bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creationism in schools
Authors: Jones Victoria Neumark
Published: May 2014

Victoria Neumark Jones discusses the place of creationism in schools and looks at the pressures teachers can be put under when it comes to tackling the controversial subject
Diversity in leadership
Authors: Ali Lutfur
Published: May 2014

The numbers of heads reaching retirement age is set to peak over the next three years. Lutfur Ali, diversity consultant for the National College for School Leadership explains why diversity is critical to meeting this challenge
A time for reflection
Authors: Waters Mick
Published: May 2014

In April, Mick Waters will be leaving the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, where he has built up a strong reputation as its forthright head of curriculum. Here he reflects on his time with the organisation
Is thin the new fat?
Authors: Bennett Kevin
Published: May 2014

Thin client technology – what is it and how can it help your school? Deputy head Paul Ainsworth and his ICT leader Kevin Bennett explain all
Game on
Authors: Fuller Steve
Published: May 2014

Assistant head Steve Fuller explains why games-based learning can be positive and provides advice for those who are hesitant about introducing games into lessons
Hooray for common sense
Authors: Ballard Andy
Published: May 2014

The scrapping of SATs has freed up 200 minutes a week, offering great opportunities at the end of year 9. Andy Ballard explains
Housing benefits
Authors: Wheeler Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Wheeler discusses the benefits that moving to a vertical house system has had in her inner city school
Safety first
Authors: Patterson Jane
Published: May 2014

ICT teacher Jane Patterson explains how she engaged her students in highlighting the importance of e-safety.
A summer of celebration
Authors: Powell Andy
Published: May 2014

Wednesday, June 24, sees the annual VQ (vocational qualifications) Day celebrations taking place once again. Andy Powell, chief executive of vocational education foundation Edge, tells us more
Increasing choice and flexibility
Authors: Crowne Stephen
Published: May 2014

In the last of his series of articles for SecEd, Becta chief executive Stephen Crowne discusses how open source software for schools is an issue of open standards and choice
First year of teaching — is it spring yet?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

As December approaches, NQTs everywhere will be preparing yourself for term number two. SecEd's resident CPD expert Margaret Adams offers some advice
Language tips
Authors: Tanner John , Donovan Maria , Fontaine Fabienne , Hudson Gabriela
Published: May 2014

The language specialists of Southbank International School have joined forces to offer their advice on engaging your students in learning a modern foreign language.
Training future leaders
Authors: Holmwood Chris
Published: May 2014

Shenley Brook End School has opened a Leadership and Training Centre to support leadership development across the area. Chris Holmwood explains.
Assessing SRE
Authors: Handy Lisa
Published: May 2014

A new guide from the Sex Education Forum is offering support in assessing and evaluating sex and relationships education. Lisa Handy explains why this is vital.
Flip the classroom
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

One trend in modern education has been the shift in focus from the quality of teaching to the quality of student learning. Ben Solly discusses his use of the flipped classroom.
From Dagenham to Wall Street
Authors: Taylor James
Published: May 2014

James Taylor discusses the Investment Club he has set up at his school and why it has been invaluable to his students.
The enigmas of Alan Turing
Authors: Brewin Kester
Published: May 2014

Second World War code-breaker Alan Turing was a national hero and a mathematical genius. Teacher Kester Brewin considers how his inspiring yet tragic story could engage your students.
A journey to outstanding
Authors: Smith David
Published: May 2014

Heartlands Academy has gone from special measures to two consecutive Ofsted outstandings – the last one under the January 2012 framework. David Smith explains some of their secrets to inspection success.
Risking IT
Authors: Benjeddi Abderrahmane
Published: May 2014

The RiskIT initiative is about getting all staff using IT as a means to improve teaching. With RiskIT week approaching, its creator Abderrahmane Benjeddi explains more.
Bucking the languages trend
Authors: Phipps Sam
Published: May 2014

In the midst of a decline in foreign language learning in Scotland, some schools are inspiring young people to buck the trend. Sam Phipps finds out how.
What is troubling this teenager?
Authors: Campbell All
Published: May 2014

What is troubling this teenager? Drink? Drugs? Many of us think we know the health issues that young people worry about. But we may have to think again. Al Campbell looks at the outcomes of research showing what teens are really concerned about.
Whistleblowing in education
Authors: Menham Paul
Published: May 2014

Whistleblowing is a sensitive subject – both for the employee raising concerns and those at the school who have to respond to them. Legal experts Paul Menham and Joanne Thorley offer advice to those on both sides of the coin.
Spotting the signs of forced marriage
Authors: Thomas Carla
Published: May 2014

A majority of forced marriage victims are young people who are still at school and teachers and school nurses have a key role in helping to spot the warning signs. Carla Thomas offers her advice and signposts some resources.
Small animal post-operative orthopaedic rehabilitation
Authors: Connell Lindsey , Monk Michelle
Published: May 2014

