bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le Comité international de secours à la Russie, l'Action Nansen et les bolcheviks (1921-1924)
Authors: Coudreau Marin
Published: January 2013

Résumé La grande famine de 1921 en Russie engendre un mouvement humanitaire de grande envergure en Europe et en Amérique. Alors que la Russie soviétique reste largement isolée diplomatiquement jusqu’en 1924, les organisations humanitaires, en tant qu’organisations non gouvernementales, jouent un rôle de premier plan dans l’établissement de contacts des deux côtés du « cordon sanitaire ». Les organismes dirigés par le philanthrope norvégien Fridtjof Nansen – le Comité international de secours à la Russie puis l’Action Nansen – sont sans doute les organisations qui vont le plus loin dans leur coopération avec les bolcheviks pendant les diverses campagnes d’aide à la Russie de 1921 à 1924. L’étude des interactions entre les bolcheviks et ces organisations permet de reconstituer les réseaux transnationaux et para-diplomatiques qui s’établissent alors, de replacer la politique extérieure soviétique dans son contexte européen et d’observer les convergences, les mimétismes et parfois même les emprunts entre bolcheviks et humanitaires.
Réflexions sur les risques du nucléaire civil
Authors: Lebeau André
Published: January 2013

Résumé Les risques induits par le déploiement de l’énergie nucléaire doivent être appréhendés dans le contexte global des besoins d’énergie du système technique pour les siècles qui viennent et des dangers qui s’attachent à une éventuelle pénurie. Le système technique, sur lequel la société humaine repose, s’approvisionne à deux sources d’énergie et à deux seulement : l’énergie solaire, y compris sous ses formes fossiles stockées dans la croûte terrestre – pétrole, gaz, charbon – et l’énergie nucléaire. Les besoins globaux du système technique sont aujourd’hui satisfaits pour environ 80 % par les ressources fossiles, ce qui comporte le risque de détériorer de façon irréversible le climat de la Terre. La « prospérité économique » est construite sur cette situation précaire ; elle est de ce fait menacée par l’épuisement des stocks. L’énergie nucléaire se présente sous deux formes : la fission et la fusion. Les débats sur les risques nucléaires sont centrés sur la fission. L’énergie de fusion n’est pas encore techniquement disponible et ne le sera peut-être jamais. Les risques revêtent deux aspects : l’émission catastrophique de matière radioactive par un accident dans le fonctionnement d’un réacteur et le stockage à long terme des déchets nucléaires. Au-delà des confrontations politiques et idéologiques engendrées par ces deux problèmes, la question du risque nucléaire doit être évaluée dans le cadre général que constituent l’épuisement des ressources fossiles et l’altération du climat engendrée par leur consommation immodérée. La recherche d’une solution à long terme pour l’approvisionnement énergétique a deux aspects : celui des contraintes techniques et celui de l’acceptabilité sociale. C’est un problème d’une extrême complexité et qui appelle la plus grande attention. En ce qui concerne sa dimension sociale, il semble clair que le gavage de l’opinion publique avec quelques slogans rustiques n’apportera pas de contribution positive à une solution de problème global.
Novel Posterior Splinting Technique to Avoid Heel Ulcers
Authors: Hsu Raymond Y. , Lareau Craig R. , Born Christopher T.
Published: December 2012

Heel ulcers are a costly and preventable complication of lower-extremity immobilization, but they still occur with some regularity. A technique using a short leg posterior splint that suspends the heel away from the splint is described. This modification completely removes pressure the heel to prevent decubitus ulcer formation. This technique is simple, inexpensive, and effective.
Biologically Enhanced Healing of the Human Rotator Cuff: 8-month Postoperative Histological Evaluation
Authors: Protzman Nicole M. , Stopyra Gary A. , Hoffman James K.
Published: December 2012

Given the high percentage of persistent rotator cuff defects, investigators have begun exploring techniques that use biologic adjuvants to recreate a biomechanically equivalent layer of connective tissue. To evaluate the efficacy of a mesenchymal stem cell, platelet-rich plasma, and dermal allograft construct, a histological comparison of native rotator cuff tissue and biologically enhanced rotator cuff tissue was performed. The evaluation indicated that this treatment modality in conjunction with an adjusted rehabilitation protocol may successfully recreate a transition zone and restore a synovial lining similar to native tissue.
Suprascapular Vascular Anomalies as a Cause of Suprascapular Nerve Compression
Authors: Houtz Carlton , McCulloch Patrick C.
Published: December 2012

The vascular anatomy at the spinoglenoid and suprascapular notches appears to be more variable than previously thought. In patients presenting with signs of suprascapular nerve compression, vascular causes must be considered. Especially when considering percutaneous or arthroscopic treatment, awareness of these entities may help to guide treatment decisions, aid in identification of the anatomy, and prevent unwanted vascular insult.
Validity and Reliability of Radiographic Knee Osteoarthritis Measures by Arthroplasty Surgeons
Authors: Riddle Daniel L. , Jiranek William A. , Hull Jason R.
Published: December 2012

