bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A promoção e difusão da língua portuguesa – vozes de estudantes lusófonos
Authors: Ançã Maria Helena
Published: February 2016

RESUMO:O interesse atual pela promoção e difusão da Língua Portuguesa e pela sua internacionalização tem conduzido a diferentes iniciativas, em diferentes contextos, nomeadamente no acadêmico. Assim, tendo em conta que os professores de Português são agentes decisivos no processo de difusão da língua, foi realizado um estudo com o objetivo de conhecer a perspetiva de futuros professores de Português sobre esta questão. Para o efeito, foi passado um questionário em três Universidades (Portugal, Brasil e Cabo Verde), tendo os dados sido tratados na Universidade portuguesa, com recurso ao programa informático NVivo10. Os resultados apontam para a nítida consciência da importância que estes sujeitos têm da difusão da LP, mas da pouca convicção que cada um tem sobre si neste processo. Como conclusão, é sublinhado que a formação de professores de Português terá de integrar uma abordagem mais lata que contemple questões de políticas linguísticas, com o reconhecimento das diferentes dimensões que a LP comporta.PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Língua Portuguesa; promoção e difusão; formação de professores de Português. ABSTRACT: The current interest in the promotion and diffusion of the Portuguese language (PL) and in its internationalization has led to various initiatives in different contexts, particularly in the academic one. Thus, given that PL teachers are decisive agents in this dissemination process, a study has been carried out in order to ascertain the standpoint of future PL teachers. To this end, a questionnaire was distributed in three Universities (Portugal, Brazil and Cape Verde), and the data was treated in the Portuguese university, using the NVivo10 software program. The results indicate that these students have a clear awareness of the importance of spreading the PL, but little conviction about their role in this process. The findings emphasize the need to integrate in the training of PL teachers a broader and contemporary approach addressing language policy issues, acknowledging the different dimensions comprising the PL.KEYWORDS: Portuguese language; promotion and diffusion; training of Portuguese language teachers.
It pays to promote joint PhD programmes between academia and the private sector
Authors: Aperia Anita , Dirach Jorgen , Hardman Mike , Janko Christa , Kipling Jeff , Ludwig Rebecca , Scott Lena , Stockis Armel
Published: February 2016

The prosperity of a country is closely related to its level of education to fuel research and innovation. Doctoral graduates have attained the highest education level and should be the key players in research and innovation. The number of doctoral graduates is increasing rapidly in most/many countries, but is less well correlated to changes in prosperity of a country.The innovative medicines initiative (IMI) was established to help Europe strengthen its position in biomedical research and development. During its planning stage IMI observed large gaps in the scientific interaction between academia and industry in Europe, and that undergraduate students were not realizing the career opportunities within biomedical R&D. A major objective for the education and training section of IMI, the European Medicines Research Training Network (EMTRAIN, http://www.emtrain.eu), has therefore been to work out a framework for public private partnership PhD (PPP-PhD) and to create a cohort of networking, industry-aware scientists.
Environmentally Friendly Machining: Vegetable Based Cutting Fluid
Authors: Upadhyay Neetu
Published: February 2016

A wide variety of cutting fluids are commercially available in the market. Although, these cutting fluids are beneficial in the industries, their uses are being questioned nowadays as regards to health and environmental issues. To minimize the adverse environmental effects associated with the use of cutting fluids, the hazardous components from their formulations have to be eliminated or reduced. Today to diminish the negative effects associated with cutting fluids, researchers have developed new bio based cutting fluids from various vegetable oils. MQL machining was performed much superior compared to the dry and wet machining due to substantial reduction in cutting zone temperature enabling favourable chip formation and chip-tool interaction, with enhanced the tool life and surface finish. Furthermore, MQL provides environment friendliness (maintaining neat, clean and dry working area, avoiding inconvenience and health hazards due to heat, smoke, fumes, gases, etc. and preventing pollution of the surroundings) and improves the machinability characteristics. This paper presents the effects of minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) by vegetable oil based cutting fluid on the turning performance of AISI 316L stainless steel as compared to completely dry and wet machining in terms of chip-tool interface temperature, chip formation mode, tool wear and surface roughness.
Vertical Axis Wind Turbine for Generation of Electricity through Highway Windmill
Authors: Singh Shweta , Singh Sarita
Published: February 2016

In this paper our effective approach is to harness electrical energy from the highway by using of vertical axis wind turbine. The smart windmill consists of a stationary shaft which is mounted on the ball bearing on the top and bottom end of the shaft The curvy darrieus blades are connected to the two ends of bearing which is able to rotate on its own axis. The dynamo is connected to the either upper part or lower part of the wind turbine which works on Fleming’s left hand rule of Electromagnetic induction. In highway both at day as well as at night time vehicles will be moving at very high speed. By this method the overall cost per unit of energy produces is less than the cost of new coal, natural gas and its installation. So the implementation can be made easier than any other methods.
Tumor neuroectodérmico primitivo primario de páncreas en un paciente pediátrico. Reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura
Authors: Riveros-Ramos Lizbeth Carolina , Velasco-Hidalgo Liliana , Shalkow-Klincovstein Jaime , Rojas-Maruri César Mauricio , Cárdenas-Cardos Rocío , Rivera-Luna Roberto
Published: February 2016

