bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corrosion Behavior of TiSiN Coatings Deposited on Ni-Cr Alloy in Artificial Saliva with and without Fluoride
Authors: Dinu Mihaela , Braic Mariana , Tarcolea M. , Vladescu Alina , Antoniac Iulian Vasile , Cotrut Cosmin Mihai
Published: March 2015

TiSiN thin films were deposited on NiCr dental alloy in order to enhance the corrosion resistance in artificial saliva with and without fluoride content. The TiSiN films were prepared using reactive cathodic arc method at two different substrate bias voltages (-50 V and-200 V). For the corrosion evaluation, artificial saliva with pH=5.2 was chosen, because this is a critical value for mineral dissolution of dental tissue which can affect the dental alloys. A content of 0.1 % NaF was added to the artificial saliva to simulate the effect of fluoride based hygiene products. The TiSiN coated NiCr alloys exhibited a higher corrosion resistance than the NiCr substrate, irrespective of the testing environment. The best corrosion resistance was found for the TiSiN deposited at-200 V.
XRD and Microstructural Analyses on Biodegradable Mg Alloys
Authors: Crimu Carmen Iulia , Istrate Bogdan , Munteanu Corneliu , Antoniac Iulian Vasile , Matei Madalina Nicoleta , Earar Kamel
Published: March 2015

Stainless steels, titanium and titanium alloys are the most widely used artificial surgical biomaterials for a long time. These alloys with non-degradability properties present long-term adverse effects or stress shielding and require a second surgery for a complete healing. The ongoing scientific research to avoid this problem found a new kind of biocompatible alloys for implants made of biodegradable materials witch should be used as alternative. Among the various biodegradable materials, magnesium alloys have unique biodegradability properties in the physiological environment, have stimulatory effects on new bone formation and have an elastic modulus similar to that of human bone. Roentgen structural analysis was used to detail the global chemical composition analysis, especially the analysis to determine the phase-pick sites characteristic diffraction and crystallographic orientation parameters Miller constituent phases. On studied alloys Mg and Mg2Ca type compounds with different crystallographic orientations were identified. The results obtained on the Mg-Ca and Mg-Ca-Si systems will be correlated with results from previous tests and analyses, to finally obtain an alloy with biodegradability that may be controlled.
Structural Analysis of the Laser Welding Co-Cr-Mo-(Ti) Alloys for Removable Partial Dentures
Authors: Ghiban Alexandru , Ghiban Brandusa , Bortun Cristina Maria , Buzatu Mihai
Published: March 2015

Optimization of fractured or destroyed removable partial dentures realized from CoCrMo alloys are possible due to modern welding equipments. The aim of study was to offer the processing and welding optimal parameters for some long lasting prosthetic pieces made of a new alloy from the system CoCrMoTi. Laser welding equipments was a Mini Laser XXS (Orotig Italia) and the tested samples were welded in butt joint, without filler material. There are presented in comparison results concerning macro and micro structural analysis made on stereomicroscope and microscope type OLYMPUS. Finally a correlation between different welding parameter values and structural features was made for the new dental cobalt alloy.
The Double Love Commandment
Authors: Viljoen Francois P.
Published: March 2015

The Gospel of Matthew was written during a period of dispute between the Matthean community and their fellow Jews, with the Pharisees playing a leading role. The Matthean community was heir to the same scriptures as its opponents. They continued to have a firm commitment to the Torah, but they developed a distinctive understanding of it based on Jesus’ teaching. The formation of this community is investigated in this article, considering the Mediterranean perspectives of group-oriented societies prevalent in the first century. Such a group provided a sense of self and an interactive support system, where love functioned to bind the group together. The subordinates showed their undivided loyalty towards their superiors because of the favours they received from them, whilst they supported and cared for other members within the group as they care for themselves. Reading the double love commandment of Matthew 22:34−40 from this perspective reveals significant aspects of the community’s identity with regard to their commitment to God and their view of their neighbours.Die Dubbele Liefdesgebod. Die Matteusevangelie is gedurende ’n periode van konfliktussen die Matteusgemeenskap en mede-Jode geskryf met die Fariseërs in ’n leidende rol. Die Matteusgemeenskap het van dieselfde geskrifte as hulle opponente gebruik gemaak. Hulle was steeds aan die Torah lojaal, maar het ’n unieke interpretasie daarvan gehuldig, gebaseer op die onderrig van Jesus. In hierdie artikel word die vorming van die Matteusgemeenskap ondersoek met inagneming van die Mediterreense beskouing van die groepgeoriënteerde gemeenskappe wat tipies van die eerste eeu was. So ’n groep het aan individue ’n bewustheid van eie waarde verskaf te midde van ’n interaktiewe ondersteuningsisteem waarin liefde as samebindende faktor gefunksioneer het. Ondergeskiktes het onverdeelde lojaliteit teenoor hulle meerderes betoon vanweë die gunste wat hulle van die meerderes geniet het, terwyl hulle mekaar onderling ondersteun en versorg het, soos wat hulle na hulleself sou omsien. Deur die dubbele liefdesgebod van Matteus 22:34−40 vanuit hierdie perspektief te lees,kom betekenisvolle aspekte van die gemeenskap se identiteit na vore ten opsigte van hulle toewyding aan God en hulle beskouing van hulle naaste.
A Systems Biology Approach Reveals the Dose- and Time-Dependent Effect of Primary Human Airway Epithelium Tissue Culture after Exposure to Cigarette Smoke in Vitro
Authors: Mathis Carole , Gebel Stephan , Poussin Carine , Belcastro Vincenzo , Sewer Alain , Weisensee Dirk , Hengstermann Arnd , Ansari Sam , Wagner Sandra , Peitsch Manuel C. , Hoeng Julia
Published: March 2015

