bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Participation of Developing Countries in Dispute Settlement System of World Trade Organisation
Authors: Khan Humayun Rasheed
Published: April 2015

Today the world economy is immeasurably more complex, multi-faceted, and integrated than it was in the last quarter of 20th century. New financial procedures and interests have multiplied in the current trade and investment matrix. Developing countries are now rightfully taking a much greater share in global production, trade and investment. However, their level of participation in the dispute settlement system is an important aspect of academic inquiry. There are several reasons for inadequate participation of developing countries but lack of trust is at the heart of the entire debate. Division amongst the developing countries placed them in more vulnerable position. This paper focuses on reasons for poor participation of some of the developing countries in the dispute settlement understanding (DSU), problems of developing and least developed countries and points out some measures for bringing required equilibrium in the dispute settlement system so that it could be made just, fair and equitable in near future.
Thermal Conductivity of A-Site Cation-Deficient La-Substituted SrTiO3 Produced by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Loland Thomas E. , Sele Jaran , Einarsrud Mari-Ann , Vullum Per Erik , Johnsson Mats , Wiik Kjell
Published: April 2015

During the last decade oxide-based thermoelectric materials have received increased attention due to their high stability and thermal robustness at high temperatures as well as the availability and nontoxic nature of a number of promising candidates. In the present study we are investigating the thermoelectric properties of an n-type La-substituted SrTiO3 with the specific composition (La0.12Sr0.88)0.05TiO3. Nanosized powder precursors were spark plasma sintered (SPS) for 5 minutes between 900 and 1,200°C, resulting in densities between 73 and 98% and crystallite sizes between 40 nm and 1 μm. The formation of a rutile phase (TiO2) was observed in samples sintered at 1,150 and 1,200°C; at lower temperatures only single-phase cubic perovskite was observed. There was no clear evidence that the presence of rutile affected the thermal conductivity (κ). A significant reduction in κ was observed both with increasing porosity and reducing crystallite size, showing a minimum at ~700°C corresponding to ~1.3 W m−1 K−1.
Preclinical development of a C6-ceramide NanoLiposome, a novel sphingolipid therapeutic
Authors: Kester Mark , Bassler Jocelyn , Fox Todd E. , Carter Carly J. , Davidson Jeff A. , Parette Mylisa R.
Published: April 2015

Despite the therapeutic potential of sphingolipids, the ability to develop this class of compounds as active pharmaceutical ingredients has been hampered by issues of solubility and delivery. Beyond these technical hurdles, significant challenges in completing the necessary preclinical studies to support regulatory review are necessary for commercialization. This review seeks to identify the obstacles and potential solutions in the translation of a novel liposomal technology from the academic bench to investigational new drug (IND) stage by discussing the preclinical development of the Ceramide NanoLiposome (CNL), which is currently being developed as an anticancer drug for the initial indication of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Hybrid rotors in F1Fo ATP synthases: subunit composition, distribution, and physiological significance
Authors: Brandt Karsten , Müller Volker
Published: April 2015

Thecring of the Na+F1FoATP synthase from the anaerobic acetogenic bacteriumAcetobacterium woodiiis encoded by three different genes:atpE1,atpE2andatpE3. Subunitc1is similar to typical V-typecsubunits and has four transmembrane helices with one ion binding site. Subunitc2andc3are identical at the amino acid level and are typical F-typecsubunits with one ion binding site in two transmembrane helices. All three constitute a hybrid FoVocring, the first found in nature. To analyze whether other species may have similar hybrid rotors, we searched every genome sequence publicly available as of 23 February 2015 for F1FoATPase operons that have more than one gene encoding thecsubunit. This revealed no other species that has three differentcsubunit encoding genes but twelve species that encode one Fo- and one Vo-typecsubunit in one operon. Theircsubunits have the conserved binding motif for Na+. The organisms are all anaerobic. The advantage of hybridcrings for the organisms in their environments is discussed.
Effects of the Addition of Grape Seed Powder on the Thermorheological Properties of Frying Batters
Authors: Cagdas Ece , Kumcuoglu Seher
Published: April 2015

The effects of the addition of grape seed powder (GSP) on the thermorheological properties of frying batters were investigated in this study. Thermal properties, including gelatinization (T
G) and melting (T
m) temperatures, as well as enthalpies (ΔH
G, ΔH
m), were determined by a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The addition of GSP decreased the T
G and T
m as the GSP levels increased. When compared with the control batter, the addition of GSP significantly decreased the apparent viscosity and viscoelastic modules (G′, G′′). The mechanical spectra of batters carried out at 15–80°C showed a transition from fluid-like to gel-like behavior. The batter pick-up values were found to be directly proportional to the batter viscosity. Both water retention capacities (WRC) and consistency index values (K) of the batters were significantly affected by the GSP addition and temperature (p < 0.05). Grape seeds have health-promoting components on a scientific basis; thus, this study provides helpful results in the development of novel frying batters.
Understanding Risk Communication Gaps through E-Government Website and Twitter Hashtag Content Analyses: The Case of Indonesia’s Mt. Sinabung Eruption
Authors: Chatfield Akemi Takeoka , Reddick Christopher G.
Published: April 2015