Most orthopedic surgeons do not routinely use radiographic classification systems to grade the extent of joint space narrowing in patients considered for total knee arthroplasty. The authors compared the validity and reliability of radiographic measures of tibiofemoral osteoarthritis by 2 experienced and 2 inexperienced orthopedic surgeons on individuals who subsequently underwent total knee arthroplasty. The Kellgren-Lawrence and the Osteoarthritis Research Society International classification systems were used by all surgeons to score the radiographs in 116 individuals in the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a federally funded cohort study of individuals with or at risk of knee osteoarthritis. Validity was judged based on comparison with the criterion centrally adjudicated consensus measures obtained by Osteoarthritis Initiative investigators. Weighted kappa, a chance corrected agreement index, was used to describe validity and reliability. Validity and intrarater reliability were substantial to almost perfect for 1 experienced and 1 inexperienced surgeon, with weighted kappas ranging from 0.76 to 0.96 for the surgical knees. The other experienced and inexperienced surgeons demonstrated moderate to substantial validity, with weighted kappas ranging from 0.43 to 0.70 and lower intrarater reliability. Interrater reliability was generally less than intrarater reliability. With minimal training, some surgeons can obtain valid and reliable measurements of knee osteoarthritis status in individuals who eventually undergo total knee arthroplasty. Measurement quality does not appear to be dependent on extent of surgeon experience. Some surgeons require additional training to become proficient in the radiographic classification systems, and future research should examine this issue.
MRI Reliability in Classifying Thoracolumbar Fractures According to AO Classification
Authors: Salgado Ángel , Pizones Javier , Sánchez-Mariscal Felisa , Álvarez Patricia , Zúñiga Lorenzo , Izquierdo Enrique
Published: December 2012

The vertebral fracture patterns of AO classification have been established historically via radiograph and computed tomography analysis, achieving modest reproducibility values. The authors hypothesize that magnetic resonance imaging may improve reliability because it better indicates posterior ligamentous complex damage. They conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospective recruited cohort of patients using radiographs and magnetic resonance images with fat saturation sequences to classify 37 traumatic vertebral fractures. Five spine surgeons, 2 orthopedic residents, 2 musculoskeletal radiologists, and 2 radiodiagnosis residents classified the morphological pattern of each fracture per AO classification in 2 separate sessions that occurred 6 weeks apart. Inter- and intraobserver reproducibility for AO classification types A, B, and C were assessed using the kappa test (pairwise method), and standard error was assessed using the jackknife method. Quantitative comparisons were performed using the Student’s
t
test, and the kappas were performed using normal approximation.

Mean interobserver agreement was kappa=0.53 and 0.47 for the first and second sessions, respectively, for all evaluators. Greater interobserver agreement was observed between the senior doctors (kappa=0.59 and 0.54 for the first and second sessions, respectively) vs residents (kappa=0.45 and 0.31 for the first and second sessions, respectively) (
P
=.02) and between orthopedic surgeons vs radiologists (kappa=0.71 vs 0.48, respectively) (
P
=.008). Mean intraobserver agreement was kappa=0.58 (range, 0.38–0.76). Evaluators more familiar with the classification obtained higher kappas.

Magnetic resonance imaging offers moderate reproducibility in assessing vertebral fractures pursuant to AO classification, and results are slightly better than those reported with computed tomography. Reliability increases in the hands of experiened spine surgeons and improves with greater familiarization with the classification.
Artificial Disk Replacement Combined With Midlevel ACDF Versus Multilevel Fusion for Cervical Disk Disease Involving 3 Levels
Authors: Kang Liangqi , Lin Dasheng , Ding Zhenqi , Liang Bowei , Lian Kejian
Published: December 2012

The optimal surgical approach for cervical disk disease remains a matter of debate, especially for multilevel disease. The purpose of this study was to compare the results of 2 surgical strategies for cervical disk disease involving 3 levels: hybrid constructs, artificial disk replacement combined with midlevel anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF), and 3-level ACDF. The authors prospectively compared patients who had cervical disk disease involving 3 levels that was treated with hybrid constructs or with 3-level ACDF. Patients were asked to use the Neck Disability Index (NDI) to grade their pain intensity preoperatively and at routine postoperative intervals of 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Dynamic flexion and extension lateral cervical radiographs were obtained while in the standing position preoperatively and at the postoperative intervals. The angular range of motion for C2–C7 and the adjacent segments was measured using the Cobb method. Twenty-four patients were treated, 12 with hybrid constructs and 12 with 3-level ACDF.