To establish a relevant in vitro model for systems toxicology-based mechanistic assessment of environmental stressors such as cigarette smoke (CS), we exposed human organotypic bronchial epithelial tissue cultures at the air liquid interface (ALI) to various CS doses. Previously, we compared in vitro gene expression changes with published human airway epithelia in vivo data to assess their similarities. Here, we present a follow-up evaluation of these in vitro transcriptomics data, using complementary computational approaches and an integrated mRNA-microRNA (miRNA) analysis. The main cellular pathways perturbed by CS exposure were related to stress responses (oxidative stress and xenobiotic metabolism), inflammation (inhibition of nuclear factor-kB and the interferon gamma-dependent pathway), and proliferation/differentiation. Within post-exposure periods up to 48 hours, a transient kinetic response was observed at lower CS doses, whereas higher doses resulted in more sustained responses. In conclusion, this systems toxicology approach has potential for product testing according to “21st Century Toxicology”.
Extensive Genomic Variability of Knops Blood Group Polymorphisms is Associated with Sickle Cell Disease in Africa
Authors: Duru Kimberley C. , Noble Jenelle A. , Guindo Aldiouma , Yi Li , Imumorin Ikhide G. , Diallo Dapa A. , Thomas Bolaji N.
Published: March 2015

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a multisystem disorder characterized by chronic hemolytic anemia, vaso-occlusive crises, and marked variability in disease severity. Patients require transfusions to manage disease complications, with complements, directed by complement regulatory genes (CR1) and its polymorphisms, implicated in the development of alloantibodies. We hypothesize that CR1 polymorphisms affect complement regulation and function, leading to adverse outcome in SCD. To this end, we determined the genomic diversity of complement regulatory genes by examining single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with Knops blood group antigens. Genomic DNA samples from 130 SCD cases and 356 control Africans, 331 SCD cases and 497 control African Americans, and 254 Caucasians were obtained and analyzed, utilizing a PCR–-RFLP (polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism) assay. Analyzing for ethnic diversity, we found significant differences in the genotypic and allelic frequencies of Sl1/Sl2 (rs17047661) and McCa/b (rs17047660) polymorphisms between Africans, African Americans, and Caucasians ( P < 0.05). The homozygote mutant variants had significantly higher frequencies in Africans and African Americans but were insignificant in Caucasians (80.2% and 59.6% vs 5.9% for Sl1/2; and 36% and 24% vs 1.8% for McCa/b). With SCD, we did not detect any difference among cases and controls either in Africa or in the United States. However, we found significant difference in genotypic ( P < 0.0001) and allelic frequencies ( P < 0.0001) of Sl1/Sl2 (rs17047661) and McCa/b (rs17047660) polymorphisms between SCD groups from Africa and the United States. There was no difference in haplotype frequencies of these polymorphisms among or between groups. The higher frequency of CR1 homozygote mutant variants in Africa but not United States indicates a potential pathogenic role, possibly associated with complicated disease pathophysiology in the former and potentially protective in the latter. The difference between sickle cell groups suggests potential genetic drift or founder effect imposed on the disease in the United States, but not in Africa, and a possible confirmation of the ancestral susceptibility hypothesis. The lower haplotype frequencies among sickle cell and control populations in the United States may be due to the admixture and the dilution of African genetic ancestry in the African American population.
Wang-Landau algorithm for entropic sampling of arch-based microstates in the volume ensemble of static granular packings
Authors: Slobinsky Demian , Pugnaloni Luis Ariel
Published: March 2015

We implement the Wang-Landau algorithm to sample with equal probabilities the static configurations of a model granular system. The "non-interacting rigid arch model" used is based on the description of static configurations by means of splitting the assembly of grains into sets of stable arches. This technique allows us to build the entropy as a function of the volume of the packing for large systems. We make a special note of the details that have to be considered when defining the microstates and proposing the moves for the correct sampling in these unusual models. We compare our results with previous exact calculations of the model made at moderate system sizes. The technique opens a new opportunity to calculate the entropy of more complex granular models.Received: 19 January 2015,  Accepted: 25 February 2015; Reviewed by: M. Pica Ciamarra, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; Edited by: C. S. O'Hern; DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4279/PIP.070001Cite as: D Slobinsky, L A Pugnaloni, Papers in Physics 7, 070001 (2015) This paper, by Demian Slobinsky, Luis Ariel Pugnaloni , is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License 3.0.
Study of Anemia in Antenatal Care Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Mandve Priyanka , Nawale Kundan , Motghare Vijay M , Pajai Sandhya
Published: March 2015

Aim

To study the prevalence of anemia in antenatal care (ANC) patients and their sociodemographic factors associated with anemia.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective hospital-based study, data were collected from medical record section from 1st January to 31st December 2011. Patients admitted to labour room for delivery were selected as per the WHO classification of anemia. Various sociodemografic factors were also studied. Data were analyzed with the help of frequency and percentage tables. Association between variables were checked by Chisquare test.