In the human medical world, post-operative rehabilitation is imperative to the successful outcome of the orthopaedic surgery patient. Rehabilitation of the canine patient is now also becoming recognized as an important facet of veterinary medicine. Rehabilitation may be provided by a variety of animal health professionals including animal physiotherapists, veterinarians and veterinary nurses. While having a qualified animal physiotherapist on site to oversee the rehabilitation of all patients is desirable, it is not always possible and treatment is often administered by veterinary nurses. This article outlines the aims of rehabilitation following orthopaedic surgery, when to commence therapy, appropriate selection, administration and monitoring of treatment techniques, contraindications and when to refer on to a qualified animal physiotherapist or back to the referring veterinarian.
How to obtain vascular access: the importance of good placement and aseptic technique
Authors: Goddard Lucy
Published: May 2014

This article provides an overview of some of the factors that should be considered regarding infection risks, placement and maintenance of peripheral intravenous catheters. A step-by-step guide to catheter placement can be followed as a basis for a good catheter placement protocol for use within the clinic.
Dangerous dogs — where now?
Authors: Laurence Chris
Published: May 2014

Several MPs are quoted as saying that the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (DDA) is the most
Unintentional hypothermia: implications and management of the post-operative patient
Authors: Bowers Lynne
Published: May 2014

Inadvertent hypothermia is not uncommon in the immediate post-operative period and is associated with impairment and abnormalities in various organs and systems that can lead to adverse outcomes. While there is much research to support the negative effects of hypothermia, often the focus is aimed towards minimizing heat loss in the peri and intra-operative period, however patients continue to lose heat post operatively, which can contribute to both short and long-term problems. Veterinary nurses have a pivotal role to play in minimizing such losses, with the main objectives consisting of detecting and recording post-operative hypothermia, as well as minimizing further heat loss and correcting any temperature deficits. Simple nursing interventions including careful positioning of post-operative patients away from draughty areas of the ward, frequent monitoring and recording of body temperature, and a combination of passive and active rewarming techniques can prove extremely beneficial to the recovery of hypothermic patients in the postoperative period.

Using the recommendations highlighted within this article it may be possible to minimize the physiological effects of hypothermia as well as to improve patient comfort during this important recovery phase.
Nursing care of the burns patient
Authors: O’Dwyer Louise
Published: May 2014

Nursing patients with burn injuries can be hugely challenging as the individual may have severe metabolic, cardiovascular and pulmonary derangements, not to mention large tissue deficits. A range of systems have been developed to classify burn wounds including percentage of body surface involved, through to depth of tissue involved and the use of these systems may help in giving a prognosis of the extent of the injury.

The treatment of burn wounds can start at home by the owner and appropriate early therapy can make a huge difference to the extent of the injury. All major body systems may be affected due to the nature of the injury and so early fluid therapy, analgesia, respiratory derangements, including carbon monoxide toxicity, wound management and analgesia need to be addressed appropriately. The close monitoring of these patients is vital in order to achieve a good outcome and so these cases rely heavily on good nursing care and attention to detail, so a good background knowledge of these considerations is essential.
Pain management in critically ill patients
Authors: Bloor Claire
Published: May 2014

Pain in critical care patients is a frequent occurrence due to surgery, trauma, invasive monitoring, changing dressings, suctioning various fluids and prolonged immobilization. These varied sources of pain make pain in the critical patient one of the most challenging areas of clinical practice for human nurses, and the same is true for veterinary nurses. Pain is defined as an unpleasant sensory and somewhat emotional experience that is typically associated with tissue damage, or is described in terms of actual or potential tissue damage. The body's nociceptive system initially detects a noxious stimulus, such as heat or a surgical incision, and generates a physiological and behavioural response to the injury; this process can also occur following any form of neuroplastic change, even after a wound or injury is considered healed. Pain is a very complicated concept and there are many physiological processes involved, which can make it difficult to assess and understand in animal patients, especially where pain has developed and seems unrelated to any obvious or identifiable physical process or injury. Due to these difficulties in pain assessment in veterinary patients it is recommended to take a liberal approach to analgesic use for their benefit.
How to blood type and cross-match
Authors: Barnett Wendy
Published: May 2014

In the UK blood components (products), packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, frozen plasma, cryo-precipitate and cryo-supernatant have only been available since the emergence of blood banks 5 years ago. This has led to advancement in transfusion medicine and a positive outcome for thousands of patients whose previous treatment options were restricted due to the lack of available blood. To date in the UK only canine blood products are available with feline transfusion patients being restricted to the option of fresh whole blood donated from emergency donors at the time.