Both groups had significant postoperative improvement in NDI scores and neck pain (
P
<.05). However, no significant difference was found between the groups (
P
>.05). The hybrid constructs group showed faster recovery of C2–C7 range of motion. Mean C2–C7 range of motion of the hybrid constructs group recovered to that of the preoperative value, but that of the 3-level ACDF group did not (
P
<.05). Range of motion of the superior and inferior adjacent segments showed significant differences between the 2 groups at 12 and 24 months postoperatively (
P
<.05). These findings suggest that the hybrid constructs is a safe and effective alternative for cervical disk disease involving 3 levels. The definite stabilization and maintained range of motion can be achieved right away, which can ensure a good preliminary clinical outcome.
Compartment Syndrome of the Arm Caused by Transcatheter Angiography or Angioplasty
Authors: Omori Shinsuke , Miyake Junichi , Hamada Kenichiro , Naka Norifumi , Araki Nobuhito , Yoshikawa Hideki
Published: December 2012

Compartment syndrome of the arm is a rare condition because of the large capacity of the arm compartment. Although several cases of compartment syndrome of the forearm associated with vascular access procedures have been reported, the literature contains few detailed reports of compartment syndrome of the arm caused by transcather angiography or angioplasty. This article presents 4 cases of compartment syndrome of the anterior arm caused by transcatheter angiography or angioplasty; all patients required surgical treatment and anticoagulation therapy. Following urgent fasciotomy and hemostasis, 1 patient experienced recurrent bleeding and another exhibited delayed complex regional pain syndrome of the forearm. The remaining 2 cases had good outcomes.

Because all patients had been prescribed various oral anticoagulants, their compartment syndrome was considered a complication of thrombolytic therapy. In addition, because all patients had a history of multiple arterial diseases, atherosclerosis was considered to be severely advanced and the vessels to be easily damaged. Due to the authors’ experiences with these 4 cases, they recommend that surgery be performed under general rather than local anesthesia and that the bleeding site be sutured or ligated. Compression of the bleeding point alone could allow heavy bleeding or recurrence of bleeding to occur because of the influence of anticoagulation therapy. Continuous bleeding of the arm may expand into the volar compartment of the forearm, leading to a condition similar to chronic compartment syndrome. Effective hemostasis, in addition to early decompressive fasciotomy, is essential in compartment syndrome caused by the catheter procedure.
Exceptional Functional Recovery and Return to High-impact Sports After Van Nes Rotationplasty
Authors: Harris Joshua D. , Trinh Thai Q. , Scharschmidt Thomas J. , Mayerson Joel L.
Published: December 2012

Rotationplasty involves wide resection of lower-extremity malignancy and approximately 180° rotation of the tibia to allow the ankle to function similarly to the former knee joint. It is most commonly used for sarcomas around the knee, such as the distal femur and proximal tibia, in adolescent and young adult patients and is an option for patients with proximal femoral focal deficiency (congenital short femur). Rotationplasty is an alternative to ablative procedures when functional outcome is a consideration or when resection of involved areas and endoprosthetic reconstruction is not possible.

This article describes functional status and return to competitive sport after rotationplasty for a lower-extremity bone sarcoma with 3-year follow-up. Despite a postoperative course complicated by a distal tibial physeal injury and femoral neck stress fracture, the patient recovered fully by 1 year postoperatively. Pain free at rest and with activity and with no loss of function, the patient is a successful athlete, playing basketball and baseball and skiing competitively. The patient used a custom-made prosthesis that likely played a role in his high level of function. The patient’s high function is evidenced by a maximal or near-maximal possible score on all subsections of the Short Form 36 health survey. Although this level of function is exemplary, it may be more expected in younger, more active, highly motivated, and emotionally and socially mature individuals.
La solución constructiva de la bóveda encamonada del salón de plenos del palacio del Senado en Madrid (España)
Authors: Bustamante R. , Monjo J.
Published: January 2013

Se analiza el tipo constructivo de la bóveda encamonada que cubre el Salón de Plenos del Palacio del Senado de España del primer cuarto del siglo XIX, que está compuesta por los siguientes elementos: un plafón rectangular o forjado de tablas con entrevigado de yeso armado con fibras de esparto, que está colgado mediante abrazaderas de unas vigas longitudinales que se apoyan sobre los tirantes de las cerchas de madera de la cubierta original. Y por una semibóveda formada por camones de dobles tablas apoyados en un encadenado perimetral. Por el intradós el plafón y la semibóveda están guarnecidos con yeso y separados entre sí por una moldura perimetral semicircular en los lados Norte y Sur. En el trabajo se presenta una investigación histórica de los cambios registrados desde la antigua iglesia agustina, hasta el Salón de Cortes y Salón de Plenos, un análisis del tipo constructivo al que pertenece la bóveda, una caracterización geométrica y una descripción de los principales elementos.
Consolidación estructural del edificio patrimonial de C/Ripoll, 25 de Barcelona - Ca la Dona
Authors: Bestraten S. , Hormias E.
Published: January 2013

El edificio de la calle Ripoll nº25 de Barcelona está catalogado por el Plan especial de protección del patrimonio arquitectónico del distrito barcelonés de Ciutat Vella.

En 2005 la asociación Ca la Dona con el apoyo de todas las administraciones públicas catalanas inicia un proceso de rehabilitación con criterios de sostenibilidad. Se realiza una intervención estructural innovadora consistente en una sustitución funcional de forjados existentes con panel de madera contralaminada, que en general no modifica el estado de cargas del edificio haciendo compatible la continuidad estructural de los muros de carga existentes.