Despite operational volcano surveillance using meteorological satellite, thermal remote sensing and infrared camera technologies, predicting a volcano’s hazardous activity and explosive eruption, with any accuracy, remains nearly impossible. Volcanic hazards and risk literature identifies risk communication as critical but insufficiently understood. This paper, therefore, investigates disaster risk communications during Indonesia’s Mt. Sinabung eruptions in February 2014, causing 16 deaths and continuous evacuations of 30,000 residents. We critically examined one-way government-to-citizens communications via e-government websites and Twitter and citizens’ multi-directional communications via #sinabung hashtag for sharing volcano risk perceptions about affected villagers. Our Twitter analysis of #sinabung found evidence for the absence of government engagement in risk perception communications and leadership in responding to the Indonesian public’s expressed concerns for the Mt. Sinabung disaster. For governments that would implement citizen-centric e-governance, Twitter can be used effectively as a multi-directional risk communication tool to quickly and effectively share risk perceptions and disaster information with the public.
High photoelectric PPV/PVA/Ag composite nanofibers by co-electrospinning
Authors: Gao Yang , Sun Zhiyao , Sun Liguo , Wang Cheng , Wang Shuhong , Yuan Jihong , Zang Linlin , Yan Pengfei
Published: April 2015

Poly(phenylene vinylene)/polyvinyl alcohol/Ag (PPV/PVA/Ag) composite nanofibers with excellent photoelectric properties were prepared by coaxial electrospinning using PPV/PVA as the shell and Ag nanoparticles (NPs) as the core, Ag NPs aqueous solution was prepared by the reduction method. The results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that Ag NPs are of a face-centered cubic structure, with an average diameter of 46 nm and the composite nanofibers have uniform and continuous morphology. With increasing Ag content, the diameters of the composite nanofibers decreased from 653 nm to 250 nm. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns verified that in the composite nanofibers, the Ag NPs are not transformed. In the photoluminescence spectra, the PPV/PVA/Ag composite nanofibers presented red-shift compared with PPV/PVA nanofibers. Under illumination, the as-prepared PPV/PVA/Ag composite nanofibers exhibited relatively high photocurrent intensity.
Sustainable Transport in Romania vs. European Union. Analysis of Road Transport System from the Sustainable Transport Perspective
Authors: Clitan Andrei - Florin
Published: April 2015

Rezumat

Durabilitatea este un termen folosit tot mai des în ultima vreme, acesta bazându-se pe trei tipuri de factori: sociali, economici și de mediu. Sistemele durabile de transport duc la creșterea coeziunii sociale, reduc problemele de mediu și ajută la crearea unei economii mai eficiente. Transportul durabil constă într-un sistem complex, care este proiectat pentru a asigura nevoile de mobilitate ale generațiilor prezente, fără a deteriora factorii de mediu și de sănătate. Prin îmbunătățirea eficienței energetice și reducerea consumului de materiale, acesta trebuie să fie capabil să îndeplinească în condiții optime, nevoia de mobilitate pentru generațiile viitoare. Sistemul de transport actual din țara noastră nu are un caracter de durabilitate.

Acest articol încearcă să identifice o serie de probleme și disfuncționalități ale sistemelor de transport, din perspectiva unui sistem de transport durabil. Pentru alinierea la standardele Uniunii Europene este necesar să se ia măsuri pentru îmbunătățirea actualului sistem de transport.

Soluțiile propuse trebuie să fie soluții ecologice, social și economic viabil echitabile. Există o serie de beneficii prin implementarea unui astfel de sistem, atât directe, cât și indirecte: un cost redus de transport, confort sporit, mai puțină poluare a mediului, reducerea accidentelor rutiere. Durabilitatea rețelelor de drumuri este atât o provocare cât și o necesitate a zilelor noastre.
Poly-acrylic Acid Brushes and Adsorbed Proteins
Authors: Reinhardt Matthias , Kreuzer Martin , Geue Thomas , Dahint Reiner , Ballauff Matthias , Steitz Roland
Published: April 2015

Planar polyelectrolyte brushes are prepared by Langmuir–Schaefer
based grafting of perdeuterated (styrene)49-b-(acrylic
acid)222 block copolymer (dPS-b-PAA) to dPS pre-coated silicon
supports with grafting density σ
PAA from 0.07 to
0.11 nm
–2. The structure of the solvent-swollen brushes,
i. e. the volume fraction profile of polymer segments, ϕ
PAA, as a function of altitude z from the grafting
plane into the liquid phase is extracted from neutron reflectivity
measurements. We find that for all cases investigated
ϕ
PAA(z) resembles a Gaussian profile. Although very
condensed, the PAA brushes can be loaded with bovine serum albumin
(BSA). The integral amount of adsorbed BSA scales linearly with
grafting density. We compare our z-resolved volume fraction profile
ϕ
BSA(z) of BSA on PAA brushes with existing literature
on that system. It is found that a cross-over takes place in the
adsorption scheme from ternary compressive, where proteins can
approach the grafting surface only by compressing the brush, to
ternary insertive, where proteins enter the brush with only local
perturbation of the concentration profile, as a function of
R
P/H
max, where R
P is the
Stokes-Radius of the protein, and H
max is the
experimentally determined maximum height of
the brush.
Evaluation of Soft Clay Field Consolidation Using MEMS-Based In-Place Inclinometer–Accelerometer Array
Authors: Bennett Victoria , Abdoun Tarek , Barendse Matthew
Published: April 2015