Los tumores neuroectodérmicos primitivos son tumores de células pequeñas y redondas derivadas del tejido blando, pertenecen a la familia del sarcoma de Ewing. El tumor neuroectodérmico primario del páncreas es muy poco frecuente, en la literatura sólo se han reportado 17 casos. Reportamos el caso de una paciente de 9 años de edad, con diagnóstico de tumor neuroectodérmico primario del páncreas a la que se le realizó una cirugía de Whipple e inició tratamiento de quimioterapia con ciclofosfamida, vincristina, doxorrubicina pegilada, etopósido e ifosfamida y radioterapia. Desde marzo de 2013 la paciente se encuentra en vigilancia, con un periodo de seguimiento de 23 meses. Actualmente, se encuentra en buenas condiciones generales y sin evidencia de actividad tumoral.
Impaired nutritional status in social welfare home residents
Authors: Sroka Zofia , Kozieł Paweł , Walkiewicz Katarzyna , Gętek Monika , Fatyga Edyta , Fizia Katarzyna , Nowakowska-Zajdel Ewa
Published: February 2016

Wstęp

Starzenie jest naglącym problemem wynikającym z aktualnej demografii. Aspekty zdrowotne starzenia opisywane są jako tzw. wielkie problemy geriatrii, ale ważnym zagadnieniem dotyczącym zwłaszcza pensjonariuszy domów pomocy społecznej (DPS) jest problem niedożywienia. Jest ono uwarunkowane wieloczynnikowo, a jednym z ważnych czynników jego jest wielochorobowość. Celem pracy jest analiza stanu odżywienia pensjonariuszy DPS w zależności od chorób współistniejących, wieku i płci.

Materiał i metody

Analizą objęto 107 badanych (72 kobiety, 35 mężczyzn) w wieku 65–99 lat, przebywających na stałe pod opieką DPS. Do oceny stanu odżywienia wykorzystano kwestionariusz Mini Nutritional Assesment oraz wskaźniki biometryczne. Zebrano także wywiad dotyczący chorób przewlekłych. Wyniki analizowano w programie Statistica 10.0.

Wyniki

Prawidłowy stan odżywienia charakteryzował tylko 22,4% zbadanej populacji, natomiast aż u 33,7% stwierdzono niedożywienie. Wyniki kształtują się podobnie, niezależnie od płci. Niedożywienie zależało od liczby chorób współwystępujących i przyjmowanych leków (p < 0,0001), natomiast nie było zależności między gorszym stanem odżywienia a wiekiem badanych chorych (p > 0,05).

Wnioski

Przeprowadzona analiza wskazuje, że niedożywienie jest skutkiem wielochorobowości i stosowanych leków oraz może mieć negatywny wpływ na proces leczenia schorzeń przewlekłych.
Are Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Caregivers at Higher Risk for Health Problems?
Authors: Pinho Ana Catarina , Gonçalves Edna
Published: February 2016

Introduction: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a rare neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons. Patients present with progressive physical impairment, respiratory failure being the main cause of death. A significant portion of patients presents neurobehavioral problems as well. As severe impairment occurs, patients become highly dependent and in general, their families assume the role of primary caregivers, exposing them to stress and other potential causes of disease like insomnia, physical strain from patients’ mobilization and changes on eating habits. The aim of this work is to understand if taking care of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis increases disease and health problems on caregivers.
Material and Methods: Comprehensive review of the literature published on the electronic databases PubMed and Scopus between 2010 and 2014.
Results: Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria. We found that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis caregivers have higher levels of burden, depression and anxiety with lower quality of life. This is associated to age and gender of caregivers, time spent caring, patients’ disability and neurobehavioral changes. Higher sense of support and spirituality on family seem to promote wellbeing.
Discussion: On our work, we were able to understand that several factors have influenced caregivers’ quality of life and affect their health. Besides, we could understand that the outcomes studied are related between themselves and, as seen in some of the studies, related to patients’ quality of life itself. Consequently, it has become essential to adopt a holistic approach of these patients and their families, fighting the deteriorating risk factors and investing on health promoters.
Conclusion: Despite the large body of research on family caregiving for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients, little has changed and the outcomes measured remain almost the same before and after 2010. The work indicates that caregivers have lower levels of health than the general population. Still additional research is required, in order to better understand and characterized the changes on caregivers’ health. It is nevertheless clear that health care professionals cannot ignore these health changes and need an approach focused not only on patients but also on caregivers.
Injury to the Obturator Artery During Periacetabular Osteotomy
Authors: Toki Shunichi , Nagamachi Akihiro , Yonezu Hiroshi , Adachi Keisuke , Inoue Kazumasa , Naito Masatoshi
Published: February 2016

Case:

We describe a middle-aged woman who had undergone periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) on both hips successively within a two-year period. Although the first PAO was successfully performed on the right hip without any complications, injury to the obturator artery occurred during the subsequent PAO on the left hip. In this case, the obturator artery seemed to be injured at the medial base of the iliopectineal eminence during osteotomy.