Este proyecto abre un camino a la prefabricación en la rehabilitación arquitectónica, que permite su adaptación a los requerimientos normativos actuales y a su vez integra consideraciones tan actuales como la sostenibilidad.
Ciudad, arquitecturas y restauraciones, problemas de conservación de los cascos históricos
Authors: Minutoli G.
Published: January 2013

Abre el artículo un breve recorrido histórico sobre las normas para la restauración, dando las principales referencias hasta llegar al concepto de protección del “moderno”. Cierra esta primera parte del artículo, una breve anotación sobre los trabajos llevados a cabo en Florencia capital, durante el siglo diecinueve, intervenciones que han infl uido considerablemente en la moderna practica de restauración.

En la parte central del artículo, se estudia la metodología considerada más apropiada para la intervención en los centros históricos, con proyectos de restauración urbana que no se limitan a mejorar el tejido urbano en su imagen. Sino en otros aspectos como los estructurales y funcionales, dirigidos a conseguir una mayor habitabilidad y disfrute de las ciudades históricas, con ejemplos de intervenciones más o menos logradas. Dos ejemplos prácticos de intervenciones cierran el artículo, la restauración del Palazzo Dami en Florencia y la restauración y consolidación de algunas zonas del Palazzo Uffizi en la misma ciudad.
Intracranial germ cell tumors at unusual locations
Authors: Rana C , Krishnani N , Kumar R
Published: January 2013

Germ cell tumor (GCT) is relatively uncommon in intracranial locations. They constitute ~ 0.3-0.6% of intracranial neoplasms and encompass a wide pathologic range. The majority occurs in young adults and occupies the midline locations like pineal gland followed by suprasellar compartment. These tumors are rare in the cerebral hemisphere, basal ganglia, thalamus and ventricles. Neuroimaging studies cannot differentiate GCTs from other tumors, and therefore, the diagnosis usually requires histological confirmation. Germ cell tumors can be divided into major groups including germinomas and nongerminomatous GCTs (NGGCTs). Their proper identification as well as histopathological typing is important as treatment and prognosis vary greatly between different groups. Germinomas have a superior prognosis and are more radiosensitive as compared to non-germinomatous germ cell tumors. Standard management is still controversial. In this case series we are presenting three cases of intracranial germ cell tumors arising in two unusual locations, that is intraventricular and thalamic region. Apart from the clinical, radiological, histopathological and surgical details we also discuss the various aspects of intracranial germ cell tumors.
Color differences between maxillar and mandibular incisors
Authors: Tuncdemir Ali Riza , Polat Serdar , Ozturk Caner , Tuncdemir Makbule Tugba , Gungor Ahmet Yalcln
Published: January 2013

Context: Color difference between maxillar and mandibular incisors is an anticipated subject, and it will help dentists during color matching. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate color differences of the maxillar and mandibular incisors and to find out relationships between gender and age. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 125 participants (51 males and 74 females) between 16-63 age groups and totally over maxillar and mandibular 480 healthy teeth by using spectrophotometer. Color differences between teeth were calculated by using ∆E formula. One way ANOVA statistical analysis determined statistically significant differences between maxiller-central and mandibular-canine teeth for ∆L and ∆b parameters (P<0.05). Results: According to t-test result there were not a statistically significant color differences for women and men teeth (P<0.05). Scheffe statistical analysis results showed statistically significant differences between mandibular central and mandibular canine for ∆L parameters on 16-27, 28-39, and 52-63 age groups; for ∆b parameters, there were statistically significant differences between 16-27 and 40-51 age groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: Women have more lighter teeth than men. Maxillar canines are more yellow and Maxillar centrals are more lighter than other incisors. 16-27, 28-39 age groups have more lighter teeth than 52-63 age groups and 16-27 age groups have more yellow teeth than 40-51 age groups.
The effect of pre-heating silorane and methacrylate-based composites on microleakage of Class V restorations
Authors: Arslan Soley , Demirbuga Sezer , Zorba Yahya Orcun , Ucar Faruk Izzet , Tuncay Oznur
Published: January 2013

Objective: This study compared the effects of 4 different temperatures (4°C, 25°C, 37°C, 60°C) on the microleakage of silorane and methacrylate-based composites in Class V cavities. Materials and Methods: Standard Class V cavities were prepared at the buccal and lingual surfaces of human molars. The specimens were randomly divided into 2 groups according to the composite resin used (Group I: Filtek Silorane Adhesive System and Filtek Silorane composite; Group II: Clearfil SE Bond and Aelite LS Posterior composite) and into 4 subgroups according to temperature treatment (Group A: Refrigeration at 4°C; Group B (control): Storage at room temperature (25°C); Group C: Heated to 37°C and Group D: Heated to 60°C using Calset). Specimens were dyed with 0.5% basic fuchsin, sectioned, and evaluated at 25x magnification. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests at P<0.05. Results: Filtek Silorane and Aelite LS Posterior showed similar microleakage values (P>0.05). Differences in temperature did not significantly affect microleakage values for Filtek Silorane (P>0.05); however, microleakage values of Aelite LS Posterior composite varied according to temperature treatment, with heating resulted in significantly less microleakage than cooling (between Groups IID and IIA and Groups IIC and IIA) (P<0.05). Conclusion: Pre-heating was shown to reduce microleakage values of Aelite LS Posterior composite, but did not significantly alter the microleakage values of Filtek Silorane composite.
Examining the Evidence for Interventions with Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Armstrong Dorothy
Published: December 2012

Introduction:

This paper presents the results of a critical review of the literature regarding the evidence for the effectiveness of a selection of interventions in terms of improving occupational performance in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD).

