bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paid and unpaid social work in Russia: Is women’s social work opening up opportunities for empowerment processes?
Authors: Sätre Ann-Mari
Published: September 2014

The article analyses whether social work in Russia can have an empowering effect on the poor, given the survival of hierarchical structure of organizations and women’s responsibility for social welfare. Although state policies promote charity rather than empowerment, this study also discusses to what extent women’s paid and unpaid work could stimulate processes of empowerment through supportive measures that open up possibilities for the poor to engage in changing their own situation. The empirical data are based on interviews with social work specialists, NGO representatives and local politicians in two Russian regions.
Labour migration in Russia: Issues and policies
Authors: Karpova Galina G , Vorona Maria A
Published: September 2014

Contemporary Russian reality is characterized by inconsistency in the official discourse regarding the problems and prospects of labour migration in Russia and the lack of a clear framework for building a network of social support for labour migrants. Research was carried out into the cultural resources for migrants provided by two types of regional social services: the territorial authorities and human rights NGOs providing social support for migrants. The authors argue that development of services requires integration mechanisms aimed at an inclusive culture for labour migrants.
Children’s rights in post-Soviet countries: The case of Russia and Belarus
Authors: Schmidt Victoria , Shchurko Tatsiana
Published: September 2014

The article constructs children’s rights as a social institution relevant to the multifunctional nature of the contemporary child. In line with the interpretivist approach, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is viewed as a soft law, which requires the pluralization of practices towards international regulations. The juxtaposition of two key approaches to the UNCRC, the double status of the child and the dilemma of public versus private, frames the investigation of the current issues in Russia and Belarus through the discourses operating around children’s rights. The comparison highlights the common shortcomings and the peculiarities, clarifying the possible strategies for refining the implementation of children’s rights in post-Soviet countries.
Developing an inclusive culture of public social services in Russia: Rhetoric, policies and practices
Authors: Antonova Victoria
Published: September 2014

This article presents an overview of the rhetoric and main discourses presented in the sphere of social policy and social services provided in Russia especially with regards to social inclusion of migrants. Inclusion policies in schools for children from migrant families are described and contrasted with lack of developments in police practices. A case study of two social service organizations in one of the regions in Privolzhsky Federal District is presented in order to analyze the micro-level of social policy and to find out whether their practices display inclusive culture.
The omohyoid muscle entrapment of the internal jugular vein. A still unclear pathogenetic mechanism
Authors: Gianesini Sergio , Menegatti Erica , Mascoli Francesco , Salvi Fabrizio , Bastianello Stefano , Zamboni Paolo
Published: September 2014

Objectives:

To evaluate the role of the omohyoid muscle anatomic variants as a possible reversible cause of internal jugular vein extrinsic compression.

Method:

We describe a chronic cerebro-spinal venous insufficiency patient, who presented a omohyoid muscle entrapment of the internal jugular vein, confirmed by both magnetic resonance venography and ultrasound investigation. A omohyoid muscle surgical transection together with a patch angioplasty was performed.

Results:

The surgical procedure led to both IJV flow restoration and neurological improvement.

Conclusions:

The omohyoid muscle compression on the internal jugular vein seems to be a possible cause of venous obstruction, but several anatomical and patho-physiological aspects need further investigations. Such picture might cause balloon venous angioplasty inefficacy and needs to be preoperatively considered.
Effect of ceramic fillers on polyethylene glycol-based solid polymer electrolytes for solid-state magnesium batteries
Authors: Polu Anji Reddy , Kumar Ranveer , Rhee H. W.
Published: September 2014

Composite polymer electrolyte (CPE) materials are very attractive for components of batteries and optoelectronic devices. Polyethylene glycol–magnesium nitrate polymer electrolytes and their composites were prepared by using addition of different weight percentage of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and cerium oxide ceramic fillers. Several experimental techniques, such as composition-dependence conductivity, temperature-dependence conductivity, and transport number measurements, have been employed to characterize these CPEs. The magnitude of conductivity increased with increase in the concentration of the ceramic fillers and temperature. The highest ionic conductivity achieved was 1.06 × 10−4 S/cm for the sample prepared with 10 wt% of TiO2 at room temperature. The charge transport in the present CPEs was obtained using Wagner’s polarization technique, which demonstrated that the charge transport was mainly due to ions. Using these polymer electrolytes, solid-state electrochemical cells were fabricated and their discharge profiles were studied under a constant load of 100 kΩ.
Investigation of ionic liquid-based poly(vinyl alcohol) proton conductor for electrochemical double-layer capacitor
Authors: Liew Chiam-Wen , Ramesh S. , Arof A. K.
Published: September 2014

Ionic liquid-based poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) proton-conducting polymer electrolytes are prepared using solution casting technique. The effect of adding 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium iodide (BmImI) ionic liquid into PVA-ammonium acetate polymer system is investigated in this work. Ionic conductivity of polymer electrolytes is increased by two orders of magnitude upon inclusion of 70 wt% of BmImI. Addition of ionic liquid reduces the glass transition temperature and crystallinity of polymer electrolytes. Electrical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) are assembled using dip-coating technique. The electrochemical properties of fabricated EDLCs are analysed using cyclic voltammetry.
Studies on a proton battery using gel polymer electrolyte
Authors: Mishra Kuldeep , Hashmi Safir A. , Rai Devendra K.
Published: September 2014