Conclusion:

PAO has been employed as a reconstructive surgery for acetabular dysplasia. However, given the proximity of intrapelvic vascular structures, there is a risk of iatrogenic vascular injury.
Mechanistic Simulation of Polymer Injectivity in Field Tests
Authors: Lotfollahi Mohammad , Farajzadeh Rouhi , Delshad Mojdeh , Al-Abri Al-Khalil , Wassing Bart M. , Al-Mjeni Rifaat , Awan Kamran , Bedrikovetsky Pavel
Published: February 2016

Polymer flooding is one of the most widely used chemical enhanced-oil-recovery (EOR) methods because of its simplicity and low cost. To achieve high oil recoveries, large quantities of polymer solution are often injected through a small wellbore. Sometimes, the economic success of the project is only feasible when injection rate is high for high-viscosity solution. However, injection of viscous polymer solutions has been a concern for the field application of polymer flooding.

The pressure increase in polymer injectors can be attributed to (1) formation of an oil bank, (2) polymer rheology (shear-thickening behavior near wellbore), and (3) plugging of the reservoir pores by insoluble polymer molecules or suspended particles in the water.

In this paper, a new model to history match field injection-rate/pressure data is proposed. The pertinent equations for deep-bed filtration and external-cake buildup in radial coordinates were coupled to the viscoelastic polymer rheology to capture important mechanisms. Radial coordinates were selected to minimize the velocity/shear-rate errors caused by gridblock size in the Cartesian coordinates.

The filtration theory was used and the field data history matched successfully. Systematic simulations were performed, and the impact of adsorption (retention), shear thickening, deep-bed filtration, and external-cake formation was investigated to explain the well-injectivity behavior of polymer. The simulation results indicate that the gradual increase in bottomhole pressure (BHP) during early times is attributed to the shear-thickening rheology at high velocities experienced by viscoelastic hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) polymers around the wellbore and the permeability reduction caused by polymer adsorption and internal filtration of undissolved polymer. However, the linear impedance during external-cake growth is responsible for the sharper increase in injection pressure at the later times.

One can use the proposed model to calculate the injectivity of the polymer-injection wells, understand the contribution of different phenomena to the pressure rise in the wells, locate the plugging or damage that may be caused by polymer, and accordingly design the chemical stimulation if necessary.
Potential evapotranspiration method influence on climate change impacts on river flow: a mid-latitude case study
Authors: Koedyk L. P. , Kingston D. G.
Published: February 2016

Projected changes in 21st century climate are likely to impact water resources substantially, although much uncertainty remains as to the nature of such impacts. A relatively under-explored source of uncertainty is the method by which current and scenario evapotranspiration (ET) are estimated. Using the Waikaia River (New Zealand) as a case study, the influence of a potential ET (PET) method is investigated for a scenario of a 2°C increase in global mean temperature (the presumed threshold of ‘dangerous’ climate change). Six PET methods are investigated, with five general circulation models (GCMs) used to provide an indication of GCM uncertainty. The HBV-Light hydrological model is used to simulate river runoff. Uncertainty in scenario PET between methods is generally greater than between GCMs, but the reverse is found for runoff. The cause of the reduction in uncertainty from PET to runoff is unclear: the catchment is not water-limited during the summer half-year, indicating that it is not because of actual ET failing to reach the potential rate. Irrespective of the cause, these results stand in contrast to previous estimations of relatively high sensitivity of runoff projections to PET methods, indicating that further work is required to understand the controls on this source of uncertainty.
Temporal variations of runoff in a rapidly urbanizing semi-arid Chinese watershed
Authors: Gao Ruizhong , Li Fengling , Wang Xixi , Liu Tingxi , Du Dandan
Published: February 2016

Rapid urbanization on streamflows may directly affect or be restricted by the sustainability of local water resources. This is particularly true for arid/semiarid areas such as the Wulanmulun River watershed in the rapidly-developing Ordos region of north central China. From 1997 to 2012, the gross domestic product (GDP) of the region increased fifty-fold, while the urban area grew by a factor of ten. This study fused multiple-source data on land use, hydrometeorology, and socioeconomics to examine temporal variations in the runoff due to climate change and urbanization. The results revealed that for the Wulanmulun River watershed, the runoff decreased consistently over the study period, with an inflection point around 2005. The average runoff from 2006 to 2012 was much smaller than that from 1997 to 2005, regardless of time scale; although the precipitation also fluctuated from 1997 to 2012, it exhibited no significant trend. From 1997–2005 to 2006–2012, both the urbanized area and GDP increased eight-fold while the population increased by 20%. Thus, urbanization rather than climate change is likely the major reason for the decrease in runoff after 2005. For the study watershed, low impact development practices (e.g. rain barrels) may need to be implemented during urbanization to achieve sustainable management of water resources.
Application of forward osmosis in reusing the brackish concentrate produced in reverse osmosis plants with secondary treated wastewater as feed solution: a case study
Authors: Wang W. D. , Esparra M. , Liu H. , Xie Y. F.
Published: February 2016

This study evaluated the feasibility of forward osmosis (FO) in diluting and reusing the concentrate produced in a reverse osmosis (RO) plant in James City County, VA. Secondary treated wastewater (STW) was used as the feed solution. Findings indicated that pH had slight effects on the water flux of the FO membrane. As the concentration of total dissolved solids (TDS) in the concentrate was diluted from 12.5 to 1.0 g/L or the temperature in the STW decreased from 23 to 10 °C, the membrane flux decreased from 2.2 to 0.59 and 0.81 L/(m2 h), respectively. The FO membrane showed a good performance in the rejection of organic pollutants, with only a small part of the protein-like substances and disinfection byproducts permeating to the diluted concentrate. During an 89-hour continuous operation, water flux decline due to membrane fouling was not observed. Controlling the TDS in the second-stage FO effluent at 1.5 g/L, approximately 8.3% of the pump energy input could be saved. The consumption of groundwater was reduced from 22.7 × 103 to 10.6 × 103 m3/d. FO was proved to be an effective method in both diluting the discharged concentrate and reducing the energy consumption of RO.
Distribution and extraction of chromium from phosphate ore
Authors: Khelalfa Assia , Delimi Rachid , Benredjem Zahia
Published: February 2016

