bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prevalence of abdominal obesity according to the analysis of a representative group
Authors: Khokhlov R A , Minakov E V , Furmenko G I
Published: December 2014

The combination of arterial hypertension (AH) and obesity is the focus of modern medicine due to the high prevalence of this phenomenon in modern society, an increased risk of cardiovascular complications, diabetes mellitus (DM) and premature death [1, 2, 3]. According to the World Health Organization, about 30% of the world population, of which 16.8% - 14.9% and women - men who are overweight [1] .In the present time for a more accurate designation of high cardiovascular risk patients with a typical combination of hypertension with abdominal obesity (AO), impaired glucose tolerance, and dyslipidemia, in clinical practice is widely used term "metabolic syndrome" (MS). The prevalence of MS in the population of developed countries, according to various estimates, ranging from 10 to 30%. According to special studies in patients with MS significantly increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cardiovascular and total death [4, 5.6]. Isolation of this syndrome as a stable combination of several risk factors and occur when insulin sensitivity is of great practical importance. Changing lifestyles and adequate therapy can completely eliminate MS. This significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications and diabetes [1, 2, 3]. To determine the true prevalence of MS in the population requires a fairly high costs associated with the need for appropriate laboratory studies. At the same time, the main, essentially obligate, namely a MS component AB, which may be readily determined by physical examination [7].
Early diagnosis of Bardet-Biedl syndrome associated with obesity
Authors: Volevodz N N , Eremina I A , Semicheva T V
Published: December 2014

One of the urgent problems of modern health care is the increase in the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents. Late diagnosis and delayed initiation of treatment lead to serious complications such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus. At present there are quite rare syndromes associated with obesity: Prader-Willi syndrome, Bardet-Biedl, Alström. Bardet-Biedl syndrome, - a disease characterized by obesity central origin, retinitis pigmentosa, polydactyly, mental retardation, hypogonadism, and renal dysfunction.
Sleep in obese patients
Authors: Strueva Natalya Victorova , Melnichenko Galina Afanas'evna , Poluektov Mikhail Gur'evich , Savel'eva Larisa Victorovna , Katsiya Gul'nara Victorovna , Goncharov Nikolay Petrovich
Published: December 2014

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of duration and individual characteristics of sleep and chronotype on body weight, eating behavior, anxiety, depression, life quality, metabolic and hormonal parameters of obese patients. Materials and methods: 200 patients with primary obesity were studied: 83 men and 117 women at age from 18 to 61 years old, median age 41,5 years [31,0; 50,0]; body weight 107 kg [94; 128,5], waist circumference 112 cm [102; 124]; neck circumference 41 cm [38; 46], body mass index (BMI) 36,9 [32,8; 42,3]. Results: We found an association between sleep duration, chronotype and the emotional eating. Significant sleep reduction (to less than 6 hours) was associated with high level of anxiety, depression, emotional eating and insomnia. Younger age, early onset and shorter duration of obesity and brisk weight gain during last is connected to the evening chronotype. The emotional eating associated with hypersomnolence in the absence of statistically significant increase of anxiety and depression in individuals with evening chronotype. Sleep duration and chronotype have no significant effect on the body weight, metabolic, hormonal parameters and the dynamics of body. weight after 7±1 months of treatment of obesity.
Chronic fatigue syndrome in middle-aged women: the role of disorders of glucose metabolism
Authors: Pleshcheva Anastasiya V , Pigarova Ekaterina Aleksamdrovna , Dzeranova Larisa Konstantinovna
Published: December 2014

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) among middle-aged women and to assess the role of glucose metabolism disturbances in the development of this pathology. Materials and Methods: The study included 231 women from 40 to 60 years old (mean age 52.3 ± 5 years), observed at urban polyclinic in Moscow, who was referred to or was observed by an endocrinologist (n = 142, group 1), therapist (n = 56, group 2) or had a prophylactic medical examinations (n = 33, group 3). We recorded demographic and anthropometric data, accessed levels of glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin and calculated BMI and HOMA indexes. Results: The prevalence of CFS in the whole group of patients studied was 27%. The highest frequency of CFS is registered in the group of patients observed by the endocrinologist – 35%, and at dispensary examination – 21%, which was significantly different from the prevalence of CFS in patients seeking an appointment with a therapist – 13% (p = 0.002 and p = 0.03 for Fisher's exact test, respectively). Higher BMI, blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, and HOMA insulin resistance index as naturally expected were observed in group 1, but after further division for the presence or absence of CFS, significant differences for patients with CFS were only higher fasting glucose levels in group 2. Conclusions: We determined the prevalence of CFS in the examined groups of patients and showed only a weak correlation of CFS and disturbances of glucose metabolism.
Lower temperatures in the bedroom helps to reduce weight and improve insulin sensitivity
Authors: Borodich Tat'yana Sergeevna
Published: December 2014

In rodents, brown adipose tissue (BAT) regulates cold- and diet-induced thermogenesis (CIT; DIT). Whether BAT recruitment is reversible and how it impacts on energy metabolism have not been investigated in humans. Regulatory links between BAT thermal plasticity and glucose metabolism in humans, opening avenues to harnessing BAT for metabolic benefits.
Association of vitamin D receptor polymorphisms with obesity and inflammatory reactions
Authors: Borodich Tat'yana Sergeevna
Published: December 2014

