic of aquatic pollution and looks at the major sources and pathways of pollutants to the environment from agriculture and industry. The section on agricultural pollution focuses on the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Industrial pollution covers a large topic and so three groups of pollutants are examined to provide an overview of the key issues faced within this sector.
Issues with Water Quality
Authors: Paris Rhana Smout
Published: October 2015

Research in how people attend to, process and recall information tells educators that there are better ways to present the case for clean aquatic environments so citizens will understand, appreciate, and care for water resources. Gone are the days of shocking the public with photos of dying fish or burying them in mountains of scientific facts. From creating a story to using tangibles and intangibles to weaving explanatory chains with appropriate metaphors, this chapter presents thirteen components of a well-designed message to present to an audience, a board or a grant provider.
Constructed Wetlands
Authors: Stefanakis Alexandros I.
Published: October 2015

Constructed Wetlands are an alternative, promising technology for water/wastewater treatment and pollution mitigation. They belong to the wider category of natural treatment systems. The main principle is to exploit natural materials (gravel, sand, plants) and naturally occurring processes under controlled conditions for treatment purposes. Constructed Wetlands have been characterized as an environmentally friendly, sustainable technology which provides multiple economic, ecological, technical and societal benefits. It is a rising technology which can be effectively used for domestic, municipal and industrial wastewater treatment, as also for sludge dewatering and drying. This chapter presents an overview of this eco-technology; its different types, main design considerations and various advantages over conventional treatment methods.
A Fundamental Study on the Shock Cushioning Characteristics of a Novel pin-Fixed Aseismatic Connector for Bridges
Authors: Yuki Yoichi , Tamai Hiroki , Wada Naoki , Sonoda Yoshimi , Kasugai Toshihiro
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a novel pin-fixed aseismatic connector for bridges. A feature of this device is that the anchorage areas of both ends are connected with hinges; thus, there are no restrictions with respect to their mounting angles. Additionally, the PC cable of this device is given an appropriate amount of sag; thus, within the range of the sag the structure is capable of absorbing the amount of displacement because of temperature changes and live loads. In addition, this device has a certain shock-cushioning effect because of the rubber material surrounding the hinge pins. However, there is no quantitative evaluation method on the shock-cushioning effect of this device. Therefore, in this study, the shock-cushioning effect of the novel pin-fixed aseismatic connector for bridges is investigated using impact load tests and numerical analysis. It is found that the shock-cushioning effect of this device is almost equal to similar aseismatic connectors. Furthermore, it is also confirmed that their effects can be quantitatively evaluated using impact response analysis.
Growth of ZnO Nanowires Using Au/Pd Nanoparticles as Catalyst
Authors: Solís-Pomar Francisco , Martínez-Guerra Eduardo , Meléndrez-Castro Manuel , Pérez-Tijerina Eduardo G.
Published: October 2015

. Zinc Oxide nanowires (ZnO-NWs) were grown by vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) with Au/Pd nanoparticles (Au/Pd-NPs) as catalyst. (Au/Pd)-NPs of 5 nm were synthesized by inert gas condensation technique (IGC), deposited on silicon substrates and characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The substrate with the catalytic seeds was introduced in the reaction system where the ZnO-NWs were grown under different conditions such as: system pressure, position of the substrates with respect to the precursor material source, growth time and temperature. The nanostructures obtained were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersed x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The growth parameters and the effect of catalyst nanoparticles coalescence on the ZnO-NWs dimensions is also discussed in this work.
Effect of Silicon on the Microstructure, Tensile Properties and Hot Tearing Susceptibility of AZ91E Alloy
Authors: Ravindran Comondore , Sin Sophie Lun
Published: October 2015

This Research Focused on Studying the Effect of Silicon on the Hot Tearing Susceptibility of Permanent Mould Cast AZ91E Magnesium Alloy. Varying Amounts of Silicon (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 Wt.%) Were Added to AZ91E in the Form of an Al-53 Wt.% Si Master Alloy. the Microstructure, Grain Size and Solidification Behavior of each Alloy Were Characterized and Related to their Tensile Properties and Hot Tearing Susceptibility. the Results Showed that the Tensile Strength and the Elongation of AZ91 Alloy Decreased with the Addition of Silicon at Room Temperature, due to the Formation of Chinese Script Mg2si Particles. however, Silicon Significantly Reduced the Hot Tearing Susceptibility of AZ91E. this Was Attributed to the Reduction of the Grain Size and the Decreased Freezing Range of AZ91E, which Contributed to Improve the Interdendritic Feeding during the Last Stage of Solidification.
World's First: Annular Barrier Installed in a Subsea, Deepwater Well without the Use of Cement
Authors: Jacinto C. C. , Nardi L. , Da Silva M. F. , Marques M. , Esteves P. , Maciel P. , Vasques R. Reves
Published: October 2015

It is widely recognized throughout the industry that as wells get deeper and well trajectories get more complex, the challenge to establish effective cement for zonal isolation (ZI) increases.

This paper will present the results of the world's first installation of a cementless liner using state-of-the-art well annular barrier technology within a subsea, deepwater, pre-salt well in Brazil. This new method demonstrates that maintaining an open sand face delivers lower skin and potentially higher productivity.
A New Boosting Concept: Pumps Installed Inside Production Risers in FPSOs
Authors: Rodrigues R. , Foresti B. P. , Vieira T. S. , de Franca A. B.
Published: October 2015

In oilfield exploitation, pumping is one of the most productive artificial lift methods. The use of downhole pumps, where applicable, allows increasing production. However, service life of this type of systems may be short, around 2.5 years for electrical submersible pumps - ESPs, one of the most widely used types. Furthermore, failures in wet completion subsea wells require tubing removal, a heavy workover operation, demanding high costs offshore rigs. Besides, due to production halt, revenues are impacted.

As a tendency for subsea wells, whenever allowed by production conditions, pumps are installed on the seabed, outside the production well. Depending upon the free gas fraction at pump intake, ESPs (with or without previous gas separation) or multiphase pumps may be used.

Examples of ESP usage outside the producing wells are the pumping module (MOBO) and the Skid-ESP. In such cases, ESPs strings are installed on the seabed. In cases of failure, ESP replacement is simpler and faster, executed by rigs or special vessels, avoiding the costly intervention in the production well. But, even saving resources due to the operation simplification, the costs of required naval resources and the time spent awaiting for their availability and mobilization are still high. Several days may pass from system failure until the intervention is finally performed.

At Perdido and Nansen Spar platforms, operated by Shell and Anadarko respectively, ESP were deployed and installed in the production risers. Recent developments of compact and high speed ESP may contribute for their placement inside production risers for other production unit types, FPSO, for instance.

This paper proposes a new boosting concept based pumps, ESP or Hydraulic Submersible Pumps - HSP, installed inside production risers in FPSO, comparing their advantages and disadvantages of the proposed concept to seabed ESP systems, multiphase pumps and gas-liquid separation systems.