Phosphate rocks are a vital and non-renewable resource which is crucial for agricultural uses. However, this raw material contains various contaminants such as Pb, Cr, Cu, Ni and Zn. Among these elements, chromium is considered as an essential micronutrient at low intake levels. Its occurrence in industrial products at higher concentration can cause a potential risk to plants, animals and human health. The objective of this work was to select a chemical reagent capable of efficiently extracting chromium from phosphate ore in order to reduce its content. The study of chromium speciation in phosphate ore allows us to evaluate its mobility and therefore its potential toxicity. To this end, the test and selection of the specific chemical reagent for efficient chromium extraction from phosphate ore were studied. The effects of some parameters were taken into consideration and optimized. The results show that the chromium content was reduced to approximately 30% in natural phosphate using citric acid as extracting solution. Sequential extractions proposed by the European Communities Bureau of Reference method were used to assess the distribution of chromium before and after chemical extraction. The results indicate that the distribution of chromium in the residual fraction is dominant.
Comparing the photocatalytic process efficiency using batch and tubular reactors in removal of methylene blue dye and COD from simulated textile wastewater
Authors: Rahimi Sajad , Poormohammadi Ali , Salmani Behnam , Ahmadian Mohammad , Rezaei Mina
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye using titanium dioxide nanoparticles simulated using ultraviolet in batch and tubular reactors. In this study, the effect of different concentrations of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in the photocatalytic process on MB degradation was examined in batch and tubular reactors. The effect of dye concentration, titanium dioxide nanoparticle concentration and aeration level were examined on the process efficiency. Results showed that the removal of MB dye was directly related to the radiation time. The best removal efficiency of dye and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in the batch reactor was 100% and 42.2%, respectively, while it was 93% and 47.8% in the tubular reactor (in 1.2 g/L of titanium dioxide nanoparticles at 60 min). Moreover, as dye concentration increased, dye removal rate decreased. Making use of the batch model to remove dye and COD is more efficient and can be used on a larger scale due to the required removal efficiency and wastewater discharge standards.
Adsorption mechanism of As(V) and As(III) on Fe–Mn binary oxides in synthetic and real water matrices
Authors: Nikić Jasmina , Agbaba Jasmina , Watson Malcolm , Maletić Snežana , Molnar Jazić Jelena , Dalmacija Božo
Published: February 2016

A series of Fe–Mn binary oxides with different Fe:Mn ratios (1:1, 3:1, 6:1, 9:1) were synthesized to investigate the optimal Fe:Mn ratio for the removal of As(III) and As(V). Batch experiments were performed to determine the rate of adsorption and equilibrium isotherms. Adsorption kinetics were well described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model for both As(III) and As(V). The adsorption equilibrium data fitted well to Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The maximum As(V) sorption capacity was observed at an Fe:Mn ratio of 6:1 (65.0 mg/g), whereas maximum As(III) uptake was at Fe:Mn ratio 3:1 (46.9 mg/g). Arsenic levels in real water samples were reduced from 37 μg/l to below the EU Water Framework Directive limit (10 μg/L) after treatment with Fe–Mn adsorbents.
Comparison of NF membrane fouling and cleaning by two pretreatment strategies for the advanced treatment of antibiotic production wastewater
Authors: Wang Jianxing , Li Kun , Yu Dawei , Zhang Junya , Wei Yuansong , Chen Meixue , Shan Baoqing
Published: February 2016

The nanofiltration (NF) membrane fouling characteristics and cleaning strategies were investigated and compared for treating membrane bioreactor (MBR) effluent and MBR-granular activated carbon (GAC) effluent of an antibiotic production wastewater by DK membrane. Results showed that the fouling of treating MBR effluent was more severe than that of treating MBR-GAC effluent. After filtering for 216 h, the difference of membrane flux decline was obvious between MBR effluent and MBR-GAC effluent, with 14.9% and 10.3% flux decline, respectively. Further study showed that organic fouling is the main NF membrane fouling in the advanced treatment of antibiotic production wastewater for both of the two different effluents. Soluble microbial by-product like and tyrosine-like substances were the dominant components in the foulants, whereas humic-like substances existing in the effluents had little contribution to the NF membrane fouling. A satisfactory efficiency of NF chemical cleaning could be obtained using combination of acid (HCl, pH 2.0–2.5) and alkali (NaOH + 0.3 wt% NaDS, pH 10.0–10.5). The favorable cleaning strategy is acid-alkali for treating the MBR-GAC effluent, while it is alkali-acid for treating the MBR effluent.
Electrical conductivity as a state indicator for the start-up period of anaerobic fixed-bed reactors
Authors: Robles A. , Latrille E. , Ribes J. , Bernet N. , Steyer J. P.
Published: February 2016