Association of vitamin D receptor polymorphisms with obesity and inflammatory reactions.
Nineteenth-Century World’s Fairs as Accountability Systems: Scopic Systems, Audit Practices and Educational Data
Authors: Sobe Noah W. , Boven David T.
Published: December 2014

Late-19th century World’s Fairs constitute an important chapter in the history of educational accountability. International expositions allowed for educational systems and practices to be “audited” by lay and expert audiences. In this article we examine how World’s Fair exhibitors sought to make visible educational practices and institutions for external validation. Focusing especially on the American education exhibits mounted at Vienna (1873), Philadelphia (1876), Chicago (1893), and Paris (1900), we use historical documents connected with the preparation of exhibits as well as reports written during and after the Fairs to bring to light the curatorial principles and exhibitionary practices governing education exhibits. This examination helps us to understand educational accountability mechanisms and procedures not simply as technical undertakings, but as social systems with an important set of effects. The scopic systems at play and in contestation for accurately and fairly presenting education systems for outside scrutiny did much to shape the national/international contexts within which school systems operate as well as in what directions educators and policymakers sought to direct/redirect schooling.
Some local estimates and a uniqueness result for the entire biharmonic heat equation
Authors: Simon Miles , Wheeler Glen
Published: December 2014

We consider smooth solutions to the biharmonic heat equation on
ℝ
n
× [0,T] for
which the square of the
Laplacian at time t is globally bounded from above by k
0/t for some k
0 in
ℝ+, for all t ∈ [0,T].
We prove local, in space and time, estimates for such solutions. We
explain how these estimates imply uniqueness of smooth solutions in
this class.
Long-term biological variability of galectin-3 after heart transplantation
Authors: Franeková Janka , Kubíček Zdeněk , Hošková Lenka , Kotrbatá Markéta , Sečník Peter , Kautzner Josef , Jabor Antonín
Published: December 2014

Galectin-3 is an emerging biomarker of heart failure and of myocardial fibrosis risk. Monitoring of galectin-3 is essential during treatment with galectin-3 inhibitors. The aim of our study was to assess long-term biological variability in a specific group of unhealthy subjects.

The biological variability of galectin-3 was measured in a group of 44 patients after heart transplantation (HTx). Six samples were taken from each patient during a 12-month period. Galectin-3 was measured with an Abbott Architect automated immunoassay.

Intraindividual (CV

The concentrations of galectin-3 in patients followed 12 months after HTx fluctuated around the homeostatic point, with CV
Comparison between admission natriuretic peptides, NGAL and sST2 testing for the prediction of worsening renal function in patients with acutely decompensated heart failure
Authors: De Berardinis Benedetta , Gaggin Hanna K. , Magrini Laura , Belcher Arianna , Zancla Benedetta , Femia Alexandra , Simon Mandy , Motiwala Shweta , Bhardwaj Anju , Parry Blair A. , Nagurney John T. , Coudriou Charles , Legrand Matthieu , Sadoune Malha , Di Somma Salvatore , Januzzi James L. , from the Global Research on Acute C
Published: December 2014

In order to predict the occurrence of worsening renal function (WRF) and of WRF plus in-hospital death, 101 emergency department (ED) patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) were evaluated with testing for amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), BNP, sST2, and neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL).

In a prospective international study, biomarkers were collected at the time of admission; the occurrence of subsequent in hospital WRF was evaluated.

In total 26% of patients developed WRF. Compared to patients without WRF, those with WRF had a longer in-hospital length of stay (LOS) (mean LOS 13.1±13.4 days vs. 4.8±3.7 days, p<0.001) and higher in-hospital mortality [6/26 (23%) vs. 2/75 (2.6%), p<0.001]. Among the biomarkers assessed, baseline NT-proBNP (4846 vs. 3024 pg/mL; p=0.04), BNP (609 vs. 435 pg/mL; p=0.05) and NGAL (234 vs. 174 pg/mL; p=0.05) were each higher in those who developed WRF. In logistic regression, the combination of elevated natriuretic peptide and NGAL were additively predictive for WRF (OR

: In ED patients with ADHF, the combination of NT-proBNP or BNP plus NGAL at presentation may be useful to predict impending WRF (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT#0150153).
Numerical Analysis of Petroleum Refinery Wastewater Treatment Using Electro-Fenton Process
Authors: Davarnejad Reza , Pirhadi Masoud , Mohammadi Mohsen , Arpanahzadeh Shahrzad
Published: December 2014