The objectives of this study are: (1) to compare data recorded with a recently developed in-place inclinometer–accelerometer system to data measured with other established instrumentation through full-scale laminar box tests and field test sites, and (2) to evaluate possible causes for discrepancies between the measured and theoretical soil settlement at a bridge replacement site on soft clay. The performance of the three-dimensional (3D) micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)-based in-place inclinometer–accelerometer array is evaluated for monitoring the settlement and lateral spreading of a very soft, 30-m-deep clay deposit at a New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) bridge realignment site. Brief design details are given of the developed instrumentation system, which utilizes MEMS devices to measure angles relative to gravity, in addition to signals proportional to acceleration. The estimated theoretical accuracy of the system-displacement measurement is assessed empirically using thousands of datasets from several long-term field installations. This new instrumentation system was also included in a full-scale laminar box test of a sloping saturated fine sand deposit. This full-scale test provides a means of evaluating measured acceleration data. In all cases, data recorded with the developed in-place inclinometer–accelerometer system is compared to data measured with state-of-the-practice instrumentation. These comparisons were extremely favorable and justified the future use of this instrumentation for many geotechnical applications. This study also includes an evaluation of commercially available geotechnical software settlement predictions as compared to measured data at the NYSDOT bridge realignment site. The results of this study indicate that the effectiveness of the prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs) is not constant throughout the monitoring period and that the changes in effectiveness cannot be captured in commercial software using a constant ch.
More than the Parts
Authors: Esposito Maurizio
Published: April 2015

In 1903, the Scripps Marine Association was founded in La Jolla, San Diego. It was rechristened the Scripps Institution of Oceanography two decades later. Today it is one of the largest marine research institutions in the world. The present study aims to reconstruct the history of this institution during the first years of its existence, the life of its first director, W. E. Ritter, and the cultural and scientific background of both. In particular, through the use of archival sources and unpublished materials, the essay reports on Ritter’s dream to import a form of holistic biology from Europe to southern California. This biology, which Ritter termed “organismal,” had to challenge reductionist and mechanist approaches to life sciences, including Weismann’s and Mendelian’s theories of heredity, both considered ideologically biased, politically dangerous, and scientifically flawed. Ritter believed that his new biology had to be grounded in a pluralist approach where laboratory and field investigations went hand in hand. In addition, the new biology had to support a progressivist political agenda whereby biological studies were linked with the political progress and the democratization of California and the United States. Despite its ambitions, Ritter’s research program was rapidly forgotten after the 1930s. In the conclusion, the article explores a few possible hypotheses explaining why this happened.
Redistribution of the intra-acrosomal EGFP before acrosomal exocytosis in mouse spermatozoa
Authors: Hirohashi Noritaka , Spina Florenza A La , Romarowski Ana , Buffone Mariano G
Published: April 2015

Mammalian spermatozoa must undergo complex physiological and morphological alterations within the female reproductive tract before they become fertilization competent. Two important alterations are capacitation and the acrosome reaction (AR), by which spermatozoa become capable of penetrating the zona pellucida (ZP) of the oocyte. Although various biochemical stimulants have been reported to induce the AR, the true physiological inducerin vivoremains to be identified. Previously, it has been reported that most fertilizing spermatozoa undergo the AR before contacting the ZP and that only a small fraction ofin vitro-capacitated spermatozoa can penetrate the ZP. Therefore, it is important to identify which capacitating spermatozoa undergo the AR in response to potential AR inducers such as progesterone. Here we show that spermatozoa undergo a dynamic rearrangement of the acrosome duringin vitrocapacitation. This involves the rapid movement of an artificially introduced soluble component of the acrosome, enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP), from the acrosomal cap region to the equatorial segment (EQ) of the sperm head. Spermatozoa exhibiting the EQ pattern were more sensitive to progesterone than were those without it. We suggest that spermatozoa that are ready to undergo acrosomal exocytosis can be detected by real-time EGFP imaging. This offers a promising new method for identifying where spermatozoa undergo the AR in the female reproductive tractin vivo.
La razón y el lenguaje, principios para entender la regeneración desde la lengua: Miguel Antonio Caro
Authors: Guzmán Diana Paola
Published: April 2015