A proton-conducting film of gel polymer electrolyte, poly(vinylidene fluoride hexafluoropropylene)/poly(methyl methacrylate) + ammonium thiocyanate + ethylene carbonate + propylene carbonate, has been prepared by solution casting technique. The ionic conductivity of the film is in the order of approximately 10−3 S cm−1 at room temperature. A proton battery with the configuration zinc + zinc sulfate heptahydrate | gel electrolyte | lead oxide + vanadium pentoxide has been fabricated using this film as electrolyte and separator between the electrodes. The battery shows an open circuit voltage of 1.45 V and energy density of approximately 10 Wh kg−1at low current drain. The rechargeability of the battery has been observed up to three cycles after which its discharge capacity starts fading.
Electropolymerization of polyaniline thin films
Authors: Rohom Ashwini B. , Londhe Priyanka U. , Mahapatra S. K. , Kulkarni S. K. , Chaure N. B.
Published: September 2014

Polyaniline (PANI) thin films have been electrochemically synthesized onto conducting glass substrates. The current study demonstrates that the properties of PANI films depend on the concentration of dopant acid. Well-adherent PANI coatings were obtained under potentiodynamic conditions during sequential scanning of the potential region between −0.35 V and +1.7 V with respect to silver/silver chloride. The structural, optical, and morphological properties of PANI films were studied with the aid of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Current–voltage ( I- V) measurements were performed to study the electrical properties of PANI films. The XRD peaks observed at 2 θ = 15.4°, 24.2°, and 25.1° confirm the synthesis of emeraldine form of PANI. The strong absorption peaks observed in the UV-Vis absorption spectra at 317 nm (π–π* interband transition), 371–427 nm (polaron band transition), and 750 nm (bipolaron band transition) confirm the formation of emeraldine oxidation state of PANI. A broad peak attributed in the PL spectra around 395 nm is related to the transition from polaronic band to the π band. All the intense bands attributed in the Raman spectra are associated with the emeraldine oxidation state of PANI. FESEM images reveal the formation of fibers and belts of PANI. Highly conducting thin films of PANI deposited at higher concentrations of dopant acid were confirmed by I- V measurements.
Structural, thermal, electrical, and dielectric properties of synthesized nanocomposite solid polymer electrolytes
Authors: Kulshrestha N. , Chatterjee B. , Gupta P. N.
Published: September 2014

In the present article, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer, sodium iodide (NaI) salt, and fumed silica nanoparticles nanofiller have been used for the preparation of solid polymer electrolyte films. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has been performed to study the vibrational change due to the complexation among polymer, salt, and nanofiller. X-Ray diffraction has been carried out to study the structural changes in the PVA:NaI (60:40) polymer electrolyte films with fumed silica nanoparticles as dopant. Differential scanning calorimetry studies show decreasing trend in the glass transition temperature for nanocomposite polymer electrolyte films. Thermogravimetric analysis has been performed to study the thermal degradation of the sample. Determination of transference number using Wagner’s polarization technique indicates that the ions are the dominant mobile species. Maximum conductivity of approximately 3.8 × 10−3 S cm−1 at room temperature has been estimated for PVA:NaI (60:40) film containing 0.5% fumed silica nanoparticles with low value of activation energy. Dielectric relaxation studies with temperature show shifts of the relaxation time toward higher value for samples of nanocomposite polymer electrolyte films.
Poly(ε-caprolactone)-based polymer electrolyte for electrical double-layer capacitors
Authors: Woo H. J. , Liew Chiam-Wen , Majid S. R. , Arof A. K.
Published: September 2014

The potential of electrical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) fabricated from symmetry activated carbon electrodes and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based polymer electrolytes (PE) have been studied. PEs that consisted of PCL, ammonium thiocyanate, and ethylene carbonate (EC) were prepared by solution casting. In this system, EC was added as a plasticizing solvent to improve the conductivity. The room temperature ionic conductivity of PE increased from 3.94 × 10−7 S cm−1 to 3.8 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 50 wt% EC. In the structural studies carried out by X-ray diffraction, it was found that addition of EC reduces the degree of crystallinity of the entire system. Temperature-dependent conductivity studies showed that Vogel–Tamman–Fulcher model fits very well with regression value close to unity. This observation demonstrates a close coupling between the ionic motion and the polymer segment mobility. The preliminary result of EDLC cell was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry. The single-electrode specific capacitance of EDLC is obtained to be 42.4 F g−1.
Mast cells in human airways: the culprit?
Authors: Erjefält Jonas S.
Published: September 2014

By virtue of their undisputed role in allergy, the study of airway mast cells has focused on nasal and bronchial mast cells and their involvement in allergic rhinitis and asthma. However, recent mechanistic and human studies suggest that peripheral mast cells also have an important role in asthma, as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, respiratory infections and lung fibrosis. Pathogenic roles include immune-modulatory, pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic activities. Importantly, mast cells also actively downregulate inflammation and participate in the defence against respiratory infections. Another complicating factor is the notorious mast cell heterogeneity, where each anatomical compartment of the lung harbours site-specific mast cell populations.