Results

Out of 6,356 patients delivered, 6,300 patients were anemic. Maximum percentage of patients (93.8%) were in the category of moderate anemia. A total of 4174 patients were in age group of 21 to 25 years. It was found that 56.4% of patients are primigravida. Seventy-eight percent patients belong to rural population. Baby weight of 3,046 patients were in group of 2.1 to 2.5 kg.

Conclusion

It was found that out of 6356 patients delivered, 6300 were anemic. Maximum patients (93.8%) had moderate anemia, mild and severe anemia was found in 0.8 and 5.4% of patients.

How to cite this article

Mandve P, Nawale K, Motghare VM, Pajai S. Study of Anemia in Antenatal Care Patients: A Retrospective Study. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014; 6(3):133-138.
Prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Antenatal Mothers in a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Sarkar Dhrubajyoti , Bhadra Banasree , Sarkar Suvobrata , Chakraborty Biswajit
Published: March 2015

Objective

To know the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among antenatal mothers.

Materials and methods

It is a retrospective study of antenatal mothers attending the integrated counseling and testing centre (ICTC), College of Medicine and JNM Hospital, Kalyani, from January 2009 to December 2013. Antenatal mothers were counseled and in those willing to undergo test rapid testing was done. First time positive cases were retested two more times by two different companies rapid test kit. The samples were considered as positive when found reactive by all three different methods.

Results

In our study, a total number of 11343 new antenatal mothers were registered. The pretest counseling could be done for 9437 antenatal mothers. After counseling, testing could be done in 9211 antenatal mothers. In our 5 years study period, a total of six cases were HIV positive. Out of these HIV positive cases, three were in 2009, no case was detected in 2010, one was in 2011, one in 2012 and one in 2013. Thus, the incidence of HIV (in tested mothers) is 0.13% in 2009, 0 in 2010, 0.06% in 2011, 0.07% in 2012 and 0.05% in 2013. Overall incidence was 0.065%.

Conclusion

There is a declining trend of HIV prevalence among antenatal mothers reflecting that prevention campaigns are working effectively.

How to cite this article

Bhadra B , S arkar D , S arkar S ,Chakraborty B. Prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Antenatal Mothers in a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(3):159-162.
Laparoscopic Management of Interstitial Ectopic Pregnancies
Authors: Desai Shyam V , Desai Gaurav S , Levi Jessi
Published: March 2015

This illustration describes the successful laparoscopic management of interstitial ectopic pregnancy. Three women underwent laparoscopic excision for interstitial ectopic gestation. Mean operative time was 49.4 ± 8.4 minutes (41- 69 mins). Estimated blood loss was 50 ± 4 ml. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Duration of hospital stay was 24 ± 3 hours. All patients are doing well on follow-up. The authors demonstrate the role of laparoscopic excision and conclude that this technique, when performed by experienced surgeons, allows for improved dexterity and is a safe and effective method in the management of interstitial ectopic pregnancy.

How to cite this article

Desai GS, Levi J, Desai SV. Laparoscopic Management of Interstitial Ectopic Pregnancies. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(3):163-166.
Double Trouble: Heterotopic Pregnancy
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Shruthi , Rani G Usha , Syamala O , LNU Rukshana , Alexander Naveen
Published: March 2015

A heterotopic pregnancy is defined as the presence of a combined intrauterine and ectopic pregnancy. Its estimated incidence is as between 1/7000 and 1/30,000 pregnancies. It is also reported to be as high as 1% after the use of assisted reproductive technology. Heterotopic pregnancies are diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for obstetricians. If they continue without diagnosis, a life-threatening situation may occur even when timely surgical intervention with laparotomy is performed. Here, we report a case series of three patients having three different scenarios, who were diagnosed with heterotopic pregnancies in the first trimester and managed successfully.

How to cite this article

Krishnamoorthy S, Rani GU, Syamala O, Rukshana, Alexander N. Double Trouble: Heterotopic Pregnancy J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2014;6(3):167-170.
Upper-troposphere and lower-stratosphere water vapor retrievals from the 1400 and 1900 nm water vapor bands
Authors: Kindel B. C. , Pilewskie P. , Schmidt K. S. , Thornberry T. , Rollins A. , Bui T.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Measuring water vapor in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere is difficult due to the low mixing ratios found there, typically only a few parts per million. Here we examine near-infrared spectra acquired with the Solar Spectral Flux Radiometer (SSFR) during the first science phase of the NASA Airborne Tropical TRopopause EXperiment (ATTREX). From the 1400 and 1900 nm absorption bands we infer water vapor amounts in the tropical tropopause layer and adjacent regions between altitudes of 14 and 18 km. We compare these measurements to solar transmittance spectra produced with the MODerate resolution atmospheric TRANsmission (MODTRAN) radiative transfer model, using in situ water vapor, temperature, and pressure profiles acquired concurrently with the SSFR spectra. Measured and modeled transmittance values agree within 0.002, with some larger differences in the 1900 nm band (up to 0.004). Integrated water vapor amounts along the absorption path lengths of 3 to 6 km varied from 1.26 × 10−4 to 4.59 × 10−4 g cm−2. A 0.002 difference in absorptance at 1367 nm results in a 3.35 × 10−5 g cm−2 change of integrated water vapor amounts; 0.004 absorptance change at 1870 nm results in 5.50 × 10−5 g cm−2 of water vapor. These are 27% (1367 nm) and 44% (1870 nm) differences at the lowest measured value of water vapor (1.26 × 10−4 g cm−2) and 7% (1367 nm) and 12% (1870 nm) differences at the highest measured value of water vapor (4.59 × 10−4 g cm−2). A potential method for extending this type of measurement from aircraft flight altitude to the top of the atmosphere is discussed.
The Public and Private Lives of Mennonite Kolkhoz Chairmen in the Khortytsia and Molochansk German National Raĭony in Ukraine (1928-1934)
Authors: Neufeldt Colin P.
Published: March 2015

