bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and Implementing Scientific Hypothesis
Authors: Porto Fabio , Costa Ramon G. , Moura Ana Maria de C. , Gonçalves Bernardo
Published: December 2015

Computational Simulations are important tools that enable scientists to study complex phenomena about which few data is available or that require dangerous human interventions. They involve complex and heterogeneous components, including: mathematical equations, hypothesis, computational models and data. In order to support in-silico scientific research this complex environment needs to be modeled and have its data and metadata managed enabling model evolution, prediction analysis and decision-making. This paper proposes a scientific hypothesis conceptual model that allows scientists to represent the phenomenon been investigated, the hypotheses formulated in the attempt to explain it, and provides the ability to store results of experiment simulations with their corresponding provenance metadata. The proposed model supports scientific life-cycle through: provenance management, exchange of hypothesis as data, experiment reproducibility, model steering and simulation result analyses. A cardiovascular numerical simulation illustrates the applicability of the model and an initial implementation using SciDB is discussed.
Targeting Ornithine Decarboxylase by α-Difluoromethylornithine Inhibits Tumor Growth by Impairing Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells
Authors: Ye Cong , Geng Zhe , Dominguez Donye , Chen Siqi , Fan Jie , Qin Lei , Long Alan , Zhang Yi , Kuzel Timothy M. , Zhang Bin
Published: December 2015

α-Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) is currently used in chemopreventive regimens primarily for its conventional direct anticarcinogenesic activity. However, little is known about the effect of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) inhibition by DFMO on antitumor immune responses. We showed in this study that pharmacologic blockade of ODC by DFMO inhibited tumor growth in intact immunocompetent mice, but abrogated in the immunodeficient Rag1−/− mice, suggesting that antitumor effect of DFMO is dependent on the induction of adaptive antitumor T cell immune responses. Depletion of CD8+ T cells impeded the tumor-inhibiting advantage of DFMO. Moreover, DFMO treatment enhanced antitumor CD8+ T cell infiltration and IFN-γ production and augmented the efficacy of adoptive T cell therapy. Importantly, DFMO impaired Gr1+CD11b+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) suppressive activity through at least two mechanisms, including reducing arginase expression and activity and inhibiting the CD39/CD73-mediated pathway. MDSCs were one primary cellular target of DFMO as indicated by both adoptive transfer and MDSC-depletion analyses. Our findings establish a new role of ODC inhibition by DFMO as a viable and effective immunological adjunct in effective cancer treatment, thereby adding to the growing list of chemoimmunotherapeutic applications of these agents.
Classical warm up phenomenon of atrial tachycardia
Authors: Ali Amjad , Manjunath Cholenahally N.
Published: December 2015

Not available.
Effect of platelet-rich plasma and microfracture reparative technique combined in chondral lesions treatment
Authors: Zedde Pietro , Cudoni Sebastiano , Lisai Pietro , Fadda Mario , Manunta Andrea Fabio
Published: December 2015

The microfracture surgery introduced by Stedman despite limitations still represents the most common procedure to repair chondral defects. In recent years other regeneration techniques, such as the implantation of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), have been adopted in combination to boost and promote successful outcomes. This study aimed at evaluating clinical and functional results in 60 patients affected by chondral lesions and treated only using the microfracture procedure or in combination with intra-articular PRP infiltration. Patients were sub-divided in 2 groups: 30 were treated with microfracture reparative technique and the remaining 30 microfractures were treated with 3 platelet-rich plasma intra-articular injections. All patients were postoperatively evaluated based on the visual along scale, International Knee Documentation Committee, subjective knee function, and Lysholm knee scoring scale. The evaluation results for each follow-up showed an improvement of all evaluation scores compared to the preoperative phase and a variable and progressive deterioration registered at 24, 36 and 48-month follow-up visits, more pronounced in patients treated with microfracture alone. Instead, more successful outcomes in terms of pain symptomatology and functional recovery were reported during all follow-up visits and based on all scoring scales for the 30 patients treated with a combination of both techniques. The combination of the micro fracture reparative technique and the platelet-rich plasma implantation favoured a faster resolution of pain symptomatology and a quicker functional recovery with favourable results maintained over time.
Суммы модулей коэффициентов Уолша-Адамара булевых функций
Authors: De La Krus Khimenes R A , Kamlovskii Oleg Vital'evich
Published: December 2015

