bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early weaning PCB 95 exposure alters the neonatal endocrine system: thyroid adipokine dysfunction
Authors: Ahmed R G
Published: October 2013

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent environmental pollutants that can severely disrupt the endocrine system. In the present study, early-weaned male rats were administered a single dose of 2,3,6-2′,5′-pentachlorinated biphenyl (PCB 95; 32 mg/kg per day, by i.p. injection) for two consecutive days (postnatal days (PNDs) 15 and 16) and killed 24 and 48 h after the administration of the last dose. Compared with the control group, administration of PCB 95 induced a reduction (P<0.01) in serum concentrations of thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and GH and an increase (P<0.01) in the serum concentration of TSH at PNDs 17 and 18. These conspicuous perturbations led to some histopathological deterioration in the thyroid gland characterized by follicular degeneration, edema, fibrosis, hemorrhage, luminal obliteration, and hypertrophy with reduced colloidal contents at PND 18. The dyshormonogenesis and thyroid dysgenesis may be attributed to the elevation of DNA fragmentation at PNDs 17 and 18. Furthermore, this hypothyroid state revealed higher (P<0.01) serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, and tumor necrosis factor and lower (P<0.01) serum concentrations of IGF1 and insulin at both PNDs compared with the control group. Interestingly, the body weight of the neonates in the PCB 95 group exhibited severe decreases throughout the experimental period in relation to that of the control group. These results imply that PCB 95 may act as a disruptor of the developmental hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis. Hypothyroidism caused by PCB 95 may impair the adipokine axis, fat metabolism, and in general postnatal development. Thus, further studies need to be carried out to understand this concept.
Narrow Vs Broad-spectrum Antimicrobial Therapy for Children Hospitalized With Pneumonia
Authors: Williams Derek J. , Hall Matthew , Shah Samir S. , Parikh Kavita , Tyler Amy , Neuman Mark I. , Hersh Adam L. , Brogan Thomas V. , Blaschke Anne J. , Grijalva Carlos G.
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND:

The 2011 Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society/Infectious Diseases Society of America community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) guideline recommends narrow-spectrum antimicrobial therapy for most children hospitalized with CAP. However, few studies have assessed the effectiveness of this strategy.

METHODS:

Using data from 43 children’s hospitals, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare outcomes and resource utilization among children hospitalized with CAP between 2005 and 2011 receiving either parenteral ampicillin/penicillin (narrow spectrum) or ceftriaxone/cefotaxime (broad spectrum). Children with complex chronic conditions, interhospital transfers, recent hospitalization, or the occurrence of any of the following during the first 2 calendar days of hospitalization were excluded: pleural drainage procedure, admission to intensive care, mechanical ventilation, death, or hospital discharge.

RESULTS:

Overall, 13 954 children received broad-spectrum therapy (89.7%) and 1610 received narrow-spectrum therapy (10.3%). The median length of stay was 3 days (interquartile range 3–4) in the broad- and narrow-spectrum therapy groups (adjusted difference 0.12 days, 95% confidence interval [CI]: –0.02 to 0.26). One hundred fifty-six children (1.1%) receiving broad-spectrum therapy and 13 children (0.8%) receiving narrow-spectrum therapy were admitted to intensive care (adjusted odds ratio 0.85, 95% CI: 0.27 to 2.73). Readmission occurred for 321 children (2.3%) receiving broad-spectrum therapy and 39 children (2.4%) receiving narrow-spectrum therapy (adjusted odds ratio 0.85, 95% CI: 0.45 to 1.63). Median costs for the hospitalization were $3992 and $4375 (adjusted difference –$14.4, 95% CI: –177.1 to 148.3).

CONCLUSIONS:

Clinical outcomes and costs for children hospitalized with CAP are not different when treatment is with narrow- compared with broad-spectrum therapy.
Magnetic Response of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Measured by AC Faraday Rotation
Authors: Syed Maarij , Moore John
Published: October 2013

Metal ferrite nanoparticles are of considerable technological and theoretical interest. Magnetic response of these systems is a function of various system properties like saturation magnetization, growth orientation, average particle size and size distribution, volume concentration, etc. [1]. This preliminary study investigates the magnetization dynamics (and thereby the Verdet constant) of aqueous Fe3O4 nanoparticle solutions through precision AC measurements of the Faraday Rotation (FR) at 633 nm for three different Fe3O4 nanoparticle solutions that are all prepared to have the same average particle size (∼10 nm) but differing saturation magnetization values. For each of these nanoparticle solutions precision measurements for FR are carried out over a given range of volume concentrations. The study shows simple linear dependence of FR on volume concentration and a more involved dependence on saturation magnetization. Some preliminary results relating to the frequency dependence of Verdet constants are also presented. Future directions for this work are also discussed. It is hoped that that these results will help in the development of better models to characterize response of these technologically and fundamentally useful systems.
Prevention of burning phenomenon in fabrication of anodic aluminum oxide membranes using a constant current method
Authors: Chen Chih -Yao , Chen I-Chen
Published: October 2013