This article examines the role that Mennonites played in the establishment and management of kolkhozy in the two largest Mennonite settlements (Khortytsia and Molochansk) in Soviet Ukraine during dekulakization and collectivization (1928-1934).  More specifically, it investigates the social and ethnic criteria used in selecting Mennonites to be kolkhoz chairmen; the duties and daily routines of chairmen; the conflicted relationships that chairmen had with local authorities and kolkhoz members; the numerous challenges that chairmen encountered during the 1932-33 famines; and the mechanisms that local authorities and kolkhoz members used to control, embarrass, and discipline chairmen.  It also discusses the negative repercussions that the rise of Nazi Germany had for Mennonite chairmen, and how political, economic, agricultural, social, and ethnic policies and conditions made it impossible for Mennonite chairmen to succeed.
Long-Term Results of PTFE Grafts
Authors: Hedin Ulf
Published: March 2015

Vascular surgeons are essential in “lifeline” creation for hemodialysis patients and should be the central player in any multidisciplinary access service together with nephrologists, dialysis staff and interventional radiology. In this position, access surgeons are involved in complicated clinical decision making regarding primary and secondary access selection, which throughout the last decade has been largely aided, and influenced, by national and international guidelines as well as other initiatives. These recommendations, unanimously and appropriately, advocate the placement of native fistulas over synthetic grafts (the majority grafts from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, ePTFE, herein referred to as PTFE) based on the superiority of fistulas with respect to complications such as infections and thrombosis. Nevertheless, the use of PTFE grafts for hemodialysis access is an accepted and firmly established alternative to native fistulas where data today reveal unwanted consequences to overinterpretation of established guidelines such as increased catheter use. This information highlights a need for an adjustment of access selection strategies based on patient-centered algorithms. Here, available results on PTFE graft performance in hemodialysis access is recapitulated, with respect to both conventional grafts and technical modifications, and conclude with a modified approach to primary access selection.
UK Organisation of access Care
Authors: Wilmink Teun , Powers Sarah , Baharani Jyoti
Published: March 2015

National UK audits show that 73% of patients start renal replacement therapy (RRT) with haemodialysis (HD). However, 59% of those start HD on non-permanent access in the form of a tunnelled line (TL) or a non-tunnelled line (NTL), 40% on an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and 1% on an arteriovenous graft (AVG). After 3 months, the number of patients dialysing on AVF was only 41%. Late referrals, within 90 days of starting dialysis to the renal service, occur in one-fifth of all incident HD patients. Referral to a surgeon was an important determinant of mode of access at first dialysis. However, referral to a surgeon occurred in 67% of patients who were known to the nephrologist for over a year and in 46% of patients who were known to nephrology less than a year but more than 90 days. Best practice tariffs of the National Health Service (NHS) payment by results program have set a target of 75% of prevalent HD occurring via an AVF or AVG in 2011/2012, rising to 85% in 2013/2014. We suggest that this target is best achieved by increasing timely referral to a surgeon for creation of access before HD is needed.
One-Year Efficacy of the RUDI Technique for Flow Reduction in High-Flow Autologous Brachial Artery-Based Hemodialysis Vascular Access
Authors: Vaes Roel H.D. , van Loon Magda , Vaes Selma M.M. , Cuypers Philippe , Tordoir Jan H. , Scheltinga Marc R.
Published: March 2015

Purpose

Flow reduction is advised in hemodialysis (HD) patients with a high-flow (>2 L/min) arteriovenous fistula (AVF). The revision using distal inflow (RUDI) technique is based on the premise that access flow is attenuated once inflow is provided by a smaller caliber forearm artery. Aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of RUDI during a 1-year follow-up.

Methods

All HD patients undergoing a RUDI operation using a greater saphenous vein (GSV) or a basilic vein (BaV) interposition for a high-flow access (HFA, >2 L/min) during a 3.5-year time period were included. Serial access flow, percentage of freedom from recurrent high flow and complications were determined.

Results

A total of 19 HFA patients were studied (11 males, age 55 ± 3 years). All AVFs were brachial artery based (brachiocephalic, n = 14; brachiobasilic, n = 5). RUDI immediately reduced access flow by almost 2 L/min (3,080 ± 200 to 1,170 ± 160 mL/min (p = 0.001)). Access flows at 1, 6 and 12 months were 1,150 ± 160, 1,460 ± 200 and 1,580 ± 260 mL/min, respectively. Postoperative complications included insufficient flow reduction (n = 1, BaV) and occlusion requiring revision (n = 1, GSV). Recurrent HFA occurred three times (n = 2 BaV, n = 1 GSV). Access flows were significantly (p<0.05) higher in the BaV group compared to the GSV group.