El presente trabajo intenta reflexionar y proponer el siglo XIX como un sistema de representación, en donde la actividad retórica lideraba el escenario político, el histórico y el social. Por tal motivo, estos sistemas enunciativos exponen, de manera clara y radical, una suerte de regímenes de representación, que evidenciaban, no sólo a través de la praxis del discurso sino también de su estudio y normatización, enfrentamientos en donde el sistema de jerarquización de la palabra, jugaba un papel fundamental de estudio y comprensión de la lengua como elemento de poder e identidad.
Educación superior y negocio: perspectivas de la cooperación a largo plazo
Authors: Schislyaeva Elena , Saichenko Olga , Mirolybova Olga
Published: April 2015

En este artículo se discute la necesidad de nuevos enfoques para mejorar la calidad de la educación en las universidades, a través de la inclusión de los profesores y los estudiantes en grupos para entrenar directamente a la compañía, con el fin de compartir experiencias, identificar las cambiantes demandas del mercado con respecto a las personas y no a los programas de ajuste, con la formación de estudiantes para colgar naturaleza aplicación del aprendizaje en la educación superior.
Financiación y ejecución de las actividades de investigación y desarrollo en Latinoamérica
Authors: Pérez Jorge Enrique Arias , Borda Camilo Zuluaga
Published: April 2015

El artículo explora el nivel de gasto y los principales sectores de financiación y ejecución de las actividades de investigación y desarrollo (I+D) en una serie de países latinoamericanos, dada la importancia de este asunto sobre la competitividad y la capacidad de innovación de las empresas y los territorios. Además, el protagonismo que tengan ciertos sectores en materia de financiación y ejecución se constituye en un primer indicio sobre el grado de consolidación de la triple hélice y de la economía del conocimiento en Latinoamérica. En cuanto a la metodología, se desarrolló una estrategia documental, dando énfasis en la recuperación, análisis y discusión de fuentes bibliográficas; en este caso, se recopiló información sobre gasto en I+D durante el periodo 2006-2010, de las bases de datos de la Ricyt, el Ocyt y el Passport GMID, relacionada con países como Argentina, Brasil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, México, Panamá, Perú, Paraguay y Uruguay. En relación con el abordaje teórico, el estudio se sitúa principalmente en el constructo indicadores de I+D, específicamente en el gasto en I+D frente al PIB, per cápita, en los siguientes sectores: Gobierno, empresas, educación superior, organizaciones privadas sin ánimo de lucro y extranjeros.
Influencia de las Tecnologías de Información y Comunicación en los roles e interrelaciones entre estudiantes y docentes en programas presenciales de educación superior
Authors: Rodríguez Norma Julieth Ruiz , Torres Martha Ruth Mendoza , Ferrer Luis Gabriel
Published: April 2015

El propósito de este artículo es hacer una reflexión dirigida a directivas y docentes de instituciones de educación superior, acerca de cómo el uso de las Tecnologías de Información y Comunicación (TIC) influye en los roles e interrelaciones entre estudiantes y docentes, en los procesos de enseñanza aprendizaje en programas presenciales de ese nivel. De esta se concluye que cuando las TIC se utilizan como apoyo a la labor educativa de una forma planeada, emerge una dinámica de cambio en la interrelación entre estudiantes y docentes, donde los primeros asumen un papel activo en la construcción de su aprendizaje individual y colectivo, en tanto que los docentes se convierten en arquitectos y gestores de ambientes y experiencias de aprendizaje mediadas por TIC, y guías en el proceso de búsqueda y análisis de información en el mundo digital, además de orientadores del aprendizaje; diferente a la educación tradicional donde el docente es visto como poseedor del conocimiento y el estudiante como receptor pasivo del mismo.

Este cambio de dinámica en los procesos de aprendizaje propiciado por el uso de las TIC promueve el aprendizaje significativo a nivel individual y el trabajo colaborativo y aprendizaje en red, como expresión de la construcción social del aprendizaje que se da en la interacción entre estudiantes y docentes como parte del colectivo, lo cual nos invita a repensar tanto el modelo educativo de las instituciones de educación superior, como la formación de los docentes.
The political economy of securitization: The case of Boko Haram, Nigeria
Authors: Nwankpa Michael Okwuchi
Published: April 2015

Since the abduction in 2014 of 276 high school girls in a remote village, Chibok, in Borno state, Nigeria, the activities of the proscribed group Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad, popularly known as Boko Haram, has received elevated domestic and international attention, as has the Nigerian government’s strategy to deal with the group. Criticisms of the government’s ineffective handling of the situation have been made by a number of foreign governments, and several of them have offered military, intelligence, diplomatic, and law enforcement assistance to Nigeria. From a political economy perspective, this article presents a critical reading and analysis of the local and  international response to Boko Haram. It finds that an interest in the “securitization” of development prevails over a genuine peace and security agenda. [JEL codes: D74, O55]
Macroeconomic benefits of farmer-pastoralist peace in Nigeria’s Middle Belt: An input-output analysis approach
Authors: McDougal Topher , Hagerty Talia , Inks Lisa , Dowd Caitriona , Conroy Stone
Published: April 2015