Alveolar mast cells stand out as they lack the cardinal expression of the high affinity IgE receptor. Supporting the emerging concept of alveolar inflammation in asthma, alveolar mast cells shift to a highly FcϵRI-expressing phenotype in uncontrolled asthma. Site-specific and disease-associated mast cell changes have also recently been described in most other inflammatory conditions of the lung. Thus, in the exploration of new anti-mast cell treatment strategies the search has widened to include the lung periphery and the delicate task of identifying which of the countless potential roles are the critical disease modifying ones in a given clinical situation.
Current concepts: host–pathogen interactions in cystic fibrosis airways disease
Authors: Tang Anthony C. , Turvey Stuart E. , Alves Marco P. , Regamey Nicolas , Tümmler Burkhard , Hartl Dominik
Published: September 2014

Chronic infection and inflammation are defining characteristics of cystic fibrosis (CF) airway disease. Conditions within the airways of patients living with CF are conducive to colonisation by a variety of opportunistic bacterial, viral and fungal pathogens. Improved molecular identification of microorganisms has begun to emphasise the polymicrobial nature of infections in the CF airway microenvironment. Changes to CF airway physiology through loss of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator functionality result in a wide range of immune dysfunctions, which permit pathogen colonisation and persistence. This review will summarise the current understanding of how CF pathogens infect, interact with and evade the CF host.
Depression and anxiety in patients with COPD
Authors: Yohannes Abebaw M. , Alexopoulos George S.
Published: September 2014

Under-recognised and untreated depression and anxiety symptoms have deleterious effects on physical functioning and social interaction increasing fatigue and healthcare utilisation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Depression and anxiety are challenging to identify and treat because their symptoms often overlap with those of COPD. The cause(s) of depression and anxiety symptoms are multifactorial and include behavioural, social and biological factors. Less than one-third of COPD patients with comorbid depression or anxiety symptoms are receiving appropriate treatment. Factors that contribute to the lack of provision of treatment are varied, they include patient perceived barriers, for example lack of knowledge and reluctance to receive antidepressant drug therapy; poor treatment compliance and lack of a standardised diagnostic approach; and scarcity of adequate resources for mental health treatment.

The evidence for the efficacy of antidepressant drug therapy in patients with COPD with comorbid depression and anxiety is inconclusive. There are some promising findings regarding pulmonary rehabilitation, psychological therapy and the collaborative care model in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms in patients with COPD, but these findings are limited by short-term follow-up periods. Further work is required to examine the efficacy of these interventions in randomised controlled trials with larger samples and long-term follow-up.
Diagnostic and therapeutic errors in cluster headache: a hospital-based study
Authors: Voiticovschi-Iosob Cristina , Allena Marta , De Cillis Ilaria , Nappi Giuseppe , Sjaastad Ottar , Antonaci Fabio
Published: September 2014

Background

Cluster headache (CH) is a severe, disabling form of headache. Even though CH has a typical clinical picture it seems that its diagnosis is often missed or delayed in clinical practice. CH patients may thus face: misdiagnosis, unnecessary investigations and delays in accessing adequate treatment. This study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of diagnostic and therapeutic errors with a view to improving the clinical and instrumental work-up in affected patients.

Methods

Our study comprised 144 episodic CH patients: 116 from Italy and 28 from Eastern European countries (Moldova, Ukraine, Bulgaria). One hundred six patients (73.6%) were examined personally and 38 (26.4%) were evaluated through telephone interviews conducted by headache specialists using an ad hoc questionnaire developed by the authors.

Results

The sample was predominantly male (M:F ratio 2.79:1) and had a mean age of 42.4 ± 9.8 years; approximately 76% of the patients had already consulted a physician about their CH at the onset of the disease. The mean interval between onset of the disease and first consultation at a headache center was 4.1 ± 5.6 years. The patients had consulted different specialists prior to receiving their CH diagnosis: neurologists (49%), primary care physicians (35%), ENT specialists (10%), dentists (3%), etc. Misdiagnoses at first consultation were recorded in 77% of the cases: trigeminal neuralgia (22%), migraine without aura (19%), sinusitis (15%), etc. The average “diagnostic delay” was 5.3 ± 6.4 years and the condition was diagnosed approximately (“doctor delay”: one year). Instrumental and laboratory investigations were carried out in 93% of the patients prior to diagnosis of CH. Some of the patients had never received abortive or preventive medications, either before or after diagnosis. Medical prescription compliance: 88% of the cases.