Conclusions

RUDI effectively reduces access flow in a brachial artery-based high-flow HD vascular access. A flow-reducing effect is sustained at 1-year follow-up in most patients. GSV is preferred as an interposition graft compared to a BaV.
Brachiocephalic and Basilic Fistula
Authors: Baktiroglu Selcuk , Yanar Fatih , Ozturk Alper
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Brescia-Cimino radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) remains the first choice vascular access procedure for patients in need of long-term hemodialysis. Brachiocephalic fistulas are considered as a secondary option in almost all published guidelines. Recently in many reports, elbow and upper arm fistulas are recommended to be used as primary fistulas especially in elderly, diabetic, hypertensive patients. Elbow fistulas (brachiocephalic and brachiobasilic) should only rarely be constructed as primary fistulas. Forearm AVFs should be tried first to give a chance to the patient, because it is not the maturation-patency rates per se but also lowering the complication rates and saving the vessels for future use are equally important.

Background

The average life expectancy of patients receiving hemodialysis has increased in recent years and many patients now live longer and require secondary or tertiary procedures.

Conclusions

When forearm fistulas have failed, brachiocephalic AVF is usually preferred first, because of cephalic vein's appropriate anatomy for easy cannulation and ease of the operation. Operative procedure is less invasive compared to brachiobasilic AVF, therefore BC should be the procedure of choice when both veins are available.
Adoption of Web 2.0 applications in Omani academic libraries
Authors: Al Karousi Rahma , H.Jabr Naeema , Al Harrasi Nabhan , Bouazza Abdelmajid
Published: March 2015

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to identify the Web 2.0 applications adopted in Omani academic libraries (OAL), and to examine the role of Omani librarians in implementing Web 2.0 technologies. Besides, it aims to explore the importance of using Web 2.0 applications in academic libraries. Design/Methodology: Qualitative methods based on interviews were used for approaching the use of Web 2.0 applications in Omani Academic Libraries. 31 interviews with directors and library staff of four Omani academic libraries were conducted for the purpose of collecting data for this study.Findings: The results indicated that two out of the four libraries use Facebook, and only one library uses Twitter. Currently, the library of Sultan Qaboos University is starting to apply the YouTube channel and Instagram on its Beta website. Also, the findings of the study acknowledge Web 2.0 applications could enhance academic libraries in such fields as: giving the library an identity, promoting library information services, marketing library services, providing current awareness services, providing new acquisitions and communicating with library users and other libraries. Therefore, it was concluded that academic libraries should educate librarians and users regarding the use of Web 2.0 applications in library services, as well as formulate policy and rules for using these applications in Omani academic libraries.Practical implications: Most academic libraries in Oman have not yet adopted Web 2.0 applications to enhance their services. Therefore, this study will help library managers to understand the importance of using Web 2.0 applications in academic libraries and the roles of librarians in implementing Web 2.0 applications in their libraries. Besides, it can help other libraries to plan and integrate Web 2.0 applications in their services. Originality/value: This paper contributes to the research field by providing baseline data for studies on Web 2.0 applications in information science and could contribute to integrating these applications in academic libraries in general and in OAL specifically.
The role of the modern library in research evaluation
Authors: Purnell Philip James
Published: March 2015

Research evaluation has taken on new significance in recent years due to two main developments. The first is the enormity of data and metadata concerning research outputs making it impractical for large scale subjective peer evaluation of multinational outputs spanning research fields, linguistic barriers and varying geographies. The second is the advent of the digital age in which the medium of communicating, storing and analyzing these data seems to be continuously evolving challenging even the most high tech librarians to keep pace. New electronic resources have led to the development of new analytical and visualization tools from both the public and private sectors and library and information professionals are increasingly required to use state-of-the-art systems to inform decision making at various levels of university and research institutions. In this paper, we present a series of integrated analytical and information management tools that support large and medium sized research institutions in developed countries and that are systematically being rolled out across developing regions that are embracing the shift towards the knowledge based economy and in which libraries are expected to play an important part. Examples from the Gulf region will be demonstrated and compared with other regions and recommendations for development will conclude the session.
دور مؤسسات المعلومات في عصر المعرفة لتعزيز الانتماء وتحقيق الوحدة الوطنية لدى الشباب في دول مجلس التعاون الخليجي
Authors: العريشي جبريل بن حسن , الغامدي فوزية
Published: March 2015

تزايد الاهتمام بقضايا الشباب في المجتمعات المعاصرة، لما انطوى عليه عالم اليوم من تغيرات واسعة النطاق شملت كل مظاهر الحياة، وإن كان ذلك لا يعني أنه لم يكن ثمة اهتمام بالشباب قديماً، بل لقد حظي الدور الذي يقوم به الشباب في دول مجلس التعاون الخليجي منذ القدم بعناية فائقة غير أن الشيء الملاحظ هو ما أصبح يتميز به الشباب من موقف حاسم يتسم بالتأثير في كافة نظم المجتمع المعاصر، بحيث أصبح الانشغال بقضايا الشباب يعبر عن الاهتمام بمستقبل المجتمع الإنساني ككل لتعزيز الانتماء وتحقيق الوحدة الوطنية، وتحقيق آفاق التنمية في كافة مجالات وقطاعات المجتمع
Simultaneous Task Subdivision and Allocation Using Negotiations in Multi-Robot Systems
Authors: Rossi Claudio , Aldama Leyre , Barrientos Antonio
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a negotiations-based approach for simultaneous task subdivision and assignment in heterogeneous multi-robot systems. We first propose an abstraction of the concept of a task that allows for the generalizing of a variety of different problems. Based on such an abstraction, we have developed a negotiation protocol based on Rubinstein's alternate offers protocol. This is extended to the multi-dimensional space and employs a heuristic search step for evaluating and generating offers. Furthermore, the issue of how to extend a bilateral negotiations protocol to more than two parties is taken into consideration. The protocol was first tested in numerical simulations with different scenarios and then applied to three real-world missions.
Wear Resistance of Anodic Titanium Dioxide Films Produced on Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Vera María Laura , Rosenberger Mario Roberto , Schvezov Carlos Enrique , Ares Alicia Esther
Published: March 2015