В работе приводятся достижимые оценки снизу и сверху для сумм модулей коэффициентов Уолша-Адамара булевых функций от $n$ переменных. Вычисляются средние значения рассматриваемых сумм в классе всех булевых функций от $n$ переменных и его подклассе, состоящем из всех сбалансированных функций. Строятся классы сбалансированных нелинейных функций у которых суммы модулей коэффициентов Уолша-Адамара близки к соответствующим нижним и верхним оценкам
Oceanic bromoform emissions weighted by their ozone depletion potential
Authors: Tegtmeier S. , Ziska F. , Pisso I. , Quack B. , Velders G. J. M. , Yang X. , Krüger K.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. At present, anthropogenic halogens and oceanic emissions of very short-lived substances (VSLSs) both contribute to the observed stratospheric ozone depletion. Emissions of the long-lived anthropogenic halogens have been reduced and are currently declining, whereas emissions of the biogenic VSLSs are expected to increase in future climate due to anthropogenic activities affecting oceanic production and emissions. Here, we introduce a new approach for assessing the impact of oceanic halocarbons on stratospheric ozone by calculating their ozone depletion potential (ODP)-weighted emissions. Seasonally and spatially dependent, global distributions are derived within a case-study framework for CHBr3 for the period 1999–2006. At present, ODP-weighted emissions of CHBr3 amount up to 50 % of ODP-weighted anthropogenic emissions of CFC-11 and to 9 % of all long-lived ozone depleting halogens. The ODP-weighted emissions are large where strong oceanic emissions coincide with high-reaching convective activity and show pronounced peaks at the Equator and the coasts with largest contributions from the Maritime Continent and western Pacific Ocean. Variations of tropical convective activity lead to seasonal shifts in the spatial distribution of the trajectory-derived ODP with the updraught mass flux, used as a proxy for trajectory-derived ODP, explaining 71 % of the variance of the ODP distribution. Future climate projections based on the RCP 8.5 scenario suggest a 31 % increase of the ODP-weighted CHBr3 emissions by 2100 compared to present values. This increase is related to a larger convective updraught mass flux in the upper troposphere and increasing emissions in a future climate. However, at the same time, it is reduced by less effective bromine-related ozone depletion due to declining stratospheric chlorine concentrations. The comparison of the ODP-weighted emissions of short- and long-lived halocarbons provides a new concept for assessing the overall impact of oceanic halocarbon emissions on stratospheric ozone depletion for current conditions and future projections.
Dual-wavelength light-scattering technique for selective detection of volcanic ash particles in the presence of water droplets
Authors: Jurányi Z. , Burtscher H. , Loepfe M. , Nenkov M. , Weingartner E.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. A new method is presented in this paper which analyses the scattered light of individual aerosol particles simultaneously at two different wavelengths in order to retrieve information on the particle type. We show that dust-like particles, such as volcanic ash, can be unambiguously discriminated from water droplets on a single-particle level. As a future application of this method, the detection of volcanic ash particles should be possible in a humid atmosphere in the presence of cloud droplets. The characteristic behaviour of pure water's refractive index can be used to separate water droplets and dust-like particles which are commonly found in the micrometre size range in the ambient air. The low real part of the water's refractive index around 2700–2800 nm results in low scattered light intensities compared to e.g. the visible wavelength range, and this feature can be used for the desired particle identification. The two-wavelength measurement set-up was theoretically and experimentally tested and studied. Theoretical calculations were done using Mie theory. Comparing the ratio of the scattered light at the two wavelengths (visible-to-IR (infrared), R value) for water droplets and different dust types (basalt, andesite, African mineral dust, sand, volcanic ash, pumice) showed at least 9-times-higher values (on average 70 times) for water droplets than for the dust types at any diameter within the particle size range of 2–20 μm. The envisaged measurement set-up was built up into a laboratory prototype and was tested with different types of aerosols. We generated aerosols from the following powders, simulating dust-like particles: cement dust, ISO 12103-1 A1 Ultrafine Test Dust and ash from the 2012 eruption of the Etna volcano. Our measurements verified the theoretical considerations; the median experimental R value is 8–21 times higher for water than for the "dust" particles.
Validation of GOSAT/TANSO-FTS TIR UTLS CO2 data (Version 1.0) using CONTRAIL measurements
Authors: Saitoh N. , Kimoto S. , Sugimura R. , Imasu R. , Kawakami S. , Shiomi K. , Kuze A. , Machida T. , Sawa Y. , Matsueda H.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. The thermal infrared (TIR) band of the Thermal and Near Infrared Sensor for Carbon Observation (TANSO)–Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) on board the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) has been observing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in several atmospheric layers since its launch. This study compared TANSO-FTS TIR V1.0 CO2 data and CO2 data obtained in the Comprehensive Observation Network for TRace gases by AIrLiner (CONTRAIL) project in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS), where the TIR band of TANSO-FTS is most sensitive to CO2 concentrations, to validate the quality of the TIR V1.0 UTLS CO2 data from 287 to 162 hPa. From a comparison made during flights between Tokyo and Sydney, the averages of the TIR upper atmospheric CO2 data agreed well with the averages of the data obtained by the CONTRAIL Continuous CO2 Measuring Experiment (CME) within 0.1 % for all of the seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. The results of a comparison for all of the eight airline routes showed that the agreement between the TIR and CONTRAIL CO2 data was within 0.5 % on average in the Northern Hemisphere, which was better than the agreement between a priori and CONTRAIL CO2 data. The quality of TIR lower stratospheric CO2 data depends largely on the information content, and therefore has a seasonal dependence. In high latitudes, TIR V1.0 lower stratospheric CO2 data are only valid in the summer. The magnitude of bias in the TIR upper atmospheric CO2 data did not have a clear longitudinal dependence. The comparison results for flights in northern low and middle latitudes showed that the agreement between TIR and CONTRAIL CO2 data in the upper troposphere was worse in the spring and summer than in the fall and winter. This could be attributed to a larger negative bias in the upper atmospheric a priori CO2 data in the spring and summer and a seasonal dependence of spectral bias in TANSO-FTS TIR Level 1B (L1B) radiance data. The negative bias in northern middle latitudes made the maximum of TIR CO2 concentrations lower than that of CONTRAIL CO2 concentrations, which leads to underestimate the amplitude of CO2 seasonal variation.
The potential of clear-sky carbon dioxide satellite retrievals