The aim of this work was to analyse the applicability of electrical conductivity sensors for on-line monitoring the start-up period of an anaerobic fixed-bed reactor. The evolution of bicarbonate concentration and methane production rate was analysed. Strong linear relationships between electrical conductivity and both bicarbonate concentration and methane production rate were observed. On-line estimations of the studied parameters were carried out in a new start-up period by applying simple linear regression models, which resulted in a good concordance between both observed and predicted values. Electrical conductivity sensors were therefore identified as an interesting method for monitoring the start-up period of anaerobic fixed-bed reactors due to its reliability, robustness, easy operation, low cost, and minimum maintenance compared with the currently used sensors.
Phase diagram determination and thermodynamic modeling of the Cu-Mg-Si system
Authors: Zhao J. , Zhou J. , Liu S. , Du Y. , Tang S. , Yang Y.
Published: February 2016

13 ternary Cu-Mg-Si alloys were prepared by means of the powder metallurgy
method. Phase equilibria at 500 and 700 oC of the Cu-Mg-Si system were
determined using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The existence of 3
ternary compounds in this system was verified: CuMgSi_Sigma (Cu16Mg6Si7),
Tau (Cu3Mg2Si), and Laves ((Cu0.8Si0.2)2(Mg0.88Cu0.12)). A thermodynamic
modeling for the Cu-Mg-Si system was then conducted on the basis of the
experimental data obtained in this work and those critically reviewed from
the literature. The complex phase relationship between Laves phase and other
phases has been successfully modeled in this work. Comparisons between the
calculated and the measured phase diagrams show that most of the
experimental data can be reproduced by the presently obtained thermodynamic
parameters.
Comparative analysis of different numerical schemes in solute trapping simulations by using the phase-field model with finite interface dissipation
Authors: Yang X. , Tang Y. , Cai D. , Zhang L. , Du Y. , Zhou S.
Published: February 2016

Two different numerical schemes, the standard explicit scheme and the
time-elimination relaxation one, in the framework of phase-field model with
finite interface dissipation were employed to investigate the solute trapping
effect in a Si-4.5 at.% As alloy during rapid solidification. With the
equivalent input, a unique solute distribution under the steady state can be
obtained by using the two schemes without restriction to numerical length
scale and interface velocity. By adjusting interface width and interface
permeability, the experimental solute segregation coefficients can be well
reproduced. The comparative analysis of advantages and disadvantages in the
two numerical schemes indicates that the time-elimination relaxation scheme
is preferable in one-dimensional phase-field simulation, while the standard
explicit scheme seems to be the only choice for two- or three dimensional
phase-field simulation. Furthermore, the kinetic phase diagrams in the Si-As
system were predicted by using the phase-field simulation with the
time-elimination relaxation scheme.
The Rhinitis Control Scoring System: Development and Validation
Authors: Boulay Marie-Eve , Boulet Louis-Philippe
Published: February 2016

Background

Allergic rhinitis is a common health problem that requires regular monitoring of symptoms to provide adequate treatment. There is a need to develop rhinitis control assessment tools that are meaningful and easy to interpret by both the patient and the practitioner.

Objective

To develop a simple, easy-to-interpret instrument, the Rhinitis Control Scoring System (RCSS), for the assessment of rhinitis control, as a companion tool to the Asthma Control Scoring System previously validated.

Methods

After a literature review and based on the Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma guidelines, allergic rhinitis control parameters were identified. The draft items were subjected to cognitive debriefing regarding instructions, wordings, and response options. The second version of the draft was then pretested and modified according to the results. The final draft of the RCSS, based on the intensity and frequency of symptoms, was then pilot tested with 50 subjects who had allergic rhinitis for validation of some psychometric properties. Each subject completed the RCSS in addition to other rhinitis instruments. They also had nasal peak inspiratory flow measurements.

Results

The RCSS showed good internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.84). There was strong criterion validity between the RCSS scores and the other instruments. The discriminant validity demonstrated as mean RCSS scores differed significantly across groups of patients with different Total Nasal Symptom Score severity (F = 58.8, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

This pilot study showed that the RCSS is a simple tool to assess and quantify rhinitis control by using a percentage score This questionnaire allows the quantification of rhinitis control and, therefore, may help guide therapeutic interventions. Combined with the Asthma Control Scoring System, it can provide a global assessment of rhinitis and asthma control. Clinical Trial number NCT00967967.
The Bacterial Microbiome in Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Richness, Diversity, Postoperative Changes, and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Cleland Edward John , Bassiouni Ahmed , Vreugde Sarah , Wormald Peter-John
Published: February 2016

Background

The bacterial microbiome in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remains poorly understood. Microorganisms are believed to be important contributors to the inflammatory response seen in these patients.

Objective

To examine the bacterial CRS microbiome by using a pyrosequencing technique and determine the diversity, richness, prevalence, and abundance of bacterial species in these patients. Furthermore, the postoperative changes that occur in the microbiome and correlations with patient outcomes are assessed.

Methods

Swabs were collected from 23 patients with CRS and 11 controls during surgery. Further postoperative swabs were collected in the CRS group. Bacterial DNA was extracted from the swabs and then sequenced by using 16S ribosomal DNA bacterial tag-encoded FLX amplicon pyrosequencing.