The important parameters in mineralization treatment of petroleum refinery wastewater by electro-Fenton process were successfully simulated by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The effects of H2O2/PRW (ratio of mole of H2O2 per petroleum refinery wastewater volume), H2O2/Fe2+ molar ratio, current density, pH and reaction time were numerically investigated. Materials distribution in the electrochemical cell was studied and CFD results demonstrated that distance between electrodes had no significant effect on the Chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal. Furthermore, the results were compared with the experimental data. The simulated data showed that maximum COD removal was around 82.55% at H2O2/PRW of 0.04, H2O2/Fe2+ molar ratio of 2.75, pH of 3.5, current density of 52.5 mA/cm2 and reaction time of 90 min while the experimental data obtained from the literature showed maximum COD removal of 77% in the same operating conditions. The simulated data showed a good agreement with the experimental ones.
Vertices of simple modules of symmetric groups labelled by hook partitions
Authors: Danz Susanne , Giannelli Eugenio
Published: December 2014

In this article we study the vertices of simple modules for the symmetric groups in prime characteristic p. In particular, we complete the classification of the vertices of simple F𝔖
n
-modules labelled by hook partitions.
The interior transmission eigenvalue problem
for a spherically-symmetric domain with
anisotropic medium and a cavity
Authors: Kirsch Andreas , Asatryan Hayk
Published: December 2014

We consider the scattering of spherically-symmetric acoustic waves by an anisotropic medium and a cavity. While there is a large number of recent works devoted to the scattering problems with cavities, existence of an infinite set of transmission eigenvalues is an open problem in general. In this paper we prove existence of an infinite set of transmission eigenvalues for anisotropic Helmholtz and Schrödinger equations in a spherically-symmetric domain with a cavity. Further in this paper we consider the corresponding inverse problem. Under some assumptions we prove the uniqueness in the inverse problem.
La didáctica multigrado y las aulas rurales: perspectivas y datos para su análisis
Authors: Bustos Jiménez Antonio
Published: December 2014

Los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje en las escuelas rurales atienden generalmente a la multigraduación como una característica presente en muchas de sus aulas. De este modo, diversidad de edades, grados y niveles de competencia curricular suelen formar parte de la realidad escolar de estos espacios. La didáctica que el docente concreta y planifica está en relación con el desarrollo de su alumnado, movilizando aspectos que son de específica aparición en estos contextos escolares. Para analizar y describir las cuestiones metodológicas básicas de los grupos multigrado, y si podían ser transferidas a otros contextos inespecíficos, se ha llevado a cabo una investigación en diferentes países europeos y sudamericanos. Aquí presentamos los resultados de una de las fases de este estudio, que tuvo como principal finalidad documentar inicialmente las prácticas pedagógicas desarrolladas en aulas multigrado de una muestra de docentes, para posteriormente seleccionar los centros en los que centrar los análisis si eran valorados como lugares en los que podían desarrollarse didácticas basadas en metodologías activas-participativas. Los resultados muestran el posicionamiento de los docentes de estas aulas sobre cuestiones como interdisciplinariedad, estrategias didácticas, tiempo y espacio, materiales curriculares, tecnologías y evaluación. Las cuestiones analizadas ayudan a visualizar parte de los elementos que se integran en los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje de estas escuelas.http://dx.doi.org/10.15304/ie.24.1994
Escolas en contornas rurais en Galicia: horizonte difícil / horizonte posible
Authors: Costa Rico Antón
Published: December 2014

As escolas nas contornas rurais en Galicia teñen un presente complexo e un difícil, aínda que posible, horizonte. Na procura de comprender e interpretar esta realidade o autor realiza unha viaxe xenealóxica e histórica sobre a presenza escolar nos contornos rurais de Galicia, partindo das décadas finais do século XIX, a través do tempo de certa alborada dos pasados anos vinte-trinta e do posterior franquismo, achegándose ao presente, que sitúa entre o colapso e a renovación, que significa dignificación das contornas humanas e das escolas rurais, a condición de acometer o conxunto de iniciativas políticas, económicas e culturais que aquí se indican.http://dx.doi.org/10.15304/ie.24.2154
A loita pola educación no rural galego: unha teima que non acouga. Apuntamentos para unha historia do período 1975-2014
Authors: López Pardo Alicia , Candia Durán Francisco Xosé
Published: December 2014

Un asunto tan complexo e ao tempo tan transcendente para o país galego como é o da educación no ámbito rural precisa, agora que xa levamos percorrido un treito do século XXI, unha visión retrospectiva e ao tempo crítica que poña o acento nos fitos máis destacables que singularizaron a historia da súa defensa, cos seus avances e retrocesos, desde a década dos 70 do século pasado ata os tempos que vivimos. Neste artigo intentamos pois ofrecer as referencias imprescindibles para caracterizar minimamente aqueles colectivos docentes que enfrontaron, desde o rigor pedagóxico e o compromiso comunitario, o estudo e a defensa do medio rural galego, e que batallaron no plano intelectual e na acción directa nas aulas, por unha educación digna, xusta, pública, de calidade, e adaptada ao contexto rural, ás súas xentes e á súa lingua e cultura propias. Collendo o fío da memoria a través destas catro décadas iremos desvelando e analizando acontecementos, algúns case esquecidos, que permitan dar a entender e poñer de manifesto o relevante papel histórico desempeñado polos diferentes movementos sociais que se configuraron a prol da educación no rural.Entre eles ocupa un posto meritorio a Mesa Galega de Educación no Rural, unha organización nacida como plataforma representativa das reivindicacións dos colectivos profesionais neste eido; con case vinte anos de percorrido ás súas costas, hoxe aínda é escasamente coñecida. En xustiza coa relevancia do seu cometido cómpre que nesta contribución deixemos mínima constancia das súas achegas e da súa traxectoria, que nos ligará coa actualidade, un tempo incerto que nos permite acubillar tanto esperanza (ao revisar o labor que veñen desempeñando docentes e comunidades rurais) como desilusión (se consideramos o tipo de atención habitualmente dispensada polas administracións á educación no rural).http://dx.doi.org/10.15304/ie.24.2218
Presentación: A escola rural
Authors: Rodríguez Lestegás Francisco
Published: December 2014