Authors: Nelson R. R. , O'Dell C. W. , Taylor T. E. , Mandrake L. , Smyth M.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Since the launch of the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) in 2009, retrieval algorithms designed to infer the column-averaged dry-air mole fraction of carbon dioxide (XCO2) from hyperspectral near-infrared observations of reflected sunlight have been greatly improved. They now generally include the scattering effects of clouds and aerosols, as early work found that absorption-only retrievals, which neglected these effects, often incurred unacceptably large errors, even for scenes with optically thin cloud or aerosol layers. However, these "full-physics" retrievals tend to be computationally expensive and may incur biases from trying to deduce the properties of clouds and aerosols when there are none present. Additionally, algorithms are now available that can quickly and effectively identify and remove most scenes in which cloud or aerosol scattering plays a significant role. In this work, we test the hypothesis that non-scattering, or "clear-sky", retrievals may perform as well as full-physics retrievals for sufficiently clear scenes. Clear-sky retrievals could potentially avoid errors and biases brought about by trying to infer properties of clouds and aerosols when none are present. Clear-sky retrievals are also desirable because they are orders of magnitude faster than full-physics retrievals. Here we use a simplified version of the Atmospheric Carbon Observations from Space (ACOS) XCO2 retrieval algorithm that does not include the scattering and absorption effects of clouds or aerosols. It was found that for simulated Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) measurements, the clear-sky retrieval had errors comparable to those of the full-physics retrieval. For real GOSAT data, the clear-sky retrieval had nearly indistinguishable error characteristics over land, but roughly 30–60 % larger errors over ocean, depending on filtration level, compared to the full-physics retrieval. In general, the clear-sky retrieval had XCO2 root-mean-square (RMS) errors of less than 2.0 ppm when adequately filtered through the use of the Data Ordering through Genetic Optimization (DOGO) system. These results imply that non-scattering XCO2 retrievals are potentially much more accurate than previous literature suggests, when employing filtering methods to remove measurements in which scattering can cause significant errors. Additionally, the computational benefits of non-scattering retrievals means they may be useful for certain applications that require large amounts of data but have less stringent error requirements.
Using satellite data to improve the leaf phenology of a global terrestrial biosphere model
Authors: MacBean N. , Maignan F. , Peylin P. , Bacour C. , Bréon F.-M. , Ciais P.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Correct representation of seasonal leaf dynamics is crucial for terrestrial biosphere models (TBMs), but many such models cannot accurately reproduce observations of leaf onset and senescence. Here we optimised the phenology-related parameters of the ORCHIDEE TBM using satellite-derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index data (MODIS NDVI v5) that are linearly related to the model fAPAR. We found the misfit between the observations and the model decreased after optimisation for all boreal and temperate deciduous plant functional types, primarily due to an earlier onset of leaf senescence. The model bias was only partially reduced for tropical deciduous trees and no improvement was seen for natural C4 grasses. Spatial validation demonstrated the generality of the posterior parameters for use in global simulations, with an increase in global median correlation of 0.56 to 0.67. The simulated global mean annual gross primary productivity (GPP) decreased by ~ 10 PgC yr−1 over the 1990–2010 period due to the substantially shortened growing season length (GSL – by up to 30 days in the Northern Hemisphere), thus reducing the positive bias and improving the seasonal dynamics of ORCHIDEE compared to independent data-based estimates. Finally, the optimisations led to changes in the strength and location of the trends in the simulated vegetation productivity as represented by the GSL and mean annual fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (fAPAR), suggesting care should be taken when using un-calibrated models in attribution studies. We suggest that the framework presented here can be applied for improving the phenology of all global TBMs.
Constant diversification rates of endemic gastropods in ancient Lake Ohrid: ecosystem resilience likely buffers environmental fluctuations
Authors: Föller K. , Stelbrink B. , Hauffe T. , Albrecht C. , Wilke T.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Ancient lakes represent key ecosystems for endemic freshwater species. This high endemic biodiversity has been shown to be mainly the result of intra-lacustrine diversification. Whereas the principle role of this mode of diversification is generally acknowledged, actual diversification rates in ancient lakes remain little understood. At least four types are conceivable. Diversification rates may be constant over time, they may fluctuate, rates may be higher in the initial phase of diversification, or there may be a pronounced lag phase between colonization and subsequent diversification. As understanding the tempo of diversification in ancient lake environments may help reveal the underlying processes that drive speciation and extinction, we here use the Balkan Lake Ohrid as a model system and the largest species flock in the lake, the non-pyrgulinid Hydrobiidae, as a model taxon to study changes in diversification rates over time together with the respective drivers. Based on phylogenetic, molecular-clock, lineage-through-time plot, and diversification-rate analyses we found that this potentially monophyletic group is comparatively old and that it most likely evolved with a constant diversification rate. Preliminary data of the SCOPSCO (Scientific Collaboration On Past Speciation Conditions in Lake Ohrid) deep-drilling program do indicate signatures of severe environmental/climatic perturbations in Lake Ohrid. However, so far there is no evidence for the occurrence of catastrophic environmental events. We therefore propose that the constant diversification rate observed in endemic gastropods has been caused by two factors: (i) a potential lack of catastrophic environmental events in Lake Ohrid and/or (ii) a probably high ecosystem resilience, buffering environmental changes. Parameters potentially contributing to the lake's high ecosystem resilience are its distinct bathymetry, ongoing tectonic activities, and karst hydrology. The current study not only contributes to one of the overall goals of the SCOPSCO deep-drilling program – inferring the driving forces for biotic evolution in Lake Ohrid. It might also enhance our understanding of how ecosystem resilience, in general, may promote relatively constant diversification rates in isolated ecosystems. However, we encourage future studies testing hypotheses about the lack of catastrophic events in Lake Ohrid. These studies should be based on high-resolution data for the entire geological history of the lake, and they should potentially involve information from the sediment fossil record, not only for gastropods but also for other groups with a high share of endemic taxa.
Effects of climate change and land management on soil organic carbon dynamics and carbon leaching in Northwestern Europe
