bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-25 and Interleukin-33 as Mediators of Eosinophilic Inflammation in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Lam Matthew , Hull Laura , Imrie Andrew , Snidvongs Kornkiat , Chin David , Pratt Ellie , Kalish Larry , Sacks Raymond , Earls Peter , Sewell William , Harvey Richard J.
Published: May 2015

Background

The initiating mediators of T-helper 2 inflammation, often seen in eosinophillic chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), remains poorly understood. Interleukin (IL) 25, IL-33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) are epithelial-derived cytokines implicated in the initiation of T-helper 2 inflammation and eosinophilia in other diseases. The expression of these cytokines was compared with phenotypic and histopathologic markers to investigate the factors that may drive eosinophilic inflammation in CRS.

Method

Sinus mucosal samples from patients with CRS who were undergoing sinus surgery as part of their management were analyzed for IL-25, IL-33, and TSLP messenger RNA (mRNA) expression by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Patients with tumor and who were undergoing surgery via an endonasal approach with normal sinus mucosa were controls. The mRNA expression was compared with CRS phenotype and histopathologic measures of eosinophilic inflammation. Immunohistochemical staining was used to confirm mRNA expression.

Results

Thirty-nine patients (mean ± standard deviation age; 48.2 ± 15.0 years, 38% women), 12 patients with CRS with nasal polyps, 20 patients with CRS without nasal polyps, and 7 controls were recruited. Higher IL-25 (p = 0.005) and IL-33 (p = 0.003) mRNA and protein expression was observed in patients with >10 eosinophil/hpf. TSLP showed no significant associations (p = 0.39). Similar overexpression was seen in eosinophilic dominated inflammation (IL-25, p = 0.01; IL-33, p = 0.02) and patients with greater inflammatory severity.

Conclusion

IL-25 and IL-33 overexpression was observed in eosinophilic CRS, The release of these cytokines by dysfunctional endothelium may perpetuate the eosinophillic inflammation in CRS.
Epidemiology of aging, dementia and age-related hearing loss
Authors: Limongi Federica , Noale Marianna , Siviero Paola , Crepaldi Gaetano , Maggi Stefania
Published: May 2015

Objective:

The aim of this work was to provide updated epidemiological data regarding the aging population, dementia and age related hearing loss.

Study design:

This was a review of available data.

Results:

Aging of the population has resulted in an important epidemiological transition, marked by a widespread increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases, including dementia, a disease with a devastating impact, for which currently there is no cure. In 2010 there were 35.6 million people with dementia worldwide and it is estimated that 48.1 million persons will be affected with dementia in 2020, and 90.3 million in 2040. It is therefore essential to identify known risk factors and to look for new ones, in order to be able to act quickly and effectively on those modifiable. Age related hearing loss or presbyacusis, an extremely common condition among aged individuals, is one of several factors that certainly plays an important role in increasing the risk of cognitive deficit and of developing dementia. The prevalence of hearing loss in American adults aged 70 years and above is 63%; in Europe nearly 30% of males and 20% of females have a hearing loss of 30 decibels or more at 70 years; and 55% of males, 45% of females at the age of 80 years; in Italy one individual in three over 60 years of age, and nearly 60% over 85 years, is affected by age related hearing loss.

Conclusion:

Several studies have underlined the association between dementia and age related hearing loss, although the underlying mechanisms are not yet clear; the risk of dementia increases three-fold for every 10 decibels of hearing loss.
Polyphenolics-Phospholipid Complexes as Natural Cosmetic Ingredients: Properties and Application
Authors: Djekic Ljiljana , Krajisnik Danina , Micic Zorica
Published: May 2015