With blood products now more widely available a greater understanding of using them becomes ever more important not only to ensure transfusions are being carried out safely but also to make best use of the blood donated by donors volunteered by their owners. Blood typing and cross-matching are two screening tests recommended to be performed prior to canine and feline transfusions.
Nursing the head trauma patient
Authors: O'Dwyer Louise
Published: May 2014

Head trauma patients are commonly seen within veterinary practice, and the treatment of these patients can prove challenging. In order to achieve a positive outcome in these cases, patients require intensive treatment and nursing care. Nurses play a vital role in monitoring these patients, and alerting the veterinary surgeon to any changes in their condition. The mainstays of therapy include intravenous fluids and hyperosmolar agents, with the administration of corticosteroids being somewhat outdated.
Evidence-based update on neutering options in bitches — a laparoscopic point of view
Authors: Giraldez Alberto
Published: May 2014

The aim of this paper is to briefly describe the use of laparoscopy as a technique for neutering bitches, discuss potential advantages/disadvantages and encourage interest in the reader in this field.
Pricing of veterinary products and services – fair pricing for profit?
Authors: Coates Catherine R
Published: May 2014

The pricing strategy which a veterinary practice develops must reflect the true cost of delivering products and services to clients. An essential starting point for any pricing strategy is, therefore, to establish what these costs are. This article addresses the issues and challenges involved in costing and price setting of veterinary drugs and medicines, pet health products and veterinary services within a small animal practice. First, the various pricing strategies available to practice managers and owners are explored. Then a basic costing and pricing formula is put forward that can effectively be applied both to products and services and this is utilised to illustrate the actual price-setting process in two selected examples. Finally, some general guidelines are given for keeping clients informed about prices in order to ensure transparency and clarity and thus maintain and even enhance the practice–client relationship.
Advances in Dental Materials
Authors: Fleming Garry JP
Published: May 2014

The dental market is replete with new restorative materials marketed on the basis of novel technological advances in materials chemistry, bonding capability or reduced operator time and/or technique sensitivity. This paper aims to consider advances in current materials, with an emphasis on their role in supporting contemporary clinical practice.
A fauna de peixes nas bacias do sudeste do Espírito Santo, Brasil
Authors: Sarmento-Soares Luisa Maria , Martins-Pinheiro Ronaldo Fernando , Martinelli Mikael Mansur
Published: May 2014

The hydrographic basin of southeastern Espírito Santo comprises the systems of Rio Novo, Rio Benevente and small river basins of the Guarapari. The present study is part of a series of studies on the fish fauna of river basins in Espírito Santo State. Fourty-five geo-referrerenced points in rivers and rivulets of the region were evaluated, 13 in the Rio Novo basin, 23 in the Rio Benevente basin and nine in small river basins in the municipalities of Anchieta, Guarapari, and Vila Velha. The environment and fish fauna were documented at every point, reporting a total of 110 species (54 marine), belonging to 46 families and 17 orders, most of which are Perciformes (42 species). With the exception of marine species, most of the fishes belong to the orders Characiformes and Siluriformes, with 16 species each. The Atlantic forest along the rivers of southeastern Espírito Santo region is composed of ombrophylous forest, pluvial submontane forest and pioneer formations (swamps, coastal sand dunes, and mangroves). The wetlands and coastal lake environments in the area are submitted to intense disturbances, and in this sense, the conservation units are extremely important for their preservation. The regional endemism of freshwater fishes is commented on, as well as the presence of potentially new species in the study area.
Demografia de Syagrus harleyi, uma palmeira acaule endêmica da Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brasil
Authors: Gonçalves Cezar Neubert , Mesquita Felipe Weber , Viana Fernanda Andrade
Published: May 2014

The stemless palm Syagrus harleyi is endemic to the Chapada Diamantina, and the ecology and biology of the species remain unknown. The aim of this paper is to present the results of an analysis of the demographics of S. harleyi in six populations in the Serra do Sincorá, Bahia State, Brazil. We sampled 30 plots of 5 × 5 m. The height and the number of leaves per rosette (ramet identifiable above ground) were recorded. We also recorded the presence of reproductive structures, the length of the sheaths and if the rosettes occur alone or in clumps. It was found 787 rosettes, with 0.98 rosette per m2. No significant differences were detected between populations. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test found no significant differences in the expected distribution of frequencies of height classes. Most populations had a predominance of intermediate height intervals, but two had a predominantly basal distribution. There were significant differences between sterile and fertile rosettes regarding their height and number of leaves, as well as in number of sheets present in clumps compared to isolated rosettes. The clumps had, on average, 3.91 ± 3.78 rosettes, but two clumps showed 15 and 28 rosettes. The density was found higher than that reported in other works. Studies with other stemless palms also identified the prevalence of intermediate height intervals, a fact credited to episodic recruitment events. However, the vertical growth of the leaves in the early stages of its development can influence plant height. The results indicate that S harleyi may develop as a single rosette or branched individuals forming clumps, which determines four patterns of growth. Comparison with other studies shows that it is difficult to establish ontogenetic patterns in stemless palms, perhaps due to the initial development of these plants, which may occur in the underground.
The making of The Rose of Turaida
Authors: Grobins Ryan
Published: May 2014

This article documents the making of Ryan Grobins’ second animated short film, The Rose of Turaida.
Transcending the surface: The animated line between Benjamin, Eisenstein and early animation
Authors: Serrazina Pedro
Published: May 2014

Relating two essays by Benjamin (‘Painting and the graphic arts’ and ‘On painting, or sign and mark’, both from 1917) with Eisenstein’s ‘The dynamic square’ (1930), this article proposes that the drawn line of early animation transcended the surface to challenge established modes of perception at a time of important social and cultural changes.