In this study, we have developed a constant current method for fabrication of AAO membranes with a large interpore distance in order to avoid the burning phenomenon. From our preliminary results, the average growth rate of AAO membranes could increase up to 6 μm/hr with an applied current density of 6 mA/cm2 and the burning phenomenon could be totally avoided at a relatively high anodizing voltage of 175 V. The effect of current density on the growth rate and burning phenomenon was also investigated.
Nullity of GSTT1/GSTM1 related to pesticides is associated with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Pinhel Marcela Augusta de Souza , Sado Caroline Leiko , Longo Gabriela dos Santos , Gregorio Michele Lima , Amorim Gisele Sousa , Florim Greiciane Maria da Silva , Mazeti Camila Montoro , Martins Denise Poltronieri , Oliveira Fabio de Nazare , Nakazone Marcelo Arruda , Tognola Waldir Antonio , Souza Doroteia Rossi Silva
Published: October 2013

Genetic and environmental factors affect the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). Genetic variants of the enzyme glutathione S-transferases (GST) may be related to the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of genetic variants of GST (GSTT1/GSTM1) and their association with the exposure to environmental toxins in PD patients. We studied 254 patients with PD and 169 controls. The GSTM1/GSTT1 variants were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction. We applied the Fisher's exact test and the χ2 test for statistical analysis (p<0.05). The present and absence for GSTT1 and GSTM1 were similar in patients and controls. The null for GSTT1 and GSTM1 (0/0) and exposure to pesticides prevailed in patients (18%) compared to controls (13%, p=0.014). This study suggests the association between PD and previous exposure to pesticides, whose effect may be enhanced in combination with null for GSTT1/GSTM1.
Walking execution is not affected by divided attention in patients with multiple sclerosis with no disability, but there is a motor planning impairment
Authors: Nogueira Leandro Alberto Calazans , Santos Luciano Teixeira dos , Sabino Pollyane Galinari , Alvarenga Regina Maria Papais , Thuler Luiz Claudio Santos
Published: October 2013

Purpose: We analysed the cognitive influence on walking in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, in the absence of clinical disability. Method: A case-control study was conducted with 12 MS patients with no disability and 12 matched healthy controls. Subjects were referred for completion a timed walk test of 10 m and a 3D-kinematic analysis. Participants were instructed to walk at a comfortable speed in a dual-task (arithmetic task) condition, and motor planning was measured by mental chronometry. Results: Scores of walking speed and cadence showed no statistically significant differences between the groups in the three conditions. The dual-task condition showed an increase in the double support duration in both groups. Motor imagery analysis showed statistically significant differences between real and imagined walking in patients. Conclusion: MS patients with no disability did not show any influence of divided attention on walking execution. However, motor planning was overestimated as compared with real walking.
Improvement of motor function and decreased need for postnatal shunting in children who had undergone intrauterine myelomeningocele repair
Authors: Faria Tereza Cristina Carbonari de , Cavalheiro Sergio , Hisaba Wagner Jou , Moron Antonio Fernandes , Torloni Maria Regina , Oliveira Ana Lucia Batista de , Borges Carolina Peixoto
Published: October 2013

Objective To compare neuromotor development between patients who did and those who did not undergo intrauterine myelomeningocele repair. Methods Children with myelomeningocele aged between 3.5 and 6 years who did undergo intrauterine repair (Group A, n=6) or not (Group B; n=7) were assessed for neuromotor development at both anatomical and functional levels, need for orthoses, and cognitive function. Results Intrauterine myelomeningocele repair significantly improved motor function. The functional level was higher than the anatomical level by 2 or more spinal segments in all children in Group A and 2 children in Group B, with a significant statistical difference between groups (p<0.05). Five children in Group A and one in Group B were community ambulators. Conclusion Despite the small sample, it was observed that an improvement of motor function and decreased need for postnatal shunting in the 6 children who had undergone intrauterine myelomeningocele repair.
Cognitive impairment and major depressive disorder in HIV infection and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers
Authors: Almeida Sergio Monteiro de
Published: October 2013

Cognitive impairment and major depressive disorder (MDD) are common HIV-1 central nervous system (CNS) complications. Their frequencies in AIDS patients are 36% and 45%, respectively. The diagnoses of HIV cognitive impairment are made by clinical criteria, no single laboratory test or biomarker establishes the diagnosis. Factors of indirect neuronal injury related with the pathophysiology of the HIV infection in the CNS, are the factors studied as biomarkers. In the present no biomarker is established to the diagnosis of HIV cognitive impairment, much still needs to be done. We review in this paper some biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid that could be valuable to the diagnosis of HIV cognitive impairment. Diagnosing depression in the context of HIV can be challenging, to identify a biomarker that could help in the diagnosis would be very important, although MDD risks and neurobiology are still poorly understood.
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in infectious diseases of the nervous system: when to ask, what to ask, what to expect
Authors: Machado Luis dos Ramos , Livramento Jose Antonio , Vianna Liliana Scaff
Published: October 2013