Authors: Stergiadi M. , van der Perk M. , de Nijs A. C. M. , Bierkens M. F. P.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Climate change and land management practices are projected to significantly affect soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) leaching from soils. In this modelling study, we adopted the Century model to simulate past (1906–2012), present, and future (2013–2100) SOC and DOC levels for sandy and loamy soils typical for Northwestern European conditions under three land use types (forest, grassland and arable land) and several future scenarios addressing climate change and land management change. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the Century model has been applied to assess the effects of climate change and land management on DOC concentrations and leaching rates, which, in combination with SOC, play a major role in metal transport through soil. The simulated current SOC levels were generally in line with the observed values for the different kinds of soil and land use types. The climate change scenarios result in a decrease in both SOC and DOC for the agricultural systems, whereas for the forest systems, SOC is projected to slightly increase and DOC to decrease. An analysis of the sole effects of changes in temperature and changes in precipitation showed that, for SOC, the temperature effect predominates over the precipitation effect, whereas for DOC, the precipitation effect is more prominent. A reduction in the application rates of fertilizers under the land management scenario leads to a decrease in the SOC stocks and the DOC leaching rates for the arable land systems, but has a negligible effect on SOC and DOC levels for the grassland systems. Our study demonstrated the ability of the Century model to simulate climate change and agricultural management effects on SOC dynamics and DOC leaching, providing a robust tool for the assessment of carbon sequestration and the implications for contaminant transport in soils.
Thermodynamic and thermoeconomic analysis of combined geothermal space heating and thermal storage using phase change materials
Authors: Chauhan V. , Ragnarsson Á.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. The present work discusses the utilization of phase change materials for energy storage in geothermal space heating systems. Thermodynamics and thermoeconomics of the combined heating and thermal storing system were studied to show the scope of energy storage and cost savings. A computational model of the combined space heating and thermal storage system was developed and used to perform thermodynamic studies of the heat storage process and heating system efficiency at different times and ambient temperatures. The basis for these studies is daily variations in heating demand that is higher during the night than during the day. The results show the scope of the utilization of phase change material for low ambient temperature conditions. Under proper conditions a sufficient amount of exergy is stored during the charging period at a low ambient temperature to fulfill the daytime heat load requirement. Under these conditions the cost flow rate of exergy storage is found to be lower than the radiator heating cost flow rate. Thus, the use of exergy storage at low ambient temperatures for heating at higher ambient temperatures makes a significant contribution to cost savings.
Estimating field scale root zone soil moisture using the cosmic-ray neutron probe
Authors: Peterson A. M. , Helgason W. D. , Ireson A. M.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Many practical hydrological, meteorological and agricultural management problems require estimates of soil moisture with an areal footprint equivalent to "field scale", integrated over the entire root zone. The cosmic-ray neutron probe is a promising instrument to provide field scale areal coverage, but these observations are shallow and require depth scaling in order to be considered representative of the entire root zone. A study to identify appropriate depth-scaling techniques was conducted at a grazing pasture site in central Saskatchewan, Canada over a two year period. Area-averaged soil moisture was assessed using a cosmic-ray neutron probe. Root zone soil moisture was measured at 21 locations within the 5002 m2 area, using a down-hole neutron probe. The cosmic-ray neutron probe was found to provide accurate estimates of field scale surface soil moisture, but accounted for less than 40 % of the seasonal change in root zone storage due to its shallow measurement depth. The root zone estimation methods evaluated were: (1) the coupling of the cosmic-ray neutron probe with a time stable neutron probe monitoring location, (2) coupling the cosmic-ray neutron probe with a representative landscape unit monitoring approach, and (3) convolution of the cosmic-ray neutron probe measurements with the exponential filter. The time stability method provided the best estimate of root zone soil moisture (RMSE = 0.004 cm3 cm−3), followed by the exponential filter (RMSE = 0.012 cm3 cm−3). The landscape unit approach, which required no calibration, had a negative bias but estimated the cumulative change in storage reasonably. The feasibility of applying these methods to field sites without existing instrumentation is discussed. It is concluded that the exponential filter method has the most potential for estimating root zone soil moisture from cosmic-ray neutron probe data.
Mitigating N2O emissions from soil: from patching leaks to transformative action
Authors: Decock C. , Lee J. , Necpalova M. , Pereira E. I. P. , Tendall D. M. , Six J.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. Further progress in understanding and mitigating N2O emissions from soil lies within transdisciplinary research that reaches across spatial scales and takes an ambitious look into the future.
Local versus field scale soil heterogeneity characterization – a challenge for representative sampling in pollution studies
Authors: Kardanpour Z. , Jacobsen O. S. , Esbensen K. H.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. This study is a contribution to development of a heterogeneity characterization facility for "next-generation" soil sampling aimed, for example, at more realistic and controllable pesticide variability in laboratory pots in experimental environmental contaminant assessment. The role of soil heterogeneity in quantification of a set of exemplar parameters is described, including a brief background on how heterogeneity affects sampling/monitoring procedures in environmental pollutant studies. The theory of sampling (TOS) and variographic analysis has been applied to develop a more general fit-for-purpose soil heterogeneity characterization approach. All parameters were assessed in large-scale transect (1–100 m) vs. small-scale (0.1–0.5 m) replication sampling point variability. Variographic profiles of experimental analytical results from a specific well-mixed soil type show that it is essential to sample at locations with less than a 2.5 m distance interval to benefit from spatial auto-correlation and thereby avoid unnecessary, inflated compositional variation in experimental pots; this range is an inherent characteristic of the soil heterogeneity and will differ among other soils types. This study has a significant carrying-over potential for related research areas, e.g. soil science, contamination studies, and environmental monitoring and environmental chemistry.
"Piuttosto che": dalla preferenza all’esemplificazione di alternative
Authors: Mauri Caterina , Ramat Anna Giacalone
Published: December 2015