Results

A total of 456 unique bacterial species were detected. No difference was seen for richness or diversity between the study groups (p > 0.05). Diversity declined after surgery in the CRS group (p = 0.01). Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis were the most prevalent species. Several significant differences were determined for prevalence and mean relative abundance (MRA) between the study groups. In particular, Acinetobacter johnsonii was more prevalent and had a higher MRA in the controls. Furthermore, the MRA of this species increased after surgery and was associated with improved quality of life.

Conclusion

This study characterized the sinonasal microbiome in a group of controls and patients with CRS. Important differences in diversity, prevalence, abundance, and temporal changes were described. Of great interest is the potential association between A. johnsonii and health. These findings provide new insights into the interplay between the microbiome and health in the paranasal sinuses.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor Ag1478 Inhibits Mucus Hypersecretion in Airway Epithelium
Authors: Takezawa Kumiko , Ogawa Takao , Shimizu Shino , Shimizu Takeshi
Published: February 2016

Background

Mucus hypersecretion and neutrophil infiltration are important characteristics of airway inflammation. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) transactivation induces mucus and inflammatory cytokine secretion from airway epithelial cells. To elucidate the roles of EGFR in airway inflammation, the in vitro effects on mucin production and interleukin (IL) 8 secretion from cultured airway epithelial cells and the in vivo effects on mucus hypersecretion and neutrophil infiltration in rat nasal mucosa of the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG1478 were examined.

Methods

The in vitro effects of AG1478 treatment of cultured NCI-H292 cells on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced or tumor necrosis factor (TNF) a induced MUC5AC mucin and IL-8 secretion were evaluated. Hypertrophic and metaplastic changes of goblet cells, mucus production and neutrophil infiltration in rat nasal epithelium were induced by intranasal instillation of LPS in vivo, and the inhibitory effects of AG1478 by intraperitoneal injection or intranasal instillation were examined.

Results

AG1478 (1-1000 nM) significantly inhibited both LPS-induced and TNF-α-induced secretion of MUC5AC and IL-8 from cultured NCI-H292 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The expression of MUC5AC and IL-8 messenger RNAs was also significantly inhibited. Intranasal instillation of AG1478 one hour after intranasal LPS instillation significantly inhibited LPS-induced goblet cell metaplasia, mucus production, and neutrophil infiltration in rat nasal epithelium, as did intraperitoneal injection of AG1478 one hour before LPS instillation.

Conclusions

These results indicated that EGFR transactivation plays an important role in mucin and IL-8 secretion from airway epithelial cells. Intranasal instillation of an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor may be a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of upper airway inflammation.
Characterizing Airflow Profile in the Postoperative Maxillary Sinus by Using Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling: A Pilot Study
Authors: Choi Kevin J. , Jang David W. , Ellison Matthew D. , Frank-Ito Dennis O.
Published: February 2016

Background

Maxillary antrostomy is commonly performed during endoscopic sinus surgery. Little is known about the association surrounding recalcitrant maxillary sinusitis, antrostomy size, and intranasal airflow changes. Furthermore, the interaction between sinus mucosa and airflow is poorly understood. This study used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to investigate postoperative airflow characteristics between diseased and nondiseased maxillary sinuses in subjects with recurrent disease.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients from a tertiary-level academic rhinology practice was performed. Seven subjects with endoscopic evidence of postoperative maxillary sinus disease that presented as chronic unilateral crusting at least 1 year after bilateral maxillary antrostomies were selected. A three-dimensional model of each subject's sinonasal cavity was created from postoperative computed tomographies and used for CFD analysis.

Results

Although the variables investigated between diseased and nondiseased sides were not statistically significant, the diseased side in six subjects had a smaller antrostomy, and five of these subjects had both reduced nasal unilateral airflow and increased unilateral nasal resistance on the diseased side. The ratio of posterior wall shear stress (WSS) of the maxillary sinus to the total WSS was higher on the diseased side in six subjects. Results also showed strong correlations between antrostomy and CFD variables on the diseased side than on the nondiseased side.

Conclusion

This pilot study showed that the majority of the simulated sinonasal models exhibited common characteristics on the side with persistent disease, such as smaller antrostomy, reduced nasal airflow, increased nasal resistance, and increased posterior WSS. Although statistical significance was not established, this study provided preliminary insight into variables to consider in a larger cohort study.
Evaluation of Growth and Survival of Artemia franciscana fed with Nannochloropsis oculata and Chlorella capsulata
Authors: Salarzadeh Alireza , Nahidi Elham
Published: February 2016