Method:

The inclusion criteria for articles reviewed were as follows: be about children whose primary diagnosis was DCD; present actual research into the effectiveness of an intervention or interventions; consider interventions that fit with occupational therapy practice (although it was not necessary for the intervention to be carried out by an occupational therapist); be published in peer-reviewed journals; and be available in the English language. The literature search was conducted by applying Boolean logic to the following databases: EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and ERIC. All articles that had the potential to fit the inclusion criteria were collected and screened for suitability. Reference lists of pertinent articles were also checked for further literature. The publication date of articles ranged from 1984 to 2011. Nineteen articles were deemed suitable for further appraisal and were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme.

Findings:

The findings indicated that, of those interventions reviewed, the most effective in improving occupational performance was the Cognitive Orientation to Daily Occupational Performance approach.
Identifying Characteristics of ‘Straightforward Cases’ for which Support Personnel Could Recommend Home Bathing Equipment
Authors: Guay Manon , Dubois Marie-France , Desrosiers Johanne , Robitaille Judith
Published: December 2012

Introduction:

The general consensus is that an occupational therapist should carry out the assessment for recommending home bathing equipment. Nevertheless, in response to a shortage of human resources, home-care occupational therapists in Quebec, Canada, frequently transfer the clinical task of recommending bathing equipment to support personnel in ‘straightforward cases’. However, there is no consensus on what constitutes such cases, and clinicians lack information on how to define a straightforward case.

Objective:

To characterise ‘straightforward cases’ when recommending bathing equipment in home-care occupational therapy.

Design:

The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, combining a literature review with a three-round survey and one focus group meeting of nine occupational therapists.

Results:

Eight characteristics required for describing straightforward cases for bathing equipment recommendations were identified. They cover the three dimensions of the Canadian Model of Occupational Performance and Engagement: the occupation, the person, and the person's home environment.

Conclusion:

The literature review and collective opinion of experienced occupational therapists made it possible to agree on a common language to describe straightforward cases for bathing equipment. The characteristics identified will, it is hoped, support the critical thinking of clinicians deciding whether or not to transfer the task of recommending bathing equipment to support personnel.
Introducing Daily Living Products to Older People with Sight Loss: Practice Implications of an Innovative Demonstration Programme
Authors: Percival John
Published: December 2012

This article describes an assistive technology demonstration programme for older people with sight loss and their support workers. Ninety-four participants across four specialist housing schemes and one resource centre attended demonstration sessions, co-led by occupational therapists and lead staff. Twenty-eight daily living devices were demonstrated and discussed. A review revealed that although participants had some knowledge of generic and low vision devices, they valued the opportunity to learn more about technological solutions to routine difficulties. Implications for practice are considered and suggestions made as to how occupational therapists may facilitate appropriate awareness of, and access to, daily living devices.
Virtual Teamworking and Collaboration in Occupational Therapy: A Paradox
Authors: Bodell Sarah , Levins Ken
Published: December 2012

This practice analysis focuses on a project arising from a training event provided for 15 geographically dispersed occupational therapists in England. They wanted to continue the collaborative opportunities afforded by spending time together and it was suggested that an online space might be useful. Although enthusiastic about virtual teamworking, the therapists did not engage meaningfully with the online space. This unsuccessful outcome has been analysed in relation to three of the five paradoxes inherent in virtual teams, resulting in an understanding of the reasons for the project's failure and suggestions for others undertaking a similar initiative.
Effect of FeCO3 Supersaturation and Carbide Exposure on the CO2 Corrosion Rate of Carbon Steel
Authors: Berntsen T. , Seiersten M. , Hemmingsen T.
Published: January 2013

The effect on corrosion of carbon steel of varying bicarbonate (HCO3−) and ferrous ion (Fe2+) concentrations in carbon dioxide (CO2) purged in 1 wt% sodium chloride (NaCl) and 50 wt% monoethylene glycol (MEG, C2H6O2) solutions was studied. The iron carbide (Fe3C) in the steel was exposed by pre-corrosion to explore its role in the iron carbonate (FeCO3) film formation process at pH-stabilized conditions. The corrosion layers formed ranged from being protective and showing passive behavior (corrosion potential approximately −0.5 V vs. silver/silver chloride [Ag/AgCl]) to being non-protective despite highly supersaturated solutions and long exposure times. The corrosion rate and potential development are discussed based on thermodynamic, kinetic, and electrochemical principles. The corrosion potential increased sharply after a protective FeCO3 film was established, indicating passivation. New reaction mechanisms are proposed at these high potentials, which are more anodic than that obtainable by H+ reduction. Dissolved Fe3C and magnetite (Fe3O4) are important factors in this passive potential range.
A Comparative Analysis of Reliable and Congestion-Aware Transport Layer Protocols for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Sharma Bhisham , Aseri Trilok C.
Published: December 2012