Conclusions

Our results emphasize the need to improve specialist education in this field in order to improve recognition of the clinical picture of CH and increase knowledge of the proper medical treatments for de novo CH. Continuous medical education on CH should target general neurologists, primary care physicians, ENT specialists and dentists. A study on a larger population of CH patients may further improve error-avoidance strategies.
Fractal-based analysis of optical coherence tomography data to quantify retinal tissue damage
Authors: Somfai Gábor Márk , Tátrai Erika , Laurik Lenke , Varga Boglárka E , Ölvedy Vera , Smiddy William E , Tchitnga Robert , Somogyi Anikó , DeBuc Delia Cabrera
Published: September 2014

Background

The sensitivity of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) images to identify retinal tissue morphology characterized by early neural loss from normal healthy eyes is tested by calculating structural information and fractal dimension. OCT data from 74 healthy eyes and 43 eyes with type 1 diabetes mellitus with mild diabetic retinopathy (MDR) on biomicroscopy was analyzed using a custom-built algorithm (OCTRIMA) to measure locally the intraretinal layer thickness. A power spectrum method was used to calculate the fractal dimension in intraretinal regions of interest identified in the images. ANOVA followed by Newman-Keuls post-hoc analyses were used to test for differences between pathological and normal groups. A modified p value of <0.001 was considered statistically significant. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to describe the ability of each parameter to discriminate between eyes of pathological patients and normal healthy eyes.

Results

Fractal dimension was higher for all the layers (except the GCL + IPL and INL) in MDR eyes compared to normal healthy eyes. When comparing MDR with normal healthy eyes, the highest AUROC values estimated for the fractal dimension were observed for GCL + IPL and INL. The maximum discrimination value for fractal dimension of 0.96 (standard error =0.025) for the GCL + IPL complex was obtained at a FD ≤ 1.66 (cut off point, asymptotic 95% Confidence Interval: lower-upper bound = 0.905-1.002). Moreover, the highest AUROC values estimated for the thickness measurements were observed for the OPL, GCL + IPL and OS. Particularly, when comparing MDR eyes with control healthy eyes, we found that the fractal dimension of the GCL + IPL complex was significantly better at diagnosing early DR, compared to the standard thickness measurement.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the GCL + IPL complex, OPL and OS are more susceptible to initial damage when comparing MDR with control healthy eyes. Fractal analysis provided a better sensitivity, offering a potential diagnostic predictor for detecting early neurodegeneration in the retina.
Variations in energy metabolism along the pericardium meridian and its relationship with visceral function adjustments during electroacupuncture
Authors: Zheng Shu-Xia , Pan Xiao-Hua , Xu Jin-Sen , Xiu Chun-Ying , Dong Ya-Qin , Zhu Xiaoxiang
Published: September 2014

Background

Electroacupuncture (EA) is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment guided by meridian theory. As it gradually gains more worldwide acceptance, a clarification of its mechanisms is extremely urgent. We observed variations in transcutaneous oxygen pressure/carbon dioxide pressure (
tcp
O2/
tcp
CO2) and microcirculation blood perfusion units (BPU) along the pericardium meridian, and cardiac function during EA at Neiguan (PC6) to explore variations in energy metabolism and its relationship with visceral function adjustments during EA.

Methods

Twenty-two healthy volunteers participated in this study. Three channel laser Doppler flowmetry and
tcp
O2/
tcp
CO2 detection systems were used to detect
tcp
O2/
tcp
CO2 and microcirculation BPU along the pericardium meridian. A hemodynamic monitor was used to detect cardiac function.

Results

In the normal state, the microcirculatory BPU along the pericardium meridian were significantly higher than that of their bilateral corresponding control points (p < 0.05). During EA at PC6, the values of the microcirculatory BPU along the pericardium meridian did not vary, and few increased. In the normal state, the values of
tcp
O2 along the pericardium meridian were significantly higher than those of their bilateral corresponding control points (p < 0.05). In addition, the values of
tcp
CO2 along the pericardium meridian were lower than those of their bilateral corresponding control points. In comparison with the normal state, EA could decrease
tcp
O2 along the meridian significantly (p < 0.05) and increase
tcp
CO2. During EA at PC6 in healthy volunteers treated by artificial acute mild hypoxia, cardiac output and cardiac index (p < 0.05) decreased and systemic vascular resistance increased significantly (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In the normal state, the values of microcirculatory BPU and
tcp
O2 along the pericardium meridian were both higher than those of their bilateral corresponding control points. Energy metabolism was vigorous along the meridian. During EA, the decrease in oxygen partial pressure along the pericardium meridian might be a result of strengthened energy metabolism of associated tissue and increased oxygen consumption. The variations in energy metabolism along the pericardium meridian during the course of EA had a close relationship with visceral function adjustments.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial RegistryChiCTRTRC13003193.
Blind distributed estimation algorithms for adaptive networks
Authors: Bin Saeed Muhammad O , Zerguine Azzedine , Zummo Salam A
Published: September 2014