This article reports on the potential macroeconomic benefits of peace stemming from a reduction in farmer-pastoralist violence in four Middle Belt states of Nigeria (Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Plateau). Farmers and pastoralists routinely clash over access to farmland, grazing areas, stock routes, and water points for both animals and households. Farmer-pastoralist violence in these states is a relatively low-intensity form of conflict, but it is regionally widespread and chronic, and its incidence is arguably increasing. Using estimates of potential income benefits of peace at the household-level derived from a related study, we herein derive macroeconomic benefits via an input-output model of the Nigerian economy. We estimate these benefits to amount to around 2.8 percent of the nominal Nigerian GDP (or around 0.8 percent of the total Nigerian GDP, inclusive of the informal sector), representing a major macroeconomic opportunity. We break out these benefits by sector, showing that the sectors that stand to gain most from peace are the crop production, food and beverage, livestock, and chemical and petroleum industries. [JEL codes: C65, D74, E01]
Acute dermal toxicity and sensitization studies of novel nano‐enhanced UV absorbers
Authors: Piasecka‐Zelga Joanna , Zelga Piotr , Górnicz Magdalena , Strzelczyk Paweł , Sójka‐Ledakowicz Jadwiga
Published: April 2015

Acute dermal toxicity and sensitization studies of novel nano‐enhanced UV absorbers: Joanna Piasecka‐Zelga, et al. Institute of Occupational Medicine, Research Laboratory for Medicine and Veterinary Products in the GMP Quality System, Poland

Background

Many employees working outside are exposed to the harmful effects of UV radiation. A growing problem is also sensitization to textile materials and allergic reactions to active compounds. Groups of inorganic UV blockers with nanoparticles may provide superior properties over organic UV absorbers with relatively less potential of provoking dermatitis.

Objective

To assess acute dermal irritation and sensitization of nano UV absorbers.

Materials & Methods

Five UV absorbers with nano‐sized particles (Z11, TiO2 – SiO2 [TDPK], TK44, TK11, A8G) and 2 vehicles (paste‐based on 10% PEG, and dispersion with 1% HEC) were tested. Acute dermal irritation was tested using group of 3 rabbits for each absorber. The sensitization study was carried out on groups of 15 guinea pigs for each tested textile with a UV absorber showing an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF)>40. This research was designed according to OECD Test Guideline No. 404 and 406, and 21 rabbits and 60 guinea pigs were used in the study.

Results

In acute dermal irritation, Z11and A8G modifiers and the analyzed paste gave results of 0.047 to 0.33 which classifies them as barely perceptible irritants, whereas the other analyzed modifiers and dispersion gave results of 0.00 and were classified as nonirritating. Only the textile with TK 11 did not have UPF>40. The analyzed barrier materials were classified as nonsenitizers (TDPK, A8G) or mild sensitizers (TK44, Z11).

Conclusions

None of the analyzed materials or modifiers induced major skin reactions in animals. Therefore, they present low risk of provoking skin reactions in humans.
Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation — An Appraisal
Authors:   Department of Education (IASE), University of Kalyani, Kalyani, West Bengal., Mondal Ajit , Mete Jayanta ,   Department of Education (IASE), University of Kalyani, Kalyani, West Bengal.
Published: April 2015

Education aims at making children capable of becoming responsible, productive and useful members of a society. Knowledge, skills and attitudes are built through learning experiences and opportunities created for learners in school. It is in the classroom that learners can analyse and evaluate their experiences, learn to doubt, to question, to investigate and to think independently. The aim of education simultaneously reflects the current needs and aspirations of a society as well as its lasting values and human ideals. As aspiration and expectations of each generation vary with time, constant review of curriculum and evaluation system becomes an essential exercise. The main purposes of evaluation is to help the learners improve their achievement in scholastic areas and to develop life skills and attitudes with reference to the larger context and canvas of life. In keeping with the above, reforms in the examination system are often recommended, sometimes discussed and rarely implemented. Introduction of Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) is one of such reforms which have undergone a long journey. This article examines the concept continuous and comprehensive evaluation, its historical perspectives, its need and importance, its features and role of teacher in implementing CCE in the landscape of Indian schools
Effect of Saakshar Bharat Mission in Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh
Authors:   Department of Education, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, Attri Rita , Jishtu Prabha ,   Department of Education, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla
Published: April 2015

This paper examines the effect of the Saakshar Bharat Mission- 2012 in the district Chamba of Himachal Pradesh. Saakshar Bharat Mission was launched on the International Literacy Day, 8th September, 2009. The rationale behind the programme is to create a literate society through a variety of teaching learning programme for non-literate and neo-literate adults in the age group of 15 years and above with the prime focus on women. The programme is mainly focused on women as the magnitude of illiteracy among women is very high. Only 54.16% of women are literate as per 2001 census. The programme included 365 districts. These are those districts in which the female literacy rate is found to be less than 50% according to 2001 census. In Himachal Pradesh, Chamba district has been selected for the same as the female literacy rate according to 2001 census was 48.8%. Saaskshar Bharat Mission has left positive effect on the literacy rate of Himachal Pradesh. The literacy rate of Himachal Pradesh indicates an increase of 7.30% in 2011 census. The male (5.48%) and female (9.18%) literacy rate of Himachal Pradesh also increased. The district Chamba of Himachal Pradesh indicates an increase in literacy rate by 10.28% from 2001 to 2011. The male and female literacy rate in Chamba district is increased by 7.78% to 13.29% from 2001 to 2011. As far as gender gap in district Chamba is concerned it is decreased by 5.51%.
Importance of ICT in Education for Gifted Students
Authors:   Assistant Professor in Education, University School of Open Learning, Panjab University, Chandigrh, Kaur Supreet , . Meenu ,   Research Scholar (JRF) in Education, Panjab University, Chandigarh
Published: April 2015

