bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gas Well Testing with Wellbore Storage and Skin: a Line Source Solution Using the Green's Functions Approach
Authors: dos Santos Sousa Emilio Paulo
Published: October 2014

Even when written in terms of a pseudo-pressure function, the diffusivity equation for flow of gases through porous media is, rigorously speaking, non-linear because the viscosity-compressibility product is pseudo-pressure dependent. However, several techniques and analysis procedures neglect such non-linearity. A new methodology for constructing solutions for gas reservoirs through the Green's Function technique has been recently proposed in the literature. Such methodology handles the viscosity-compressibility product variation rigorously and it has been applied to solve several gas well tests problems successfully. However, wellbore storage and skin effects have not been considered yet in this new approach.

In this work, the Green's Function technique is applied to obtain a new solution for an infinite homogeneous isotropic gas reservoir being produced through a single vertical well with wellbore storage and skin. The solution, however, does not consider non-Darcy flow effects. Even though the wellbore storage introduces a new non-linearity to an already non-linear problem, this work presents two accurate approximate solutions compared to the results from a commercial numerical simulator.

This work also shows that wellbore pseudo-pressure dimensionless solution is a function of the correlating groups CDexp(2S) and tD/CD, exactly like the wellbore dimensionless liquid solutions are. Liquid and gas dimensionless solutions under these correlating groups are not equal, though.
Dependence of Organic Pore Wettability on Kerogen Maturity: A Water Droplet Microscopic Simulation Study
Authors: Hu Yinan
Published: October 2014

Wettability in the organic pores of shales, known as kerogen, is essential information required for hydrocarbon estimation, multiphase flow transportation modeling, and the prediction of the recoveries and placement of hydraulic fracture water, especially in intermediate maturity oil shales. The process of kerogen maturation is accompanied by the loss of functionalized molecules, leading to a reduction of H/C and O/C values. These ratios are typically reflected in the van Krevelen diagram and are used to classify types of kerogen depending on their maturity degree. Recent studies have documented laboratory evidence of water content in kerogen. This leads to key questions of whether kerogen may have mixed-wet characteristics and how it is likely to depend on kerogen maturity.

In this paper, we present a pore-scale study analyzing the role of kerogen maturity on the wettability of organic pore systems. The traditional graphene model is chosen as a proxy for the organic matter. By grafting varying amounts of functionalized groups onto this surface, we construct the kerogen with varying degrees of maturity. We then study droplets of pure water on different surfaces and determine contact angles to quantify wettability.

We find that the contact angle variations of water droplets have a strong dependency on kerogen maturity. As the density of the surface functionalized groups increases, the wettability in kerogen could possibly be altered from hydrocarbon-wetting, to neutral-wetting, or even become hydrophilic. Additionally, we also demonstrate that there is a critical density of surface functionalized groups beyond which the kerogen pore system may be considered to be largely water-wet when water forms sheets adjacent to the pore wall. Our results indicate that the wettability in kerogen is very likely to be mixed-wetting.
Application of 3D diffraction imaging
Authors: Zhuravko N.
Published: October 2014

I propose a method for velocity model building based on kinematic analysis of seismic diffractions. The main idea is separation of reflected/diffracted waves in 3D data and following velocity estimation. The proposed method works in the post-stack domain as opposed to the conventional pre-stack velocity analysis using CMP hyperbolas and semblance function. I demonstrate the option of using diffractions on real example when traditional velocity analysis is difficult. Moreover, the construction of a high-quality velocity model allows me to create the optimal conditions for subsequent diffraction imaging, which provides high-resolution structural information.
Lifetime production of high-yielding dairy cows
Authors: Novakovic Z. , Ostojic-Andric D. , Pantelic V. , Beskorovajni R. , Popovic N. , Lazarevic M. , Niksic D.
Published: October 2014

Lifetime milk production is a key success factor in fulfilling the production
potential of high-yielding cows. Lifetime milk production traits are
pronouncedly variable. The life expectancy and the length of productive life
of dairy cows are repeatedly limiting factors for improving lifetime milk
production. Lifetime milk production is greatly depended on age at first
calving and the number of lactations during productive life. Previous
researches have implied there are real chances for improving the lifetime
milk production of high-yielding cows. The goal of this research was to
investigate the significance of key systematic factors on the lifetime
production of high-yielding Black-and-White cows. The animals included in the
sample had different share of Holstein genes. The researchers determined
systematic factors that caused some significant phenotypic variations of the
investigated trait. The average lifetime milk production was
25,002.66?7,755.39 kg. When observed by cow genotypes, the mean values of the
lifetime milk production varied from 27,061.37 kg (<58% HF) and 24,761.26 kg
(58-73% HF) to 23,185.36 kg (>73% HF). The differences in lifetime milk
production determined among the animals were due to a highly significant
(p?0.01) impact of the bulls ? the sires of the cows and the year of culling;
the impact of the class of HF genes was significant (p?0.05), whereas the
impact of the reason for culling was non-significant (p>0.05).
The interaction between the swine infectious diseases agents and low levels of mycotoxins in swine feed
Authors: Prodanov-Radulovic J. , Dosen R. , Stojanov I. , Polacek V. , Zivkov-Balos M. , Marcic D. , Pusic I.
Published: October 2014