Until recently, a lot of work has been done to develop algorithms that utilize the distributed structure of an ad hoc wireless sensor network to estimate a certain parameter of interest. However, all these algorithms assume that the input regressor data is available to the sensors, but this data is not always available to the sensors. In such cases, blind estimation of the required parameter is needed. This work formulates two newly developed blind block-recursive algorithms based on singular value decomposition (SVD) and Cholesky factorization-based techniques. These adaptive algorithms are then used for blind estimation in a wireless sensor network using diffusion of data among cooperative sensors. Simulation results show that the performance greatly improves over the case where no cooperation among sensors is involved.
A robust high-order lattice adaptive notch filter and its application to narrowband noise cancellation
Authors: Kim Seong-woo , Park Young-cheol , Seo Young-soo , Youn Dae Hee
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we propose a high-order lattice adaptive notch filter (LANF) that can robustly track multiple sinusoids. Unlike the conventional cascade structure, the proposed high-order LANF has robust tracking characteristics regardless of the frequencies of reference sinusoids and initial notch frequencies. The proposed high-order LANF is applied to a narrowband adaptive noise cancellation (ANC) to mitigate the effect of the broadband disturbance in the reference signal. By utilizing the gradient adaptive lattice (GAL) ANC algorithm and approximately combining it with the proposed high-order LANF, a computationally efficient narrowband ANC system is obtained. Experimental results demonstrate the robustness of the proposed high-order LANF and the effectiveness of the obtained narrowband ANC system.
A longitudinal assessment of periodontal disease in 52 miniature schnauzers
Authors: Marshall Mark D , Wallis Corrin V , Milella Lisa , Colyer Alison , Tweedie Andrew D , Harris Stephen
Published: September 2014

Background

Periodontal disease (PD) is the most widespread oral disease in dogs and has been associated with serious systemic diseases. The disease is more prevalent in small breeds compared to large breeds and incidence increases with advancing age. In prevalence studies 84% of beagles over the age of 3 and 100% of poodles over the age of 4 were diagnosed with PD. Current knowledge of the rate of progression of PD is limited. The objective of this study was to determine the rate of PD progression in miniature schnauzers, an at risk small breed of dog.

Dogs (n = 52, age 1.3-6.9 years) who had received a regular oral care regime prior to this study were assessed for levels of gingivitis and periodontitis around the whole gingival margin in every tooth under general anaesthetic. Assessments were conducted approximately every six weeks for up to 60 weeks following the cessation of the oral care regime.

Results

All of the 2155 teeth assessed entered the study with some level of gingivitis. 23 teeth entered the study with periodontitis, observed across 12 dogs aged between 1.3 and 6.9 years. 35 dogs had at least 12 teeth progress to periodontitis within 60 weeks. Of the teeth that progressed to periodontitis, 54% were incisors. The lingual aspect of the incisors was significantly more likely to be affected (p < 0.001). The severity of gingivitis in periodontitis-affected teeth was variable with 24% of the aspects affected having very mild gingivitis, 36% mild gingivitis and 40% moderate gingivitis. Periodontitis progression rate was significantly faster in older dogs. Only one dog (age 3.5) did not have any teeth progress to periodontitis after 60 weeks.

Conclusions

This is the first study to have assessed the progression rate of periodontitis in miniature schnauzers and highlights that with no oral care regime, the early stages of periodontitis develop rapidly in this breed. An oral care regime and twice yearly veterinary dental health checks should be provided from an early age for this breed and other breeds with similar periodontitis incidence rates.
A WIMSical approach to decoding DNA methylation in myeloid leukemia
Authors: Guryanova Olga A , Levine Ross L
Published: September 2014

Integrated transcriptomic and high-resolution whole genome methylation analysis in a myeloid leukemia cell line defines genes that respond to clinically relevant DNA methyltransferase inhibitors.
Biodegradability of oily wastewater using rotating biological contactor combined with an external membrane
Authors: Safa Mahdieh , Alemzadeh Iran , Vossoughi Manouchehr
Published: September 2014

Background

A novel implementation of a hybrid membrane bioreactor (HMBR) has been studied in this paper. It is utilized as combination of rotating biological contractor (RBC) and an external membrane, as a new biological system for oily wastewater treatment.

Methods

Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) as factors of Biodegradability has been evaluated. They are both compared together for different hydraulic retention times (HRTs) and petroleum pollution concentrations in RBC and HMBR. The ratio of TPH to COD of Molasses has been varied between 0.2 to 0.8 at two HRTs of 18 and 24 hours while the temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen were kept in the range of 20-25°C, 6.5-7.5, and 2-3.5 mg/l, respectively.

Results

The best TPH removal efficiency (99%) was observed in TPH/COD = 0.6 and HRT = 24 hr in HMBR and Removal efficiency was decreased in the ratios above 0.6 in both bioreactors.

Conclusions

The experimental results showed that HMBR had higher treatment efficiency than RBC at all ratios and HRTs.
Dietary variation and food selection by mayfly grazers in a subtropical mountain stream
Authors: Chuang Yi-Li , Yu Shu-Fen , Lin Hsing-Juh
Published: September 2014

Background

The classification of functional feeding groups of aquatic insects is often misleading in tropical/subtropical streams because their feeding habits are assumed to be the same as their temperate counterparts according to the mouthpart structure and foraging behavior. This study aimed to examine the diets and preferences of mayfly grazers (Baetisspp. andRhithrogena ampla) in a subtropical mountain stream in the dry and wet seasons.

Results

In the stream, epilithic algal communities on insect-excluded bricks (as a grazer-excluded control) were dominated by small adnate diatoms, most likely due to the high current velocity. Both grazers preferred understory and small adnate diatoms,Achnanthesspp. andAchnanthidium pyrenaicum, in both seasons. However, the stalked diatomsGomphonemaspp. were preferred only byBaetis, but not byRhithrogena, in the dry season when the current velocity became relatively slower. The results of pairwise tests further showed that the algal compositions on the insect-excluded bricks coincided with the diets of both grazers in the wet season but were distinct from those on the bricks in the dry season. Seasonal variations in the algal compositions of the diets ofRhithrogenaand on the insect-excluded bricks were apparent, but not in the diets ofBaetis.