Gifted and talented children are those who are identified by professionally qualified persons who by virtue of outstanding abilities are capable of high performance. These are children who require differentiated educational programs and services beyond those that are normally provided by the regular school program in order to realize their contribution to self and society (Marland, 1972). A gifted child in the regular classroom may be the only child in the room; hence, he or she will not have the opportunity to learn with others of like ability. ICT can provide opportunities for students to develop and practice higher level thinking skills. The gifted students are spread around the world and ICT makes it possible that gifted students communicate with other gifted students all around the world. ICT can be used to acquire that type of knowledge which can satisfy the needs of the gifted children. So, the purpose of this paper is to determine the use of technology in education for the learning of gifted and talented students.
Empowering Women Through Higher Education: the Kerala Episode
Authors:   Government College Kodanchery, Kozhikode, Kerala, India, . C. Krishnan , . T.K. Rasheeja ,   Government College Kodanchery, Kozhikode, Kerala, India
Published: April 2015

‘Empowering women’ has become a buzzword in our socioeconomic parlor. Several initiatives in line with empowering and emboldening women have been on the roll. Provision of education in general and higher education in particular has been seen as a potent tool in mainstreaming women everywhere. India is not an exception in this regard. Among the Indian States, Kerala has exhibited a unique model based on education and health. Despite the bold attempt of the State in mainstreaming women through Democratic Decentralisation and provision of higher education, the fact remains that women in Kerala are not proportionately represented in the decision making bodies of Universities like Senate, Syndicate, Academic Councils, Board of Studies and so on. As regards women representation in responsible positions like Registrars, Pro-Vice Chancellors, Vice Chancellors, Faculty Deans etc., their presence is conspicuous by their absence. For example, out of the 12 Universities in Kerala, we have only one women Vice-Chancellor and a ProVice Chancellor. This is the case with other dignified positions in the field of higher education. The paper underlines the need for enhanced women participation in decision making bodies of higher education like Universities for their empowerment.
Cyclic shear behaviour of fibre-reinforced mine tailings
Authors: Festugato L. , Consoli N.C. , Fourie A.
Published: April 2015

ABSTRACT: In order to investigate techniques to improve the mechanical behaviour of mine tailings, an investigation of the cyclic shear response of fibre-reinforced mine tailings was carried out in the present study. Cyclic simple shear tests were conducted on fibre-reinforced and non-reinforced mine tailings. The tailings, produced from gold mining, were classified as sandy silt with traces of clay. Polypropylene fibres (zero and 0.5%) were added to the material. Under monotonic shear conditions, the addition of fibres unstiffens the material. Under shear stress-controlled cyclic conditions, fibres improved the material shear response and produced a stiffer material. Under shear strain-controlled cyclic conditions, no improvement was observed as a result of addition of fibres and there was no effect on material stiffness. The agreement of the strength envelopes of both monotonic and cyclic stress paths, under different cyclic loading conditions, allows the use of the same strength parameters for mixtures analysed under different loading conditions.
Passive Optical Network Survivability: Protection, Detection and Restoration
Authors: Abbas Huda Saleh , Gregory Mark A
Published: April 2015

Passive optical network (PON) technologies have received increasing attention as demand for fibre access networks has grown. Enhancing fibre access network reliability provides lower operational costs, and improves customer satisfaction. This paper discusses PON survivability including protection schemes for the fiber link and the Optical Line Terminal (OLT), the exciting monitoring techniques of the fiber link, and the effect of reducing the restoration time on the network availability. The main contribution of this study is to provide two protection schemes namely OLT-only-protected and OLT-and-ring protected. The proposed schemes are designed to handle instances of single failure affecting all customers in the network. This work considers three key performance metrics- Failure Impact Robustness (FIR), cost, and availability. The objective of the proposed protection architectures is to guarantee high quality of service at low costs by protecting critical network elements such as OLT and fiber ring. The proposed architectures have been compared with other well-known protection schemes. The results postulate that OLT-and-ring protected approach has 99.993% availability with a 0.09% increase in cost compared to the ring-only protection architecture.
Frequency-Adaptive Approach In IEEE 802.15.4 Wireless Body Sensor Networks: Continuous-Assessment or Periodic-Assessment?
Authors: Moravejosharieh Amir Hossein
Published: April 2015