Phospholipids and polyphenolic phytoconstituents may form specific molecular complexes (polyphenolics-phospholipid complexes, phyto-phospholipid complexes) with definite chemical structure, solubility, thermal and spectroscopic characteristics. Furthermore, such specific molecular entities may self-associate into spherical unilamellar vesicles (phyto-vesicles, herbosomes) with size at nano- or microscale. Phyto-phospholipid complexation was recognised as a promising strategy to improve formulation performances and enhance efficiency of herbal polyphenolics with cosmetic relevance in comparison with pure phytoconstituents. This concise review summarizes the current knowledge on preparation methods, physico-chemical properties and aspects of application of the selected phyto-complexes as cosmetic active ingredients.
10 year mass balance by glaciological and geodetic methods of Glaciar Bahía del Diablo, Vega Island, Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Marinsek Sebastián , Ermolin Evgeniy
Published: May 2015

We present new glacier mass-balance field data from Glaciar Bahía del Diablo, Vega Island, northeastern Antarctic Peninsula. The results provided here represent glacier mass-balance data over a 10 year period (2001–11) obtained by the glaciological and geodetic methods relying on field measurements. Glacier surface digital elevation models (DEMs) were obtained in 2001 and 2011 from a kinematic GPS field survey with high horizontal and vertical accuracies. In situ mass-balance data were collected from yearly stake measurements. The results attained by the two methods agree, which may be considered a measure of their accuracy. A cumulative mass change of –1.90 ± 0.31 m w.e. over the 10 year period was obtained from the annual mass-balance field surveys. The total mass change derived from DEM differencing was –2.16 ± 0.23 m w.e.
Aquaculture practices in two seasonal floodplains of Bangladesh
Authors: Akter Mahbuba , Afroz Tahmina , Mustafa Md Ghulam
Published: May 2015

A comparative technical and economic analysis of two communitybased seasonal floodplains (Khirai and Angrail) of Daudkandi Upazila, Comilla during 2008 to 2010, are represented in this paper. The two floodplains differed mainly in management and fish production which were related to capital investment, variable cost, share of profits and proportional reimbursement to the fishers. Local management committees have been developed in each floodplain with significant differences. Average 142 kg/ha of fish fingerlings (carps such as Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Cirrhinus cirrhosus, Labeo calbasu, Labeo bata and exotic species such as Hypopthalmicthys molitrix, Aristichthys nobilis, Cyprinus carpio, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Pungasius hypophthalmus, Barbonymus gonionotus, Oreochromis niloticus) were stocked at the varying proportions. Fish production obtained were 2.8 to 4.4 mt/ha and 1.1 to 1.3 mt/ha in Khirai and Angrail floodplain, respectively. The average cost of fish production, total income and the net income have been estimated as Tk. 209650 ± 54167.12/ha, Tk. 281306 ± 88263.42/ha and Tk. 71656 ± 35152.51/ha in Khirai floodplain and Tk. 62349 ± 5768.90/ha, Tk. 111930 ± 12711.02/ha and Tk. 49580 ± 6948.26/ha in Angrail floodplain, respectively. The benefit cost ratio (BCR) has been recorded as 1.33 and 1.79 in Khirai and Angrail floodplain, respectively. The results reveal that the fish production and economic benefit was higher in Khirai floodplain.Bangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 217-228, 2013
First record of the fruit fly, Diarrhegma modestum (Fabricius) (Diptera: Tephritidae) from Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain M Aftab , Khan Shakil A
Published: May 2015

Abstract not availableBangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 265-267, 2013
Relationships between anaemia and parasitic infections in adolescent girls of Bangladesh
Authors: Banu Hasina , Khanum Hamida , Hossain Md Anwar
Published: May 2015