Conclusions

The algal physiognomy was most likely attributed to the impact of the high current velocity in the stream. Our results suggest that the diet preference by mayfly grazers in the stream is potentially influenced by algal availability.
Infertility and mental health
Authors: Doyle Myles , Carballedo Angela
Published: September 2014

The World Health Organization (WHO) has indicated that 8–12% of couples worldwide experience infertility, and in recent years the number seeking treatment has dramatically increased. The diagnosis and therapy put a heavy psychological and physical burden on most patients, female and male. The incidence of depression in couples presenting for infertility treatment is significantly higher than in comparable fertile couples. Anxiety is significantly higher in infertile couples than in the general population. Professionals have become aware of the importance of providing educational interventions to address patients' fears and concerns, and to better prepare patients for the demands of treatment. Health professionals should follow a patient-centred approach to provide for the specific needs of the couple. Women in general have a positive attitude to seeking psychological help in the form of cognitive-behavioural therapy, couples counselling and infertility counselling.

Learning Objectives

•

Learn about the incidence rates of infertility and its impact on the mental health of the couple.

•

Know about infertility treatment and its psychological impact.

•

Learn about the different management strategies that can be helpful in the treatment of mental illness associated with infertility.
Atypical early-onset eating disorders
Authors: Nicholls Dasha , Barrett Elizabeth , Huline-Dickens Sarah
Published: September 2014

This article reviews the recent changes to the DSM diagnostic classification of feeding and eating disorders with particular reference to children and adolescents. The common clinical presentations of the ‘atypical’ feeding and eating problems of middle childhood and early adolescence are reviewed using clinical case vignettes, and the limited evidence base regarding management is summarised. There are many gaps in the evidence base and this is likely to be an area of rapid development for the field subsequent on the new terminology outlined in DSM-5.

Learning Objectives

•

Be able to describe the recent changes in terminology of DSM-5 for eating disorders in children and adolescents.

•

Be able to provide information to young people and parents on the short- and long-term medical consequences of low weight in children.

•

Be able to assess risk in children presenting with atypical eating disorders.
Psychosocial interventions for dementia: from evidence to practice
Authors: Patel Bhamini , Perera Mark , Pendleton Jill , Richman Anna , Majumdar Biswadeep
Published: September 2014

This article presents evidence for the efficacy of psychosocial interventions for people with dementia and their carers. The evidence base is not yet robust enough to clearly suggest which interventions are most suited for which environment. However, from our literature review there appears to be reason to use music therapy, aromatherapy, life story work, animal-assisted therapy and post-diagnosis/carer support work. We focus on both the traditional outcome measures of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and the more difficult to measure, but equally important, person-centred outcomes of nonpharmacological interventions, as their properties are distinctly different from those of pharmacological agents.

Learning Objectives

•

Be aware of the range of psychosocial interventions.

•

Have a better understanding of the possible outcomes from given interventions.

•

Be aware of the paradigm shift from managing BPSD to a person-centred approach that focuses on the patient's well-being and quality of life.
Alcohol and cognitive impairment
Authors: Jauhar Sameer , Marshall E. Jane , Smith Iain D.
Published: September 2014

The relationship between alcohol use and cognitive impairment has been notoriously difficult to disentangle. We present what is known about cognitive impairment associated with alcohol use/misuse, covering the spectrum from mild and subtle cognitive change through to severe alcohol-related brain damage, including Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. We highlight aids to the diagnosis and management of these conditions, and emphasise the benefits of prompt treatment on outcome. We also review progress in understanding their neurobiology. Suggestions for possible service configuration based on both our clinical practice and national guidelines are given.

Learning Objectives

•

Gain an understanding of the spectrum of clinical presentations found in alcohol-related brain damage.

•

Understand that the aetiology of these conditions is complex and not solely due to the neurotoxic effects of alcohol.

•

Be better able to plan for the rehabilitation of individuals with established alcohol-related brain damage in your local service area.
Community-based psychodynamic group psychotherapy for treatment-resistant schizophrenia
Authors: Aiello Giuliano , Ahmad Sheraz
Published: September 2014

We describe the work of a psychodynamic psychotherapy group for individuals affected by chronic schizophrenia in our community-based rehabilitation and recovery service. Despite presenting with negative symptoms, over time patients made good use of the psychodynamic setting: they attended, expressed emotions, made connections and reflected within the group on their personal experience of mental ill health. We discuss the rationale and indications for psychodynamic psychotherapy for individuals with severe and enduring mental illnesses. We also reflect on the challenges we faced working psychodynamically with psychosis and on the necessary adaptation of the approach to work with chronic psychosis. We present vignettes from group sessions to illustrate themes that we identified in the therapy, making links with the literature. We conclude that the unstructured setting of the psychodynamic group approach can help individuals affected by most severe forms of psychosis to make sense of their experiences and use the space.

Learning Objectives

•

Understand the rationale for psychodynamic group interventions for psychosis.