The aim of the paper was to evaluate the possible interaction between the
presence of swine infectious diseases and low levels of mycotoxins in swine
feed. The material for this research included the samples from three swine
farms, where health disorders in different swine categories were detected.
The applied research methods included: epidemiological and clinical
evaluation, pathological examination, bacteriological and virological
laboratory testing and microbiological feed testing, in order to examine the
presence of fungi and mycotoxins by the method of thin layer chromatography.
Beside this, the molecular diagnostic method, reverse transcripton-polymerase
chain reaction (RT-PCR) and viral isolation was included. The obtained
results support the existance of positive interaction between the mycotoxins
and causative agents of bacterial and viral swine infective diseases.
Carcass quality of chickens of different conformation
Authors: Pavlovski Z. , Skrbic Z. , Lukic M. , Petricevic V. , Stanojkovic A.
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of conformation of
chickens of different genotype on the yield of breast meat. As a typical
example of the chickens of very poor conformation pure breed Naked neck
chickens were taken, fattened 8 and 10 weeks (groups K8 and K10). As an
example of good conformation, an imported hybrid of chickens was taken, known
for its broiler qualities and as medium growing hybrid, Red Bro (R). The
second experiment included commercial hybrids of fast growth (Ross, Cobb and
Hubbard) reared according to all technological standards of intensive
fattening until the age of 42 days. The results obtained were contrary to the
conclusion obtained a few decades ago, at the beginning of the study the
conformation of chicken, by Scots and Darrow (1953), according to which the
selection of chickens of heavy type, despite the fact that, to some extent,
it had improved meat yield of the breast, did not significantly improve
slaughter traits of fattening chickens, confirming that better conformation
and higher body weight had a positive impact on improving relative share of
breast, i.e. white meat. The results regarding the slaughter traits of
chicken genotypes of different conformation suggest that breeding - selection
work to improve the conformation of broilers significantly improved slaughter
yields and breast meat yield. In this sense, the conformation can be treated
as an indicator of the slaughter value of carcasses, rather than an aesthetic
category.
Fungal contamination and natural occurrence of ochratoxin A (OTA) in poultry feed
Authors: Krnjaja V. , Pavlovski Z. , Lukic M. , Skrbic Z. , Stojanovic Lj. , Bijelic Z. , Mandic V.
Published: October 2014

Total fungal count, the presence of potentially toxigenic fungi and natural
occurrence of ochratoxin A (OTA) were studied in 30 poultry feed samples (14
samples of feed for chickens and 16 samples of feed for laying hens), which
were collected from different farms in Serbia at the beginning of year 2014.
The total number of fungi was determined by the method of dilution and OTA
was detected using the imunoadsorption enzymatic assay (ELISA). In most of
the samples of chickens feed (50%) the total number of fungi was 1 - 3 x 102
CFU g-1, and in feed for laying hens the highest number of samples (37.50%)
had the total fungal count from 1.4 to 4.8 x 104 CFU g -1. The species of
genera Aspergillus and Penicillium were identified as producers of OTA in
21.43% and 42.86% of chickens feed samples and in 68.75% and 25% of samples
of feed for laying hens. The presence of OTA was detected in 100% of samples
of feed for chickens and laying hens, with average concentrations of 34.40 ?g
kg-1 (feed for chickens) and 43.89 ?g kg-1 (feed for laying hens). The total
fungal count and content of OTA were not above the maximum allowed
quantities, even though the presence of Aspergillus and Penicillium species
was found in a large number of samples (up to 68.75%). These results indicate
that the tested samples of poultry feed were mycologically and
mycotoxicologically correct.
Education and Training as Projectised and Precarious Politics
Authors: Kurki Tuuli , Brunila Kristiina
Published: October 2014

This article explores a new kind of political ethos in education: the alliance of projectisation and precarisation and their individual-based implementation. It is a critique of project based activities working with ‘at risk’ groups in Finland, specifically in the preparation of immigrants and those with criminal backgrounds, for a life of precarity. The projects discussed refer to publicly funded, short-term educational programmes that operate outside or on the edge of the formal education system. The authors' argument is that while projects have become an ideological method of introducing a market orientation to welfare politics, this political ethos places people considered to be ‘at risk’ in positions where insecurity is inevitable, and flexibility may be either a help or a hindrance.
Maxillary arch changes with transpalatal arch treatment followed by full fixed appliances
Authors: Raucci Gaetana , Pachêco-Pereira Camila , Grassia Vincenzo , d’Apuzzo Fabrizia , Flores-Mir Carlos , Perillo Letizia
Published: October 2014

Objective: 

To evaluate short- and long-term maxillary dental arch dimensional changes in patients treated with a transpalatal arch (TPA) during mixed dentition followed by full fixed appliances in the permanent dentition compared with an untreated sample.

