bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrete Logic Modelling Optimization to Contextualize Prior Knowledge Networks Using PRUNET
Authors: Rodriguez Ana , Crespo Isaac , Fournier Anna , del Sol Antonio
Published: June 2015

High-throughput technologies have led to the generation of an increasing amount of data in different areas of biology. Datasets capturing the cell’s response to its intra- and extra-cellular microenvironment allows such data to be incorporated as signed and directed graphs or influence networks. These prior knowledge networks (PKNs) represent our current knowledge of the causality of cellular signal transduction. New signalling data is often examined and interpreted in conjunction with PKNs. However, different biological contexts, such as cell type or disease states, may have distinct variants of signalling pathways, resulting in the misinterpretation of new data. The identification of inconsistencies between measured data and signalling topologies, as well as the training of PKNs using context specific datasets (PKN contextualization), are necessary conditions to construct reliable, predictive models, which are current challenges in the systems biology of cell signalling. Here we present PRUNET, a user-friendly software tool designed to address the contextualization of a PKNs to specific experimental conditions. As the input, the algorithm takes a PKN and the expression profile of two given stable steady states or cellular phenotypes. The PKN is iteratively pruned using an evolutionary algorithm to perform an optimization process. This optimization rests in a match between predicted attractors in a discrete logic model (Boolean) and a Booleanized representation of the phenotypes, within a population of alternative subnetworks that evolves iteratively. We validated the algorithm applying PRUNET to four biological examples and using the resulting contextualized networks to predict missing expression values and to simulate well-characterized perturbations. PRUNET constitutes a tool for the automatic curation of a PKN to make it suitable for describing biological processes under particular experimental conditions. The general applicability of the implemented algorithm makes PRUNET suitable for a variety of biological processes, for instance cellular reprogramming or transitions between healthy and disease states.
Utilización agraria del suelo en las comarcas de Alicante
Authors: Juárez Sánchez-Rubio Cipriano
Published: June 2015

El Ministerio de Agricultura da a conocer mediante sus Anuarios los distintos aprovechamientos agrarios de cada provincia y los rendimientos que de ellos se obtienen. El mismo Ministerio ofrece también los datos municipales agrupados según las comarcas agrarias de las distintas provincias y bajo el epígrafe de «Análisis de la Producción Vegetal a nivel Comarcal». Éste determina para cada comarca lo siguiente: utilización de la tierra, características agrícolas (secano, regadío, cultivos herbáceos y leñosos), rendimientos de los cultivos, precios, producción y valor productivo de cada uno, caracterización de cada  comarca a base de índices, agrupación por su analogía y problemática de cada uno de ellos. Otra parte ofrece las características ganaderas con el número de cabezas, peso en vivo, régimen (extensivo, intensivo o mixto) de explotación del ganado y su utilización cárnica o lechera, pero sólo referida al lanar y vacuno. La última parte estadística hace referencia a las dimensiones de las explotaciones, número de las mismas en cada intervalo, grado de mecanización (tractores, cosechadoras, motocultores y caballos de vapor que totalizan en cada caso) y el precio de las hectáreas de secano y regadío, tanto en venta como en renta. El Análisis finaliza con la relación de términos municipales integrados en cada comarca.
Aplicación de la fotografía aérea en la cartografía de suelos
Authors: Matarredona Coll Enrique
Published: June 2015

Un estudio cartográfico, en edafología, consiste en el estudio de los suelos enmarcados en el paisaje, sin disociarles de los restantes elementos del medio.
Notas sobre la evolución de la población de la provincia de Alicante durante el decenio 1970-1981
Authors: Veres Ferrer Eusebio
Published: June 2015

Los datos del último Censo de Población realizado por el Instituto Nacional deEstadística (con fecha de referencia 1 de marzo de 1981) permiten estudiar la evolución seguida por la población alicantina durante los últimos diez años, disponiendo como información intermedia la proporcionada por la Renovación Padronal de 1975. Para el conjunto provincial lapoblación ha experimentado un sensible crecimiento (por encima de la media nacional) al pasarde 922.027 habitantes en 1970 a 1.149.181 en 1981, lo que supone un incremento del 24,6 porciento. En dicha década, la población de la nación experimentó un incremento del 10,7 por ciento, al pasar de 34.041.531 habitantes en 1970 a los 37.682.355 habitantes de 1981. Así pues, la tasa de crecimiento de la población de Alicante -que en 1981 representaba el 3,05 por ciento de la población de todo el país- ha sido sensiblemente superior a la experimentada por elconjunto nacional, lo que no es sino reflejo de la existencia de una demografía alicantina defuerte vitalidad.
Ganar tamaño y territorio: fusiones de empresas y nuevos yacimientos de actividad en el sector inmobiliario español
Authors: Calderón Calderón Basilio
Published: June 2015

Desde el año 1995, las empresas inmobiliarias españolas han transformado profundamente la habitual estrategia del negocio inmobiliario. Los rasgos del último lustro del siglo XX están presididos por las compras y fusiones de empresas, avaladas frecuentemente por grupos bancarios, como fórmula para competir en un mercado progresivamente más abierto y más exigente, por la reducción de su negocio tradicional —la promoción de vivienda— y por el aumento del peso de otras actividades más seguras y rentables como son la gestión de alquileres —especialmente de oficinas— y la formación de reservas estratégicas de suelo. Y todas estas estrategias se desarrollan no sólo en la ciudad en la que la empresa tiene su sede social sino también en mercados regionales, nacionales e internacionales.
Desarrollo urbano e inundaciones en la ciudad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (1869-2000)
Authors: Máyer Suárez Pablo
Published: June 2015