Presentación da sección monográfica que a revista Innovación Educativa dedica á escola rural.http://dx.doi.org/10.15304/ie.24.2223
Workplace violence towards Congolese health care workers: A survey of 436 healthcare facilities in Katanga province, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Muzembo Basilua Andre , Mbutshu Lukuke Hendrick , Ngatu Nlandu Roger , Malonga Kaj Francoise , Eitoku Masamitsu , Hirota Ryoji , Suganuma Narufumi
Published: December 2014

Workplace violence towards Congolese health care workers: A survey of 436 healthcare facilities in Katanga province, Democratic Republic of Congo: Basilua Andre MUZEMBO, et al. Division of Social Medicine, Department of Environmental Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University—

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate workplace violence by patients or their relatives towards health‐care workers in Congolese hospitals.

Methods

Through the autumn of 2012, a cross‐sectional survey on workplace violence was conducted in a sample of 2,210 registered health‐care workers (989 males and 1,221 females, aged 33 ± 8 years) from 436 hospitals located in the province of Katanga, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Verbal aggression, harassment and physical violence perpetrated by patients or their relatives within the previous year along with factors contributing to violence, were recorded, and the response rate was 99%.

Results

About 80.1% of the health‐care workers had experienced one or more types of workplace violence. Overall, the severity of workplace violence varied from verbal aggression (57.4%) and harassment (15.2%) to physical violence (7.5%). Patients were the major perpetrators of verbal aggression and harassment, whereas patients' relatives were mainly involved in physical violence. The frequency of workplace violence was similar across hospitals. Male health‐care workers were more likely to be victims of physical violence, whereas female health‐care workers were the prime target for harassment. Only 34.3% of the violent episodes were reported to a supervisor. Furthermore, disrespect for medical deontology was the main cause of workplace violence perceived by 68.8% of the health‐care workers. Conclusions: Although it has not been officially recognized, there has been workplace violence towards health‐care workers perpetrated by patients or their relatives despite the fact that health‐care workers have traditionally been highly respected in Congolese society. Further studies on this issue may suggest opportunities for combating violence in Congolese hospitals.
Variations on an Exegetical Theme: Tafsīr Foundations in the Malay World
Authors: Riddell Peter G.
Published: December 2014

The field of tafsīr al-Qur’ān in Malay has attracted increasing scholarly attention in recent decades. The volume of commentaries has grown exponentially in the 20th century. Prior to that, Qur’anic exegesis in Malay was sporadic and varied. This paper will consider pioneering efforts by Malay commentators on the Qur’an, focusing on three key sets of materials. First, we will consider the earliest surviving fragments of tafsīr in Malay. Second, we will examine Tarjumān al-Mustafīd by ‘Abd al-Ra’ūf of Singkel, the first known commentary in Malay upon the whole  Qur’an, written in the late 17th century and subsequently widely disseminated throughout the Malay world. Third, we will focus upon the early 20th century commentary by Muḥammad Sa‘īd bin ‘Umar of Kedah, regarded by many as the second commentary in Malay upon the whole Qur’an.DOI: 10.15408/sdi.v21i2.1072
Análise da evolução das ações de logística reversa de pós-venda e pós-consumo realizada pelo setor brasileiro de energia elétrica nos anos de 2009 a 2011
Authors: Sousa Jéssica Oliveira , Nunes Rosângela Venâncio , De Assis Charles Washington Costa , Adriano Nayana de Almeida , Fonseca Rita de Cássia
Published: December 2014

Este estudo objetiva analisar a evolução das ações de logística reversa de pós-venda e pós-consumo realizada pelo setor brasileiro de energia elétrica nos anos de 2009 a 2011. A metodologia abordada incluiu pesquisa bibliográfica, exploratória, descritiva, quantitativa e documental. Neste estudo, selecionaram-se uma amostra de 15 empresas do setor brasileiro de energia, que se baseou na análise de conteúdo proveniente dos relatórios de sustentabilidade extraídos dos websites das empresas, referentes aos anos de 2009 a 2011. Após a coleta dos dados, procedeu-se a análise de 48 indicadores nos relatórios. Com base nas pontuações encontradas, procedeu-se a uma análise comparativa entre os níveis de divulgação de logística reversa. Observou-se que, nas 15 empresas analisadas, a presença de ações de logística reversa é evidenciada no ano de 2011, demonstrando um resultado global no decorrer dos três anos. Dentre os setores apresentados, observou-se que a distribuição, obteve maior destaque no ano de 2011, apresentando um aumento na presença de indicadores de pós-consumo, evidenciando um resultado ótimo.Palavras-chave: Evidenciação. Logística Reversa de Pós-Venda. Logística Reversa de Pós-Consumo. Setor Brasileiro de EnergiaElétrica.
A systematic review of waterborne disease burden methodologies from developed countries
Authors: Murphy H. M. , Pintar K. D. M. , McBean E. A. , Thomas M. K.
Published: December 2014