Materials and Methods: 

Dental casts and lateral cephalograms obtained from 36 consecutively treated patients before TPA treatment (T0), after TPA treatment (T1), after fixed appliance treatment (T2), and a minimum of 3 years after fixed appliance treatment (T3) were analyzed. The control group was matched as closely as possible. Arch widths, perimeter, and length, as well as crowding and incisor proclination, were evaluated.

Results: 

In the treated group, intercanine, interpremolar, and intermolar widths and arch perimeter increased significantly at T1. At T2, only the intercanine width increase was still significant. At T3 all arch dimensions decreased, remaining larger than they were at T0. The arch length increased after T1, significantly decreased at T2, and slightly decreased at T3. The crowding decreased significantly at T1, was eliminated at T2, and increased at T3. At T3, 50% of the patients showed relapse with crowding ranging from 0.5 to 2 mm. In the control group at T1, only slight changes were noted but crowding increased. At T2, crowding and upper incisor inclination increased but arch length decreased. At T3, intercuspid width, arch perimeter, and arch length continued to decrease, thereby increasing crowding.

Conclusion: 

Maxillary dental arch dimensions changed significantly after TPA followed by treatment with fixed appliances. Relapse occurred to some extent, especially in intercanine width and arch perimeter, but most of the dental arch changes remained stable.
Investigation of the Indirect Hypercube as Natural Architecture for Parallel Algorithms of a Transpose Type for FFT and Other Fourier-Related Transforms
Authors: Philipov Ph. , Lazarov V.
Published: October 2014

The natural architectures are architectures, derived from the signal graph of the corresponding algorithm. That is why they are considered to be the most appropriate architectures for parallel realization of this algorithm. For Fast Fourier Transform algorithm (FFT) two types of natural architectures are known – the direct and the indirect hypercube. The direct hypercube has been investigated and analyzed a long time ago. The development of the concept of Indirect Hypercube, although quite old, is too difficult, controversal and still unfinished. Fast Hartley transform (FHT)/Real-valued Fast Fourier transform (RFFT) algorithms are important Fourier-related transforms, because they lower twice the operational and memory requirements when the input data is real-valued. These types of algorithms, however, have an irregular computational structure, which makes their parallel implementation a very difficult task. The aim of this paper is, based on the results achieved so far, to present further development of the concept Indirect Hypercube. A method of parametric synthesis of an indirect hypercube is described as a model of parallel FFT algorithms of a transpose type with different granularity/radix. This method is generalized for relevant RFFT/FHT and FCT algorithms. Two types of SIMD array architectures are described (radix-2 and radix-4), based on the indirect hypercube concept. These architectures are implemented as fast FFT/RFFT/FHT processors for real time applications. The performance estimation, as well as the estimation of resource utilization is carried out.
Down-Regulation by Resveratrol of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor-Stimulated Osteoprotegerin Synthesis through Suppression of Akt in Osteoblasts
Authors: Kuroyanagi Gen , Otsuka Takanobu , Yamamoto Naohiro , Matsushima-Nishiwaki Rie , Nakakami Akira , Mizutani Jun , Kozawa Osamu , Tokuda Haruhiko
Published: October 2014

It is firmly established that resveratrol, a natural food compound abundantly found in grape skins and red wine, has beneficial properties for human health. In the present study, we investigated the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) on osteoprotegerin (OPG) synthesis in osteoblast-like MC3T3-E1 cells and whether resveratrol affects the OPG synthesis. FGF-2 stimulated both the OPG release and the expression of OPG mRNA. Resveratrol significantly suppressed the FGF-2-stimulated OPG release and the mRNA levels of OPG. SRT1720, an activator of SIRT1, reduced the FGF-2-induced OPG release and the OPG mRNA expression. PD98059, an inhibitor of upstream kinase activating p44/p42 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, had little effect on the FGF-2-stimulated OPG release. On the other hand, SB203580, an inhibitor of p38 MAP kinase, SP600125, an inhibitor of stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK), and Akt inhibitor suppressed the OPG release induced by FGF-2. Resveratrol failed to affect the FGF-2-induced phosphorylation of p44/p42 MAP kinase, p38 MAP kinase or SAPK/JNK. The phosphorylation of Akt induced by FGF-2 was significantly suppressed by resveratrol or SRT1720. These findings strongly suggest that resveratrol down-regulates FGF-2-stimulated OPG synthesis through the suppression of the Akt pathway in osteoblasts and that the inhibitory effect of resveratrol is mediated at least in part by SIRT1 activation.
Peripheral and Central Effects of Melatonin on Blood Pressure Regulation
Authors: Pechanova Olga , Paulis Ludovit , Simko Fedor
Published: October 2014