En la ciudad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria los episodios de lluvia facilitan la manifestación de riesgos geomorfológicos. El de las inundaciones constituye uno de los más importantes y ha estado presente desde los orígenes de esta ciudad. Las peculiares características del medio físico, tanto desde el punto de vista topográfico como desde el geológico-geomorfológico; las distintas formas de ocupación del espacio, con áreas de crecimiento planificadas y otras de crecimiento espontáneo, y las diversas intervenciones en áreas consolidadas, que potencian o agravan estas inundaciones, hacen de esta ciudad una amalgama en la que el análisis de las causas de las inundaciones resulta un proceso complejo.
La explotación de los montes y la humanización del paisaje vegetal (cuestiones de método previas)
Authors: García Fernández Jesús
Published: June 2015

El estudio geográfico de la vegetación debe reconocer la impronta del ser humano en las formaciones vegetales, superando las aproximaciones parciales que ofrece la actual biogeografía. En el trabajo se reivindica el empleo de los términos «monte» y «paisaje vegetal» y se realiza un recorrido histórico por la explotación tradicional de los montes destacando el importante papel que la colonización medieval de la Península Ibérica ha jugado en la conformación de la historia humana y de la vegetación en este espacio geográfico.
Book-tax differences: relevant explanatory factors
Authors: Riguen Rakia , Jarboui Anis
Published: June 2015

This research is designed to investigate factors affecting the book-tax gap in the Tunisian context. Despite the close link between financial and tax accounting in Tunisia, it has been discovered that accounting, and taxation appear to diverge considerably. Regression analysis results highlight that this reporting gap is largely attributable to legal differences between financial and tax accounting as well as to discretionary earning management practices. Noteworthy, the study under takes to examine several factors that constitute the basis on which previously elaborated researches to have been based, and, which appear to be consistent with the present work particular context. Relying on an eight-year database, relevant to the period 2005-2012, the major factors affecting the book tax gap in Tunisia turn out to be profitability, sales growth, discretionary accruals, price to earnings ratio and debt.
Optical and electrical properties of tin oxide-based thin films prepared by streaming process for electrodeless electrochemical deposition
Authors: Khalilzadeh-Rezaie Farnood , Oladeji Isaiah O. , Yusuf Gbadebo. T. , Nath Janardan , Nader Nima , Vangala Shiva , Cleary Justin W. , Schoenfeld Winston V. , Peale Robert E.
Published: June 2015

Transparent conducting thin-films of SnO2: F were grown on preheated glass, Al2O3 coated glass, and quartz substrates by Streaming Process for Electrodeless Electrochemical Deposition (SPEED). Stannic chloride (SnCl4) and ammonium fluoride (NH4F) dissolved in a mixture of deionized water and organic solvents were used as precursors. The preheated substrate temperature was varied between 440 and 500 °C. High quality SnO2:F films were grown at all the substrate temperatures studied. The resulting typical film thickness was 250 nm. X-ray diffraction shows that the grown films are polycrystalline SnO2 with a tetragonal crystal structure. The average optical transmission of the films was around 93% throughout the wavelength range 400 to 1000 nm. The lowest electrical resistivity achieved was 6 × 10-4 Ω-cm. The Hall measurements showed that the film is an n-type semiconductor, with carrier mobility of 8.3 cm2/V-s, and carrier concentration of 1 × 1021 cm-3. The direct bandgap was determined to be 4.0 eV from the transmittance spectrum.
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms for Elevated CO2–Regulation of Plant Growth and Stress Adaptation
Authors: Huang Bingru , Xu Yi
Published: June 2015

Increases in atmospheric CO2 concentration have exerted significant impacts on plant growth. Numerous studies have reported positive effects of elevated CO2 on plant growth and adaptation to various environmental stresses in many plant species. The mechanisms by which CO2 enrichment regulates plant growth and stress adaptation are not completely understood. There have been some recent exciting advances in elucidating the cellular, metabolic, and molecular basis for increased growth under elevated CO2. At the cellular level, cell growth involving both cell division and cell expansion is stimulated by increasing CO2, which has been associated with increased photosynthetic activities and carbohydrate availability, and also with the expression of genes controlling cell division, cycling, and cell expansion. Proteomic profiling studies identified CO2–regulated proteins mainly involved in photosynthesis, carbon metabolism, energy pathways, molecular chaperones, and antioxidant proteins. Transcriptomic analyses identified several hundreds of genes responsive to elevated CO2 levels, which play roles in cell wall loosening, photosynthesis, respiration, water use, and protein synthesis, as well as stress defense. This paper reviews recent progress in the mechanistic understanding of CO2 regulation of plant growth and stress adaptation at the cellular, metabolic, and molecular levels, and addresses research gaps and future research perspective areas.
Prospects for Selecting Wheat with Increased Zinc and Decreased Cadmium Concentration in Grain
Authors: Guttieri Mary J. , Baenziger P. Stephen , Frels Katherine , Carver Brett , Arnall Brian , Wang Shichen , Akhunov Eduard , Waters Brian M.
Published: June 2015