Benjamin addressed the ‘sphere of the sign’, specifically the meaning of the line within it, and established the difference between horizontal and vertical display (graphic and art work), highlighting the accomplishment of the work of art’s ‘inner meaning’. Eisenstein’s text, presented when the cinema industry was debating the introduction of the wide-screen, questioned the screen and frame proportions.

Relating Benjamin’s ‘magical properties of the line’, Eisenstein’s questioning of the frame and animated film references, this article will trace an approach to the essence of the line as a metaphysical element of transcendence and ‘deterritorialization’ (Klein 1993), suggesting that, in the process that takes the drawing from paper to screen, the lines accomplish their ‘meaning’; and become a projection of an ideal of liberation of body and frame, challenging its limits.
Mujeres en la expedición de Pedro de Mendoza: cartas, crónicas y novelas; verdades, mentiras, ficciones y silencios
Authors: Langa Pizarro Mar
Published: May 2014

Aunque las crónicas apenas se ocupan de las mujeres, diversos documentos certifican la presencia femenina en la expedición de Pedro de Mendoza al Río de la Plata (1535). Probablemente el más hermoso sea la carta de una de las viajeras, Isabel de Guevara, cuya autoría resulta dudosa para historiadores como Groussac. En este artículo, analizamos la misiva, la comparamos con otros textos, y nos acercamos a las obras literarias que han tratado esa aventura, en la que no faltaron un viaje azaroso por el océano, un asesinato, incursiones en territorios remotos, canibalismo, y figuras casi míticas.
Epithelial regeneration and cancer: news from the Src front
Authors: Sousa‐Victor Pedro , Jasper Heinrich
Published: May 2014

Src family kinases (SFKs) have long been implicated in tumorigenesis, but the exact requirement for individual kinase members, and their specific spatially and temporally defined roles in the maintenance of epithelial homeostasis remained unclear. A study by Cordero et al () now combines the strengths of Drosophila and mouse models for intestinal epithelial regeneration to characterize the role of individual SFKs in epithelial stem cells, tissue regeneration, and tumorigenesis.
Water retention of the loess-derived Luvisols with lamellic illuvial horizon in the Trzebnica Hills (SW Poland)
Authors: Glina Bartłomiej , Waroszewski Jarosław , Kabała Cezary
Published: May 2014

The aim of work was to characterize the water retention in the silt-textured Luvisols with lamellic illuvial horizon (argic) that occur in the loess covered northern part of the Silesian Lowland. Soil pits were localized on the Trzebnica Hills near the villages: Machnice (profile 1), Skarszyn (profile 2) and Zaprężyn (profile 3 and 4). Profiles Machnice 1 and Skarszyn 2 were situated in the upper parts of the hills covered with beech stands with an admixture of oak, linden and maple. Profiles Zaprężyn 3 and 4 were situated in the central and lower parts of the arable slope. During the field work conducted in April 2011, 29 soil samples were collected for texture, bulk density and water properties analysis. The soils under study were characterized by texture of silt loam with lower clay content in humus horizons (.loamy silt. according to Polish classification), and higher clay content (.clayey silt.) in the illuvial and subsoil horizons. The texture of all examined profiles was dominated by the „loess“ fractions. Variable abundance of the massive lamellae causes variations in water properties of the illuvial (sub-)horizons. It was found that lamellic illuvial horizons in the loess-derived Luvisols have higher field water capacity than the homogenous illuvial horizons, apart of the clay content. There was no apparent effect of the horizon kind (homogeneous versus lamellic) on the soil bulk density. These properties mainly depended on the total clay content in a particular horizon (sub-horizon).
Quality of Life and Self-Reported Lower Extremity Function in Adults With HIV-Related Distal Sensory Polyneuropathy
Authors: Galantino Mary Lou A. , Kietrys David M. , Parrott James Scott , Stevens Maureen E. , Stevens Anne Marie , Condoluci David V.
Published: May 2014

Background

Distal sensory polyneuropathy (DSP) is a common complication of HIV disease. Its effects on quality of life (QOL) and function have not been well described.

Objective

The study objectives were: (1) to compare QOL and lower extremity function in people with HIV-related DSP and people with HIV disease who do not have DSP, (2) to determine the extent to which function predicts QOL, (3) to evaluate the agreement of 2 function scales, and (4) to describe the use of pain management resources.

Design

This was a cross-sectional survey study with predictive modeling and measurement tool concordant validation.

Methods

A demographic questionnaire, the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey, the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), the Lower Limb Functional Index (LLFI), and a review of medical records were used. General linear modeling was used to assess group differences in QOL and the relationship between function and QOL. Bland-Altman procedures were used to assess the agreement of the LEFS and the LLFI.