Ti-6Al-4V alloy with TiO2 coating is the most commonly selected material to construct an aortic heart valve. Wear resistance is the main mechanical property to be evaluated for this purpose. In this paper, the wear resistance of TiO2 thin films obtained by anodic oxidation of Ti-6Al-4V is evaluated. Anodic oxidation was performed at 20 V to 70 V with a H2SO4 1 M electrolyte. The samples were thermally treated at 500°C for 1 h, and crystalline phases of TiO2 were obtained. The wear was performed in a ball-on-flat reciprocating machine with a range of loads from 1 gf to 4 gf and times between 60 s and 1200 s, using a diamond sphere as counterface. The counterface oscillates at 0.5 Hz and 4 mm in amplitude. The wear is measured using a profilometer and is calculated as the worn volume. The wear resistance of the coated samples is larger than the substrate, and increases with thickness and with crystalline coating.
Implementing Consumption‐Based Fixed Rates in Davis, Calif.
Authors: Spang Edward S. , Loge Frank J. , Abernathy William , Dove Douglas R. , Tseng Catherine , Williams Matt
Published: March 2015

Water utilities in California must promote water conservation, yet have a limited suite of rate structures that can be used to charge for water. Under traditional rate structures, a strong price‐based conservation signal can produce conservation yet result in revenue instability. California public water utilities face additional challenges as a result of the standards for reporting, accounting, and proportionality under Proposition 218. One solution for resolving these structural tensions between conservation and fiscal solvency in a Proposition 218 environment is the implementation of consumption‐based fixed rates (CBFR). This article describes the design and implementation of CBFR in Davis, Calif.
Assessment of Wind Energy Potential for Small Scale Power Generation at Thatta, Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: S.Z. Abbas  , R. Tanweer  , Firoz Ahmad  , Fayyaz ur Rasheed  , Junaid Karim  , Alay Raza
Published: March 2015

In this paper, the wind characteristics and wind Power potential for south coast of Thatta, Sindh province, Pakistan are presented. The variation of monthly wind speed at the height of 10m, 20m, 30m, 40m, and 50m are presented. The power density for these heights are calculated employing coefficient of performance Cp as 0.40 and 0.45. Season wise classification of wind speed and power density at these heights indicates a fairly reasonable prospect of wind energy utilization for small scale power generation.
Linked Data Meets Big Data: A Knowledge Organization Systems Perspective
Authors: Shiri Ali
Published: March 2015

The objective of this paper is a) to provide a conceptualanalysis of the term big data and b) to introduce linked dataapplications such as SKOS-based knowledge organizationsystems as new tools for the analysis, organization, representation, visualization and access to big data.
La résistance à l’art contemporain
Authors: de Barnier Virginie , Lagier Joëlle
Published: March 2015

Cet article analyse les attitudes et les représentations des publics vis-à-vis de l’art contemporain afin d’en appréhender les résistances et d’en inférer des implications marketing. Des études qualitatives menées auprès du grand public (entretiens semi-directifs et netnographie) ont permis d’appréhender les différents registres de résistance. Les résultats permettent d’identifier trois dimensions majeures de résistance : économique, affective et herméneutique. Les recommandations afin de répondre à ces résistances s’articulent autour de deux axes : redonner du sens et des émotions au public, restaurer la confiance entre les différents acteurs du marché .
Les associations doivent-elles craindre une résistance au don d’argent ?
Authors: Urbain Caroline , Le Gall-Ely Marine , Urien Bertrand
Published: March 2015

Cet article explore la résistance au don d’argent aux associations à partir des travaux récents sur la résistance du consommateur et sur les comportements de don. Les résultats d’une enquête menée auprès de 325 personnes mettent en évidence deux dimensions d’antécédents de la résistance : l’agressivité concurrentielle et l’ambiguïté des pratiques. Ils exposent les effets perturbants ressentis lorsque les particuliers perçoivent des pratiques d’associations dissonantes. Une analyse typologique fait ressortir trois types de sensibilité à ces antécédents : les critiques, les bienveillants et les confiants. Les conclusions s’attachent à identifier les leviers sur lesquels les associations pourraient s’appuyer pour faire face à la résistance au don d’argent ou la prévenir .
La cyber-résistance du consommateur : Quels enjeux pour les entreprises ?
Authors: Chalamon Isabelle , Chouk Inès , Guiot Denis
Published: March 2015