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis very frequently makes the difference to the diagnosis, not only in relation to infections but also in other diseases of the nervous system such as inflammatory, demyelinating, neoplastic and degenerative diseases. The authors review some practical and important features of CSF analysis in infectious diseases of the nervous system, with regard to acute bacterial meningitis, herpetic meningoencephalitis, neurotuberculosis, neurocryptococcosis, neurocysticercosis and neurosyphilis.
Mansonic neuroschistosomiasis
Authors: Carvalho Otavio Augusto Moreno de
Published: October 2013

Mansonic neuroschistosomiasis (MN) is not only the most common but also the most serious ectopic presentation of the infection by Schistosoma mansoni. Both, brain and spinal cord can be independently affected by the infection, but the later is more frequently affected. Brain MN by itself is due to the presence of eggs and/or adult worms in situ and can be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Unlike the brain MN, spinal cord mansonic neuroschistosomiasis is more frequently symptomatic. In both forms the intensity, the seriousness and also the clinical characteristics of signs and symptoms depend on the amount of eggs in the compromised region and on the intensity of the inflammatory reaction surrounding the eggs. Cerebrospinal fluid examination and magnetic resonance imaging are important diagnostic tools. Both corticosteroids and drugs against S. mansoni are used in the treatment. The outcome may largely depend upon the prompt use of these drugs.
Evaluation of a rapid pressor response test in healthy cats
Authors: Coleman Amanda Erickson , Schmiedt Chad W. , Jenkins Tiffany L. , Garber Emily D. , Reno Lisa R. , Brown Scott A.
Published: October 2013

Objective—To evaluate angiotensin I and angiotensin II rapid pressor response tests in healthy cats.

Animals—6 purpose-bred sexually intact male cats.

Procedures—Telemetric blood pressure (BP) implants were placed in all cats. After 2 weeks, cats were anesthetized for challenge with exogenous angiotensin I or angiotensin II. Continuous direct arterial BP was recorded during and immediately after IV administration of boluses of angiotensin I or angiotensin II at increasing doses. Blood pressure responses were evaluated for change in systolic BP (SBP), change in diastolic BP (DBP), and rate of increase of SBP by 4 observers.

Results—Following IV angiotensin I and angiotensin II administration, transient, dose-dependent increases in BP (mean ± SEM change in SBP, 25.7 ± 5.2 and 45.0 ± 9.1; change in DBP, 23.4 ± 4.7 mm Hg and 36.4 ± 7.8 mm Hg; for 100 ng of angiotensin I/kg and angiotensin II/kg, respectively) and rate of increase of SBP were detected. At angiotensin I and II doses < 2.0 ng/kg, minimal responses were detected, with greater responses at doses ranging from 20 to 1,000 ng/kg. A significant effect of observer was not found. No adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The rapid pressor response test elicited dose-dependent, transient increases in SBP and DBP. The test has potential as a means of objectively evaluating the efficacy of various modifiers of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in cats. Ranges of response values are provided for reference in future studies.
Evaluation of the use of atropine sulfate, a combination of butylscopolammonium bromide and metamizole sodium, and flunixin meglumine to ameliorate clinical adverse effects of imidocarb dipropionate in horses
Authors: Abutarbush Sameeh M. , Alfaqeeh Sameh M. , Mustafa Ghazi , Qura'n Lara , Al-Majali Ahmad M.
Published: October 2013

Objective—To evaluate the ability of atropine sulfate, butylscopolammonium bromide combined with metamizole sodium, and flunixin meglumine to ameliorate the clinical adverse effects of imidocarb dipropionate in horses.

Animals—28 horses with piroplasmosis.

Procedures—28 horses were randomly assigned to 4 equal groups according to the pretreatment administered. Fifteen minutes before administration of 2.4 mg of imidocarb dipropionate/kg IM, horses in the first group were pretreated with 0.02 mg of atropine sulfate/kg IV, the second group with a combination of 0.2 mg of butylscopolammonium bromide/kg IV and 25 mg of metamizole sodium/kg IV, the third group with 1.1 mg of flunixin meglumine/kg IV, and the fourth (control) group with 1 mL of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution/50 kg IV. Physical examination, including evaluation of rectal temperature, heart and respiratory rates, capillary refill time, mucous membrane color, hydration status, abdominal sounds, signs of abdominal pain, salivation, diarrhea, and number of defecations, was performed.

Results—Imidocarb dipropionate use in the control group was associated with serious adverse effects including signs of abdominal pain (4/7 horses) and diarrhea (2/7). Horses pretreated with atropine had no diarrhea, but 6 had signs of abdominal pain. Only 1 horse that received butylscopolammonium-metamizole pretreatment had signs of abdominal pain and 3 had diarrhea, which was numerically but not significantly different than the control group. Of horses pretreated with flunixin, 3 had signs of abdominal pain and 3 had diarrhea.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A combination of butylscopolammonium bromide and metamizole sodium may be useful to ameliorate the adverse effects of imidocarb dipropionate in horses, although group size was small and significant differences from the control group were not found.
Anti–glucagon-like peptide-1 immunoreactivity in samples of blood and ileum obtained from neonatal and adult alpacas
Authors: Smith Courtney C. , Cebra Christopher K. , Heidel Jerry R. , Stang Bernadette V.
Published: October 2013

Objective—To compare numbers of L cells in intestinal samples and blood concentrations of glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 between neonatal and mature alpacas.