Results

Usable data for analyses were available for 82 of the 94 participants enrolled. The 67% of participants who reported DSP symptoms tended to be older, had HIV disease longer, and were more likely to receive disability benefits. Participants without DSP had better LLFI, LEFS, and physical health summary scores. In multivariate models, lower limb function predicted physical and mental health summary scores. The LLFI identified participants with a lower level of function more often than the LEFS. Participants with DSP were more likely to use medical treatment, physical therapy, and complementary or alternative treatments.

Limitations

A sample of convenience was used; the sample size resulted in a low power for the mental health summary score of the Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey.

Conclusions

Quality of life and function were more impaired in participants with HIV disease and DSP. The LLFI was more likely to capture limitations in function than the LEFS. Participants with DSP reported more frequent use of pain management resources.
Effect of primary empty sella syndrome on pituitary surgery for Cushing's disease
Authors: Mehta Gautam U. , Bakhtian Kamran D. , Oldfield Edward H.
Published: May 2014

Object

Primary empty sella syndrome (ESS) results from herniation of arachnoid mater into the pituitary fossa. It has been suggested to have a negative effect on pituitary surgery; however, outcomes in this cohort have not been defined. This study was performed to determine the effect of ESS on immediate and long-term biochemical outcome after pituitary surgery for Cushing's disease (CD).

Methods

Using a matched cohort study design, the authors followed patients treated with pituitary surgery for CD with and without ESS. Complete ESS was defined as pituitary gland height ≤ 2 mm, whereas partial ESS was defined as pituitary gland height > 2 mm but less than three-quarters of the total sellar depth. The primary end points were immediate and long-term biochemical outcome. Cerebrospinal fluid leaks were recorded as a secondary end point.

Results

Seventy-eight patients with CD and primary ESS were identified and matched with 78 patients with CD without ESS. After surgical management, immediate biochemical remission was achieved in 69 patients (88%) with ESS and 75 controls (96%, p = 0.10). Long-term remission was achieved in most patients in both groups (5-year cure: 85% vs 92%, p = 0.10). Among patients with ESS, the presence of complete ESS predicted a worse long-term outcome (p = 0.04). Intraoperative CSF leaks were significantly more frequent with ESS (54% vs 24%, p < 0.001), and despite sellar floor repair, the rate of postoperative CSF leaks was also increased (6% vs 3%, p = 0.27).

Conclusions

Biochemical outcome after pituitary surgery for CD was worse in patients with complete ESS, and the risk of a CSF leak was increased with both partial and complete ESS. However, as outcome remains superior to those following alternative therapies and the biology of these tumors is unchanged in the setting of ESS, pituitary surgery should remain the initial treatment of choice.
Hierarchical Communication Network Architectures for Offshore Wind Power Farms
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed , Kim Young-Chon
Published: May 2014

Nowadays, large-scale wind power farms (WPFs) bring new challenges for both electric systems and communication networks. Communication networks are an essential part of WPFs because they provide real-time control and monitoring of wind turbines from a remote location (local control center). However, different wind turbine applications have different requirements in terms of data volume, latency, bandwidth, QoS, etc. This paper proposes a hierarchical communication network architecture that consist of a turbine area network (TAN), farm area network (FAN), and control area network (CAN) for offshore WPFs. The two types of offshore WPFs studied are small-scale WPFs close to the grid and medium-scale WPFs far from the grid. The wind turbines are modelled based on the logical nodes (LN) concepts of the IEC 61400-25 standard. To keep pace with current developments in wind turbine technology, the network design takes into account the extension of the LNs for both the wind turbine foundation and meteorological measurements. The proposed hierarchical communication network is based on Switched Ethernet. Servers at the control center are used to store and process the data received from the WPF. The network architecture is modelled and evaluated via OPNET. We investigated the end-to-end (ETE) delay for different WPF applications. The results are validated by comparing the amount of generated sensing data with that of received traffic at servers. The network performance is evaluated, analyzed and discussed in view of end-to-end (ETE) delay for different link bandwidths.
Urban-Tree-Attribute Update Using Multisource Single-Tree Inventory
Authors: Saarinen Ninni , Vastaranta Mikko , Kankare Ville , Tanhuanpää Topi , Holopainen Markus , Hyyppä Juha , Hyyppä Hannu
Published: May 2014