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a primary staple cereal and significant source of mineral nutrients in human diets. Therefore, increasing concentration of the essential mineral, Zn, and decreasing concentration of the toxic mineral, Cd, could significantly improve human health. Because plant mechanisms for uptake and translocation of Cd and Zn are related, we assessed both Cd and Zn concentration to evaluate their independence in hard winter wheat germplasm. Grain Cd concentrations of some genotypes grown in Nebraska trials were above the Codex guidance level (0.2 mg kg–1), and highly repeatable differences in grain Cd were found between pairs of low and moderate‐Cd commercial cultivars. Grain Cd concentration was predicted by Cd concentration in aboveground plant tissues at anthesis. However, grain Zn concentration was not predicted by Zn concentration in aboveground plant tissues. Genome‐wide association scans using high‐density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers identified Cd‐associated SNPs on 5AL in a region homoeologous to the Cdu1 locus on 5BL in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum Desf.). Genetic regulation of grain cadmium concentration in bread wheat may be more complex than in durum wheat because epistatic interactions between SNP markers were identified, and SNP marker haplotypes were imperfect predictors of grain Cd phenotype. The SNP marker associations with Zn concentration were weak and inconsistent across trials, and Zn concentration was independent of 5AL markers. The independent genetic regulation of grain Cd and Zn concentrations indicates that breeding low Cd hard winter wheat genotypes without reducing Zn concentration has high potential for success.
Straw Incorporation Strategy on Cereal Crop Yield in China
Authors: Zhao Hong , Sun Binfeng , Lu Fei , Zhang Guo , Wang Xiaoke , Ouyang Zhiyun
Published: June 2015

Straw incorporation (SI) is considered a valid agricultural measure for ameliorating soil quality and sequestrating soil C. This study aimed to quantitatively summarize the response of cereal yield to SI management. Our results showed that compared with straw removal, SI could significantly enhance cereal yield by 7% over all of China across the 9‐yr period. In all regions, SI in coarse‐textured soils increased yields more than in fine‐textured soils. Straw incorporation resulted in greater yield increases for upland crops compared with rice (Oryza sativa L.) cropping, and for rotary tillage compared with plowing and no tillage. Overall, SI‐induced cereal yield increases were greater in areas with a lack of soil nutrients and soil water. The SI‐induced increases of 1 t ha−1 of soil organic C (SOC) storage could increase cereal yield by 44 kg ha−1. If half or full amounts of cereal straw is returned across all of China's agricultural regions, cereal yields would increase by an average of 2.84 and 5.07 Tg yr−1, respectively, which would contribute to achieving the increasing yield requirements of China.
Predicting Rates of Weathering Rind Formation
Authors: Hunt Allen G.
Published: June 2015

A theory for non‐Gaussian transport, based on concepts from percolation theory, is applied here to the development of weathering rinds on surface and near surface clasts. In this theory, solute transport through heterogeneous media behaves distinctly from the fluid flow. In particular, although the solute transport velocity and fluid velocities are identical at the scale of a single pore, as transport distances increase, the solute velocity diminishes approximately as a power law. Solute transport distances, x, thus increase as a sublinear power, q, of the transport time, t, with predicted values of q intermediate between 0.5 and 1.0. The known behavior of the solute transport distance as a function of time turns out to be identical to the observed thickness of weathering rinds as a function of time. The value of q depends on conditions of saturation and dimensional constraints to flow. Fractures, for example, constrain flow to two‐dimensional surfaces. Both two‐ and three‐dimensional values were found in nature. However, nearly all the weathering rind studies analyzed yielded values of q consistent with unsaturated conditions. One of three exceptions was the case of submarine basalts, which yielded a q value consistent with saturated conditions, as expected. The cases of the Yakima and Truckee River valley weathering rinds, however, where the values of q also indicated saturated conditions, were less easily explained. On the other hand, four Alpine rind studies analyzed, as well as three others derived from the literature, were all consistent with unsaturated conditions and flow constrained to two dimensions. Microfractures could guide flow along two‐dimensional surfaces in Alpine environments. Occurrence of frost shattering of surface clasts in Alpine environments has been cited by other authors. Contrasts in rind thicknesses were found to be generally compatible with contrasts in total solute transport distances when fluid flow velocities were assigned based on geometric mean values of the hydraulic conductivity for a given rock type and gravity flow. However, rind development under Alpine conditions may be slower than expected.
Corrigendum: Batos B, Orlovic S, Miletic Z, Rakonjac Lj, Miljkovic D.: Population variability and comparative analysis of macroelement concentrations in pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) leaves and surrounding soils. Arch biol sci. 2014;66(4): 1345-55, DOI: 10.2298/ABS1404345B
Authors: Editorial E
Published: June 2015

The Editor-in-Chief has been informed that the results in Table 1 and in
Table 2 presented in the article: Population variability and comparative
analysis of macroelement concentrations in pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.)
Leaves and surrounding soils published in the Archives of Biological Sciences
in 2014, Vol. 66, Issue 4 partially overlap with the results in Tables 1, 2,
3a and 3b, published in the article Batos B, Miletic Z, Orlovic S, Miljkovic
D. Variability of nutritive macroelements in pedunculate oak (Quercus robur
L.) leaves in Serbia. Genetika. 2010;42(3):435-53, DOI: 10.2298/GENSR1003435B
without proper cross-referencing. This claim is correct and we are reporting
this overlap in order to provide appropriate cross-referencing to the earlier
work.