L’objectif de cette étude est de mettre en évidence les enjeux de la cyber-résistance pour les entreprises. L’article souligne d’abord les apports du web pour la mise en place d’actions de résistance. Il détaille ensuite les principales modalités d’actions des cyber-résistants, en précisant les spécificités liées au web. Enfin, les réponses stratégiques des entreprises face à la cyber-résistance sont examinées .
Gérer la résistance des consommateurs aux programmes de fidélisation
Authors: Bied-Charreton Denis , El Euch Maalej Mariem
Published: March 2015

Les programmes de fidélisation, conçus pour créer et maintenir des relations durables et rentables avec les clients, peuvent être sujets à certaines réticences de leur part. Des comportements de résistance peuvent ainsi être observés dont la compréhension demeure encore parcellaire. Denis Bied-Charreton nous aide à comprendre les motifs qui peuvent susciter la résistance des consommateurs aux programmes de fidélisation et à mettre en évidence les réflexions à mener pour détecter et gérer ces comportements résistants .
Using REDItools to Detect RNA Editing Events in NGS Datasets
Authors: Picardi Ernesto , D'Erchia Anna Maria , Montalvo Antonio , Pesole Graziano
Published: March 2015

RNA editing is a post‐transcriptional/co‐transcriptional molecular phenomenon whereby a genetic message is modified from the corresponding DNA template by means of substitutions, insertions, and/or deletions. It occurs in a variety of organisms and different cellular locations through evolutionally and biochemically unrelated proteins. RNA editing has a plethora of biological effects including the modulation of alternative splicing and fine‐tuning of gene expression. RNA editing events by base substitutions can be detected on a genomic scale by NGS technologies through the REDItools package, an ad hoc suite of Python scripts to study RNA editing using RNA‐Seq and DNA‐Seq data or RNA‐Seq data alone. REDItools implement effective filters to minimize biases due to sequencing errors, mapping errors, and SNPs. The package is freely available at Google Code repository (http://code.google.com/p/reditools/) and released under the MIT license. In the present unit we show three basic protocols corresponding to three main REDItools scripts. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Nonlinearity of ocean heat uptake during warming and cooling in the FAMOUS climate model
Authors: Bouttes N. , Good P. , Gregory J. M. , Lowe J. A.
Published: March 2015

Atmospheric CO2 concentration is expected to continue rising in the coming decades, but natural or artificial processes may eventually reduce it. We show that, in the FAMOUS atmosphere‐ocean general circulation model, the reduction of ocean heat content as radiative forcing decreases is greater than would be expected from a linear model simulation of the response to the applied forcings. We relate this effect to the behavior of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC): the ocean cools more efficiently with a strong AMOC. The AMOC weakens as CO2 rises, then strengthens as CO2 declines, but temporarily overshoots its original strength. This nonlinearity comes mainly from the accumulated advection of salt into the North Atlantic, which gives the system a longer memory. This implies that changes observed in response to different CO2 scenarios or from different initial states, such as from past changes, may not be a reliable basis for making projections.
The weight of the mountains: Constraints on tectonic stress, friction, and fluid pressure in the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake from estimates of topographic loading
Authors: Styron Richard H. , Hetland Eric A.
Published: March 2015

Though it is widely recognized that large mountain ranges produce significant stresses in the Earth's crust, these stresses are not commonly quantified. Nonetheless, near large mountains topography may affect fault activity by changing the stress balance on the faults. In this work, we calculate the stress field from topography in the Longmen Shan (Sichuan, China) and resolve those stresses on several models of the faults that ruptured in the 2008Mw7.9 Wenchuan earthquake. We find that the topography results in shear stresses up to 20 MPa and normal stresses up to 80 MPa on the faults, with significant variability across the faults. Topographic stresses generally load the fault in a normal and left‐lateral shear sense, opposite to the inferred coseismic slip sense, and thus inhibit the coseismic slip. We estimate the tectonic stress needed to overcome topographic and lithostatic stresses by assuming that the direction of maximum shear accumulated on the faults is roughly collinear with the inferred coseismic slip. We further estimate the static friction and pore fluid pressure assuming that the fault was, on average, at Mohr‐Coulomb failure at the time of the Wenchuan earthquake. We use a Bayesian inversion strategy, yielding posterior probability distributions for the estimated parameters. We find most likely estimates of maximum tectonic compressive stress near 0.6ρgzand oriented ∼E‐W, and minimum tectonic stress near 0.2ρgz. Static friction on the fault is near 0.2, and pore fluid pressure is between 0 and 0.4 of the total pressure.
Plasmapause formation at Saturn
Authors: Thomsen M. F. , Mitchell D. G. , Jia X. , Jackman C. M. , Hospodarsky G. , Coates A. J.
Published: March 2015

Cassini observations during a rapid, high‐latitude, dawnside pass from Saturn's lobe to inner magnetosphere on 25 June 2009 provide strong evidence for the formation of a “plasmapause” at Saturn by Vasyliunas‐type nightside reconnection of previously mass‐loaded flux tubes. A population of hot, tenuous plasma that lies between the lobe and the dense inner magnetospheric plasma is consistent with a region formed by very recent injection from a reconnection region in the tail, including low density, high temperature, supercorotational flow, a significant O+ content, and the near‐simultaneous observation of enhanced Saturn kilometric radiation emissions. The sharp boundary between that region and the cool dense inner magnetospheric plasma thus separates flux tubes that were involved in the reconnection from those that successfully traversed the nightside without mass loss. This event demonstrates that tail reconnection can strip off inner magnetospheric plasma in to at least dipole L = 8.6. Clear evidence of flux tube interchange driven by the sharp boundary is found, both inward moving flux tubes of hotter plasma and, for the first time, the outward moving cool population. The outward moving cool regions have azimuthal sizes less than 1 RS, were probably created within the past 1.2 h, and have outflow speeds greater than about 5 km/s. At the outer edge of the reconnected region, there is also a possible signature of Dungey‐type lobe reconnection following the initial Vasyliunas‐type reconnection. Observations from this event are entirely consistent with previously described global MHD simulations of tail reconnection, plasmoid departure, and Saturnward injection of reconnected flux.
Architecture by Latitude and Locality: The Scarcity and Creativity Studio
Authors: Hensel Michael , Cordua Christian Hermansen
Published: March 2015