The requirements for up-to-date tree data in city parks and forests are increasing, and an important question is how to keep the digital databases current for various applications. Traditional map-updating procedures, such as visual interpretation of digital aerial images or field measurements using tachymeters, are either inaccurate or expensive. Recently, the development of laser-scanning technology has opened new opportunities for tree mapping and attributes updating. For a detailed measurement and attributes update of urban trees, we tested the use of a multisource single-tree inventory (MS-STI) for heterogeneous urban forest conditions. MS-STI requires an existing tree map as input information in addition to airborne laser-scanning (ALS) data. In our study, the tested input tree map was produced by terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and by using a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Tree attributes were either measured from ALS or predicted by using metrics extracted from ALS data. Stem diameter-at-breast height (DBH) was predicted and compared to the field measures, and tree height and crown area were directly measured from ALS data at the two different urban-forest areas. The results indicate that MS-STI can be used for updating urban-forest attributes. The accuracies of DBH estimations were improved compared to the existing attribute information in the city of Helsinki’s urban-tree register. In addition, important attributes, such as tree height and crown dimensions, were extracted from ALS and added as attributes to the urban-tree register.
Highly Accurate Tree Models Derived from Terrestrial Laser Scan Data: A Method Description
Authors: Hackenberg Jan , Morhart Christopher , Sheppard Jonathan , Spiecker Heinrich , Disney Mathias
Published: May 2014

This paper presents a method for fitting cylinders into a point cloud, derived from a terrestrial laser-scanned tree. Utilizing high scan quality data as the input, the resulting models describe the branching structure of the tree, capable of detecting branches with a diameter smaller than a centimeter. The cylinders are stored as a hierarchical tree-like data structure encapsulating parent-child neighbor relations and incorporating the tree’s direction of growth. This structure enables the efficient extraction of tree components, such as the stem or a single branch. The method was validated both by applying a comparison of the resulting cylinder models with ground truth data and by an analysis between the input point clouds and the models. Tree models were accomplished representing more than 99% of the input point cloud, with an average distance from the cylinder model to the point cloud within sub-millimeter accuracy. After validation, the method was applied to build two allometric models based on 24 tree point clouds as an example of the application. Computation terminated successfully within less than 30 min. For the model predicting the total above ground volume, the coefficient of determination was 0.965, showing the high potential of terrestrial laser-scanning for forest inventories.
Assessment of the Microbiological Quality of Groundwater in Three Regions of the Valencian Community (Spain)
Authors: Llopis-González Agustín , Sánchez Adriana , Requena Pedro , Suárez-Varela María
Published: May 2014

Urban groundwater development was traditionally constrained by concerns about its quality. This study was conducted in the regions of La Ribera Alta and Ribera Baja and La Plana de Requena-Utiel of the Valencian Community (Valencia, Spain) where population density, demand for drinking water and agricultural activities are high. Groundwater bodies (GWBs) are regarded as management areas within each territory, and were used to establish protection policies. This study analyzed eleven GWBs. We used two databases with microbiological measurements from 154 wells over a 7-year period (2004–2011), risk factors and groundwater information. Wells were grouped according to frequency of microbiological contamination using E. coli measurements, category <1, or wells with low-frequency microbiological contamination and high-frequency wells or category 1–100, according to World Health Organization (WHO) quality criteria of drinking water. Of all wells, 18.12% showed high-frequency microbiological contamination with a majority distribution in the Ribera Alta region (26.98%, p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between the two risk categories for flow, static level, well depth and distance from population centres. This paper reveals that the vulnerability classes established by the Geological and Mining Institute of Spain (IGME) do not match the microbiological results, and that only eight wells with high-frequency contamination coincide with the high vulnerability areas.
Chemical Characterization and Antitumor Activities of Polysaccharide Extracted from Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Liang Zengenni , Yi Youjin , Guo Yutong , Wang Rencai , Hu Qiulong , Xiong Xingyao
Published: May 2014

Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP) is a biologically active substance reported to possess anti-tumor ability. Nonetheless, the mechanisms of GLP-stimulated apoptosis are still unclear. This study aims to determine the inhibitory and apoptosis-inducing effects of GLP on HCT-116 cells. We found that GLP reduced cell viability on HCT-116 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner, which in turn, induced cell apoptosis. The observed apoptosis was characterized by morphological changes, DNA fragmentation, mitochondrial membrane potential decrease, S phase population increase, and caspase-3 and -9 activation. Furthermore, inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) by SP600125 led to a dramatic decrease of the GLP-induced apoptosis. Western blot analysis unveiled that GLP up-regulated the expression of Bax/Bcl-2, caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). These results demonstrate that apoptosis stimulated by GLP in human colorectal cancer cells is associated with activation of mitochondrial and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways.
Synthetic Strategies in the Preparation of Polymer/Inorganic Hybrid Nanoparticles
Authors: Hood Matthew , Mari Margherita , Muñoz-Espí Rafael
Published: May 2014

This article reviews the recent advances and challenges in the preparation of polymer/inorganic hybrid nanoparticles. We mainly focus on synthetic strategies, basing our classification on whether the inorganic and the polymer components have been formed in situ or ex situ, of the hybrid material. Accordingly, four types of strategies are identified and described, referring to recent examples: (i) ex situ formation of the components and subsequent attachment or integration, either by covalent or noncovalent bonding; (ii) in situ polymerization in the presence of ex situ formed inorganic nanoparticles; (iii) in situ precipitation of the inorganic components on or in polymer structures; and (iv) strategies in which both polymer and inorganic component are simultaneously formed in situ.
Conotoxins Targeting Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors: An Overview
Authors: Lebbe Eline , Peigneur Steve , Wijesekara Isuru , Tytgat Jan
Published: May 2014