 Link to the corrected article 10.2298/ABS1404345B
Frontières au Brésil, changement de sens (Frontiers in Brazil, new orientations)
Authors: Droulers Martine
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - En cette fin de siècle les frontières de l'Amérique latine connaissent des changements de sens, aussi bien à l'intérieur du pays qu'à l'extérieur. A l'intérieur du Brésil les fronts de colonisation agricole se transforment en régions qui entrent pleinement dans la compétition de l'économie de marché, tandis qu'à l'extérieur de lignes de démarcation à défendre, les frontières deviennent des lieux d'échanges et de coopération entre les nations.
La frontière Colombie/Venezuela : facteurs de tension et dynamiques d'intégration (The frontier Colombia/Venezuela : factors of tension and dynamics of integration)
Authors: Ramousse Didier
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - Many factors of tension exist on the Colombo-Venezuelian frontier, but the populations living in the margins of these countries have maintained relationships - transgressing trade and migration regulations promoted by national governments. This spontaneous integration process was inflected by international pressures and by the constitution of a custom union (1992), with a new insertion in the world economy and a territorial reorganization corresponding to a global logic.
Enjeux sociaux des mutations technologiques littorales (Social stakes of maritime littorals)
Authors: Wackermann Gabriel
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Les mutations technologiques modifient sensiblement les structures sociales des littoraux maritimes. Leurs impératifs accélèrent l'urbanisation tant portuaire que rurale et conduisent à une certaine banalisation des fonctions littorales, dans le cadre de l'organisation logistique et de la télématisation. Celles-ci rendent les façades maritimes tributaires de centres de décision «extérieurs» étroitement soumis aux pulsions de la mondialisation.
Contemporary Management of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Due to Giant Retinal Tears: A Consecutive Case Series
Authors: Pitcher John D. , Khan Mohammed Ali , Storey Philip P. , Hsiao-Fang-Yen Natalie , Dollin Michael L. , Hsu Jason , Ho Allen C. , Regillo Carl D. , Garg Sunir J.
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To investigate outcomes of contemporary surgical techniques for repair of rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRD) associated with giant retinal tears (GRT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective, consecutive case series including 58 eyes of 58 patients. Mean age was 52 years (range: 16 to 83 years). All patients underwent 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy with use of perfluorocarbon liquid and intravitreal tamponade (28 with silicone oil, 25 with octafluoropropane gas, and five with sulfur hexafluoride gas). Scleral buckle (SB) was placed in 30 eyes (52%).

RESULTS:

At a mean follow-up of 17 months, mean visual acuity improved from 20/500 preoperatively to 20/88 at final follow-up. Fifty-one patients (88%) had single-surgery anatomic success, and all patients achieved final retinal reattachment. Use of SB (
P
= 1.0), silicone oil (
P
= .1), or 360° endophotocoagulation (
P
= .7) did not correlate with higher rates of successful repair.

CONCLUSION:

Contemporary vitreoretinal surgery techniques achieve high rates of primary anatomic success in GRT-related RRDs.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:566–570.]
Clinical Course of Vitreomacular Traction Managed Initially by Observation
Authors: Tzu Jonathan H. , John Vishak J. , Flynn Harry W. , Smiddy William E. , Jackson Jared R. , Isernhagen Blake A. , Carver Adam , Leonard Robert , Tabandeh Homayoun , Boyer David S. , Berrocal Maria H. , Suzuki Mihoko , Freund K. Bailey , Gross Jeffrey G.
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the clinical course and outcomes of patients with vitreomacular traction (VMT) managed initially by observation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

This noncomparative case series included patients with a diagnosis of VMT based on clinical symptoms and findings on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) between 2005 and 2014. VMT was documented using a standardized grading system based on the degree of distortion of the foveal contour. Data were collected at five retina clinics using standardized collection forms. Visual acuity, changes in SD-OCT findings, and timing of the release of VMT as seen on SD-OCT were recorded.

RESULTS:

The study included 230 eyes of 185 patients. Mean age was 72.5 years, and mean follow-up was 32 months. At baseline, VMT grading was grade 1 in 92 eyes (40%), grade 2 in 118 eyes (51.3%), and grade 3 in 20 eyes (8.7%). By last follow-up, spontaneous release of VMT occurred in 73 eyes (31.7%). Spontaneous release of VMT occurred at a mean of 18 months (median: 10.9 months) after initial visit. Mean logMAR best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.28 (20/55) (range: 20/20 to 20/400) at baseline and 0.25 (20/51) (range: 20/20 to 20/400) at last follow-up. Pars plana vitrectomy was performed in 10 eyes (4.1%) for macular hole (six eyes) and increased VMT (four eyes); BCVA was at least 20/40 in eight of the 10 eyes at last follow-up.