Design and implementation of wireless sensor Networks have gathered increased attention in recent years due to vast potential of sensor networks consisting of spatially distributed devices (motes) to cooperatively monitor physical or environmental conditions at different locations. Wireless sensor networks are built upon low cost nodes with limited battery (power), CPU clock (processing capacity), and memory modules (storage). Transport layer protocols applied to wireless sensor networks can handle the communications between the sink node and sensor nodes in upstream (sensor-to-sink) or downstream (sink-to-sensor) direction. In this paper, we present a comparative analysis of reliable and congestion aware transport layer protocols for wireless sensor networks and number of open issues that have to be carefully realized to make use of the wireless sensor networks more efficiently and to enhance their performance. We first list the characteristics of transport layer protocols. We then provide a summary of reliable and congestion aware transport layer protocols with their respective pros and cons and comparison of different protocols based on reliability, congestion control, and energy efficiency. Finally, we point out open research issues of transport layer protocols for wireless sensor networks, which need further attention to overcome the earlier mentioned challenges.
Finite Element Models for Thin-Walled Steel Member Connections
Authors: Acharya Sandesh R. , Sivakumaran K. S.
Published: December 2012

The behavior of connections associated with the thin-walled steel members is distinctly different from that of hot-rolled steel connections, primarily because of the flexibility of the plates. A typical cold-formed steel structural construction may entail such numerous connections. The incorporation of large number of such connections in an analysis and design, using sophisticated finite element models, is very tedious and time consuming and may present computational difficulties. The objective of this investigation is to create simplified, yet reasonably accurate, finite element models for the analysis of screw connections and bolted connections associated with thin-walled sheet steel construction. The primary plates were modeled using quadrilateral shell elements, and nonlinear stress-strain relationship was established based on experiments. The fasteners were modeled as an elastic medium. The plate-to-plate interactions and the plate-to-screw interactions were incorporated using contact elements. The study considered two finite element models of different complexity. The performance of these models was established through comparisons with the corresponding experimental results. The finite element analysis results exhibit reasonably good agreement with the test results in terms of connection stiffness, screw tilting, end curling, and average longitudinal strain. The recommended simplified connection model is capable of reproducing the behavior of sheet steel screw and bolt connections.
Development and Evaluation of Environmentally Benign Aqueous Two Phase Systems for the Recovery of Proteins from Tannery Waste Water
Authors: Raja Selvaraj , Murty Vytla Ramachandra
Published: December 2012

Aqueous two phase systems (ATPSs) containing high molecular weight polyethylene glycol, PEG (10000), and completely biodegradable citrate salts (sodium citrate, potassium citrate, and ammonium citrate) with water were developed to recover the waste water proteins from a model tannery waste water system. The variations in the phase diagram were explained on the basis of ionic radius of cations, Gibbs free energy of hydration (ΔGhydation) of cations, and effective excluded volume (EEV) of salts. The salting-out capability of the cations followed the sequence: Sodium citrate > Potassium citrate > Ammonium citrate. Setschenow-type equations were used to correlate tie-line compositions. During partitioning studies, recovery of tannery waste water proteins in PEG 10000 + Sodium citrate ATPS was found superior to other systems. It was possible to recover 95.86% of proteins from tannery waste water in the bottom phase with PEG 10000 30% (w/w) + Sodium citrate 13% (w/w) at 30°C. The partition coefficients were correlated with the salt compositions by a quadratic equation and the coefficients were calculated.
Who Is Going for VCT? A Case Study in Urban Burkina Faso
Authors: Kirakoya-Samadoulougou Fati , Yaro Seydou , Fao Paulin , Defer Marie-Christine , Ilboudo François , Langani Youssouf , Meda Nicolas , Robert Annie , Nagot Nicolas
Published: December 2012

Introduction. Voluntary HIV counselling and testing (VCT) is a key element of treatment and is essential for prevention of vertical HIV transmission. Little information is available on the uptake of VCT in Burkina Faso. This study aims to assess the prevalence of VCT in urban Burkina Faso, where the epidemic is still highly concentrated. Methods. We conducted a two-stage clustered population-based survey among 1,694 subjects living in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. After informed consent was obtained, a behavioural questionnaire was administered to participants. Results. Overall, 10.2% of individuals had used VCT, while 9% were women. Among women who had a child after the launch of the programme to prevent mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT), only 10.4% have been tested for HIV. Almost all participants (99.3%) were aware of HIV/AIDS, and 65% knew the main methods of prevention. In multivariate analysis, older age and being married and better educated were independent factors associated with VCT. Conclusions. Despite high public knowledge and awareness about HIV, VCT uptake was still very low and PMTCT coverage was poor. New strategies are required to increase VCT uptake in urban areas, in particular among the youngest age.
Examination of Haematotoxicity of Fixed-Dose Highly Active Antiretroviral Drug in Albino Wistar Rats
Authors: Nubila Thomas , Ukaejiofo Ernest O. , Nubila Nkoyo I. , Okorie Godfrey I.
Published: December 2012