Artemia franciscana was fed for seven days with 11.7, 23.4 and 46.8 mg l-1. d-1 (ash-free dry weight) of Nannochloropsis oculata and Chlorella capsulata, to evaluate the food value of these two microalgae. Survival was similar, close to or greater than 90% in all cases, but there were significant differences in growth beginning on the third day. The final ash-free dry weight of A. franciscana fed with N. oculata was seven times greater than with C. capsulata and the respective developmental stages were between instar 14 and 16 and from 8 to 9. Food ingestion was similar with the two diets, but the mean gross growth efficiencies were 80% with N. oculata and 7% with C. capsulata, indicating a poor assimilation of C. capsulata. Therefore, C. capsulata cannot be considered as a suitable diet for A. franciscana, because the amount of energy obtained is not sufficient to sustain normal growth.International Journal of Life Sciences 10 (1) : 2016; 35-39
A Qualitative Exploration of Married Students Attitudes toward Marriage
Authors: Mohammadi Ali , Khojastehmehr Reza , Abbas Pour Zabihollah , Tabeh Loghman
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this paper is to clarify of experience process and formation of the attitudes to marriage in married students. The sample of the study consisted of 18 married students who were selected by purposive sampling. This paper was a qualitative study and content analysis kind. The data was collected by the in-depth and semi-structured interview. When the data reached to the data saturation; after that the data was analyzed by content analysis method. 588 concepts in primary coding, 81 subthemes in open coding, and 15 final and main themes in Axial coding were extracted from the analysis of obtained data. The findings of study showed needing the young men and women to financial and moral supports, supporting of government in cultural and social planning, importance of adherence or weakness toward religious, traditional, and ethnic values in youth's attitude to marriage.International Journal of Life Sciences 10 (1) : 2016; 51-57
Five Species of Plant Parasitic Nematodes (Order: Tylenchidae) Affecting Vegetable Crops of Nepal
Authors: Keshari Arvind K. , Gupta Ranjana
Published: February 2016

During a survey for plant parasitic nematodes affecting various vegetable crops grown in three hilly districts surrounding Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, five species of order Tylenchidae are reported for the first time from Nepal.The nematode species are Hoplolaimus indicus, Tylenchorhynchus mashhoodi, Helicotylenchus incisus, Microposthonia paraxestis and Hemicriconemoides cocophilus.All the species are illustrated with line diagrams and described with their morphometric data along with localities and host plants.International Journal of Life Sciences 10 (1) : 2016; 10-16
Emergence of Business Value from Complementary Interactions between Informational and Transactional IT systems
Authors: Asadi Someh Ida , Shanks Graeme
Published: February 2016

Different IT asset classes generate business value consistent with the strategic goal of that asset class. While transactional IT systems contribute to process efficiencies, informational IT systems generate insights and contribute to informational benefits. We argue that the complementary interactions between these two classes of IT systems can support both informed and efficient processes and lead to greater business value. We use systems theory to develop a research model, which includes the complementary interactions between transactional and informational IT systems and the emergence of higher-order IT-enabled business systems. The two IT systems interact and augment other business systems to create higher-order emergent IT-enabled business systems. Emergent IT-enabled business systems lead to transactional, informational and strategic benefits. The paper concludes by calling for empirical studies that focus on the complementary relations between transactional and informational IT systems and their impact on business value.
Editorial for the Information Systems Foundations (ISF) Workshop 2014
Authors: Gregor Shirley , Richardson Alex
Published: February 2016

Editorial for the Information Systems Foundations (ISF) Workshop 2014
L'aménagement de la région de Lacq
Authors: Coppolani Jean
Published: February 2016

Exploité dans une région jusque là purement agricole, le gisement de Lacq posait un délicat problème d'urbanisme. Les pièces maîtresses de la solution adoptée sont, d'une part une double zone industrielle en bordure du Gave et à proximité de la voie ferrée et de la grande route, d'autre part la Cité Nouvelle de Mourenx qui rassemble la majeure partie des travailleurs (2 500 logements, soit 10 à 12 000 personnes). Le site et le plan de cette agglomération sont bons, mais son équipement et la façon dont elle sera peuplée en font une simple cité ouvrière et non une ville véritable.
Tabac et planteurs de tabac dans le Marmandais
Authors: Flouret Jacqueline
Published: February 2016

Le tabac a pris une importance exceptionnelle en Marmandais où il est traditionnellement cultivé depuis le XVIIe siècle. Le milieu s'est avéré favorable. Les travaux longs et minutieux exigés par la plante dans les champs et au séchoir sont accomplis sous le contrôle de 1'État ; aussi le « planteur » s'est-il organisé pour défendre ses intérêts. Il existe des planteurs « forts » et des « faibles ». Assurée et garantie par l'État acheteur, occupant une superficie réduite, cette culture convient bien à la petite exploitation marmandaise. La spécialisation pose cependant des problèmes ; mais la modernisation de la culture est réalisable par différents moyens.
Les terrasses d'obturation glaciaire de la vallée de Saurat (Ariège)
Authors: Taillefer François
Published: February 2016

Le glacier quaternaire de l'Ariège, épais d'au moins 400 m dans le bassin de Tarascon, a obturé la vallée affluente de Saurat, retenant un lac de barrage dans lequel se sont déposées des argiles à varves épaisses de 50 m. Ces argiles forment le substratum de la terrasse de Saurat (650 m), qui résulte de l'obturation glaciaire. Les stades de la décrue du glacier ariégeois sont jalonnés par des terrasses plus basses (580 et 500 m). Les sols formés sur ces diverses terrasses sont des sols bruns peu évolués.
Les entreprises du bâtiment et leur main-d'œuvre à Toulouse
Authors: Cabé Marie-Paule
Published: February 2016

La construction des grands immeubles à. Toulouse est liée à la prolifération des entreprises du bâtiment. Au nombre de 1 572 (en 1958), elles occupent 13 000 salariés. La concentration y est plus poussée que dans le reste de la France : les sept plus grandes d'entre elles occupent la moitié du personnel des travaux de gros oeuvre. Mais la plupart des grandes entreprises ne sont pas d'origine locale. La liste des entrepreneurs se modifie constamment et les trois quarts des ouvriers ne conservent pas la même place durant un an. L'avenir de cette industrie est loin d'être assuré.
L'influence des glaciers sur les cours d'eau pyrénéens (Bassins du Gave de Pau et de la Neste d'Aure)
Authors: Durand Marie-Claire
Published: February 2016