CONCLUSION:

Patients with VMT generally had a favorable clinical course when managed initially by observation. Spontaneous release of VMT occurred in approximately one-third of patients. At last follow-up, pars plana vitrectomy was performed in fewer than 5% of patients.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:571–576.]
Middle Cerebral Artery, Ophthalmic Artery, and Multibranch Retinal Vessel Occlusion After Cosmetic Autologous Fat Transfer to Forehead
Authors: Roshandel Danial , Soheilian Masoud , Pakravan Mohammad , Aghayan Sara , Peyman Gholam A.
Published: June 2015

A 65-year-old woman with left hemiparesis and sudden loss of visual acuity in her right eye presented a few hours after cosmetic injection of autologous fat to her forehead. Right eye visual acuity was no light perception. Funduscopy revealed widespread retinal whitening and multibranch retinal vessel occlusion. Fluorescein angiography showed markedly delayed choroidal and retinal filling together with occlusion of multiple branches of retinal arteries and veins. On magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, multiple lesions compatible with recent infarction were detected. The authors diagnosed multibranch retinal artery and vein occlusion in the right ophthalmic and middle cerebral arteries due to fat emboli. This case emphasizes the need to reevaluate the safety of such aesthetic procedures, particularly in the facial zone to prevent devastating complications.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:593–596.]
Bibliometric analysis of Sri Lanka Journal of the Humanities
Authors: Navaneethakrishnan S. , Kupesan R.
Published: June 2015

This study especially focuses only on the articles published in the “Sri Lanka Journal of the Humanities” published by the University of Peradeniya. A total of 319 records of articles published in Sri Lanka Journal of the Humanities and authored by 147 authors during the period 1975 – 2009 (inclusive) were analyzed in this study. The objective of this study was to study bibliometric characteristics such as distribution of publications, research growth rate, and authorship pattern “Sri Lanka Journal of the Humanities”. The research method of this study was Bibliometric analytical method. Findings of the analysis revealed that distributions of publications vary over the period of study and English occupies as dominant language. Research growth of publications was increased with positive indicators. Majority of the contributions were single authored. Author productivity varied between the observed percentage of authors and expected percentage of authors as predicted by applying Lotka’s equation. Among the productive authors Peris, Merlin is in the top position with 26 contributions. In the ranked list of affiliated institutions, University of Peradeniya leads others. Zipf’s Law was proportionally matching with the frequency list of selected title words of this study.Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka, Vol. 18, Issue 1, January 2014, Page 51-71
Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) by University Freshmen: With Special Reference to the University of Moratuwa
Authors: Kumara A. D. B.
Published: June 2015

New coming students for universities are fundamentally different than in the past, because they have been spending their entire lives surrounded by and using ICTs. These students belong to the net generation and always looking for ICTs in each and every activity of their life. However, it is questioned whether all students are in the same level since they should be very fluent with ICTs to move in this 21st century confidently. This study is an attempt made to investigate the level of using ICTs by new coming undergraduates to the University of Moratuwa by examining the frequency of using ICT tools, self rated skill levels and finally their perceptions of the impact of ICT on academic experiences in the university. Twenty two (22) different ICT related activities under 4 main skill domains; basic computer usage, computer applications, Internet/E-mail use and use of technologies for research/academic activities were used for the study. The study is compiled with data from questionnaires of 338 first year students in three faculties; Architecture, Engineering and Information Technology. The study reveals that there is a rapid trend towards a higher ICT usage of university freshmen as digital natives. Majority of the first year students more frequently use computer applications such as word processing, Spreadsheets and Presentation packages. and they have rated themselves as highly skilled in computer applications. The male students reported to be in front in terms of usage of ICTs and level of computer literacy skills than female students. Freshmen from urban communities always believe that they are more skilful in this aspect. Architecture students are somewhat below than others in using ICTs as well as the level of ICT skills. Majority of freshmen believe that using ICTs may help them to improve their learning in the university and they are willing to use ICTs to find information on academic purposes. Recommendations have been made to enhance ICT facilities and programs for freshmen at university.Journal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka, Vol. 18, Issue 2, June 2014, Page 26-40
Be sweet to toddlers during needles: pilot randomized controlled trial of sucrose compared to placebo
Authors: Harrison Denise , Reszel Jessica , Barrowman Nick , Martelli Brenda , Sharp Diane , Vailancourt Regis
Published: June 2015

Sweet solutions reduce procedural pain in infants but there is uncertainty about effectiveness beyond infancy. A blinded pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted to inform a full-scale RCT. Hospitalized children aged 12- 36 months were randomized to 24% sucrose or water prior to and during venipuncture. Primary outcomes were crying time and FLACC (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) scores. Secondary outcomes parental report of child’s pain, parental perception of effectiveness and nurse’s score of child’s compliance with study solution. Twenty-one children were studied. There were no differences in pain outcomes between groups. Median FLACC scores at time of needle insertion were high (8/10), and mean crying time during procedure was 61%. Most parents (n=17) would use the same treatment next time and most (n=17) toddlers were compliant with receiving the solutions. The pilot RCT informed the conduct of a future full scale RCT in terms of feasibility, acceptability, data collection, data analysis and sample size estimation.
Associations between flow in paratibial perforating veins and great saphenous vein patterns of reflux
Authors: Engelhorn Carlos Alberto , Dias Valiente Engelhorn Ana Luiza , Salles-Cunha Sergio Xavier , Amboni Schio Nicolle , Golin Guarinello Giovanna , Orlandoski Erbano Bruna
Published: June 2015