IEEE 802.15.4 is arguably considered as a welldesigned standard protocol to address the need for low-rate, low-power and low-cost Wireless Body Sensor Networks (WBSNs).Within a WBSN, Node‘s communication occurs during theirconfined active periods. The increase in number of active WBSNswould consequently result in the elevation of the overlapping ratiobetween the active periods of neighbouring WBSNs. In this paper,we address the interference caused by neighbouring WBSNsand its devastating consequences. Additionally, two frequencyadaptive approaches are proposed as the solutions for decreasingthe negative impacts of internal intereference. Frequency hoppingcould be considered as a possible approach to alleviate theWBSNs performance degradation due to such interference. Inthat regard, two frequency-adaptive approaches are proposednamely: “Continuous-Assessment” and “Periodic-Assessment”schemes and are compared with previously introduced “Initial-Choice” and “Blind-Choice” schemes in terms of channel util-isation, success rate, Satisfaction rate and energy consumption(both sensors and coordinator). Eventually, it is concluded thatContinuous-Assessment scheme outperforms the other introducedschemes in terms of above-mentioned performance measures.
Handling Produced Water from Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

The recycling of produced water and fracture flowback water for reuse in hydraulic fracturing is on the rise in the development of unconventional resource plays. The factors driving the conservation of water are the limitations in sources of fresh water in areas with a high rate of development, the attractive economics of recycling compared with tanker truck transportation costs, minimization of road traffic to reduce environmental impacts, and water disposal costs.
Rapid Rise Hydrocarbon Fires: An Engineering Perspective
Authors: Williams Roger
Published: April 2015

The energy contained in oil and gas makes them immensely useful - and dangerous. A fire fueled by hydrocarbons can quickly threaten anything exposed to it.
Life Extension of Mature Facilities Through Robust Engineering and Chemistry Solutions
Authors: Bedwell Ian , Das Swati , McCall Euan
Published: April 2015

The development and upgrade of mature facilities is ultimately driven by the significant shift in the composition of the arrival fluids, mainly the increasing water cut and solids production. In many cases, the routing of new well discoveries to these facilities, or the change in characteristics of the crude with the decline in field production, exacerbates this shift.
Lack of Facilities Standards: The Achilles’ Heel of Modularization?
Authors: Halker Matt
Published: April 2015

Guest Editorial

In large part, the march toward modularization has been slowed by the lack of facilities standards for oil and gas. If we are all working toward different goals, how will we ever be able to agree on standardized componentry?
Compression Moves from Topsides to Seabed in North Sea
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

After approximately 25 years of development, subsea gas compression technology has advanced to a readiness level worthy of full implementation in the North Sea. Statoil, an early driver of the technology, in March received approval from the Norwegian Parliament for the development of subsea gas compression in the Asgard field. In May, Statoil and partner Petoro announced their decision to invest in subsea wet gas compression on the Gullfaks South Brent reservoir. Options for increasing recovery from offshore reservoirs have taken a technological leap, marking a milestone in the oil and gas industry.
Gas Hydrate Control Using Monoethylene Glycol in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

One of the more challenging flow assurance problems in deepwater subsea gas pipelines and equipment is the formation of natural gas hydrates. Gas hydrates form under conditions of low temperatures and high pressures, such as those found in deep water, when ice-like crystalline structures of water form "cages" around low molecular weight gases, especially methane. Methane is the most common trapped gas in hydrates, comprising 99% of the trapped gas. Carbon dioxide, propane, and ethane can also form hydrates.
Offshore Asset Integrity Management: Advances with New Technologies
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Asset integrity management encompasses the design, operation, and maintenance of an asset to preserve its integrity at an acceptable level of risk throughout its operating life. Protection of health, safety, and the environment is a critical component of the processes and procedures used to monitor the conditions of offshore surface and subsea facilities and structures.
Training of Project Managers Gains Traction
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Project management in the oil and gas industry comes with a unique set of challenges involving the management of engineering, technology, science, cost, schedules, procurement, risk, safety, personnel, and communication. Generally, companies’ approaches to "training" engineers to become project managers consist of mostly informal mentoring and the individual’s acquisition of lessons learned through his or her own work experiences.
Design and Performance Testing of a Subsea Compact Separation System for Deepwater Applications
Authors: Grave E.J. , Olson M.D.
Published: April 2015

ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company recently completed a technology development and qualification program, which included performance tests on an integrated subsea compact separation system for ultradeepwater applications.
Sand Management Methodologies for Sustained Facilities Operations
Authors: Rawlins Hank
Published: April 2015

Facilities sand management is tasked with the goal of ensuring sustained hydrocarbon production when particulate solids are present in well fluids, while minimizing the impact of the produced solids on surface equipment. Particle size and total concentration determines the net effect of solids on production and the resulting operability of surface facilities.
Case Study: Sand Separation in Surface Facilities for Heavy and Extra Heavy Oil
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Upstream separation processes remain a hot topic for facilities engineers. Striving to design separators with the optimal sizing for a variety of reservoir conditions, increasing water cuts, and dynamic gas/oil/water production characteristics is critical, but challenging.
Trends in Facilities Design and Construction
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: April 2015