Sample—Intestinal samples from carcasses of 4 suckling crias and 4 postweaning alpacas for immunohistochemical analysis and blood samples from 32 suckling crias and 19 healthy adult alpacas for an ELISA.

Procedures—Immunohistochemical staining was conducted in accordance with Oregon State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory standard procedures with a rabbit polyclonal anti–GLP-1 primary antibody. Stained cells with staining results in ileal tissue were counted in 20 fields by 2 investigators, and the mean value was calculated. For quantification of GLP-1 concentrations, blood samples were collected into tubes containing a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor. Plasma samples were tested in duplicate with a commercial GLP-1 ELISA validated for use in alpacas.

Results—Counts of stained cells (mean ± SD, 50 ± 18 cells) and plasma GLP-1 concentrations (median, 0.086 ng/mL; interquartile range, 0.061 to 0.144 ng/mL) were higher for suckling alpacas than for postsuckling alpacas (stained cells, 26 ± 4 cells; plasma GLP-1 concentration, median, 0.034 ng/mL; interquartile range, 0.015 to 0.048 ng/mL).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Older alpacas had lower numbers of L cells in intestinal tissues and lower blood concentrations of GLP-1 than those in neonates. These findings suggested that there may be a decrease in the contribution of GLP-1 to insulin production in adult alpacas, compared with the contribution in neonates.
Boolean algebras admitting a countable minimally acting group
Authors: Błaszczyk Aleksander , Kucharski Andrzej , Turek Sławomir
Published: October 2013

The aim of this paper is to show that every infinite Boolean algebra which admits a countable minimally acting group contains a dense projective subalgebra.
On the number of terms in the middle of almost split sequences over cycle-finite artin algebras
Authors: Malicki Piotr , Peña José , Skowroński Andrzej
Published: October 2013

We prove that the number of terms in the middle of an almost split sequence in the module category of a cycle-finite artin algebra is bounded by 5.
L’intégration du Portfolio européen des langues en milieu ouest-canadien minoritaire et universitaire
Authors: Lemaire Eva
Published: October 2013

Résumé:

Dans le cadre d’un cours en éducation jumelé avec un cours de français, nous avons proposé à nos étudiants de réaliser un portfolio langagier inspiré du portfolio Laplante et Christiansen (2001) mais reprenant également des éléments des Principes et Lignes Directrices du Portfolio Européen des Langues (PEL) (Conseil de la coopération culturelle, 2000). Il s’agissait, avec cette expérience, d’aider nos étudiants francophones de l’ouest canadien à mieux appréhender leur répertoire langagier et identitaire, et à se fixer des objectifs de développement langagier, tout en se familiarisant avec un référentiel de compétences de plus en plus relayé par les conseils scolaires locaux. Il s’agissait également d’explorer dans quelle mesure le PEL pouvait se montrer pertinent à des fins d’éducation interculturelle, le but étant d’amener nos étudiants à réfléchir sur les dynamiques complexes qui se nouent entre les différentes composantes de la francophonie ouest-canadienne. Enfin, cette recherche exploratoire a permis de co-construire avec nos étudiants une approche critique de la version française du PEL (Conseil de l’Europe / CRDP Basse-Normandie) utilisée dans une optique de contextualisation future. Le présent article fait état du contexte et du projet tel qu’il a été mis en place, décrit le protocole méthodologique et dégage les premiers enseignements de la recherche.
Competency Frameworks: Which Format for Which Target?
Authors: Vandeweerd Jean-Michel , Cambier Carole , Romainville Marc , Perrenoud Philippe , Desbrosse Francis , Dugdale Alexandra , Gustin Pascal
Published: October 2013

In veterinary medical education, it is now necessary to design competency frameworks (CFs) that list expected competencies at graduation. Three different CFs with different formats and contents have been published in Europe, such as the Day One Skills (DOS), the recommendations of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), and the Veterinary Professional (VetPro). In the current study, on the basis of a survey among Belgian veterinarians, a fourth document was designed that lists the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes grouped into families according to professional situations. The objectives of this study were to assess the perception of CFs by various categories of stakeholders, identify the possible uses of CFs, and determine whether one format should be preferred to another. We used a qualitative approach based on semi-structured face-to-face interviews with different stakeholders after they had reviewed the four different documents (CFs). This study showed that an obligation to design CFs was clearly perceived by academic and professional authorities. Teachers and veterinarians may be either enthusiastic or apprehensive about CFs, while students perceive the usefulness of the documents to plan and assess their learning objectives. Three main roles of CFs were identified: they can be used as communication tools, regulatory tools, or educational tools. However, not one of the documents used in this study was perceived to fulfill all roles. It is therefore likely that no one ideal document yet exists and a combination of formats is necessary.
Aircraft-Deployable Ice Observation System (ADIOS) for instrumenting inaccessible glaciers
Authors: Jones David H. , Gudmundsson G. Hilmar
Published: October 2013