Marine snails of the genus Conus are a large family of predatory gastropods with an unparalleled molecular diversity of pharmacologically active compounds in their venom. Cone snail venom comprises of a rich and diverse cocktail of peptide toxins which act on a wide variety of ion channels such as voltage-gated sodium- (NaV), potassium- (KV), and calcium- (CaV) channels as well as nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) which are classified as ligand-gated ion channels. The mode of action of several conotoxins has been the subject of investigation, while for many others this remains unknown. This review aims to give an overview of the knowledge we have today on the molecular pharmacology of conotoxins specifically interacting with nAChRs along with the structure–function relationship data.
A Novel Aqueous Two Phase System Composed of a Thermo-Separating Polymer and an Organic Solvent for Purification of Thermo-Acidic Amylase Enzyme from Red Pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) Peel
Authors: Amid Mehrnoush , Manap Yazid , Zohdi Nor
Published: May 2014

The purification of thermo-acidic amylase enzyme from red pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) peel for the first time was investigated using a novel aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) consisting of a thermo-separating copolymer and an organic solvent. The effectiveness of different parameters such as molecular weight of the thermo-separating ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EOPO) copolymer and type and concentration of organic solvent on the partitioning behavior of amylase was investigated. In addition, the effects of phase components, volume ratio (VR), pH and crude load of purification factor and yield of amylase were evaluated to achieve the optimum partition conditions of the enzyme. In the novel ATPS method, the enzyme was satisfactorily partitioned into the polymer-rich top phase in the system composed of 30% (w/w) EOPO 2500 and 15% (w/w) 2-propanol, at a volume ratio of 1.94 and with a crude load scale of 25% (w/w) at pH 5.0. Recovery and recycling of components was also measured in each successive step of the ATPS process. The enzyme was successfully recovered by the method with a high purification factor of 14.3 and yield of 96.6% and copolymer was also recovered and recycled at a rate above 97%, making the method was more economical than the traditional ATPS method.
Development of a Biocompatible Layer-by-Layer Film System Using Aptamer Technology for Smart Material Applications
Authors: Foster Amanda , DeRosa Maria
Published: May 2014

Aptamers are short, single-stranded nucleic acids that fold into well-defined three dimensional (3D) structures that allow for binding to a target molecule with affinities and specificities that can rival or in some cases exceed those of antibodies. The compatibility of aptamers with nanostructures such as thin films, in combination with their affinity, selectivity, and conformational changes upon target interaction, could set the foundation for the development of novel smart materials. In this study, the development of a biocompatible aptamer-polyelectrolyte film system was investigated using a layer-by-layer approach. Using fluorescence microscopy, we demonstrated the ability of the sulforhodamine B aptamer to bind its cognate target while sequestered in a chitosan-hyaluronan film matrix. Studies using Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry also suggest that deposition conditions such as rinsing time and volume play a strong role in the internal film interactions and growth mechanisms of chitosan-hyaluronan films. The continued study and development of aptamer-functionalized thin films provides endless new opportunities for novel smart materials and has the potential to revolutionize the field of controlled release.
Discovery of Pantoea rodasii Strain ND03 that Produces N-(3-Oxo-hexanoyl)-L-homoserine Lactone
Authors: Yunos Nina , Tan Wen-Si , Mohamad Nur , Tan Pui-Wan , Adrian Tan-Guan-Sheng , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: May 2014

Proteobacteria use quorum sensing to regulate target gene expression in response to population density. Quorum sensing (QS) is achieved via so-called signalling molecules and the best-studied QS signalling system uses N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs). This study aimed to identify and characterize the production of AHLs by a bacterium ND03 isolated from a Malaysian tropical rainforest waterfall. Molecular identification showed that ND03 is a Pantoea sp. closely related to Pantoea rodasii. We used Chromobacterium violaceum CV026, an AHL biosensor for preliminary AHL production screening and then used high resolution triple quadrupole liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, to confirm that P. rodasii strain ND03 produced N-(3-oxo-hexanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C6-HSL). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report for such a discovery in P. rodasii strain ND03.
Mattress Bridge Sutures for Graft Fixation in Pediatric Keratoplasty: New Use of an Old Technique
Authors: Parrish Carolyn M , Faris David A , O'Day Denis M
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Because of decreased scleral rigidity of tissue, penetrating keratoplasty in the pediatric age group is difficult. We have applied an early keratoplasty technique of graft fixation with indirect "bridge" or "overlay" sutures to temporarily stabilize the graft and facilitate wound closure.
Surface Reaction on Glass Anterior Chamber Foreign-body Removed 24 Hours After Injury
Authors: Wolter J Reimer , Lindenmuth Kim A
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