A total of 1570 adolescent girls (aged 10-19 years) of rural, urban and slum areas in and around Dhaka city were investigated to determine the association of anaemia with parasitic infection. About one third (33.50%) of the adolescent girls were found to be infected with one or more protozoans (Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia) and helminths (Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichura, Strongyloieds stercoralis, hookworms). Anaemia (32.22%) was reported among the adolescent girls and 39.52% anaemic girls were infected with intestinal parasites against the 30.63% non anaemic cases. Anaemia was significantly associated with parasitic infestation (?2 =11.76, p<0.000). Percentage of anaemic cases was higher in slum area (38.75%) and lower in urban area (24.11%) respectively. Socioeconomic status of the adolescent girls had also impact on the prevalence of parasites and anaemia. Parasitic infestation was much lower (16.10%) among the literate compared to the illiterate respondents (47.58%). The prevalence of parasite infection was positively associated with illiterate adolescent girls (?2=171.27, OR=4.73, p<0.000). The level of education was inversely related (r = -0.98, p<0.01) with the prevalence of anaemia. Unhygienic latrine users were associated with parasite infection (OR=2.80) and anaemia (OR=2.16) respectively. The present study revealed that parasitic infection and socioeconomic status may be responsible for anaemia among the adolescent girls.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(1): 91-103, 2014
Development of a culture techniques for Tubificid worm, under laboratory conditions
Authors: Begum M , Noor P , Ahmed KN , Sultana N , Hasan MR , Mohanta LC
Published: May 2015

Study has been conducted to establish a suitable culture technique for Tubificid worm, Tubifex tubifex using different culture media. Cowdung, Rawfish and vegetables were evaluated as culture medium. Each medium was supplied as supplementary food at the rate of 250 mg/cm2 per week for 145 days. Water temperature, pH and ammonia of the rearing media ranged from 27.1-31.670C, 5.76-7.35 and 0.5 - <2.5 mg/l respectively. Among the three media, the worms grew well in size in the cowdung medium whereas rawfish showed a moderate growth of worms with remarkable number of new generation of worms. There was no significant growth of worms in the vegetables. The collection of Tubifex was quite difficult but highest amount was in cow dung (8.192 mg/g), moderate in rawfish medium (4.14 mg/g) and lowest in the vegetables (2.43 mg/g). Cowdung medium showed the maximum growth in this study period which is more viable, easy and economical.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(1): 117-122, 2014
Agricultural Sector of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Climate Change—Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Zurovec Ognjen , Vedeld Pål , Sitaula Bishal
Published: May 2015

Half of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s (BH) population lives in rural areas. Agricultural production is a backbone of the rural economy and generates significant economic value for the country. BH is highly vulnerable to climate change, which poses a significant development challenge given the climate-sensitivity of the agricultural sector, the share of agriculture in the total economy, the number of people employed in the sector, and the closely related socio-economic issues of food security. BH has experienced serious incidences of extreme weather events over the past two decades, causing severe economic losses. Based on available data and currently available climate projections, exposure to threats from climate change will continue to increase. The review paper presents the current state of the BH agricultural sector and the impact of potential climate change on agricultural systems. It proposes policy options to optimize opportunities and mitigate consequences of possible climate change in the agricultural sector. Development of policy and research capacity should include harmonisation and centralisation of domestic agricultural policies, carrying out a vulnerability assessment and strengthening the public and private extension systems. Further technological development should include improvements in weather and climate information systems, crop development, irrigation and water management.
Adaptation of Piglets Using Different Methods of Stress Prevention
Authors: Bekenev Vitaly , Garcia Arlene , Hasnulin Vyacheslav
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the viability and growth rate of piglets after weaning, the content of lipids in the blood and liver, antioxidant activity (AOA) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) when various additives are used in feed. The experiments were performed on two crosses of piglets obtained from Large White breed sows and Landrace breed boars. Twenty to 28 animals were randomly assigned per group. The following additives were tested: the benzodiazepine phenazepam, the neuroleptic aminazine, vitamins E and C, and the extract Eleutherococcus senticosus (Araliaceae). Different doses and combinations of the additives against ultraviolet irradiation were used. The addition of these substances improved the growth rate and viability of piglets. AOA increased under the influence of all factors studied, especially with the addition of extract of Eleutherococcus in feed in combination with aminazine and UV-irradiation (p < 0.01). However, the addition of Eleutherococcus extract and aminazine intensified LPO (p < 0.01), but use of UV irradiation helped to decrease LPO values (p < 0.01). Feeding a mixture of additives per pig per day of 3 mL of Eleutherococcus extract, 80 mg of 25% tocopherol, and 500 mg of ascorbic acid increased survival rate, average daily gain, and live weight at the end of the experiment. Thus, the use of prophylactic antistress and sedative drugs during weaning helps AOA normalize LPO of red blood cells; enhance post weaning growth of the pigs by 4.8% to 24.6% and increases piglet survival rate by 5% to 5.1%.
Computer Modeling of Daylight-Integrated Photocontrol of Electric Lighting Systems
Authors: Mistrick Richard , Casey Craig , Chen Ling , Subramaniam Sarith
Published: May 2015