Perforating veins contribute to chronic venous valvular insufficiency (CVVI, subset of CVI) of lower extremities (LE). We investigated the role of medial, proximal calf paratibial perforating veins (PTPV). Women with PTPV reflux, diameter ≥3 mm, or tortuosity were selected among 2199 LE mappings. Duplex ultrasonography (US) was performed standing. Reflux >0.5 s was abnormal. PTPV conditions were related to great saphenous vein (GSV) patterns of reflux. US of 442 LE of 379 women were analyzed, all being Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification C1, C2, and/or having intermittent, conditional swelling. Etiology was primary. Pathophysiology was reflux, not thrombosis or obstruction. Most PTPV drained (n=281, 64% of 442 or 13% of 2199), or were source (n=73, 17%/442, 3%/2199) of GSV reflux; 49 (11%/442, 2%/2199) had reflux not associated with GSV; 39 (9%/442, 2%/2199) did not have reflux. PTPV, when significative for CVVI, primarily drained-GSV reflux. PTPV was linked to reflux in 1 of 5 and was a major source of reflux in 1 of 20 legs. Detailed US of PTPV insured over 80% accuracy in CVVI mapping.
Memories as religion: What can the broken continuity of tradition bring about? − Part two
Authors: Urbaniak Jakub
Published: June 2015

In postmodern societies the symbolic vacuum, a result of the loss of a unified religious tradition, calls for substitutes in the form of fragmentary and isolated memories. By drawing from the reservoir of those memories in an arbitrary and subjective way, privatised (de- institutionalised) religion creates a kind of symbolic bricolage. Can such a bricolage become more than a mere ‘counterfeit’ of collective meaning that religion once used to provide? Can religious tradition, based on a broken continuity of memory, still bring about a matrix of the ways of expressing one’s faith? If so, how? This twofold study seeks to explore those and similar questions by means of showing, firstly, in what sense religion can be conceived of as memory which produces collective meanings (Part One) and, secondly, what may happen when individualised and absolutised memories alienate themselves from a continuity of tradition, thus beginning to function as a sort of private religion (Part Two). Being the second part of the study in question, this article aims at exploring the postmodern crisis of religious memory, which includes the pluralisation of the channels of the sacred and the differentiation of a total religious memory into a plurality of specialised circles of memory. Firstly, it examines the three main aspects of the current crisis of continuity at large, namely the affirmation of the autonomous individual, the advance of rationalisation, and the process of institutional differentiation. Secondly, the plurality of the channels of the sacred is discussed in light of religion’s apparently unique way of drawing legitimisation from its reference to tradition. This is followed by two illustrations of the reconstruction of religious memory. In the final section of the article, a theological reflection on possible directions that may be taken in the face of the postmodern crisis of religious memory is offered.
Origins of the Shīʿa: Identity, Ritual, and Sacred Space in Eighth-Century Kūfa. By Najam Haider
Authors: Ruffle Karen G.
Published: June 2015

The Origins of the Shīʿa: Identity, Ritual, and Sacred Space in Eighth-Century Kūfa. By Najam Haider. Cambridge Studies in Islamic Civilization. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2011. Pp. xvii + 276. $99.
Intensification and Reorientation of Sunni Jihad Ideology in the Crusader Period: Ibn ʿAsākir of Damascus (1105–1176) and His Age, with an Edition and Translation of Ibn ʿAsākir’s The Forty Hadiths for Inciting Jihad. By Suleiman A. Mourad and James E.
Authors: Hirschler Konrad
Published: June 2015

The Intensification and Reorientation of Sunni Jihad Ideology in the Crusader Period: Ibn ʿAsākir of Damascus (1105–1176) and His Age, with an Edition and Translation of Ibn ʿAsākir’s The Forty Hadiths for Inciting Jihad. By Suleiman A. Mourad and James E. Lindsay. Islamic History and Civilization, vol. 99. Leiden: Brill, 2013. Pp. xv + 222. $133.
Islamic Philosophy, Science, Culture, and Religion: Studies in Honor of Dimitri Gutas. Edited by Felicitas Opwis and David Reisman
Authors: Rizvi Sajjad
Published: June 2015

Islamic Philosophy, Science, Culture, and Religion: Studies in Honor of Dimitri Gutas. Edited by Felicitas Opwis and David Reisman. Islamic Philosophy, Theology and Science, vol. 83. Leiden: Brill, 2012. Pp. xii + 493. $221, €161.
History of Muslim Sicily. By Leonard C. Chiarelli
Authors: Granara William
Published: June 2015

A History of Muslim Sicily. By Leonard C. Chiarelli. Sta Vanera, Malta: Midsea Books, 2011. Pp. xliv + 417. $50 (paper).
Babylonian Oracle Questions. By W. G. Lambert
Authors: Novotny Jamie
Published: June 2015

Babylonian Oracle Questions. By W. G. Lambert. Mesopotamian Civilizations, vol. 13. Winona Lake,

Ind.: Eisenbrauns, 2007. Pp. xiv + 216, plates. $49.50.
New Testament on Sexuality. By William Loader
Authors: Ellens J. Harold
Published: June 2015

The New Testament on Sexuality. By William Loader. Grand Rapids, Mich.: William B. Eerdmans

Publishing Co., 2012. Pp. x + 565. $65 (paper).
Scramble for the Past: A Story of Archaeology in the Ottoman Empire, 1753–1914. Edited by Zainab Bahrani, Zeynep Çelik, and Edhem Eldem
Authors: Watenpaugh Heghnar
Published: June 2015