There remain large regions of scientific interest in the Antarctic that are not instrumented. These include highly dynamic ice streams and glaciers that are difficult or impossible to reach safely because heavy crevassing impedes an overland trek or an aircraft landing. We have developed an alternative strategy for instrumenting these regions: an aerodynamic sensor that can be dropped from an overflying aircraft. During freefall the sensor accelerates to its terminal velocity of 42 m s−1 before impacting with the glacier. On impact it partially buries itself in the snow while leaving an antenna mast protruding high above the surface to ensure a long operating life. In this paper, we describe the design and results of testing this aircraft-deployable sensor. Finally we present the initial results of two campaigns to instrument inaccessible regions of Pine Island Glacier, West Antarctica, and Scar Inlet, Antarctic Peninsula, with GPS receivers.
EARLY AGE POROSITY AND PORE SIZE DISTRIBUTION OF CEMENT PASTE WITH FLUE GAS DESULPHURISATION (FGD) WASTE
Authors: Khatib Jamal M. , Mangat Pritpal S. , Wright Lee
Published: October 2013

This paper is part of a wide-ranging investigation on the use of flue gas desulphurisation (FGD) waste in cement-based materials. It reports the results on the porosity and pore size distribution of cement paste containing varying amounts of simulated FGD waste. The water to binder ratio was 0.5. The binder consists of cement and simulated FGD. The FGD is a combination of fly ash and gypsum ranging from 0% to 100%. Cement in the pastes was partially replaced with 25% FGD (by weight). The porosity and pore size distribution of cement pastes was determined during the early stage of hydration. Increasing the amount of gypsum does not increase the pore volume. However, increasing the amount of gypsum in the paste leads to an increase in the threshold diameter and a decrease in the percentage of small pores in the paste, both indicating a coarser pore structure. The results of this investigation were compared with data at longer curing periods.
HYBRID FLEXIBLE APPROACH FOR SIX SIGMA IMPLEMENTATION IN CONSTRUCTIONAL SME
Authors: Paslawski Jerzy
Published: October 2013

Possibility of Six Sigma implementation in small/medium enterprise (SME) in construction industry is the goal of this paper. Robust conception of Six Sigma is taken as one option of flexible approach used in construction industry for risk management. High level of risk on the operations management is very important feature in comparison between construction industry and other economy branches. This problem is connected with very restricted level of automation and robotics, influenced environment, etc. Hierarchical culture with fragmentation of activity and low cost preferences as typical approach in construction industry seems to be important reasons of problems in Six Sigma implementation process. Presented conception is based on hybrid approach for flexibility implementation: robustness (Six Sigma), adaptation, simplification (Japan flexibility school) and modification of organizational culture. All four elements were fitted together for achievement of synergy effect.
ERRATUM ON THE ARTICLE ‘NON-LINEAR DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF COUPLED SPAR PLATFORM’ (DOI:10.3846/13923730.2013.768546)
Authors: Jameel Mohammed , Ahmad Suhail , Islam A. B. M. Saiful , Jumaat Mohd Zamin
Published: October 2013

"Erratum on the article ‘Non-linear Dynamic Analysis of Coupled Spar Platform’ (doi: 10.3846/13923730.2013.768546)." Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 19(5), p. 772
College Students' Open Educational Resources (OER) Experience and Their Perceived Attributes: A Study from Zhejiang University
Authors: Li Yan , Hu Ermei
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate Chinese college studentsâ?? experience of and their perceived attributes of Open Educational Resources (OER). Students from Zhejiang University were selected as target population. A two-part questionnaire was developed and randomly sampling was used to collect data. The results of data analysis found that: three fourth of participating students had OER usage experience; students tended to have strong agreement with perceived relative advantage and compatibility of OER, while studentsâ?? perceived trialability, complexity and observability of OER are not satisfactory; gender has no significant influence on college studentsâ?? perceptions about all of the five attributes of OER, while having OER usage experience or not would significantly impact on studentsâ?? perception about attributes of OER. Based on the findings, the study concluded by putting forward some suggestions.
Establishment of Policy Support System for College Students' Entrepreneurship in Suzhou
Authors: Tian Xueying
Published: October 2013