The true incidence of endemic acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI) attributable to drinking water in Canada is unknown. Using a systematic review framework, the literature was evaluated to identify methods used to attribute AGI to drinking water. Several strategies have been suggested or applied to quantify AGI attributable to drinking water at a national level. These vary from simple point estimates, to quantitative microbial risk assessment, to Monte Carlo simulations, which rely on assumptions and epidemiological data from the literature. Using two methods proposed by researchers in the USA, this paper compares the current approaches and key assumptions. Knowledge gaps are identified to inform future waterborne disease attribution estimates. To improve future estimates, there is a need for robust epidemiological studies that quantify the health risks associated with small, private water systems, groundwater systems and the influence of distribution system intrusions on risk. Quantification of the occurrence of enteric pathogens in water supplies, particularly for groundwater, is needed. In addition, there are unanswered questions regarding the susceptibility of vulnerable sub-populations to these pathogens and the influence of extreme weather events (precipitation) on AGI-related health risks. National centralized data to quantify the proportions of the population served by different water sources, by treatment level, source water quality, and the condition of the distribution system infrastructure, are needed.
Development of an Escherichia coli K12-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay and DNA isolation suited to biofilms associated with iron drinking water pipe corrosion products
Authors: Lu Jingrang , Gerke Tammie L. , Buse Helen Y. , Ashbolt Nicholas J.
Published: December 2014

A quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay (115 bp amplicon) specific to Escherichia coli K12 with an ABITM internal control was developed based on sequence data encoding the rfb gene cluster. Assay specificity was evaluated using three E. coli K12 strains (ATCC W3110, MG1655 & DH1), 24 non-K12 E. coli and 23 bacterial genera. The biofilm detection limit was 103 colony-forming units (CFU) E. coli K12 mL−1, but required a modified protocol, which included a bio-blocker Pseudomonas aeruginosa with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid buffered to pH 5 prior to cell lysis/DNA extraction. The novel protocol yielded the same sensitivity for drinking water biofilms associated with Fe3O4 (magnetite)-coated SiO2 (quartz) grains and biofilm-surface iron corrosion products from a drinking water distribution system. The novel DNA extraction protocol and specific E. coli K12 assay are sensitive and robust enough for detection and quantification within iron drinking water pipe biofilms, and are particularly well suited for studying enteric bacterial interactions within biofilms.
Antibiotic-resistant heterotrophic plate count bacteria and amoeba-resistant bacteria in aquifers of the Mooi River, North West province, South Africa
Authors: Carstens Alewyn , Bartie Catheleen , Dennis Rainier , Bezuidenhout Carlos
Published: December 2014

Groundwater in the Mooi River catchment is prone to mining, agricultural, municipal and septic tank pollution. In this study physico-chemical and microbiological parameters were determined using appropriate methods. Bacterial isolates were identified by 16S rRNA sequencing (heterotrophic plate count (HPC) bacteria and amoeba-resistant bacteria (ARB)) and multiplex polymerase chain reaction (Escherichia coli). Antibiotic resistance tests were also performed. Physico-chemical parameters were generally within target water quality ranges for drinking water. HPC bacteria ranged between 105 and 107 colony-forming units (cfu)/ml. E. coli were enumerated from Trimpark, School and Cemetery. The Blaauwbank borehole was negative for faecal streptococci. Pseudomonas spp. were most abundant in the bulk water. Opportunistic pathogens isolated included Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, Alcaligenes, Flavobacterium, Bacillus cereus and Mycobacterium spp. Varying patterns of antibiotic resistance were observed. Most HPC bacterial isolates were resistant to cephalothin and/or amoxicillin and a few were resistant to erythromycin and streptomycin. Pseudomonas spp. was also the most abundant ARB. Other ARBs included Alcaligenes faecalis, Ochrobactrum sp. and Achromobacter sp. ARBs were resistant to streptomycin, chloramphenicol, cephalothin, and/or amoxicillin compared to HPCs. The presence of E. coli and ARB in these groundwater sources indicates potential human health risks. These risks should be further investigated and quantified, and groundwater should be treated before use.
Seawater desalination as an option to alleviate water scarcity in South Africa: the need for a strategic approach to planning and environmental decision-making
Authors: Schreiner G. O. , van Ballegooyen R. C. , Osman W.
Published: December 2014