An early stage in the formation of a reactive membrane on the exposed surface of a glass foreign body in the anterior chamber is demonstrated. It is emphasized that the formation of reactive membranes on the surface of foreign bodies in the anterior segment of the eye give the cytologic impression of different stages of successful adaptation.
Role of Nd:YAG Peripheral Iridectomy in the Management of Ocular Hypertension With a Narrow Angle
Authors: Romano J H , Hitchings R A , Pooinasawmy D
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

One half of 20 patients (40 eyes) with ocular hypertension and occludable angles, some with peripheral anterior synechiae, were randomly assigned for treatment by Nd: YAG laser iridotomy. Pre-randomization patients required pilocarpine to maintain normal intraocular tension. Following laser treatment, all eyes were followed a minimum of 12 months (mean of 24). In the nonlaser-treated group, pilocarpine alone controlled intraocular pressure. In the laser treated group, eyes without peripheral anterior synechiae required fewer medications to maintain normal pressures while eyes with peripheral anterior synechiae required more. Although relief of pupillary block by laser iridotomy can facilitate managment of this group of patients, preexisting peripheral anterior synechiae may be associated with greater therapeutic requirements following laser treatment.
A Technique for Accurate Application of Pilocarpine Gel
Authors: Fechtner Robert D , Piltz Jody R , Starita Richard J
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACT

Pilocarpine hydrochloride 4% gel can be accurately administered by squeezing a one-half inch ribbon of gel onto the tube tip and then touching the premeasured dose to the conjunctiva.
A Multivariate Statistical Assessment of the Level of Use of Information Systems in the Public Sector Services in Greece in Order to Oppose Bureaucracy
Authors: Moschidis Odysseas , Papathanasiou Jason
Published: May 2014

Public sector bureaucracy is undoubtedly one of the major unfavorable factors that contradict the smooth economic development of Greece. Using information systems in management is indeed promoting decisively the improvement of the organization, the communication, the service processing time and generally speaking the modernization of the Public Administration; leading to the fact that the level of proficiency of the employees in IS use is vital to the ever going fight against bureaucracy. This paper is about the study of the competence of the non IT specialists of the Greek public sector employees, who however use computers in their daily work, in subjects regarding the safe and sound use of Information Systems applications. The authors also studied the correspondence of the employees capabilities with variables like the experience, adequate knowledge of a second language, age and years of service; their interest in participating in IS training seminars is also recorded. The authors were based in data gathered with a structured questionnaire and the data analysis was conducted with multivariate analysis, correspondence analysis and hierarchical classification.
Thermal Management of Data Centres – Effect of CRAC Location and Flow Rate on the Performance of Data Centres
Authors: Fakhim Babak , Baloch Faraz Rind , Nagarathinam Srinarayana , Behnia Masud , Armfield Steven W.
Published: May 2014

IT Equipment and Systems, Housed in Data Centres, Consume a Considerable Amount Ofenergy. most of the Electrical Energy Consumed by the Data Centre IT Equipment is Released in Theform of Heat. Cooling Issues will have a Significant Impact on the Thermal Manageability and Energyefficiency of the Cooling Infrastructure. in this Paper, a Numerical Analysis of Flow and Temperaturedistribution of a Raised-Floor Data Centre is Conducted in Order to Evaluate the Thermal Performance Ofthe Data Centre. the Effect of the Computer Room Air Conditioning (CRAC) Location and Flow Rate Onthe Data Centre Performance in Investigated Using Thermodynamic-Based Performance Metrics.
Crystal Plasticity Simulation of the Bauschinger Effect of Polycrystalline AA7075 through a Texture-Based Representative Volume Element Model
Authors: Li Ling , Shen Lu Ming , Proust Gwénaëlle
Published: May 2014

A texture-based representative volume element (TBRVE) model is developed for the three-dimensional crystal plasticity (CP) finite element simulations of the Bauschinger effect (BE) of polycrystalline aluminium alloy 7075 (AA7075). In the simulations, the grain morphology is created using the Voronoi tessellation method with the material texture systematically discretised from experiment. A modified CP constitutive model, which takes into account the backstress, is used to simulate the BE during cyclic loading. The model parameters are calibrated using the first cycle stress-strain curve and used to predict the mechanical response to the cyclic saturation of AA7075. The results indicate that the proposed TBRVE CP finite element model can effectively capture the BE at the grain level.
Numerical Simulation of CPT Cone Penetration in Sand
Authors: Kouretzis George P. , Sheng Dai Chao , Wang Dong
Published: May 2014

Numerical simulation of cone penetration in sand is performed by means of a computationally efficient critical state model implemented in an explicit-integration finite element code. Its main advantage, compared to other published studies employing simpler soil models such as the Drucker-Prager, is that sand compressibility can be described with a single set of model parameters, irrespective of the stress level and the sand relative density. Calibration of the constitutive model is based on back-analysis of published centrifuge tests results, and consequently the predictions of the numerical methodology are compared against independent tests. Additional analyses are performed for proposing a new simplified formula to correlate the cone penetration resistance with the in situ sand relative density.