The pineal hormone, melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine), shows potent receptor-dependent and -independent actions, which participate in blood pressure regulation. The antihypertensive effect of melatonin was demonstrated in experimental and clinical hypertension. Receptor-dependent effects are mediated predominantly through MT1 and MT2 G-protein coupled receptors. The pleiotropic receptor-independent effects of melatonin with a possible impact on blood pressure involve the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging nature, activation and over-expression of several antioxidant enzymes or their protection from oxidative damage and the ability to increase the efficiency of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Besides the interaction with the vascular system, this indolamine may exert part of its antihypertensive action through its interaction with the central nervous system (CNS). The imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic vegetative system is an important pathophysiological disorder and therapeutic target in hypertension. Melatonin is protective in CNS on several different levels: It reduces free radical burden, improves endothelial dysfunction, reduces inflammation and shifts the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic system in favor of the parasympathetic system. The increased level of serum melatonin observed in some types of hypertension may be a counter-regulatory adaptive mechanism against the sympathetic overstimulation. Since melatonin acts favorably on different levels of hypertension, including organ protection and with minimal side effects, it could become regularly involved in the struggle against this widespread cardiovascular pathology.
Membrane Bioprocesses for Pharmaceutical Micropollutant Removal from Waters
Authors: De Cazes Matthias , Abejón Ricardo , Belleville Marie-Pierre , Sanchez-Marcano José
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this review work is to give an overview of the research reported on bioprocesses for the treatment of domestic or industrial wastewaters (WW) containing pharmaceuticals. Conventional WW treatment technologies are not efficient enough to completely remove all pharmaceuticals from water. Indeed, these compounds are becoming an actual public health problem, because they are more and more present in underground and even in potable waters. Different types of bioprocesses are described in this work: from classical activated sludge systems, which allow the depletion of pharmaceuticals by bio-degradation and adsorption, to enzymatic reactions, which are more focused on the treatment of WW containing a relatively high content of pharmaceuticals and less organic carbon pollution than classical WW. Different aspects concerning the advantages of membrane bioreactors for pharmaceuticals removal are discussed, as well as the more recent studies on enzymatic membrane reactors to the depletion of these recalcitrant compounds.
It is Time? Ending a Long-Term Event
Authors: Otteman Tim , Janes Patty
Published: October 2014

This case study identifies strategies for ending long-term, cause-related events and provides techniques to manage loss of legacy and emotional attachment for participants. Participants from a 15-year charity golf event were studied before and after the final offering of the event.
Questions included understanding why current and past participants decided to participate, the level of emotional attachment participants experienced with the event, and feelings regarding the termination of the event. Participants took part in the event because of the cause, to support the
family organizing the tournament, and because of the event's quality. Golfers were emotionally connected to the event and over half were not emotionally ready for the event to end. They experienced feelings of sadness, relief for the event organizers, and were pleased the event ended while
still strong. Participants indicated that event organizers managed the termination process effectively and that there was appropriate time for the event to conclude. Event organizers must determine the best time to end a long-term, annual event, and, when doing so, should take into careful
consideration the emotional attachment participants may have to the event. Event organizers need to remember and reinforce the personal connections people have with events and the need for an outlet to express their feelings. This exploratory case study, with a small-scale, cause-related sports
event, can begin a dialogue regarding community-based legacy events and the management of ending long-term, annual events.
Higher Dialysate Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Levels are Associated with Peritoneal Membrane Dysfunction
Authors: Cho Yeoungjee , Johnson David W. , Vesey David A. , Hawley Carmel M. , Pascoe Elaine M. , Clarke Margaret , Topley Nicholas
Published: October 2014

♦ Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients develop progressive and cumulative peritoneal injury with longer time spent on PD. The present study aimed to a) describe the trend of peritoneal injury biomarkers, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), in incident PD patients, b) to explore the capacity of dialysate MMP-2 to predict peritoneal solute transport rate (PSTR) and peritonitis, and c) to evaluate the influence of neutral pH, low glucose degradation product (GDP) PD solution on these outcomes.

♦ Methods

The study included 178 participants from the balANZ trial who had at least 1 stored dialysate sample. Changes in PSTR and peritonitis were primary outcome measures, and the utility of MMP-2 in predicting these outcomes was analyzed using multilevel linear regression and multilevel Poisson regression, respectively.

♦Results

Significant linear increases in dialysate MMP-2 and TIMP-1 concentrations were observed ( p < 0.001), but neither was affected by the type of PD solutions received (MMP-2: p = 0.07; TIMP-1: p = 0.63). An increase in PSTR from baseline was associated with higher levels of MMP-2 ( p = 0.02), and the use of standard solutions over longer PD duration ( p = 0.001). The risk of peritonitis was independently predicted by higher dialysate MMP-2 levels (incidence rate ratio [IRR] per ng/mL 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.005 – 1.02, p = 0.002) and use of standard solutions (Biocompatible solution: IRR 0.45, 95% CI 0.24 – 0.85, p = 0.01).

♦ Conclusion

Dialysate MMP-2 and TIMP-1 concentrations increased with longer PD duration. Higher MMP-2 levels were associated with faster PSTR and future peritonitis risk. Administration of biocompatible solutions exerted no significant effect on dialysate levels of MMP-2 or TIMP-1, but did counteract the increase in PSTR and the risk of peritonitis associated with the use of standard PD solutions. This is the first longitudinal study to examine the clinical utility of MMP-2 as a predictor of patient-level outcomes.
Effects of Fructo-Oligosaccharide Supplementation on Constipation in Elderly Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Meksawan Kulwara , Chaotrakul Chorsakon , Leeaphorn Napat , Gonlchanvit Suthep , Eiam-Ong Somchai , Kanjanabuch Talerngsak
Published: October 2014

♦ Background

Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) exhibit soluble-fiber properties that beneficially affect bowel function and relieve constipation. The effects of FOS supplementation on constipation and biochemical parameters were examined in elderly continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients.