The college students' entrepreneurship is of great significance to the personal growth and social development. Firstly, the situations and problems of college students who start their own business are presented by questionnaire survey. Secondly, measures and defects of the policy are explained. Finally, a policy support system for the college students' entrepreneurship is constructed based on business cycle consisting of training, financing, supporting facilities, implementation, environmental evaluation and identification evaluation, thus providing references for the government to promote the college students' entrepreneurship.
From E-learning to Blended Learning: Re-designing Content and Frame in a Capacity Building Project
Authors: Hansen Line Skov , Hansen Ole
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the didactical considerations, theoretical approaches and first experiences with a cohesive school and kindergarten research-based development project in a Norwegian municipality. The project involves 41 schools and 70 kindergartens, inclusive all leaders and pedagogical staff. The project uses a â??capacity buildingâ? strategy where new practice and skills are built through pedagogical interventions mostly designed as courses based on blended learning with a dialogue oriented and practice related team-work as an important part. Through this work the team learns how to use a specific model for pedagogical analysis. By this model the team gets the opportunity to contribute and to collaborate on tasks related to their own practice. From our experience and from the qualitative research in a similar project in Denmark, with more than 500 schools and 29400 teachers, we know that these teams and thereby also the team facilitator play a very important role in the implementation of the new ideas and practices. Research from the Danish project also shows that both the content and frame in especially the course for team facilitators need a re-design.
Learning Dynamics Analysis Based on Computer-Human Interaction
Authors: Yang Sheng , Guo Lei , Yu Wensen , Liu Changyong , Meng Shimin
Published: October 2013

Unlike doctors, teachers are not able to carry out personality analysis and teaching diagnosis via using various tools and data. So how can we build the exact teaching environment, collect the data of study process, and perform the evidence-based teaching? To answer the question, computers are introduced to observe study activities, which will surely become an important trend just as in other fields. By designing the cognition process oriented novel study observation software system based on Computer-Human Interaction (CHI) to realize the online observation of study process, massive amount of information that can hardly be obtained by traditional education and psychology is able to be efficiently collected. According to dynamics, data of study process was analyzed to obtain the variables of cognitive dynamics such as study speed, acceleration, average speed, key points, learning kinetic energy and so on. All these parameters reflected the personalities of the learners, which will provide useful information for teaching, training and diagnosis.
A Comparative Study of an Unsupervised Word Sense Disambiguation Approach
Authors: Xiong Wei , Song Min , deVersterre Lori
Published: October 2013

Word sense disambiguation is the problem of selecting a sense for a word from a set of predefined possibilities. This is a significant problem in the biomedical domain where a single word may be used to describe a gene, protein, or abbreviation. In this paper, we evaluate SENSATIONAL, a novel unsupervised WSD technique, in comparison with two popular learning algorithms: support vector machines (SVM) and K-means. Based on the accuracy measure, our results show that SENSATIONAL outperforms SVM and K-means by 2% and 17%, respectively. In addition, we develop a polysemy-based search engine and an experimental visualization application that utilizes SENSATIONAL’s clustering technique.
The Evolution of Information Technology Management at the Federal Level
Authors: Holden Stephen H.
Published: October 2013

Federal agencies rely extensively on information technology (IT) to perform basic missions. Arguably, public administration should be driving the theory, policy, and practice for managing these increasingly important resources. This is especially true as public organizations move to electronic service delivery to improve mission performance. However, despite some maturation in the literature for managing IT in federal agencies, public administration has contributed little to this effort. Other academic fields, such as information sciences, business administration, and practitioners, have done more to improve IT management at the federal level. This chapter analyzes federal IT management literature from several academic disciplines and government documents. The analysis compares federal IT management with a normative model of management maturity focusing on the strategic objectives for IT and related management approaches. Public administration’s lack of contribution to federal IT management raises profound questions whether federal agencies will be prepared for the information age. 
Computers, Survey Research, and Focus Groups in Public Administration Research and Practice
Authors: Vasu Michael L. , Vasu Ellen Storey
Published: October 2013

The integration of computing into survey research and focus groups in research and practice in public administration and related fields is the focus of this chapter. Coverage applies to other social science disciplines as well. This chapter reviews uses of computers in computer-assisted survey research (CASR), computer-assisted interviewing, computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI), computerassisted personal interviewing (CAPI), and transferring survey research methods onto the Internet. A second portion of the chapter gives special attention to continuous audience response technology (CART). An example of a citizen survey focused on growth issues combined with a focus group dealing with the same topic in Cary, North Carolina, is also provided. 
Inhibitor Dosage Rates and Corrosion - A CFD Model Investigating Inhibitor Over-Dosing and Increased Corrosion Rates in Subsea Pipelines
Authors: Peng Deng-jr , Annan Irving , Salami Aliu , Wood Terry , Taylor Andy , Ndione H. , Jones Steven
Published: October 2013