An initiative spearheadedby Michael Hensel; Christian Hermansen Cordua and Solveig Sandness at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO); the Scarcity and Creativity Studio (SCL) has been set up with the explicit intention of enabling students ‘to learn from integrated design, research and hands‐on building activities’. Here Guest‐Editors Michael Hensel and Christian Hermansen Cordua describe the ambitions and scope of the programme, and the projects that the studio has undertaken at extreme southern and northern latitudes, whether in Chile or in Northern Norway, highlighting the importanceof climatic and environmental factors in a local setting.
Detoured Installations: The Policies and Architecture of the Norwegian National Tourist Routes Project
Authors: Ellefsen Karl Otto
Published: March 2015

Since its inception in 1994, the Norwegian National Tourist Routes Project has become a flagship for Nordic architecture worldwide, showcasing installations by local practices along a network of historic tourist roads. The former Rector and Professor of Urbanism and Landscape at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design (AHO), Karl Otto Ellefsen, explains how the initiative has adeptly tapped into sustainability trends ‘with its emphasis on untouched nature and local authenticity’, while also strategically providing a tool for realising wider social, economic and political aims.
Studio Mumbai. The Practice of Making
Authors: Hensel Michael
Published: March 2015

Located in a studio just south of Mumbai in India; Studio Mumbai is closer to a traditional craft workshop than a conventional architects' office. With over 100 carpenters based on site, the studio is able to realize large‐scale mock‐ups, as well as models and graphic representations. As Guest‐Editor Michael Hensel explains, craft and the collaboration between craftsmen is at the very core of the practice. Within the workshop typical roles become blurred: as carpenters become architects, architects enter the craft of carpentry; and they both pursue the field of masonry. Out of an affinity for craft comes an empathy with the local, whether expressed in a respect for site and the land or indigenous materials and building traditions.
Outlook: En Route to Intensely Local Architectures and Tectonics
Authors: Hensel Michael , Cordua Christian Hermansen
Published: March 2015

Guest‐Editors Michael Hensel and Christian Hermansen Cordua reflect on four interrelated traits of current experimental practice that highlight the local: small size, locality, tectonics and experimentation/research. The objective is to provide an opening for further developments of the various trajectories of work that are featured in this issue, as well as for dedicated research. From this the contours of new ‘schools of thought’ can be seen to emerge, which render the notion of local architectures inherently pluralistic, thus transcending the perception that this type of work has to be bound by singular regional styles, types or identities.
Enhanced Synthesis of Metal‐Organic Frameworks on the Surface of Electrospun Cellulose Nanofibers
Authors: Laurila Elina , Thunberg Johannes , Argent Stephen P. , Champness Neil R. , Zacharias Savannah , Westman Gunnar , Öhrström Lars
Published: March 2015

This study reports the in situ crystal growth of HKUST‐1 on electrospun cellulose nanofibers. Two different methods for introducing carboxyl groups on the nanofiber surface were used; HKUST‐1 was then synthesized on the cellulose nanofiber surface using a layer‐by‐layer approach. The distribution of HKUST‐1 on the nanofiber surface was highly dependent on the type of anionic pretreatment. The loading of HKUST‐1 on the nanofiber surface could be controlled by the layer‐by‐layer synthesis and the BET surface area could be increased by a factor of 44 to 440 m2 g−1.
The Fluoride Host: Nucleation, Growth, and Upconversion of Lanthanide‐Doped Nanoparticles
Authors: Naccache Rafik , Yu Qing , Capobianco John A.
Published: March 2015

The rapid ascent of nanoscience has garnered significant attention in recent years. Much of the interest generated has dealt with the integration of nanoparticles in various applications ranging from automotive and textiles to bioimaging and nanomedicine. In order for the realization of this potential, their synthesis and chemistry need to be thoroughly understood. One particularly interesting class of nanoparticles comprises a lanthanide‐doped inorganic matrix. Due to their physicochemical and optical properties, these lanthanide‐doped nanoparticles are undergoing widespread investigation in many fields, particularly for in vitro and in vivo imaging, as well as theranostics. They offer significant advantages in biological applications, particularly the extension of the system applicability to deep tissue regions of the body, a reduced scattering of the excitation wavelength, reduction of autofluorescence, and decrease in thermal loading and photodamage to the system under study. Specifically, lanthanide‐doped fluoride hosts are being propelled to the forefront of the current research efforts as they offer several advantages relative to other studied upconverting host materials. This review will take an in‐depth look at lanthanide‐doped upconverting fluoride nanoparticles with a particular emphasis on the synthesis, nucleation, and growth mechanisms and, finally, the potential to tailor particle properties.