♦ Methods

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study was performed in elderly CAPD patients (5 males and 4 females) with chronic constipation. All subjects were randomly assigned to receive either 20 g FOS or placebo daily for 30 days. After a 14-day washout period, the patients were switched to the other substance for 1 more month. Before and after each treatment period, frequency of defecation, characteristics of feces, and colonic transit were evaluated. Biochemical parameters were also assessed.

♦Results

Fructo-oligosaccharides significantly increased the frequency of defecation (10.5 ± 2.0 vs 6.2 ± 1.4 times per week, p < 0.005) and changed the feces’ appearance from type 1 (nut-like) to type 4 (sausage–like). The colonic transit determined by geometric center (GC) was augmented after FOS supplementation (3.9 ± 0.3 vs 3.2 ± 0.4, p < 0.05). Fructo-oligosaccharides had no effects on biochemical parameters. Fructo-oligosaccharides caused mild discomforts which were well tolerated after dose adjustment.

♦ Conclusions

Fructo-oligosaccharide supplementation is effective, well tolerated, and can be an alternative to other laxatives in CAPD patients with constipation. Further studies are needed to better assess the biochemical effects of FOS in the chronic kidney disease population.
Peritoneal Dialysis can be an Option for Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: An Observational Study
Authors: Janeiro Darío , Portolés Jose , Tato Ana María , López-Sánchez Paula , Del Peso Gloria , Rivera Maite , Castellano Inés , Fernández-Reyes Maria J. , Pérez-Gómez Vanessa , Ortega Mayra , Martínez-Miguel Patricia , Felipe Carmen , Caparrós Guadalupe , Ortiz Alberto , Selgas Rafael
Published: October 2014

Background

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) has been considered a relative contraindication for peritoneal dialysis (PD), although there are few specific studies available.

Methods

A multicenter historical prospective matched-cohort study was conducted to describe the outcome of ADPKD patients who have chosen PD. All ADPKD patients starting PD ( n = 106) between January 2003 and December 2010 and a control group (2 consecutive patients without ADPKD) were studied. Mortality, PD-technique failure, peritonitis, abdominal wall leaks and cyst infections were compared.

Results

Patients with ADPKD had similar age but less comorbidity at PD inclusion: Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) 4.3 (standard deviation [SD] 1.6) vs 5.3 (SD 2.5) p < 0.001, diabetes mellitus 5.7% vs 29.2%, p < 0.001 and previous cardiovascular events 10.4% vs 27.8%, p < 0.001. No differences were observed in clinical events that required transient transfer to hemodialysis, nor in peritoneal leakage episodes or delivered dialysis dose. The cyst infection rate was low (0.09 episodes per patient-year) and cyst infections were not associated to peritonitis episodes. Overall technique survival was similar in both groups. Permanent transfer to hemodialysis because of surgery or peritoneal leakage was more frequent in ADPKD. More ADPKD patients were included in the transplant waiting list (69.8 vs 58%, p = 0.04) but mean time to transplantation was similar (2.08 [1.69 – 2.47] years). The mortality rate was lower (2.5 vs 7.6 deaths/100 patient-year, p = 0.02) and the median patient survival was longer in ADPKD patients (6.04 [5.39 – 6.69] vs 5.57 [4.95 – 6.18] years, p = 0.024).

Conclusion

Peritoneal dialysis is a suitable renal replacement therapy option for ADPKD patients.
Identification of Targets for Prevention of Peritoneal Catheter Tunnel and Exit-Site Infections in Low Incidence Settings
Authors: Santos Clara , Pérez-Fontán Miguel , Rodríguez-Carmona Ana , Calvo-Rodríguez María , López-Muñiz Andrés , López-Calviño Beatriz , García-Falcón Teresa
Published: October 2014

♦ Background

Peritoneal catheter tunnel and exit-site infection (TESI) complicates the clinical course of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Adherence to recommendations for catheter insertion, exit-site care, and management of Staphylococcus aureus (SAu) carriage reduces, but does not abrogate the risk of these infections.

♦ Objective

To reappraise the risk profile for TESI in an experienced center with a long-term focus on management of SAu carriage and a low incidence of these infections.

♦ Method

Following a retrospective, observational design, we investigated 665 patients incident on PD. The main study variable was survival to the first episode of TESI. We considered selected demographic, clinical, and technical variables, applying multivariate strategies of analysis.