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is considered toxic and has other life-threatening side effects. Our aim was to evaluate the haematotoxic effects of lamivudine, zidovudine, and nevirapine fixed-dose combinations in Albino Wistar rats. Fifty (50) three (3) months old male Albino Wistar rats weighing between 200 and 250 g were randomly assigned to five (5) groups (A, B, C, D, and E). Group A served as control. Two (2 mLs) of venous blood was aseptically collected on Days 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 of treatment. Red blood cell (RBC) mean value recorded statistically significant increase () in groups B and C when compared with the control group on Day 5. However, there was a statistically significant decrease () in RBC, haemoglobin concentration (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), and some red cell indices on Day 10. In addition there was no statistically significant difference () in all the parameters evaluated when the test group was compared with the control on Day 25. Furthermore, there was a time-related statistically significant increase () in the two major blood cells—RBC and platelet counts. From the result of this present study, it can be concluded that HAART when administered in fixed-dose combinations have no subacute haematotoxic effects.
The Self-Healing Capability of Carbon Fibre Composite Structures Subjected to Hypervelocity Impacts Simulating Orbital Space Debris
Authors: Aïssa B. , Tagziria K. , Haddad E. , Jamroz W. , Loiseau J. , Higgins A. , Asgar-Khan M. , Hoa S. V. , Merle P. G. , Therriault D. , Rosei F.
Published: December 2012

The presence in the space of micrometeoroids and orbital debris, particularly in the lower earth orbit, presents a continuous hazard to orbiting satellites, spacecrafts, and the international space station. Space debris includes all nonfunctional, man-made objects and fragments. As the population of debris continues to grow, the probability of collisions that could lead to potential damage will consequently increase. This work addresses a short review of the space debris “challenge” and reports on our recent results obtained on the application of self-healing composite materials on impacted composite structures used in space. Self healing materials were blends of microcapsules containing mainly various combinations of a 5-ethylidene-2-norbornene (5E2N) and dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) monomers, reacted with ruthenium Grubbs' catalyst. The self healing materials were then mixed with a resin epoxy and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) using vacuum centrifuging technique. The obtained nanocomposites were infused into the layers of woven carbon fibers reinforced polymer (CFRP). The CFRP specimens were then subjected to hypervelocity impact conditions—prevailing in the space environment—using a home-made implosion-driven hypervelocity launcher. The different self-healing capabilities were determined and the SWNT contribution was discussed with respect to the experimental parameters.
Epidemiological Characteristics of Cancer in Elderly Chinese
Authors: Zou Xiao Nong , Wan Xia , Dai Zhen , Yang Gong Huan
Published: December 2012

Background. Population of elder Chinese has been increasing, but the pattern and trend of cancer in that population was rarely reported. Methods. Mortality rates for cancer of all sites and of the site specific of the overall and elderly Chinese from 2004 to 2005 were estimated. The age structure of world population was used to observe the changes in the age-standardized mortality rates from 1975 to 2005 using the data from the national death surveys, Disease Surveillance Points, and cancer registries in China. Results. The mortalities among the elderly Chinese were 782.12 per 100,000, substantially higher than those of the people less than 60 years old. The mortalities for cancers of lung, stomach, liver, and esophagus in elderly population showed great increase compared to younger ages. Stomach cancer ranked as the second most common cancer following lung cancer in the elderly, and those two malignancies had similar mortality rates in male elderly, while in female, it ranked as first, surpassed lung cancer. Consistent decreased trends of M/I ratios of cancer were observed in all age groups. Conclusion. Strategies in cancer prevention and cost-effective preventive intervention should be highly considered and strongly implemented among the elderly Chinese.
Modeling, Analysis, and Intelligent Controller Tuning for a Bioreactor: A Simulation Study
Authors: Rajinikanth V. , Latha K.
Published: December 2012

In this paper, a novel modeling technique has been attempted to develop the mathematical model for a bioreactor functioning at multiple operating regions. The first principle mathematical equations of the reactor are used with the POLYMATH software to generate essential data for the model development. A relative analysis is also carried out with the existing models in the literature. An optimal PID controller is then designed using a multiobjective particle swarm optimization algorithm. The controller tuning procedure is individually discussed for both the stable and unstable steady state regions. The controller tuned for each region is scheduled using a set-point scheduler to achieve a complete control over the bioreactor. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme has been confirmed through a comparative study with the controller tuning methods proposed in the literature. The results show that, the proposed method provides enhanced performance in effective reference tracking and load disturbance rejection with minimal ISE and IAE. Finally the proposed method is validated on the nonlinear bioreactor model in the presence of a measurement noise. The results testify that the PSO tuned PID performs well in tracking the change in biomass concentration at the entire operating region.
Price Elasticities of Charitable Giving across Donation Sectors in Canada: Is the Tax Incentive Effective?
Authors: Hossain Belayet , Lamb Laura
Published: December 2012