Scramble for the Past: A Story of Archaeology in the Ottoman Empire, 1753–1914. Edited by Zainab Bahrani, Zeynep Çelik, and Edhem Eldem. Istanbul: SALT, 2011. Pp. 520, illus. TRL 80, $41.60.
Canonical wall-bounded flows: how do they differ?
Authors: Smits Alexander J.
Published: June 2015

Orlandi et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 770, 2015, pp. 424–441) present direct numerical simulations over a very wide Reynolds number range for plane Couette and Poiseuille flows. The results reveal new information on the abrupt nature of transition in these flows, and the comparisons between Couette and Poiseuille flows help to provide a clearer picture of Reynolds number trends, especially with regard to inner/outer layer interactions. The stress distributions give strong support to Townsend’s attached eddy hypothesis, particularly for the wall-parallel component where there has been little experimental data available. The results pose some intriguing questions regarding the reconciliation of the present results with data at higher Reynolds numbers in different canonical flows.
The streamwise turbulence intensity in the intermediate layer of turbulent pipe flow
Authors: Vassilicos J. C. , Laval J.-P. , Foucaut J.-M. , Stanislas M.
Published: June 2015

The spectral model of Perryet al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 165, 1986, pp. 163–199) predicts that the integral length scale varies very slowly with distance to the wall in the intermediate layer. The only way for the integral length scale’s variation to be more realistic while keeping with the Townsend–Perry attached eddy spectrum is to add a new wavenumber range to the model at wavenumbers smaller than that spectrum. This necessary addition can also account for the high-Reynolds-number outer peak of the turbulent kinetic energy in the intermediate layer. An analytic expression is obtained for this outer peak in agreement with extremely high-Reynolds-number data by Hultmarket al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 108, 2012, 094501;J. Fluid Mech., vol. 728, 2013, pp. 376–395). Townsend’s (The Structure of Turbulent Shear Flows, 1976, Cambridge University Press) production–dissipation balance and the finding of Dallaset al. (Phys. Rev. E, vol. 80, 2009, 046306) that, in the intermediate layer, the eddy turnover time scales with skin friction velocity and distance to the wall implies that the logarithmic derivative of the mean flow has an outer peak at the same location as the turbulent kinetic energy. This is seen in the data of Hultmarket al. (Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 108, 2012, 094501;J. Fluid Mech., vol. 728, 2013, pp. 376–395). The same approach also predicts that the logarithmic derivative of the mean flow has a logarithmic decay at distances to the wall larger than the position of the outer peak. This qualitative prediction is also supported by the aforementioned data.
The expanding utility of continuous flow hydrogenation
Authors: Cossar Peter J. , Hizartzidis Lacey , Simone Michela I. , McCluskey Adam , Gordon Christopher P.
Published: June 2015

There has been an increasing body of evidence that flow hydrogenation enhances reduction outcomes across a wide range of synthetic transformations.
Star-shaped poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline)-based films: rapid preparation and effects of polymer architecture on antifouling properties
Authors: Zhang Chong , Liu Songtao , Tan Lin , Zhu Haikun , Wang Yanmei
Published: June 2015

Star-shaped poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline)-based films prepared through polydopamine-assistance provided enhanced antifouling properties than the linear ones, and showed superior stability than PEG films.
Implementation of iPads for AAC in a Specialist School
Authors: Farrall Jane
Published: June 2015

This paper will discuss the implementation of Proloquo2Go for a group of students in a specialist school. This implementation was planned by the school executive at Malkara School in consultation with a speech-language pathologist from Therapy ACT. During the first term of the implementation, the author was engaged as a literacy consultant by the school and began to consult around this classroom as well from Term 2. This paper will discuss what occurred both before and after the author's involvement.
Relationship between SVPWM and carrier‐based PWM of eight‐switch three‐phase inverter
Authors: Liu Yong‐Chao , Ge Xing‐Lai , Feng Xiao‐Yun , Ding Rong‐Jun
Published: June 2015

Space‐vector pulse‐width modulation (SVPWM) and carrier‐based PWM (CBPWM) of eight‐switch three‐phase inverters (ESTPIs) which are the post‐fault reconfigured topologies for the three‐level neutral‐point‐clamped inverter with an open‐circuit fault in a leg are introduced. On the basis of the PWM regular sampling method, the modulating functions of CBPWM which are equivalent to SVPWM of ESTPIs are derived, therefore the relationship between SVPWM and CBPWM of ESTPIs is revealed. The validity of the theoretical analysis is verified by experimental results.
Laser beam machined free‐standing terahertz metamaterials
Authors: Born N. , Gente R. , Al‐Naib I. , Koch M.
Published: June 2015

The use of laser ablation of a thin metal film, which allows for rapid prototyping of various free‐standing terahertz devices, is reported. The technique will provide a simple way to fabricate devices without complicated photolithography procedures. This could be a solution for a multitude of new optical elements for the terahertz regime. The fabricated samples are free‐standing films and, hence, benefit from the absence of a supporting dielectric substrate, which could induce dispersion, losses or alter the reflection properties. Three devices are demonstrated: a wire‐grid polariser, a polarisation converter and bandpass filters, and their performance is characterised.
SPICE model implementation of quantum phase‐slip junctions
Authors: Goteti U.S. , Hamilton M.C.
Published: June 2015