In the last decade, seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) has come to be seen by policy-makers as a novel technology that will significantly advance water security in South African coastal regions. Water purveyors, from the private sector, local/district municipalities and provincial authorities, are undertaking studies to explore the feasibility of SWRO to meet growing demand and relieve mounting pressure on current bulk water supply infrastructure. With this in mind, it is suggested that national strategic planning should be introduced to present the opportunities and constraints of the desalination option within the national water and energy policy. In absence of this, piece-meal decisions will be made at local authority levels and the construction of SWRO plants will be determined by regional circumstances (e.g. drought) as opposed to national water policy agenda. This paper explores the value of such a strategy by considering the drivers of SWRO in South Africa, the risk of unplanned large-scale SWRO implementation (with a focus on environmental impacts) and the initial steps that could be taken toward a Strategic Environmental Assessment for SWRO in South Africa.
Professional Identity in Analysis: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Cardoso Inês , Batista Paula , Graça Amândio
Published: December 2014

The present study is a systematic review of literature, with the objective to map the typology of
conceptual studies about professional identity, as well as the used conceptual fields and the evidence
therefrom resulting. The research was made within the electronic databases ISI web of Knowledge, EBSCO
(Academic Search Complete, ERIC and Sport Discus) and B-On, between 2002 and 2011. The research
equation was "Professional Identity" AND "Review", in the fields ‘abstract’, ‘topic’ and ‘title’ having been
integrated 22 articles. The content analysis was the technique used, with the following categories defined a
priori: i) typology studies; (ii) conceptual framework around the professional identity; iii) indications for
future researches about teacher's identity. The results showed a marked increase of publications in 2011, in
large professional areas (teachers and nurses) and in two main stages of development (the learning and
professional process), as well as a strong conceptual positioning of authors in the perspective of symbolic
interactionism and in post-modernity. It was also clear that the concept of professional identity fits
simultaneously in individual (personal and social) and collective dimensions. Indeed, it involves the
individual, his/her relationship with the other in a given context and his/her sense of belonging to a group.
Regarding the proposals for future investigations, the researches with a qualitative nature (ethnographic and
longitudinal) in work places prevails, with emphasis on the observation of dynamics established in
communities of practice and its speeches (public and private), in a combination of micro and macro analysis.
Teacher Profile: The Knowledge and the Identity Practices
Authors: Albuquerque Alberto , Sa Paulo , Aranha Agata , Resende Rui
Published: December 2014

This study aimed at finding an articulation of educational perspectives from Portuguese physical education
cooperating teachers at distinctive professional stages, according to teaching and mentoring experience. Two main topics
superintend the query, which was intended to answer the objectives of teacher’s education programs and teachers’ role.
Data for this study were collected from open-ended interviews from 30 participants (10 with short teaching experience; 10
with short mentoring experience; and 10 with long mentoring experience). The qualitative analysis consisted of coding the
text attached to the two main topics. The coding process included the active search of themes and patterns emergent from
cooperating teachers’ transcripts. Results reported by cooperating teaching group made apparent the influence of
professional experience but also a general agreement about the teacher profile. The guidelines for teacher training
programs in Portugal, such as the case of Physical Education, show event interrelationship’s perceptions in a real context,
oriented by values inherent to the acquisition and transformation of new knowledge and development of educational
skills. Conclusions supported that the teacher’s role is increasingly demanding, and thus his formation claims a pattern of
increasing quality.
XBRL Diffusion in Social Media: Discourses and Community Learning
Authors: Perdana Arif , Robb Alastair , Rohde Fiona
Published: December 2014

Multiple discourses are critical in determining the success of information technology (IT) diffusion. Since its inception, such discourses also appear in the eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) diffusion sphere. To help explain XBRL diffusion, we explore the discourses relative to XBRL in social media. A case study with text mining and content analysis was conducted to address three research questions covering community discourses, polarity of viewpoint, and learning surrounding XBRL in social media. Our sample data consisted of members' posts and comments in LinkedIn XBRL groups over the period 2010 to 2013. Our analysis finds that XBRL discourses in social media have largely revolved around the dissemination of XBRL information to raise awareness among potential adopters (i.e., theorization) and to properly implement XBRL (i.e., translation). Our findings indicate that XBRL's theorization is not in doubt, while XBRL's translation remains challenging. Professionals generally view XBRL positively. Those who view XBRL less favorably are more likely to be skeptical rather than dismissive. We also observe that social media like LinkedIn is a relevant channel for communities to learn about XBRL. We discuss the findings and include several insights and implications that may be useful in augmenting the future of XBRL.
Simulation of the construction process of cable-stayed bridges from a direct approach
Authors: Lozano-Galant Jose A. , Ruiz-Ripoll Lidia , Xu Dong , Payá-Zaforteza Ignacio , Turmo José
Published: December 2014

In order to complete the design of any structure, an adequate simulation of its construction process is required. This simulation tries to guarantee that the structure can be built safely, that is to say that safety thresholds are not exceeded during the construction stages. In the case of cable-stayed bridges, simulation procedures must be prepared to deal with the computational difficulties derived from their statically redundancy.

Traditionally, the simulation of the construction process of a cable-stayed bridge is carried out from two alternative simulation approaches: the Backward and the Forward approach. In these two methods structural changes produced during erection are successively added to the preceding (forward simulation) or the following (backward simulation) construction stage. This superposition of stages is the main trade off of these methods because it increases the computation time.

Furthermore, these approaches do not enable the direct simulation of intermediate construction stages.