This article presents a variety of different approaches to both model and assess the performance of daylight-integrated electric lighting control systems. In these systems, the output of a controlled lighting zone is based on a light sensor reading and a calibrated control algorithm. Computer simulations can consider the simulated illuminance data generated from both the electric lighting system and a daylight delivery system whose performance is addressed using typical meteorological year (TMY) weather data. Photosensor signals and the operation of a control system’s dimming algorithms are also included. Methods and metrics for evaluating simulated performance for the purpose of making informed design decisions that lead to the best possible installed system performance are presented.
Continuous-Variable Entanglement Swapping
Authors: Marshall Kevin , Weedbrook Christian
Published: May 2015

We present a very brief overview of entanglement swapping as it relates to continuous-variable quantum information. The technical background required is discussed and the natural link to quantum teleportation is established before discussing the nature of Gaussian entanglement swapping. The limitations of Gaussian swapping are introduced, along with the general applications of swapping in the context of to quantum communication and entanglement distribution. In light of this, we briefly summarize a collection of entanglement swapping schemes which incorporate a non-Gaussian ingredient and the benefits of such schemes are noted. Finally, we motivate the need to further study and develop such schemes by highlighting requirements of a continuous-variable repeater.
A New Optimization Method for Centrifugal Compressors Based on 1D Calculations and Analyses
Authors: Li Pei-Yuan , Gu Chu-Wei , Song Yin
Published: May 2015

This paper presents an optimization design method for centrifugal compressors based on one-dimensional calculations and analyses. It consists of two parts: (1) centrifugal compressor geometry optimization based on one-dimensional calculations and (2) matching optimization of the vaned diffuser with an impeller based on the required throat area. A low pressure stage centrifugal compressor in a MW level gas turbine is optimized by this method. One-dimensional calculation results show that D3/D2 is too large in the original design, resulting in the low efficiency of the entire stage. Based on the one-dimensional optimization results, the geometry of the diffuser has been redesigned. The outlet diameter of the vaneless diffuser has been reduced, and the original single stage diffuser has been replaced by a tandem vaned diffuser. After optimization, the entire stage pressure ratio is increased by approximately 4%, and the efficiency is increased by approximately 2%.
Prediction of Protein–Protein Interactions with Clustered Amino Acids and Weighted Sparse Representation
Authors: Huang Qiaoying , You Zhuhong , Zhang Xiaofeng , Zhou Yong
Published: May 2015

With the completion of the Human Genome Project, bioscience has entered into the era of the genome and proteome. Therefore, protein–protein interactions (PPIs) research is becoming more and more important. Life activities and the protein–protein interactions are inseparable, such as DNA synthesis, gene transcription activation, protein translation, etc. Though many methods based on biological experiments and machine learning have been proposed, they all spent a long time to learn and obtained an imprecise accuracy. How to efficiently and accurately predict PPIs is still a big challenge. To take up such a challenge, we developed a new predictor by incorporating the reduced amino acid alphabet (RAAA) information into the general form of pseudo-amino acid composition (PseAAC) and with the weighted sparse representation-based classification (WSRC). The remarkable advantages of introducing the reduced amino acid alphabet is being able to avoid the notorious dimensionality disaster or overfitting problem in statistical prediction. Additionally, experiments have proven that our method achieved good performance in both a low- and high-dimensional feature space. Among all of the experiments performed on the PPIs data of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the best one achieved 90.91% accuracy, 94.17% sensitivity, 87.22% precision and a 83.43% Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) value. In order to evaluate the prediction ability of our method, extensive experiments are performed to compare with the state-of-the-art technique, support vector machine (SVM). The achieved results show that the proposed approach is very promising for predicting PPIs, and it can be a helpful supplement for PPIs prediction.
Electrostatic Insect Sweeper for Eliminating Whiteflies Colonizing Host Plants: A Complementary Pest Control Device in An Electric Field Screen-Guarded Greenhouse
Authors: Takikawa Yoshihiro , Matsuda Yoshinori , Kakutani Koji , Nonomura Teruo , Kusakari Shin-ichi , Okada Kiyotsugu , Kimbara Junji , Osamura Kazumi , Toyoda Hideyoshi
Published: May 2015