"Piuttosto che": dalla preferenza all’esemplificazione di alternative
La traducción de los marcadores discursivos en la versión doblada española de la serie: "Il commissario Montalbano"
Authors: Calvo Rigual Cesáreo
Published: December 2015

La traducción de los marcadores discursivos en la versión doblada española de la serie: "Il commissario Montalbano"
International residential tourist shopping styles
Authors: Garau-Vadell Joan B. , De-Juan-Vigaray María D.
Published: December 2015

In recent decades, the so-called international residential tourism has increased considerably, creating a new consumer base in tourist destinations. While the importance of tourism shopping is widely recognized and tourist destinations are aware of its contributions, little is known at present about the actual behaviour and shopping styles of international residential tourists (IRTs). Bearing this in mind and taking as a starting point research carried out in two top international tourist destinations, this study analyses IRT shopping styles. The results obtained indicate the existence of seven different segments presenting specific socio-demographic characteristics and represent progress in research into IRT shopping styles. They may also be of interest not only to managers of retail outlets where IRTs do their shopping but also to tourist resort managers when devising their product range.
Presentación No.35
Authors: Editorial Comité
Published: December 2015

Paradigma - Revista de Investigación Educativa. Año 21. No. 35
La retórica expresivista: ¿Lo bueno del individuo solamente?
Authors: Zelaya Matamoros Jenny Margoth
Published: December 2015

En la actualidad, muchos docentes constantemente se quejan de los trabajos escritos de sus estudiantes universitarios y muchos culpan a la tecnología de ese mal. Sin embargo, un sin número de estudiantes piensan y sienten que la mayoría de los docentes no proporciona claramente que es que quieren en los trabajos escritos. Es decir, que algunos docentes no profundizan en las especificaciones de lo que se debe hacer y muchas otras veces no hay ni siquiera una rúbrica de la evaluación del trabajo.Es por esa razón que los docentes deben definir su posición en cuanto a la producción escrita de sus estudiantes sin perder de vista la formación integral de los mismos y las demandas de la sociedad actual. De igual manera, es importante valorar que la escritura es un proceso y al desarrollarla como una competencia se debe visualizar el largo plazo y no solo un periodo académico.Paradigma - Revista de Investigación Educativa. Año 21. No. 35: 65-74
Surprising Convergence Properties of Some Simple Gibbs Samplers under Various Scans
Authors: O. Roberts Gareth , S. Rosenthal Jeffrey
Published: December 2015