To solve these problems the Direct Algorithm (DA) is presented in this work to deal with the simulation of the construction process of cable-stayed bridges built on temporary supports. To speed up the computation, this algorithm takes advantage of the unstressed length of the stays concept.

This assumption enables an innovative direct simulation of the construction process that does not require the superposition of stages. The DA is indicated for optimization processes and simulation of changes in the tensioning process of cable-stayed bridges. Furthermore, the DA is so simple that it can be implemented in any computer software.
Analysis of the Structural Response of a Mid-span Multi-girder Composite Bridge submitted to different Fire Scenarios
Authors: Alós Moya José , Payá Zaforteza Ignacio , Hospitaler Pérez Antonio , Aguado López José
Published: December 2014

Bridge fires are a major concern because of the consequences that these kind of events have and because they are a real threat. However, bridge fire response is an under researched topic not covered in the codes. This paper presents an approach which is used to evaluate the influence of the fire scenario in the response of the most exposed girder of a composite girder bridge with a span close to 25 m. The analyses use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to create the fire model, and finite element (FE) software for obtaining the thermo-mechanical response of the girder. Results show that bridge failure times, when the fire load is close to the bridge supports, are between 35 and 65% lower than when the fire load is under the bridge midspan. Additionally results show that the main factors that influence the temperatures are: the heat release rate (HRR) of the fire load and the size and the HRR of the spilled fuel.
Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Bridges: Upper Bound Method of Analysis
Authors: Pattabi Chitra , Singh Rakesh
Published: December 2014

The fact that a number of reinforced concrete bridges fail assessment to full design live load and yet do not display any signs of distress, suggests that there are reserves of strength that are not taken into account in the normal assessment process. There are other analytical methods available that can prove that bridge isn’t failing.
Optimal Placement of Viscous Dampers in Super Tall Buildings Based on Grid Shear Velocity
Authors: Zhao Xin , Shi Tao
Published: December 2014

Due to its excellent lateral stiffness and space flexibility, the frame-core wall structures are widely applied in super high-rise buildings. Energy dissipation technology can be applied in tall buildings to reduce the seismic responses of main structures and realize optimal structural design for the main structure. As an effective energy dissipation device, viscous damper can generate damping force by viscosity effects of the viscous liquid. Due to its velocity-dependent nature, viscous dampers can be applied to dissipate seismic energy under different earthquake levels, even frequent earthquake with small seismic responses. The number of viscous dampers in certain project is commonly limited due to budget constraint, and it is always desirable that the viscous dampers are to be installed in those places which can maximize the energy dissipation during earthquake. Story drift was employed as an index for the optimal placement of viscous dampers in current tall building design practices in China. This study proposed to use grid shear velocity (GSV) as the index for the optimal placement of viscous dampers. The GSV is better than story drift in two aspects: one is that the GSV reflects the velocity-dependent nature of the viscous damper, the other is that the rigid body velocity component is excluded. An optimal viscous damper placement method was developed based on GSV in this study. A 10 floor frame structure and a super tall building located in high seismicity area were employed as examples to show the effectiveness of the proposed GSV method. The results show that the optimal viscous placements obtained by the proposed GSV method match well with the theoretically best placements which can maximize the energy dissipation. The proposed GSV method can be generally applied for the optimal placement of viscous dampers in super tall buildings.
Tension Stiffening of Reinforced Concrete Shear Elements Strengthened with Externally Bonded FRP Sheets
Authors: Yang Guang , Zomorodian Mehdi , Belarbi Abdeldjelil , Acun Bora
Published: December 2014

The tensile contribution of concrete, known as tension stiffening, is usually neglected when calculating the strength of reinforced concrete (RC) members. However, tension stiffening affects the post- cracking stiffness and consequently the overall behavior in terms of deflection and crack width of the member under service load. There have been many investigations conducted on the tension stiffening effect in RC members, but very few on Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) RC members. This paper presents the results of a study of the tension stiffening in FRP RC members based on 12 full-scale tensile tests. The results indicate that the presence of the externally bonded FRP material typically alters the main characteristics of the stress-strain relationships of concrete in tension and associated crack patterns.
Study of the wind effects on a 384m concrete arch span bridge during different construction phases
Authors: Terres-Nicoli Jose M. , King J. Peter C. , Mans Christian , Kong Lingzhe
Published: December 2014

The aerodynamic stability of long span bridges is of particular concern during the construction sequence. This paper describes results of a full aeroelastic wind tunnel study of the Río Almonte Bridge, Spain, to examine the dynamic response to wind during the various phases of construction.

The Rio Almonte Bridge forms part of the proposed high speed rail link between Madrid-Lisbon. The bridge is 996m in overall length, with a main concrete arch span of 384m, designed by Arenas & Asociados and believed to be the world largest concrete arch span among railway bridges. The trapezoidal concrete box deck section has an overall width of 14m and 3.25m depth. The deck is supported by a lower arch which section presents an octagonal shape through a set of piles with an also octagonal cross section. The shape of such sections have been carefully crafted and presented a noteworthy aerodynamic performance exhibiting aerodynamic stability and reduced load coefficients.