The effectiveness of tax incentives on charitable donation expenditures in Canada is explored, and the analysis is extended to compare the effectiveness across different donation sectors. Price elasticities are estimated with data from the 2007 Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating. Results suggest that specific charitable sectors are affected differently by Canada’s tax credit system. The findings have implications for public policy.
Structural and Physical Properties of ZnO Modified Bismuth Silicate Glasses
Authors: Hooda J. , Punia R. , Kundu R. S. , Dhankhar Sunil , Kishore N.
Published: December 2012

Zinc bismuth silicate glasses with compositions 40SiO2·xZnO·(60-x)Bi2O3 (x=0,5,10,15,20,25,30,35, and 40) have been prepared by conventional melt-quench technique and the solubility limit of zinc in bismuth silicate glass system has been estimated using X-ray diffraction technique. Density has been measured using Archimedes' principle; with increase in ZnO in the samples, the molar volume and density are found to decrease. The glass transition temperature (Tg) has been determined by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and is observed to increase with increase in ZnO content. Raman and FTIR spectra have been recorded at room temperature and the analysis of Raman and FTIR shows that in all the glass compositions, asymmetric and symmetric stretched vibrations of Si–O bonds in SiO4 tetrahedral units exist and with decrease in Bi2O3, the contribution of symmetric vibrations begins to dominate which results in increased compactness of the glass structure.
Thermal Conductivity of Cu-Cr-Zr-Ti Alloy in the Temperature Range of 300–873 K
Authors: Krishna S. Chenna , Supriya N. , Jha Abhay K. , Pant Bhanu , Sharma S. C. , George Koshy M.
Published: December 2012

In the present investigation, thermal conductivity of Cu-Cr-Zr-Ti alloy was determined as the product of the specific heat (), thermal diffusivity (), and density () in the temperature range of 300–873 K. The experimental results showed that the thermal conductivity of the alloy increased with increase in temperature up to 873 K and the data was accurately modeled by a linear equation. For comparison, thermal conductivity was also evaluated for OFHC copper in the same temperature range. The results obtained were discussed using electrical conductivity and hardness measurements made at room temperature. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was done to understand the microstructural changes occurring in the sample after the test. Wiedemann-Franz-Lorenz law was employed for calculating electronic and phonon thermal conductivity using electrical conductivity. On the basis of studies conducted it was deduced that in situ aging may be one of the reasons for the increase in thermal conductivity with temperature for Cu-Cr-Zr-Ti alloy.
A Generalization for n-Cocycles
Authors: Ren Beishang , Lin Shixun
Published: December 2012

We will give generalized definitions called type II n-cocycles and weak quasi-bialgebra and also show properties of type II n-cocycles and some results about weak quasi-bialgebras, for instance, construct a new structure of tensor product algebra over a module algebra on weak quasi-bialgebras.
Iranian Nurses’ Attitudes and Perception towards Patient Advocacy
Authors: Motamed-Jahromi Mohadeseh , Abbaszadeh Abbas , Borhani Fariba , Zaher Homa
Published: December 2012

Patient advocacy is an inherent component of professional nursing ethics; in other words, nurses' enough knowledge would be essential to gain a positive attitude towards nursing advocacy. Using a descriptive-analytic design, this study aimed to assess the correlation between nurses' perception and attitudes towards patient advocacy, amongst 385 nurses in Kerman, Iran; hence, a three-part questionnaire was applied: part I, a demographic data sheet, part II, attitude measuring instrument, and part III, perception measuring instrument in nursing advocacy. The results implied that fairly positive attitudes and perception were found amongst the participants, and nurses’ attitudes, in general, were positively correlated to their perception toward nursing advocacy. This means that with an improvement in perception, the attitude would also improve. In addition to our findings, it seems that these nurses needed more advocacy educational programs and support from responsible employers.
Autophagy: New Questions from Recent Answers
Authors: Reggiori Fulvio
Published: December 2012

Macroautophagy (hereafter autophagy) is currently one of the areas of medical life sciences attracting a great interest because of its pathological implications and therapy potentials. The discovery of the autophagy-related genes (ATGs) has been the key event in this research field because their study has led to the acquisition of new knowledge about the mechanism of this transport pathway. In addition, the investigation of these genes in numerous model systems has revealed the central role that autophagy plays in maintaining the cell homeostasis. This process carries out numerous physiological functions, some of which were unpredicted and thus surprising. Here, we will review some of the questions about the mechanism and function of autophagy that still remain unanswered, and new ones that have emerged from the recent discoveries.
Multiple Periodic Solutions to a Kind of Lotka-Volterra Food-Chain System with Delays and Impulses on Time Scales
Authors: Zhao Kaihong , Ding Liang , Yang Fengzao
Published: December 2012

By using Mawhin’s continuation theorem of coincidence degree theory and some skills of inequalities, we establish the existence of at least 2n periodic solutions for a kind of n-species Lotka-Volterra food-chain system with delays and impulses on time scales. One example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of our results.