Injection of corrosion inhibitors is employed to decrease internal corrosion rates in subsea carbon steel pipelines. The corrosion inhibitor availability model is now well established, however, the real-time availability of inhibitors is affected by different factors not addressed by the model. For instance, the morphology of corrosion product scales present would have either negative or positive effects on corrosion rates, but are not captured in the inhibitor availability model. In order to conclusively investigate this and other factors affecting inhibitor availability, the mechanistic details of the inner workings of inhibitors, especially with regards to three-phase flow subsea systems need to be well understood. The effects of the characteristic persistence of inhibitors in multiphase flow remain unclear. Although the impact of these knowledge gaps is widely perceived to be limited with respect to the inhibition of bottom of line corrosion, whilst being critical only for probable and effective inhibition of top of line corrosion, the reported ‘inhibited’ corrosion rates of subsea pipelines tell a different story. In addition, the mechanisms involved in inhibitor over-dosing leading to increased flow induced localised corrosion rates remain a mystery. It has been observed that at higher than ‘optimal’ inhibitor dosage rates, the CO2 corrosion rates of carbon steel lines are increased. The increased corrosion rate is commonly attributed to the interaction between incident local wall shear stresses (high droplets concentration, micro-turbulences, etc) and the characteristic inhomogeneous protective scales formed at high inhibitor concentrations. This observation is contrary to the industry perception of inhibitor under-dosing and its effect on inhibitor availability being the only concern in terms of inhibitor dosage rates; and brings into sharp focus the necessity to control inhibitor dosage rates to avoid both under-dosing and over-dosing. This paper therefore aims to investigate these phenomena using Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations. Further development of a new technique suggested between inhibitor concentration and the inherent integrity of protective scales formed will be proposed in the study.
Sialylation of Campylobacter jejuni Endotoxin Promotes Dendritic Cell–Mediated B Cell Responses through CD14-Dependent Production of IFN-β and TNF-α
Authors: Huizinga Ruth , van Rijs Wouter , Bajramovic Jeffrey J. , Kuijf Mark L. , Laman Jon D. , Samsom Janneke N. , Jacobs Bart C.
Published: October 2013

Campylobacter jejuni is the most common bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis and often precedes development of Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS), a life-threatening paralytic disease. The incorporation of the carbohydrate sialic acid into C. jejuni lipooligosaccharides (LOS) is associated with increased severity of gastroenteritis and with induction of GBS; however, the underlying mechanisms remain completely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that sialic acids in C. jejuni endotoxin enhance the rapid production of IFN-β and TNF-α by human dendritic cells (DCs). Using neutralizing Abs and receptors it was shown that these DC-derived cytokines promote the proliferation of human mucosal B cells in a T cell–independent manner. The production of both IFN-β and TNF-α by DCs in response to LOS requires CD14, and the amplified response of DCs to sialylated C. jejuni LOS is CD14 dependent. Together, these results indicate that sialylation of C. jejuni LOS increases DC activation and promotes subsequent B cell responses through CD14-driven production of IFN-β and TNF-α. This enhanced DC/B cell response may explain the increased pathogenicity of sialylated C. jejuni and may be key to the initiation of B cell–mediated autoimmunity in GBS.
The young adult’s perception of religion and formal structures: A postmodern perspective
Authors: Hall Herna , Delport C.S.L.
Published: October 2013

The postmodern era has an impact on different dimensions of the contemporary young adult’s social functioning which incorporates perceptions regarding religion and formal structures. This contemporary young adult refers to an individual between the ages of 18 and 25 years. Therefore the goal of this article was to report on research results regarding the perceptions of young adults on religion and formal structures. Within a mixed methods research approach, the exploratory mixed methods research design was utilised. Qualitative data was collected from 47 young adults by means of focus group interviewing. Quantitative data was collected from 1019 respondents utilising a questionnaire. Both groups were selected through the utilisation of purposive sampling. Qualitative data were analysed through thematic analysis, whilst a range of descriptive and inferential statistical procedures was used to analyse quantitative data. The findings indicated that the postmodern young adult displays a tendency to value conventional religious norms and practices, but the element of choice is of importance, as young adults seem to choose the aspects of religion that suit them. An increased interest in and a need for spirituality or a form of transcendence was found. Guidance by formal structures was favoured, but did not necessarily refer to ‘church’ or religious structures. The results illustrated that the contemporary young adult explores and experiments in terms of identity and lifestyle. Views and values seem to be person-specific and based on emotions and experiences with a tendency towards ‘own authority’ and an emphasis on the self. The rise of individualism which characterises the postmodern era has led to the creation of meaning by drawing on personal resources and on own personal moral beliefs and values.
Vijf parels in de Heidelbergse Catechismus
Authors: Verboom Willem
Published: October 2013

In dit artikel bespreek ik vijf ’parels’ uit de Heidelbergse Catechismus. Zij laten elk een unieke kant van het leerboek zien. Ten eerste bezien we hoe de Heidelbergse Catechismus kinderen leert leven als gedoopte mensen. Daarna komt de christologische concentratie aan de orde en vervolgens het onderscheid tussen een ’waar’ en een ’oprecht’ geloof. In de vierde plaats gaan we in op meer dan 200 uitdrukkingen, waarin de totaliteit en radicaliteit van de relatie van God met ons besproken wordt. De laatste ’parel’ betreft het bidden. Het geheel overziende kan worden gezegd dat de Heidelbergse Catechismus ook na 450 jaar een leerboek is van uitnemende betekenis voor kerk en geloof.This article features five ‘pearls’ from the Heidelberg Catechism. Each one reflects a unique side to this textbook of faith. First, we see how the Heidelberg Catechism teaches children to live as baptised people. Then its christological concentration is shown, followed by its distinction between a ‘true’ [waar] and ‘sincere’ [oprecht] faith. Fourthly, more than 200 expressions that deal with the total and radical nature of having a relationship with God are explored. The final ‘pearl’ concerns prayer. Looking at the whole, we note that even after 450 years the Heidelberg Catechism remains of immense value as textbook for church and faith practice.
The influence of logistics integration on information sharing and business performance: The case of small and medium enterprises in South Africa
Authors: Chinomona Richard , Pooe R.I. David
Published: October 2013