We examine the convergence properties of some simple Gibbs sampler examples under various scans. We find some surprising results, including Gibbs samplers where deterministic-scan is much more efficient than random-scan, and other samplers where the opposite is true.  We also present an example where the convergence takes precisely the same time with any fixed deterministic scan, but modifying the scan in any way leads to significantly slower convergence.
Document Image Binarization Using Retinex and Global Thresholding
Authors: Wagdy Marian , Faye Ibrahima , Rohaya Dayang
Published: December 2015

Document images are usually degraded in the course of photocopying, faxing, printing, or scanning. Degradation problems seems negligible to human eyes but can be responsible for an abrupt decline in accuracy by the current generation of optical character recognition (OCR) systems. In this paper we present binarization method based on retinex theory followed by a global threshold. High quality results in terms of visual criteria and OCR performance is produced compared to the previous works.
Automatic Segmentation of Optic Disc in Eye Fundus Images: A Survey
Authors: Allam Ali , Youssif Aliaa , Ghalwash Atef
Published: December 2015

Optic disc detection and segmentation is one of the key elements for automatic retinal disease screening systems. The aim of this survey paper is to review, categorize and compare the optic disc detection algorithms and methodologies, giving a description of each of them, highlighting their key points and performance measures. Accordingly, this survey firstly overviews the anatomy of the eye fundus showing its main structural components along with their properties and functions. Consequently, the survey reviews the image enhancement techniques and also categorizes the image segmentation methodologies for the optic disc which include property-based methods, methods based on convergence of blood vessels, and model-based methods. The performance of segmentation algorithms is evaluated using a number of publicly available databases of retinal images via evaluation metrics which include accuracy and true positive rate (i.e. sensitivity). The survey, at the end, describes the different abnormalities occurring within the optic disc region.
A Novel Algorithm to Tackle Eyeglasses and Beard Issues in Facial IR Recognition
Authors: Farsi Hassan , Komari Alaei Hamed
Published: December 2015

Face recognition via thermal infrared (IR) images is a modern recognition method that has found so interesting for many researchers during last decade. This method which operates via thermal features and the situation of human face vessels has much more benefits than visual-based methods. In these images, the changes of environmental light, which is one of the most important problems of face recognition via visual images, are completely eliminated. The most important face recognition problem via thermal IR images is the existence of diffusion obstacles like glasses, which blocks an accurate extraction of the face vessels situation. Using the proposed algorithm, this problem has been completely removed. In this article face recognition is performed through face vessels. In fact, the proposed method solves the issues of face recognition (like glasses wearing) in the thermal infrared domain suggested by Pavlidis et al in [5]. For extraction of the face features, the situation of vessel branches is used. Also, by choosing appropriate classification, fake vessels and false branches are removed. On the other hand, the best feature is extracted by using Dynamic Time Wrapping (DTW) algorithm which is resistant to nonlinear changes. The simulation on UTK-IRIS gallery set shows the accurate recognition rate 95% on the images with glasses. Thus, the proposed method has improved the recognition rate about 10% on same gallery set compared to the best other methods.
Standardized Extract of the Persian Gulf Sponge, Axinella Sinoxea Selectively Induces Apoptosis through Mitochondria in Human Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Ahmad Salimi  , Mehrnoush Pir Saharkhiz  , Abbasali Motallebi  , Enayatollah Seydi  , Ali Reza Mohseni  , Melika Nazemi  , Jalal Pourahmad
Published: December 2015

Sponges are important components of the Persian Gulf animal communities. The marine sponges of the genus Axinella sinoxea is are a genus of sponges in the family Axinellidae. Species of Axinella sinoxea occur in the India, Pacific Oceans and also Persian Gulf. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a disease characterized by the relentless accumulation of CD5+ B lymphocytes. CLL is the most common leukemia in adults, about 25-30% of all leukemias. In this study B lymphocytes mitochondria (both cancerous and non-cancerous) were isolated using differential centrifugation from peripheral blood samples and succinate dehydrogenase activity, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), mitochondrial swelling and finally release of cytochrome C were examined following the addition of methanolic extract of Axinella sinoxea. Our results showed that only in mitochondria isolated from cancerous BUT NOT normal lymphocytes a significant (P < 0.05) increase in mitochondrial ROS formation, MMP collapse, mitochondrial swelling and cytochrome c release. These results showed that Axinella sinoxea extract has a selective toxicity on chronic lymphocytic leukemia lymphocytes and their mitochondria and hence may be considered as a promising anti CLL candidate for further studies needed as a supplement for cancer patients in the future.
pH Monitoring of Tumor Microenvironment and Low Volume of Urine in Experimental Rats
Authors: Terezia Kiskova  , Steffekova Zuzana  , Karasova Martina  , Kokosova Natalia
Published: December 2015