♦ Main results

The overall incidence of TESI was 1 episode/68.5 patient-months. Staphylococcus aureus carriage disclosed at inception of PD (but not if observed sporadically during follow-up) (hazard ratio [HR] 1.53, p = 0.009), PD started shortly after catheter insertion (HR 0.98 per day, p = 0.011), PD after kidney transplant failure (HR 2.18, p = 0.017), lower hemoglobin levels (HR 0.88 per g/dL, p = 0.013) and fast peritoneal transport rates (HR 2.92, p = 0.03) portended an increased risk of TESI. Delaying PD ≥ 30 days after catheter insertion markedly improved the probability of TESI. Carriage of methicillin-resistant SAu since the start of PD was associated with a high incidence of TESI by these bacteria. On the contrary, resistance to mupirocin did not predict such a risk, probably due to the use of an alternative regime in affected patients.

♦ Conclusions

Adherence to current recommendations results in a low incidence of TESI in PD patients. Interventions on specific risk subsets have a potential to bring incidence close to negligible levels. Despite systematic screening and management, SAu carriage is still a predictor of TESI. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns may help to refine stratification of the risk of TESI by these bacteria. Early insertion of the peritoneal catheter should be considered whenever possible, to reduce the risk of later TESI.
A CLASS OF QUASISTATIC CONTACT PROBLEMS FOR VISCOELASTIC MATERIALS WITH NONLOCAL COULOMB FRICTION AND TIME-DELAY
Authors: Yao Si-sheng , Huang Nan-jing
Published: October 2014

In this paper, a mathematical model which describes the explicit time dependent quasistatic frictional contact problems is introduced and studied. The material behavior is described with a nonlinear viscoelastic constitutive law with time-delay and the frictional contact is modeled with nonlocal Coulomb boundary conditions. A variational formulation of the mathematical model is given, which is called a quasistatic integro-differential variational inequality. Using the Banach's fixed point theorem, an existence and uniqueness theorem of the solution for the quasistatic integro-differential variational inequality is proved under some suitable assumptions. As an application, an existence and uniqueness theorem of the solution for the dual variational formulation is also given.
ON MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF METALS DISTRIBUTION IN PEAT LAYERS
Authors: Kangro Ilmars , Kalis Harijs , Gedroics Aigars , Teirumnieka Erika , Teirumnieks Edmunds
Published: October 2014

In this paper we consider averaging and finite difference methods for solving the 3-D boundary-value problem in multilayered domain. We consider the metals Fe and Ca concentration in the layered peat blocks. Using experimental data the mathematical model for calculation of concentration of metals in different points in peat layers is developed. A specific feature of these problems is that it is necessary to solve the 3-D boundary-value problems for elliptic type partial differential equations (PDEs) of second order with piece-wise diffusion coefficients in the layered domain. We develop here a finite-difference method for solving of a problem of one, two and three peat blocks with periodical boundary condition in x direction. This procedure allows to reduce the 3-D problem to a system of 2-D problems by using circulant matrix.
A NEW DOMAIN DECOMPOSITION PARALLEL ALGORITHM FOR CONVECTION–DIFFUSION PROBLEM
Authors: Zhang Jiansong , Yang Danping
Published: October 2014

Basing on overlapping domain decomposition, we construct a new parallel algorithm combined the method of subspace correction with least-squares procedure for solving time-dependent convection–diffusion problem. This algorithm is fully parallel. We analyze the convergence of approximate solution, and study the dependence of the convergent rate on the spacial mesh size, time increment, iteration number and sub-domains overlapping degree. Both theoretical analysis and numerical results suggest that only one or two iterations are needed to reach to given accuracy at each time step.
Se différencier des projections maternelles : un enjeu vital
Authors: Ducarre Catherine
Published: October 2014

L’extrême réceptivité du nouveau-né aux affects et aux messages provenant de l’inconscient maternel le rend particulièrement vulnérable lorsque, du fait d’une pathologie psychique de la mère, il se trouve pris dans des projections excessivement mortifères. Dans le cadre d’une unité mère-bébé, au travers de l’observation du nourrisson selon la méthode d’Esther Bick, nous avons pu ressentir combien le bébé peut être amené à s’identifier corporellement aux fantasmes maternels, au péril de sa vie. La fonction contenante des soignants, l’empathie et la verbalisation du scénario imaginaire peuvent conduire à un dégagement salutaire.
Les Suisses
Authors: Haynal André , Falzeder Ernst
Published: October 2014

L’explosion d’intérêt pour la psychanalyse dans les premiers jours du xx e  siècle a abouti à la constitution d’un groupe important à Zurich, essentiellement à la clinique Burghölzli, autour d’E. Bleuler et C.G. Jung, préoccupés par la compréhension psychanalytique des malades psychotiques. Les méandres de l’évolution ultérieure de ce groupe puis d’autres regroupements dans les différentes parties linguistiques du pays témoignent du développement d’un large éventail de différentes tendances, dans une communauté psychanalytique fortement diversifiée.
La psychanalyse à Lausanne, entre crise de filiation et construction groupale
Authors: Nobs Lucette , de Coulon Nicolas
Published: October 2014