Our greenhouse tomatoes have suffered from attacks by viruliferous whiteflies Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) over the last 10 years. The fundamental countermeasure was the application of an electric field screen to the greenhouse windows to prevent their entry. However, while the protection was effective, it was incomplete, because of the lack of a guard at the greenhouse entrance area; in fact, the pests entered from the entrance door when workers entered and exited. To address this, we developed a portable electrostatic insect sweeper as a supplementary technique to the screen. In this sweeper, eight insulated conductor wires (ICWs) were arranged at constant intervals along a polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipe and covered with a cylindrical stainless net. The ICWs and metal net were linked to a DC voltage generator (operated by 3-V alkaline batteries) inside the grip and oppositely electrified to generate an electric field between them. Whiteflies on the plants were attracted to the sweeper that was gently slid along the leaves. This apparatus was easy to operate on-site in a greenhouse and enabled capture of the whiteflies detected during the routine care of the tomato plants. Using this apparatus, we caught all whiteflies that invaded the non-guarded entrance door and minimized the appearance and spread of the viral disease in tomato plants in the greenhouse.
Landscape Epidemiology Modeling Using an Agent-Based Model and a Geographic Information System
Authors: Arifin S. , Arifin Rumana , Pitts Dilkushi , Rahman M. , Nowreen Sara , Madey Gregory , Collins Frank
Published: May 2015

A landscape epidemiology modeling framework is presented which integrates the simulation outputs from an established spatial agent-based model (ABM) of malaria with a geographic information system (GIS). For a study area in Kenya, five landscape scenarios are constructed with varying coverage levels of two mosquito-control interventions. For each scenario, maps are presented to show the average distributions of three output indices obtained from the results of 750 simulation runs. Hot spot analysis is performed to detect statistically significant hot spots and cold spots. Additional spatial analysis is conducted using ordinary kriging with circular semivariograms for all scenarios. The integration of epidemiological simulation-based results with spatial analyses techniques within a single modeling framework can be a valuable tool for conducting a variety of disease control activities such as exploring new biological insights, monitoring epidemiological landscape changes, and guiding resource allocation for further investigation.
Ultrafine-Grained Precipitation Hardened Copper Alloys by Swaging or Accumulative Roll Bonding
Authors: Altenberger Igor , Kuhn Hans-Achim , Gholami Mozhgan , Mhaede Mansour , Wagner Lothar
Published: May 2015

There is an increasing demand in the industry for conductive high strength copper alloys. Traditionally, alloy systems capable of precipitation hardening have been the first choice for electromechanical connector materials. Recently, ultrafine-grained materials have gained enormous attention in the materials science community as well as in first industrial applications (see, for instance, proceedings of NANO SPD conferences). In this study the potential of precipitation hardened ultra-fine grained copper alloys is outlined and discussed. For this purpose, swaging or accumulative roll-bonding is applied to typical precipitation hardened high-strength copper alloys such as Corson alloys. A detailed description of the microstructure is given by means of EBSD, Electron Channeling Imaging (ECCI) methods and consequences for mechanical properties (tensile strength as well as fatigue) and electrical conductivity are discussed. Finally the role of precipitates for thermal stability is investigated and promising concepts (e.g. tailoring of stacking fault energy for grain size reduction) and alloy systems for the future are proposed and discussed. The relation between electrical conductivity and strength is reported.
A Comprehensive Review on the Phytochemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities of Pogostemon cablin Benth.: An Aromatic Medicinal Plant of Industrial Importance
Authors: Swamy Mallappa , Sinniah Uma
Published: May 2015