A 1:210 scale full aeroelastic scale model of the 996m bridge was tested in a boundary layer wind tunnel to investigate the aerodynamic stability of the completed bridge and the cantilevered arch during construction and to define wind speeds associated to possible flutter instability and vortex shedding induced oscillations. Due to the complex terrain conditions at the site, additional configurations including a portion of the topography surrounding the bridge were also examined in the wind tunnel study.

Various phases of construction were analyzed in the wind tunnel, which consist of a cable-stayed frame mast situated atop the main piers supporting either half of the arch during construction. The influence of additional cranes mounted on each arch before linking at mid-span, are also accounted in the inertia of the corresponding stages. In general, the behavior of the bridge was satisfactory for all tested configurations. Limited acceptable accelerations due to vortex shedding were observed for a single wind direction, believed to be attributed to the upstream topography.
Vibration Considerations in the Hillsborough River Bascule Bridge Rehabilitation Design
Authors: Huang Dongzhou
Published: December 2014

Hillsborough River Bascule Bridge, located in Tampa, Florida, USA, vibrates significantly under traffic loading and uncomfortable noises have been reported, especially during recent years. The purpose of the study presented here is to investigate the cause of such a significant vibration. First, a brief description of the bridge is given. Then, analytical theory is presented, including the vehicle model, bridge model, road surface model, and numerical methods. A vehicle is simulated as a three dimensional nonlinear model. The bridge is treated as a space structure consisting of three dimensional frame elements. The road profile is modeled as a stationary Gaussian random process that is described by a power spectral density (PSD) function. The bridge free and forced vibration characteristics are investigated with trucks traveling over a rough deck. Then, the stiffness effects of the main girders, bracings, and floor beams are studied. Analytical results show that insufficient stiffness of lateral bracings and floor beams is a main factor causing the severe vibration. Some rehabilitation schemes for mitigating the severe vibration are investigated. The research results are applicable to bascule bridge design and rehabilitation.
Dynamic Analysis Using Similitude Law Considering Strain Distortion
Authors: Park Jamin , Cho Jae-Yeol
Published: December 2014

It is necessary to evaluate the exact dynamic response of RC column to prevent the seismic failure by huge earthquake. To evaluate the reasonable dynamic response, seismic test of real structures is required. However, by the limitation from the capacity of test facility and cost for making test specimen, seismic test using real-scale structures is typically not possible option. Therefore, test using small-scale model become an economic alternative to evaluate the dynamic response.

In this study, the development of reasonable similitude law to evaluate an RC column’s dynamic response is discussed. To make the small-scale model of RC structures, it is necessary to use micro- concrete whose aggregate size is smaller than normal concrete to minimize the effect by size effect. Therefore, the material characteristic of concrete for both prototype and scaled model becomes much different. But the material characteristic of reinforcement for both prototype and scaled model is typically not much different. From this discrepancy, a strain distortion is caused and a similitude law called True replica model which is generally used for dynamic small scale test is not valid to predict the response of prototype anymore.

To solve the above mentioned problem, new similitude law to minimize the error from the strain distortion is suggested. A concept of strain ratio which is defined as the ratio between the concrete strain of prototype and scaled model is adopted. And a new method for estimating the strain ratio is suggested. Numerical examples for static and dynamic analysis of RC column with rectangular section are conducted to validate the suggested similitude law. Analysis results shows that response of scaled RC model adopting suggested similitude law can exactly forecast the response of prototype structures.
The Aerodynamic Optimisation of Building Envelopes for Super High-Rise
Authors: Cammelli Stefano , Burton Melissa , Buttgereit Volker
Published: December 2014

This paper presents a framework that has been developed to allow fully interactive dynamic wind tunnel workshops to be held. These interactive sessions enable key structural performance indicators (e.g. peak dynamic wind base loads and wind-induced peak accelerations) to be derived within minutes of acquisition of wind tunnel data. Rapid modifications can be made to the geometry of the wind tunnel model as well as to the structural numerical model, allowing responsive re- testing within an interactive and integrated environment. This technical approach allows architects and structural engineers to generate finely tuned aerodynamic building envelopes capable of minimising the potentially adverse effects of vortex-induced vibrations.
Transversal Earthquake loading
Authors: Ayoub Essam , Malek Charles , Helmy Gamal
Published: December 2014

Skew bridges are extensively required in highway and railway engineering projects. Unlike straight bridges, the behavior of skew bridges under seismic loading is not quite simple due to the interaction which exists between longitudinal and transversal bridge displacements when subjected to in-plane loading such as earthquake forces. In the present paper, the effect of bridge skewness on three span bridges resting on pot bearings and subjected to longitudinal and transversal seismic loading is studied. The response spectrum analysis as presented by AASHTO LRFD is considered. . Moderate seismic condition with 0.20 g seismic acceleration is applied. The effect of the abutment pot bearing articulations is also included in this study. Finite element models are adopted for the seismic analysis of the skew bridges. A modal analysis is conducted for bridges with different skewness in order to estimate the periods and the mass participation coefficients resulting from each dominant mode shape. The study focused on the output results related to the bridge pot bearing reactions at abutments, the longitudinal and the transversal base shear forces as well as torsion applied on central piers in addition to the bridge displacements.