Nous nous proposons de brosser, en quelques épisodes forcément simplifiés, l’évolution récente (1980-2010) d’une période de recul puis de reprise de la psychanalyse à Lausanne (Suisse). Partant d’une crise dans la filiation, nous relevons les étapes d’une reconstruction groupale pour aboutir à la création d’un véritable centre psychanalytique. Ce faisant, nous cherchons à comprendre les raisons profondes et circonstancielles du malaise et à témoigner de la vitalité propre d’un groupe dans un territoire donné, en fonction des histoires individuelles et des héritages qui les traversent.
Oscar Nemon, mon père. Histoire d'une découverte
Authors: Young Aurelia
Published: October 2014

Lady Aurelia Young, fille du sculpteur Oscar Neumann dit Nemon, raconte la vie de son père et ses nombreuses rencontres avec les célébrités du monde de la culture, mais aussi royales, politiques et autres de son temps, dont il sculpté les bustes. Elle donne une image vivante d’une personnalité attachante, au parcours étonnant.
introduction
Authors: Saint-Saëns Isabelle
Published: October 2014

Résumé l’ici et ailleurs de la liberté de circulation et l’autonomie des luttes des migrants
An Approach to Create Multiple Versions of the Same Learning Object
Authors: Zaoui Seghroucheni Yassine , AL Achhab Mohammed , El mohajir Badr Eddin
Published: October 2014

several studies have shown that learning is effective when it takes into consideration the characteristics and learning styles of learners. These systems generate learning paths based on the learning styles, and by studying the behaviors within the same system, to create the accurate learning path, while playing mostly with the order of learning objects presented (according to prerequisites, objectives,…). However these systems do not act on the cognitive level of the knowledge itself or its didactic aspects. It is assumed that the learning objects that are proposed are valid for all learners, and it’s only a matter of suitable sequence for everyone. Our aim is to propose a model of contents, based on the differentiated pedagogy, to produce multiples versions of the same course, taking into account the different requirements of differentiated pedagogy. We propose an approach that consists of differentiating the educational resources available for learners, by creating multiple versions of the same learning object to ensure its better assimilation.
Developing Scientific Literacy
Authors: Donovan Jennifer , Haeusler Carole
Published: October 2014

This chapter challenges existing school science curricula modes for teaching atomic-molecular structure and describes a current research project designed to provide supporting evidence for reviewing school science curricula. Using evidence from this project and other research studies, the chapter argues for the introduction of atomic-molecular structure in the curriculum at Year 3 or 4 and proposes that consideration be given to devising a spiral curriculum in which the macroscopic and microscopic properties of matter are taught concurrently rather than sequentially.
Martial Arts and Physics
Authors: de Silva Eugenie
Published: October 2014

Many students perceive physics to be a difficult subject without any practical applications to their daily lives. Without the appropriate guidance, students will continue to lose interest in the sciences and will be hesitant to explore possible careers in the science disciplines. Accordingly, this research project examined the use of an annual physics day to promote active engagement amongst high school and college students in the study of physics, in addition to the success of the novel teaching of physics 100 classes through the martial arts. Both activities yielded high success rates that also proved that multidisciplinary teaching techniques could aid in raising the interest of students in physics.
The Inclusion of Multidisciplinary Research in Science Teaching
Authors: de Silva Eugene , de Silva Eugenie , Horner Jeffrey , Knox Pamela
Published: October 2014

The educational process is described as a method whereby knowledge, skills, beliefs, values, and methods are transferred from one person to another. This chapter describes a series of research projects carried out from 1998 to 2013 that attempted to establish an effective process conducive to the transfer of chemistry and physics knowledge. The powerful combination of research and online studies with the latest technological tools are also discussed in this chapter. The chapter also provides the START model that signifies how different contexts may actually influence core learning. This further emphasizes the importance of the inclusion of research in teaching and how it provides a fourth dimension to teaching. This work also elaborates the importance of the multidisciplinary research-based teaching and how it promotes independent thinking and flexibility among learners.
Interdisciplinary Problem-Based Learning Practices in Higher Education
Authors: Ktoridou Despo
Published: October 2014

More and more students in higher education are enrolling on interdisciplinary programs. This phenomenon occurs since universities are breaking the boarders of a single subject area. At the university of Nicosia, the lecturer of two interdependent courses: MGT-372 Management of Innovation and Technology and MIS-151 Business Software Applications attempted to bring together students from different disciplines to explore the two topics. More specifically, through Interdisciplinary Problem-Based Learning (IPBL), the lecturer (author) aimed to eliminate the fragmentation and the learning of isolated skills and investigate students' motivation for learning and their level of active engagement through the use of technology (Google Apps). To address the above, the study employed a case study approach, collecting qualitative data through student focus groups, online/in-class observations, and lecturers' comments. The study showed that students seemed intrigued and satisfied working on interdisciplinary tasks, shared prior and newly researched knowledge, as well as acquired an integrated viewpoint and solution-focused strategies deriving from those disciplines.
Traditional Teaching and Its Effect on Research-Based Teaching
Authors: Johnson LaToya N. , Thomas Dana-Marie , Williams K. Y.
Published: October 2014