Les Pyrénées abritent une vingtaine de km2 de glaciers et de névés permanents dont l'influence hydrologique a été parfois surestimée. Les débits de quelques ruisseaux de haute montagne, les uns proglaciaires, les autres d'origine nivale sont comparés en même temps que sont examinés les phénomènes météorologiques quotidiens. La part de la fusion glaciaire est faible ; la neige qui fond très tard en altitude, les pluies d'été, la rétention dans les éboulis jouent un rôle beaucoup plus grand que celui de la glace. Le régime des petits cours d'eau drainant les eaux glaciaires des Pyrénées est un régime « nival de haute montagne ».
Sur les particularités du relief glaciaire, dues aux influences des facteurs morphologiques intérieurs et extérieurs
Authors: Z. Milojevic B.
Published: February 2016

Les formes du relief glaciaire, érosives aussi bien qu'accumulatives, sont fortement influencées d'abord par les caractères structuraux : on distingue les hautes montagnes, formées par plissement ou charriage, par soulèvement entre les failles ou par effusion de laves et édification de cônes volcaniques. Ces formes diffèrent aussi selon les agents exogènes préglaciaires : on distingue les hautes montagnes sculptées par l'érosion fluviale et la dénudation, ou par les processus karstiques.
Les cartes des pentes
Authors: Brunet Roger
Published: February 2016

Les cartes des pentes mériteraient d'être plus répandues tant en géographie physique qu'en géographie humaine. Elles doivent permettre de retrouver les valeurs des pentes, et leurs principes sont différents selon l'usage auquel elles sont destinées. On distingue deux séries de méthodes, l'une par aires de forme quelconque à valeurs de pentes homogènes, valable pour les grandes échelles et les études de versants ; l'autre par carroyage et cartes en isarithmes, mieux adaptée aux petites échelles et à la distinction des régions.
Esquisse géographique de la banlieue de Toulouse. Deuxième article : les paysages et les subdivisions de la banlieue
Authors: Coppolani Jean
Published: February 2016

Le passé rural, l'évolution récente et les fonctions particulières de chaque localité ont déterminé dans la banlieue de Toulouse plusieurs types de paysages. Les parties les plus originales sont les quartiers ruraux de la commune de Toulouse : zone maraîchère au Nord, zone résidentielle à l'Ouest. Ailleurs, en dehors de quatre agglomérations nouvelles, et de quelques semis désordonnés de maisons neuves le long des routes, la population de banlieue se rassemble dans d'anciens villages plus ou moins agrandis, qui peuvent se regrouper en quatre secteurs : secteur Nord, industriel et maraîcher, secteur Nord-Ouest dominé par l'aéroport, secteurs Sud-Ouest et Sud développés par l'O. N. I. A., secteur Est et Sud-Est encore très rural. Muret est encore la seule vraie ville de la banlieue.
Observations sur la glaciation quaternaire dans les Andes de Mendoza (République Argentine)
Authors: Viers Georges
Published: February 2016

Les Andes de Mendoza s'étendent sur 430 km de long à la limite de deux zones climatiques : celle de l'alizé au N, déterminant des pluies d'été sur le versant argentin, celle des Westerlies au S, apportant de fortes précipitations neigeuses hivernales sur le versant chilien. Le contact des deux zones est marqué par un rapide abaissement des limites de l'englacement actuel et quaternaire. Ces limites, les problèmes de l'exposition et les formes morainiques du Quaternaire sont étudiés en détail dans le bassin du rio Tordillo et confrontés avec les données des massifs voisins tant en Argentine (glaciers de type semi-aride) qu'au Chili (glaciers de type alpin). La limite des deux zones a dû remonter de 3° vers le N pendant la glaciation maximale.
La culture du noyer en Périgord
Authors: Laugénie Claude
Published: February 2016

La Dordogne est, en France, la première région productrice de noix. Les plus belles concentrations de noyeraies se situent dans le Périgord oriental, sur cette guirlande de pays liasiques qui ourlent le Bassin de Brive et sur les terroirs de grèzes des grandes vallées. Culture à cycle très long, mais depuis longtemps culture d'exportation, l'arboriculture du noyer reste en Périgord très extensive et se juxtapose plus souvent qu'elle ne s'intègre au système de culture. Vieille culture de spéculation en Sarladais, elle y fut supplantée p,ar le tabac lors de la crise phylloxérique, au moment même où elle se substituait à la vigne dans le Causse périgourdin et ses marges. Après de longues années de déclin, elle connaît aujourd'hui une vogue nouvelle qui dépasse même le cadre des milieux ruraux traditionnels.
Tourisme, architecture et paysages bâtis
Authors: Laborde Pierre
Published: February 2016

Tourism, architecture and the built environment. The various architectural landscapes of sea-side resorts and spas in Aquitaine mirror the changes in society and the stages of development in the field of holidaymaking. The damage caused by urban redevelopment and the lack of imagination of house-building require the implementation of a policy for the conservation of the architectural heritage which should not prevent original creations.