•

Understand what adaptations of psychodynamic approaches are necessary to work with patients with psychosis.

•

Change attitudes toward offering psychodynamic interventions for psychosis.
The psychiatric ward as a therapeutic space: systematic
review
Authors: Papoulias Constantina , Csipke Emese , Rose Diana , McKellar Susie , Wykes Til
Published: September 2014

Background

Hospital care is still an integral part of mental healthcare services.
But the impact of ward design on treatment outcomes is unclear.

Aims

To review the effects of ward design on patient outcomes and patient and
staff well-being.

Method

A systematic review of literature was carried out on Medline, Embase and
PsycINFO. Papers on psychogeriatric and child and adolescent wards were
excluded as these necessitate specific safety features.

Results

Twenty-three papers were identified. No strong causal links between
design and clinical outcomes were found. Private spaces and a homely
environment may contribute to patient well-being. Different stakeholders
may experience ward design in conflicting ways; design has a symbolic and
social dimension for patients.

Conclusions

Data on the impact of design on treatment outcomes are inconclusive.
Rigorous randomised controlled trials, qualitative studies and novel
methods are called for. Different stakeholders' responses to the ward as
a symbolic environment merit further investigation.
The interaction between Shroom3 and Rho-kinase is required for neural tube morphogenesis in mice
Authors: Das Debamitra , Zalewski Jenna K. , Mohan Swarna , Plageman Timothy F. , VanDemark Andrew P. , Hildebrand Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2014

Shroom3 is an actin-associated regulator of cell morphology that is required for neural tube closure, formation of the lens placode, and gut morphogenesis in mice and has been linked to chronic kidney disease and directional heart looping in humans. Numerous studies have shown that Shroom3 likely regulates these developmental processes by directly binding to Rho-kinase and facilitating the assembly of apically positioned contractile actomyosin networks. We have characterized the molecular basis for the neural tube defects caused by an ENU-induced mutation that results in an arginine-to-cysteine amino acid substitution at position 1838 of mouse Shroom3. We show that this substitution has no effect on Shroom3 expression or localization but ablates Rock binding and renders Shroom3 non-functional for the ability to regulate cell morphology. Our results indicate that Rock is the major downstream effector of Shroom3 in the process of neural tube morphogenesis. Based on sequence conservation and biochemical analysis, we predict that the Shroom-Rock interaction is highly conserved across animal evolution and represents a signaling module that is utilized in a variety of biological processes.
Empresas, infraestruturas de I&D e dinâmicas do conhecimento em Portugal
Authors: Fernandes Ricardo , Gama Rui
Published: September 2014

Nos dias de hoje, a construção de “novas geografias” associadas aos territórios do conhecimento e a fatores como o conhecimento, a aprendizagem e a criatividade, tem tido consequências na recomposição e redefinição das atividades económicas, ao mesmo tempo que tem revalorizado a dimensão territorial e os sistemas de conhecimento e inovação locais e regionais. Por outro lado, o papel das empresas e das instituições é essencial para a definição de novas políticas de conhecimento e inovação. Nesta perspetiva, pretende-se analisar a dinâmica empresarial considerando as infraestruturas e recursos humanos em I&D. Partindo da base de dados do Gabinete de Planeamento, Estratégia, Avaliação e Relações Internacionais (GPEARI - MCTES), procura-se identificar as configurações territoriais e a lógica de funcionamento e articulação das unidades de I&D. A valorização da perspetiva territorial no quadro das dinâmicas e papéis destas infraestruturas de conhecimento e inovação poderá ser central, não apenas para a consolidação dos sistemas de inovação mas para a sua difusão, permitindo a definição de novas políticas de conhecimento e inovação de base territorial.
Museus e desenvolvimento local – o exemplo do Museu do Pão (Seia)
Authors: Amado Marta , Carvalho Paulo
Published: September 2014

Os museus podem constituir instrumentos de uma rede coerente de estruturas, de recursos, de equipamentos essenciais no reforço de uma memória e identidade e na emergência de uma relevância geográfica, e assim contribuir para a construção de novos caminhos e o envolvimento de novos atores capazes de promover o desenvolvimento. Com o intuito de analisar o modo como os espaços museológicos podem contribuir para revitalizar o território, melhorar a qualidade de vida dos residentes, reforçar a identidade local, captar novos visitantes e, deste modo, contribuir para o desenvolvimento local, enfatizamos o Museu do Pão (Seia), um investimento privado, inaugurado em 2002 (e que recebe mais de 100 mil visitantes/ano), e privilegiamos a apresentação e discussão de dados cedidos pelo Museu, bem como os resultados de inquéritos por questionário e entrevistas aos visitantes (no primeiro caso recorrendo à análise fatorial de correspondências múltiplas).
Utilização da análise multi-níveis para avaliação da vulnerabilidade da população da AML ao calor
Authors: Andrade Henrique , Nogueira Helena , Canário Paulo
Published: September 2014