Logistics integration across partnering firms has become the backbone of supply chain management as it facilitates information sharing, which is required in order to enhance business performance. This study investigated the mediatory role of information sharing on the relationships between logistics integration and business performance within the small and medium enterprise (SME) context. Five research hypotheses were postulated and the hypotheses were empirically tested using sample data from the SME sector in South Africa’s Gauteng Province. The results indicated that logistics integration positively influences information sharing and business performance in a significant way within the context of South African SMEs. Managerial implications of the findings are discussed, whilst limitations and future research directions are indicated.
Psychological capital: Internal and external validity of the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ-24) on a South African sample
Authors: Görgens-Ekermans Gina , Herbert Marthine
Published: October 2013

Orientation: Psychological capital (PsyCap) is a relatively novel construct measured with the Psychological Capital Questionnaire 24 (PCQ-24). Only one published South African study on the instrument exists, providing inconsistent psychometric results, when compared with other United States of America (USA) and non-USA studies.Research purpose: The objectives of this study were to investigate the internal validity (construct and discriminant validity), reliability and external validity (relationship with theoretically relevant variables, namely stress, burnout and work engagement) of the PCQ-24.Motivation for the study: Multiple studies have underscored the value of PsyCap within the workplace. In order to harness the full potential of the construct in the South African environment, sound measurement thereof, evidenced by a psychometrically sound instrument, is needed.Research design, approach and method: A cross-sectional survey design was used. The sample consisted of employees at managerial and non-managerial levels, from a medium-sized construction company in the Western Cape, South Africa. In addition to PsyCap, perceived stress, work-related burnout and work engagement were measured.Main findings: The results provided preliminary evidence of construct and discriminant validity, reliability and significant relations with external theoretically relevant variables.Practical/managerial implications: Researchers may confidently use the PCQ-24 to measure the construct of PsyCap and investigate relations with workplace outcomes in the South African environment, informing human relations practices.Contribution/value-add: Preliminary evidence of the psychometric properties of the PCQ-24, which measures the construct of PsyCap (consisting of hope, self-efficacy, resilience and optimism) on a South African sample, was provided in this study.
Giant Choledochal Cyst Mimicking Massive Gallbladder Hydrops in an Adult Patient: Multi Detector Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings Correlated to Gross and Histopathological Findings
Authors: Choi Joon-Il , Lall Chandana , Bhargava Puneet , Imagawa David K.
Published: October 2013

Choledochal cysts are uncommon congenital anomalies of the biliary tree, commonly presenting in infancy, generally in the 1st year of life. Presentation in adult life is less common, accounting for 20% of cases. A 19-year-old female patient presented to the Emergency Department with severe abdominal distension, a palpable abdominal mass, mild jaundice and low grade fever. Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging of the abdomen showed a massive septated cystic lesion filling the entire abdomen with a significant mass effect on surrounding structures. Origin of the lesion was unclear and diagnosis included a giant mesenteric or duplication cyst, massive gallbladder with hydrops, biliary cystadenoma and giant choledochal cyst, among others. Final diagnosis was a Type IA choledochal cyst with massive asymmetric cystic dilatation of the extra-hepatic segments of the left hepatic duct with asymmetric dilatation of the right hepatic duct. Patient had an uneventful recovery after resection of the entire extrahepatic cyst and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy at the level of the hilum. In this article, we correlate CT and MRI findings to gross and histopathological findings of this giant Todani's Type IA choledochal cyst.
A Study toward the Evaluation of ALOS Images for LAI Estimation in Rice Fields
Authors: Sharifi Hashjin Sh. , Darvishzadeh R. , Khandan R.
Published: October 2013

Abstract. For expanding and managing agricultural sources, satellite data have a key role in determining required information about different factors in plants Including Leaf Area Index (LAI).This paper has studied the potential of spectral indices in estimating rice canopy LAI in Amol city as one of the main sources of rice production in Iran. Due to its importance in provision of food and calorie of a major portion of population, rice product was chosen for study. A field campaign was conducted when rice was in the max growth stage (late of June). Also, two satellite images from ALOS-AVNIR-2 were used (simultaneous with conducted field works) to extract and determine vegetation indices. Then the Regression between measured data and vegetation indices, derived from combination of different bands, was evaluated and after that suitable vegetation indices were realized. Finally, statistics and calculations for introduction of a suitable model were presented. After examination of models, the results showed that RDVI and SAVI2, by determination coefficient and RMSE of 0.12–0.59 and 0.24–0.62, have more accuracy in LAI estimation. Results of present study demonstrated the potential of ALOS images, for LAI estimation and their significant role in monitoring and managing the rice plant.