The pH monitoring of the tumor microenvironment in vivo seems to be in fact complicated and technically quite challenging nowadays. Also the strategy of measuring urine pH of a little amount is not fully solved. Thus, the aim of our study was to monitor pH of urine samples (< 0.1 ml) and of tumor microenvironment of anesthetized rats in a minimal invasive way. The small urine volumes of rats or mice make pH measurements difficult, as standard pH electrodes usually need a minimal volume of several milliliters to function. The manual micromanipulator together with a needle-type housed pH microsensor offers a simple and effective way to do so. Our results show that pH of urine and tumor microenvironment was lower in tumor bearing rats compared to healthy subjects. The unique technology of pH microsensors could be a promising way to monitor the pH in many experimental designs and clinical praxis.
Perspectives of WIC Staff Regarding Physical Activity Levels and Behaviors of Latino Preschool Children
Authors: Lindsay Ana Cristina , Greaney Mary , Salkeld Judith A. , Walsh Jennifer
Published: December 2015

Background: Racial and ethnic disparities in physical activity (PA) are evident, with non-Hispanic Black and Mexican American children engaging in less vigorous activity than non-Hispanic White children. Collaborating with public health programs serving at-risk populations, such as the WIC program may be an effective way to promote the development of healthful PA behaviors among low-income preschool children and families. This paper explores WIC staff perceptions, attitudes, barriers, and facilitators related to PA levels and behaviors among low-income Latino preschool children and families, as well as the role the WIC program may play in promoting PA among low-income populations.
Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with a sample of WIC staff in the State of Rhode Island (RI), Northeast United States. Individual, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 21 WIC staff working directly with Latino clients enrolled in the WIC program. Thematic content analysis was used.
Results: The majority of WIC staff reported their Latino clients facing many barriers that limit their ability to be physically active, including busy and multiple shift schedules, lack of access to safe outdoor spaces, financial constraints to attending programs and recreational facilities, lack of transportation getting to safe outdoor spaces and facilities, etc. WIC staff identified several ways that the WIC program could increase the promotion PA among Latino families including partnering with local organizations such as the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club to provide increased access and opportunities for PA among low-income, Latino families.
Conclusions: Study findings add to the existing literature suggesting that the WIC program is an important venue for educating low-income, Latino children and families about the importance of establishing early healthy PA habits within the context of overall health and development. Findings also highlight the need for a continuing effort to integrate the promotion of PA as part of the WIC program. In addition, findings highlight WIC staff desire for additional training and resources in promotion of PA.
Diabetes Education in Family: Risk Factors and Barriers to Diabetes Care in Mexican Children and Adolescents
Authors: Leal María del Carmen Enríquez , Tamayo María del Socorro Saucedo , Ochoa María Guadalupe Vidal , Vásquez Martha   Nydia   Ballesteros , Pacheco Rosa   María   Cabrera , Figueroa Cecilia Adriana Montaño , Vélez María Isabel Ortega
Published: December 2015

Objective: To determine barriers related to metabolic control and diabetes care in Mexican children and their families.
Design: This was a cross-sectional study designed in two stages. First stage was an assessment of risk factors for inadequate metabolic control (HbA1c higher than ADA guidelines by age group) of diabetic children using a logistic regression model. The data sources were 91 clinical files provided by public health institutions at northwest Mexico. Second stage included the design, implementation and evaluation of an educational program (EP) based on the Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) and the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), accounting for critical risk factors identified previously. Twenty five children (2 to 14 years old) with type 1 diabetes and their parents agreed to participate in the EP, which promoted healthy behavioral changes regarding diet, physical activity and medical treatment over a 4-month period.
Results: Metabolic control was related to the joint effects of families low socioeconomic level and mother’s low education attainment (OR= 8.5, CI95%: 1.73, 42.16), as well as following a conventional treatment (OR= 5.0, CI95%: 1.09, 22.82). After program implementation participants’ mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) decreased (9.1%±1.8% to 8.3%±2%; P=0.06). Qualitative content analysis of post-intervention interviews showed that low income, clinical inertia, and lack of social support were barriers to metabolic control of diabetes.
Conclusion and Implications: Socioeconomic, educational, and healthcare factors are related to metabolic control in Mexican children with diabetes, although educational programs based on SCT can help increase self-efficacy in patients through modeling and reinforcing activities.
Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Concentrations in Breast Milk from Chinese Mothers: Comparison with Other Regions
Authors: Li Shi-Ying , Dong Xiao-Li , Wong Wing-Si Vincy , Su Yi-Xiang , Wong Man-Sau
Published: December 2015

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), especially linoleic acid (LA), arachidonic acid (AA), alpha- linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential to infant growth and development during early life. Up till now, there is only limited number of studies with large sample size on LC-PUFA in breast milk in China. In order to better understand the LC-PUFA levels in Chinese women, we report an analysis that included 44 studies of 3815 subjects from the latest 10-year peer-reviewed papers of breast milk studies of fatty acid profiles from China and other regions: Asia (excluding China), Europe, America and Africa. The results showed that Chinese women had significantly higher LA and ALA levels in the breast milk than European and other Asian women. The DHA level in the breast milk of Chinese women meets the Chinese and international recommended intake for young infants. This review provides comprehensive investigation on the LC-PUFA levels in the mature milk of Chinese women in most recent publications and server as a reference for further studies on human milk in China.
Asymptomatic Bacteremia in Children Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Calabar, South-South, Nigeria
Authors: Ochigbo Sunday O. , Ikpeme Offiong E. , Ewa Atana U. , Happiness Ntia A.
Published: December 2015