Land-based institutions that use traditional teaching methods have very well documented methods for providing students with the necessary skills, experience, and knowledge for becoming extremely productive scientists in different research areas that are traditional (chemistry, biology, and microbiology) and interdisciplinary (biochemistry, bioinformatics, and computational chemistry) in nature, and they have very few problems when transitioning into any research environment. However, online institutions do not have a well-documented history of students transitioning into land-based institution or research intensive environments. Within this case study, the authors express ways to help meet the needs of the students and educate students in becoming better scientists who have been educated in online institutions by using methods from land-based institutions and implementing other forms of technology into the classroom. The authors explore instruction, knowledge, and experience, and suggest how online science instruction can be supplemented with experience and technology that can increase their experience and knowledge to allow them to become better scientists.
Roles of Culture for Knowledge Sharing in Asian Virtual Teams
Authors: She Jinghuai , Zhang Xi , Ordóñez de Pablos Patricia , Wang Weiguang
Published: October 2014

Knowledge sharing is a critical component for successful knowledge management. For multi-culture virtual teams, the difference of culture and the limitation of virtual organization make it especially harder for knowledge-sharing management. This chapter addresses the culture and structure for knowledge sharing in virtual teams. Then, the case of Asian virtual teams is studied to show evidence for the established model. Discussion focuses on managing conflict and maximizing contribution.
Using a Hybrid System Composed of Neural Networks and Genetic Algorithms for Financial Forecasting
Authors: Dumitrescu Mihaela
Published: October 2014

The possibility of applying artificial neural networks in different areas determined the discovery of more complex structures. This chapter describes the characteristic aspects of using a back-propagation neural network algorithm in making financial forecasting improved by a different technology: genetic algorithms. These can help build an automatic artificial neural network by two adaptive processes: first, genetic search through the data entry window, the forecast horizon, network architecture space, and control parameters to select the best performers; second, back propagation learning in individual networks to evaluate the selected architectures. Thus, network performance population increases from generation to generation. This chapter also presents how genetic algorithms can be used both to find the best network architecture and to find the right combination of inputs, the best prediction horizon and the most effective weight. Finally, this study shows how the results obtained using these technologies can be applied to obtain decision support systems that can lead to increased performance in economic activity and financial projections.
The Bhagavad-Gita and Business Ethics
Authors: Muniapan Balakrishnan
Published: October 2014

The study of ancient wisdom has recently become a subject of growing interest. During the past decade we have witnessed an increase in the amount of literature on applying ancient wisdom in the context of business leadership. In the Asian context, the ancient literature from India and China is pregnant with several lessons which are relevant and useful for business leadership. Among the literature from the Indian context, the Bhagavad-Gita is one of the most popular and most cited by many scholars and practitioners in the field of business leadership. However, based on a survey of business leadership literature from the Bhagavad-Gita, very few works are found on the pressing and important topic of business ethics. Therefore, in this chapter the author attempts to explore and incorporate the ethical principles found in the Bhagavad-Gita into business leadership. In presenting the business ethics from the Bhagavad-Gita, the author has employed hermeneutics, which is a qualitative methodology used for the interpretation of ancient literatures. The Bhagavad-Gita advocates a consciousness and a spirit-centered approach to the subject of business ethics based on eternal values and moral principles that should govern the conduct of business leaders. This chapter is likely to provide insights into Indian business ethics for Western business leaders, enabling them to work more effectively with Indian business leaders in India, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Western Europe and North America where there is a significant Indian population.
A GIS-MCDA Based Model for the Suitability Evaluation of Traditional Grape Varieties
Authors: Modica Giuseppe , Laudari Luigi , Barreca Francesco , Fichera Carmelo Riccardo
Published: October 2014

Physical land suitability evaluation is crucial to rural spatial planning, as it directly contributes to designing successful and sustainable interventions. This paper deals with a physical land-suitability evaluation model for Mantonico, a historical and traditional grape variety of Southern Calabria (Italy), which is showing a considerable decline in its cultivation, owing to the abandonment of this cultivar in favor of others that are certainly more quantitatively productive, yet less valuable from a traditional and cultural point of view. The evaluation model developed was based on consolidated GIS-based MCDA (Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis) procedure and showed that the choice of the criteria (factors and constraints), which describe the physical land suitability for a niche product, is important and delicate. In fact, it is not always easy to establish how territorial characteristics may influence the development of the cultivation of an agricultural product. In this paper, the choice and, above all, the values associated to the factors, adequately represented real conditions and, as a consequence, the results of the model showed a clear coherence between suitability gradients and lands with similar cultivations. Results were validated by comparing the real geographical distribution of the current vine growing to the suitability value obtaining a very positive feedback on the robustness of the implemented model. The comparison between current vine-growing areas and the values obtained from the model clearly shows that the current vine-growing sites of the study area fall in suitable and very suitable classes (83.8%).
Discovering Regularity Patterns of Mobility Practices through Mobile Phone Data
Authors: Tagliolato Paolo , Manfredini Fabio , Pucci Paola
Published: October 2014

This article addresses the issue of analyzing and mapping mobility practices by using different kinds of mobile phone network data, which provide geo-located information on mobile phone activity at a high spatial and temporal resolution. It will present and discuss major findings and drawbacks, based on an application carried out on the Milan urban region (Lombardy, Northern Italy) and suggest possible implications for policies.