Operators, as well as engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) companies facing large capital expenditure projects, such as new-build and brownfield production and process installations, are creating new designs and practices to accommodate the complexity of changing demands and environments.
Topside Processing Plants Go Compact on FPSOs
Authors: Borden Keefe
Published: April 2015

The development of compact topside processing plants for floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels is a growing industry trend that can reduce operating and capital expenditures over the life of the vessel, a researcher and scientist said recently.
Advances in Coatings Protection Extend Offshore Facility Life
Authors: Gibbs Brian , Jansen Edward
Published: April 2015

As producers push logistical and technological limits to operate in deeper water and more remote locations, maintaining and repairing offshore structures can present a number of challenges unique to these environments. One of the costliest is corrosion.

While fixed steel platforms are designed on the basis that there will be external fouling (marine growth buildup), floating oil and gas facilities require routine maintenance and preventive solutions to control corrosion.
Unconventional Resources: New Facilities Find Solutions to Limited Water Sources
Authors: Whitfield Stephen
Published: April 2015

It is common knowledge that hydraulic fracturing operations require a lot of water, and as they have become a more vital element of the oil and gas industry, sourcing this water has proven to be a challenge for companies operating in tough terrain.
Femoral Component Rotation in Patellofemoral Joint Replacement: A Study Protocol for a Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Westerbeek Robin E , Derks Rosalie P.H , Zonneveld Bas J.G.L , Jonbergen Hans-Peter W. van
Published: April 2015

Patellofemoral joint replacement is a successful treatment option for isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis. The
short and mid-term outcomes are related to malposition and unexplained pain. Whether external rotation of the femoral
component in isolated patellofemoral joint replacement is required is unclear. The primary aim of this study is to
determine the CT-measured femoral component rotation of patellofemoral joint replacement relative to the
transepicondylar axis. The secondary aim is to correlate the CT-measured femoral component rotation with the clinical
outcomes at 1-year follow-up as assessed with the KOOS questionnaire.

We designed a prospective observational study with medical research ethics committee and institutional review board
approval. A total of 40 patients who will be treated with patellofemoral joint replacement for isolated patellofemoral
osteoarthritis will be included. Intra-operatively, rotation of the femoral component will be assessed using anatomical
landmarks including the epicondylar axis, Whiteside’s line, and lower leg axis. The aim is to insert the femoral component
between 3 and 6 degrees external rotation relative to the transepicondylar axis. Two experienced musculoskeletal
radiologists will measure the angle between the transepicondylar axis and the femoral component, two to three days after
surgery. The primary outcome is the CT-based femoral component rotation of the prosthesis relative to the
transepicondylar axis. The secondary outcome is the patient reported KOOS questionnaire at 1-year follow-up.

Successful completion of this study will provide data on the actual amount of femoral component rotation in
patellofemoral joint replacement, and its relationship with clinical results. (Netherlands Trial Register NTR4175).
Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Plate Osteosynthesis Does Not Increase Complication Rates in Extra-Articular Distal Tibial Fractures
Authors: Bingol Izzet , Yalcin Nadir , Bicici Vedat , Tulunay Tolga , Yuksel Kaan , Kilicarslan Kasim
Published: April 2015

Background :

Selection of a treatment method in cases of unstable, nonarticular distal tibial fractures is still a matter of discussion. Intramedullary nailing, which is a “gold standard” for tibial shaft fractures, does not always work for this specific transition area between diaphysis and metaphysis. Instead, new minimally invasive techniques with special implants are popular.

Aims :

To determine the functional and radiological results of distal tibial fractures treated with minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO) technique.

Study Design :

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Methods :

Thirty distal tibial fractures treated with MIPPO method, between January 2006 and December 2010, were evaluated retrospectively. All patients were classified according to AO/OTA classification. Period of hospital stay, time of fracture union, time to allow full weight bearing, early and late complications were inquired. Functional outcomes were assessed by AOFAS scores.

Results :

There were 13 male and 17 female patients with an average age of 44.26 (range, 22-77 years). One superficial infection and one malunion were observed. Two patients were revised for the loss of reduction and healed uneventfully. According to the AO/OTA classification, 23 patients were 43-A1 (76.6%), 3 were 43-A2 (10%) and 4 were 43-A3 (13.3%). Post-operative mean stay of patients at the hospital was 2.6 ± 1.42 days (range, 1-7 days). Mean full weight-bearing period of the patients was found out as 13.16 ± 2.6 weeks (range, 10-22 weeks). The mean period of union of fracture for patients was found out as 19.8 ± 2.99 weeks (range, 16-34 weeks).

Conclusion :

Treatment of distal tibial fractures with MIPPO method provides a successful treatment strategy as long as used as per the technique, and it respects and does not harm soft tissues which allows early callus formation and rapid healing that enable the patient to walk as early as possible after the operation. The overall clinical and functional outcome is still good despite minor complications.