Background: Asymptomatic Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected children are prone to serious bacterial infection as a result of poor immunity.
Objective: This was to determine the common pathogenic organisms responsible for bacteremia among asymptomatic HIV infected children attending the outpatient clinics at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Subjects and Methods: This prospective non randomized cross-sectional study was conducted over 6months from January 1st to 30th June 2014 among cohorts of HIV infected Anti-retroviral (ARV) naive and experienced children attending the clinic. Ethical approval was obtained from the ethical committee of the institution. Blood culture specimens were collected from all HIV infected patients who met the criteria for enrollment. All specimens with isolated bacteria organisms were treated with antibiotics according to the sensitivity pattern, in addition to administered Anti-retroviral drugs.
Results: Out of the total of 109 patients recruited, 38(34.9%) had bacteremia. There were more males (57.9%), and most of them (63.2%) had Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) for more than 24weeks. Bacteremia was inversely proportional to the CD4 count. The commonest organism isolated was unclassified Coliforms (47.3%) followed by Staphyloccocus aureus (39.5%).
Conclusions: HIV infected children are prone to bacteremia especially among those with low CD4 count. Coliform was the commonest organism isolated. We recommend that HIV infected children be routinely investigated for bacteremia.
Las actividades acuáticas en la enseñanza secundaria en la Región de Murcia. Un estudio cualitativo
Authors: Escarbajal de Haro Andrés , Albarracín Pérez Apolonia , Martínez de Miguel López Silvia
Published: December 2015

El trabajo que se presenta es fruto de una investigación sobre la presencia y desarrollo de actividades acuáticas en la asignatura de Educación Física en la enseñanza secundaria y sobre el carácter educativo de dichas actividades, desde la perspectiva del profesorado de la especialidad. Se realizó en centros educativos de la Región de Murcia, bajo la cobertura de la Concejalía de Educación de la Comunidad Autónoma, y se desarrolló mediante un estudio cualitativo basado en 30 entrevistas semiestructuradas. Entre los resultados destacan la insuficiente formación en la especialidad, lo positivas que son las actividades acuáticas para la formación integral y su carácter marcadamente educativo, pero también las dificultades para su inclusión en el currículum y el escaso estatus reconocido, así como que Lorca y Cehegín son las localidades donde más se desarrollan y Murcia capital y Jumilla destacan por todo lo contrario. Entre las conclusiones destacan: necesidad de formación básica y continua adecuada para el profesorado, reconocer mayor estatus a las actividades acuáticas en relación con otras actividades de educación física y paliar los inconvenientes que aparecen en la implementación de esas actividades.
Concepciones previas de los estudiantes de Grado en Educación Primaria sobre la competencia digital de los escolares
Authors: Gutiérrez-Cabello Aingeru , Losada Daniel , Correa José Miguel
Published: December 2015

La presente investigación tiene por objetivo estudiar las concepciones sobre las que parte los estudiantes de Grado en Educación Primaria sobre la competencia digital a lograr por su futuro alumnado. En la actualidad existen diversos autores que abogan por un desarrollo del constructo de la
competencia digital basado en la multialfabetización. Por ello, a fin de recoger las diferentes creencias que subyacen al término se procedió a la construcción de una escala así como al análisis de sus propiedades psicométricas. Las 8 dimensiones que recoge el instrumento incluyen ítems relacionados con lo informacional, lo comunicacional, lo audiovisual, lo tecnológico, la ciudadanía digital, lo cognitivo, lo cultural y lo socioactitudinal. Los resultados evidencian una concepción multidimensional del constructo. Asimismo, se observan diferencias significativas entre los sujetos que han cursado la asignatura relacionada con las tecnologías aplicadas a la educación en los estudios de Grado, respecto a los que no la han cursado.
Presencia del Estado, estructura del sistema educativo y modelo económico. Tres puntos de apoyo para una investigación comparativa
Authors: Pintos Saraiva Carlos Eduardo
Published: December 2015

Este artículo es la síntesis de una investigación comparativa entre la propuesta de la Escuela Intermedia (E.I.) 1969-1972, y el Tercer Ciclo de la Escuela General Básica (E.G.B.3) 1995-2004, como su implementación específica en un instituto del partido de San Isidro, provincia de Buenos Aires, que encaró la trayectoria de ambas. La idea central, fue aportar elementos que posibilitaran fundamentar que las dos fueron similares y respondieron a cada uno de los modelos de país planteados en las etapas en que existieron (Desarrollismo y Neoliberalismo). Cabe aclarar que en
términos de investigación comparativa, se debió luchar contra la extrema originalidad del tema.
A partir de las características comunes de las dos estructuras, se sintetizaron sus principales semejanzas y diferencias en un cuadro; concluyendo a grandes rasgos, que ambas propuestas vivieron en comunión con las correspondientes coyunturas económico/sociales y las necesidades políticas de esos momentos.