Quantum phase‐slips, which are the exact duals of Josephson junctions (JJs), are promising for several applications in classical and quantum superconducting electronic circuits. The experimental testing of the phase‐slip phenomena and identifying these applications has been challenging. In this reported work, the use of a dual to a JJ model to implement a SPICE model of a quantum phase‐slip junction (QPSJ) in JSPICE3, in order to explore possible circuit applications, is demonstrated. A transient analysis model of the device is presented and an example of an I–V curve simulation of the device, along with a simulation of a possible circuit application of the device, are also shown.
A dataset from TIMSS to examine the relationship between computer use and mathematics achievement
Authors: Kadijevich Djordje M.
Published: June 2015

Because the relationship between computer use and achievement is still puzzling, there is a need to prepare and analyze good quality datasets on computer use and achievement. Such a dataset can be derived from TIMSS data. This paper describes how this dataset can be prepared. It also gives an example of how the dataset may be analyzed. The analysis evidenced that (1) computers should not be used frequently, and (2) they should be used as a learning tool more often than as an information tool.
Influence of niche similarity on hybridization betweenMyriophyllum sibiricumandM. spicatum
Authors: Wu Z. , Ding Z. , Yu D. , Xu X.
Published: June 2015

The impact of ecological factors on natural hybridization is of widespread interest. Here, we asked whether climate niche influences hybridization between the two closely related plant speciesMyriophyllum sibiricumandM. spicatum. Eight microsatellite loci and two chloroplast fragments were used to investigate the occurrence of hybridization between these two species in two co‐occurring regions: north‐east China (NEC) and the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP). The climate niches of the species were quantified by principal component analysis with bioclimatic data, and niche comparisons were performed between the two species in each region. Reciprocal hybridization was observed, andM. sibiricumwas favoured as the maternal species. Furthermore, hybrids were rare inNECbut common in theQTP. Accordingly, inNEC, the two species were climatically distinct, and hybrids only occurred in the narrow geographical or ecological transition zone, whereas in theQTP, obvious niche overlaps were found for the two species, and hybrids occurred in multiple contact zones. This association between hybridization pattern and climate niche similarity suggests that the level of hybridization was promoted by niche overlap. Compared with the parental species, similar climate niches were found for the hybrid populations in theQTP, indicating that other environmental factors rather than climate were important for hybrid persistence. Our findings highlight the significance of climate niche with respect to hybridization patterns in plants.
Reducing dosing errors and increasing clinical efficiency in Guatemala: first report of a novel mHealth medication dosing app in a developing country
Authors: Segal J Bradley , Arevalo John Benjamin , Franke Molly F , Palazuelos Daniel
Published: June 2015

Background

Medication errors are known to be a widespread problem affecting patient safety and treatment efficacy. We were approached by a Guatemalan clinic interested in piloting an app to aid their junior clinicians in correctly calculating medication dosages.

Methods

We programmed a medication-dosing app using CommCare. In a prospective study among junior physicians at a small high-throughput clinic, we primarily assessed the app's dosing accuracy and efficiency. Secondarily, we measured the app's usability and effect on patient-centredness.

Results

Six clinicians aged 21–24 tested the app. Among 366 prescriptions, dosages were 40% more likely to be correct when calculated using the app (relative risk: 1.39; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.68; p=0.0005). Accuracy improved from 64.7% (N=156) to 92.4% (N=210). Using the app in a time-constrained context improved clinician efficiency by over 20% with a decrease in average consultation time of 1.5 min (p<0.0001) to 5.23 min on average (N=178). However, questionnaires revealed most clinicians did not believe the app improved efficiency, and none thought its recommendations were ‘always accurate’. No change in patient-centredness was observed (N=167).

Conclusions

The app was shown to be safe and efficient. Making this app available to junior physicians may significantly improve patient safety by enhancing dosing accuracy. This study demonstrates that dosing apps can be an efficacious means of decreasing medication errors in developing countries. We found that different strategies to introduce novel apps to providers might improve providers’ trust in the technologies and thereby make apps more efficacious.
ОНТОЛОГІЧНІ УЯВЛЕННЯ ЗНАНЬ ДЛ Я ВДОСКОНАЛЕННЯ ДІАГНОСТИКИ ТА ЛІКУВАННЯ АТОПІЧНОГО ДЕРМАТИТУ У ДІТЕЙ
Authors: Boyko V. V. , Yaremenko N. V.
Published: June 2015

The article describes the evaluation of 12 articles and their comparison with the “Protocol diagnosis and treatment of children with atopic dermatitis”. Today ontology is one of the form of structuring knowledge. Ontology of knowledge of atopic dermatitis allows structure information of diagnosis and treatment of this disease in children and can recommend a number of amendments to the existing “Protocol of diagnosis and treatment of children with atopic dermatitis”. When we built the graphological schemes we revealed differences concerning additional criteria of diagnostic of atopic dermatitis in children. So, in protocol important signs are absent, as it seems to us. These include, first of all: keratoconus, front subcapsular cataracts, peeling on the face and extremities (Pityriasis alba), erythroderma, cracks behind the ears.

These features are extremely important in the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis in children. Therefore, we propose to supplement existing protocol those additional criteria and use it in practice.