Este estudo analisa o impacte do calor nos níveis de mortalidade da população residente na área metropolitana de Lisboa (AML). Utilizando uma técnica estatística multivariada – análise multi-níveis – procura-se modelar a variação espacial da mortalidade em períodos críticos. Os níveis espaciais considerados na análise foram freguesias e concelhos. Os valores de mortalidade foram padronizados pela idade, utilizando como padrão a população da AML, obtendo-se a razão padronizada de mortalidade (RPM), que constituiu a variável dependente na análise. Como variáveis independentes foram utilizados diferentes indicadores de carácter demográfico, socioeconómico e urbanístico. No primeiro nível (freguesia) as variáveis que se associaram de forma significativa à variação das RPM foram a percentagem de população institucionalizada e o índice de privação sociomaterial; a introdução do nível concelhio na análise incrementou pouco, mas de forma significativa, a explicação da variância das RPM, sendo incluídas na análise o ganho médio e um índice de saúde e assistência social.
Contrastes topoclimáticos no espaço urbano e periurbano de Mangualde (Portugal) – O campo termohigrométrico e o vento
Authors: Melo Hugo Miguel , Ganho Nuno
Published: September 2014

O clima local, nem sempre foi adequadamente considerado no ordenamento urbano, pode assumir particular importância em cidades que, embora não sendo de grandes dimensões, se localizam num contexto de topografia não muito acidentada, como é o caso de Mangualde (Portugal). Neste sentido, efectuaram-se observações itinerantes de temperatura, de humidade relativa e de direcção e velocidade do vento, contemplando um conjunto de 49 locais do espaço urbano e periurbano de Mangualde, criteriosamente escolhidos em função de factores como a topografia e o tipo e características de ocupação do solo. Os resultados obtidos evidenciam campos termohigrométricos e de vento com significativos contrastes espaciais das variáveis climáticas. Neste trabalho analisam-se as duas situações, uma estival e a outra invernal, do conjunto de observações efectuadas, em que a distribuição espacial das variáveis climáticas apresentou os maiores contrastes locais.
Perceção da população sobre a qualidade do ambiente e sobre as transformações recentes no município da Baía Farta (Benguela – Angola)
Authors: Paulo Cláudia , Cunha Lúcio
Published: September 2014

O estudo sobre o município da Baía Farta representou um percurso reflexivo e analítico acerca da importância da Geografia Física na análise dos constrangimentos e potencialidades de desenvolvimento em termos de Planeamento e Ordenamento do Território. Decorrendo de uma análise geográfica realizada em escala crescente sobre Angola, a província de Benguela e o município de Baía Farta, este foi escolhido como caso de estudo, por se tratar de uma área economicamente dinâmica, mas problemática e frágil em termos ambientais, de urbanização e de ordenamento do território. Após a identificação dos principais recursos naturais e das condicionantes ao desenvolvimento do município, entre os quais estão os riscos naturais, foram apresentados os resultados de um inquérito destinado a avaliar a percepção da população local sobre a realidade ambiental, sobre as transformações recentes e sobre as políticas de desenvolvimento em curso. Para além das diferenças de percepção verificadas em função das caraterísticas dos inquiridos (sexo, idade, naturalidade, tempo de residência, profissão e habilitações literárias), registou-se, também, uma clara diferenciação entre os habitantes das diferentes comunas que é reflexo das diferentes condições locais ao nível dos recursos, das infraestruturas e das condições de desenvolvimento.
Análise comparativa sobre os estudos bioclimáticos no Brasil e em Portugal. Articulações e desafios
Authors: Aleixo Natacha , Sant´Anna Neto João Lima , Cunha Lúcio
Published: September 2014

As diferenciações climáticas e a vulnerabilidade das populações em distintas dimensões espaço-temporais repercutem-se em situações diferenciadas de riscos socioambientais. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho é analisar os riscosclimáticos e os impactos na saúde nos territórios brasileiro e português, compreendendo as especificidades, as dinâmicas territoriais e as diferentes geografias que se verificam em ambos os países. Para isso, foram selecionadas pesquisas e estudos publicados sobre bioclimatologia humana em ambos os territórios e foram coletados dados da Organização Mundial da Saúde (Who). Esses dados foram tratados estatisticamente para a compreensão das diferenças no perfil de morbilidade das populações brasileira e portuguesa, associadas aos riscos climáticos. Verificou-se que as condições de vulnerabilidade socioambiental e de gestão dos fatores de risco oferecem capacidade de resiliência diferenciadas nos territórios. Neste contexto, a utilização da climatologia como instrumento para o planeamento e promoção da saúde é fundamental para diminuição dos impactos.
Textverarbeitung
Authors: Heilmann Till A.
Published: September 2014

Word und Co. bestimmen weltweit mit, was heute Schreiben heißt. So selbstverständlich Textverarbeitung am Personal Computer inzwischen aber ist, so umwegig gestaltete sich ihre Vorgeschichte, die bislang ein »blinder Fleck« der Medienwissenschaft geblieben ist. Zwar erscheint der PC in seiner Kopplung von Tastatur und Bildschirm als »bessere Schreibmaschine« - doch Computer sind nicht per se Werkzeuge der Schrift. Sie mussten erst zu solchen werden. Dieses Buch zeichnet die Entwicklung des Schreibens mit Computern nach und liefert damit einen wichtigen Beitrag zur Kulturgeschichte unserer Zeit.