Pogostemon cablin Benth. (patchouli) is an important herb which possesses many therapeutic properties and is widely used in the fragrance industries. In traditional medicinal practices, it is used to treat colds, headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, insect and snake bites. In aromatherapy, patchouli oil is used to relieve depression, stress, calm nerves, control appetite and to improve sexual interest. Till now more than 140 compounds, including terpenoids, phytosterols, flavonoids, organic acids, lignins, alkaloids, glycosides, alcohols, aldehydes have been isolated and identified from patchouli. The main phytochemical compounds are patchouli alcohol, α-patchoulene, β-patchoulene, α-bulnesene, seychellene, norpatchoulenol, pogostone, eugenol and pogostol. Modern studies have revealed several biological activities such as antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, antithrombotic, aphrodisiac, antidepressant, antimutagenic, antiemetic, fibrinolytic and cytotoxic activities. However, some of the traditional uses need to be verified and may require standardizing and authenticating the bioactivity of purified compounds through scientific methods. The aim of the present review is to provide comprehensive knowledge on the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of essential oil and different plant extracts of patchouli based on the available scientific literature. This information will provide a potential guide in exploring the use of main active compounds of patchouli in various medical fields.
Cross-Continental Comparison of National Food Consumption Survey Methods—A Narrative Review
Authors: De Keyzer Willem , Bracke Tatiana , McNaughton Sarah , Parnell Winsome , Moshfegh Alanna , Pereira Rosangela , Lee Haeng-Shin , Veer Pieter , De Henauw Stefaan , Huybrechts Inge
Published: May 2015

Food consumption surveys are performed in many countries. Comparison of results from those surveys across nations is difficult because of differences in methodological approaches. While consensus about the preferred methodology associated with national food consumption surveys is increasing, no inventory of methodological aspects across continents is available. The aims of the present review are (1) to develop a framework of key methodological elements related to national food consumption surveys, (2) to create an inventory of these properties of surveys performed in the continents North-America, South-America, Asia and Australasia, and (3) to discuss and compare these methodological properties cross-continentally. A literature search was performed using a fixed set of search terms in different databases. The inventory was completed with all accessible information from all retrieved publications and corresponding authors were requested to provide additional information where missing. Surveys from ten individual countries, originating from four continents are listed in the inventory. The results are presented according to six major aspects of food consumption surveys. The most common dietary intake assessment method used in food consumption surveys worldwide is the 24-HDR (24 h dietary recall), occasionally administered repeatedly, mostly using interview software. Only three countries have incorporated their national food consumption surveys into continuous national health and nutrition examination surveys.
Global Occurrence and Emission of Rotaviruses to Surface Waters
Authors: Kiulia Nicholas , Hofstra Nynke , Vermeulen Lucie , Obara Maureen , Medema Gertjan , Rose Joan
Published: May 2015

Group A rotaviruses (RV) are the major cause of acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children globally. Waterborne transmission of RV and the presence of RV in water sources are of major public health importance. In this paper, we present the Global Waterborne Pathogen model for RV (GloWPa-Rota model) to estimate the global distribution of RV emissions to surface water. To our knowledge, this is the first model to do so. We review the literature to estimate three RV specific variables for the model: incidence, excretion rate and removal during wastewater treatment. We estimate total global RV emissions to be 2 × 1018 viral particles/grid/year, of which 87% is produced by the urban population. Hotspot regions with high RV emissions are urban areas in densely populated parts of the world, such as Bangladesh and Nigeria, while low emissions are found in rural areas in North Russia and the Australian desert. Even for industrialized regions with high population density and without tertiary treatment, such as the UK, substantial emissions are estimated. Modeling exercises like the one presented in this paper provide unique opportunities to further study these emissions to surface water, their sources and scenarios for improved management.
Modification of an RBF ANN-Based Temperature Compensation Model of Interferometric Fiber Optical Gyroscopes
Authors: Cheng Jianhua , Qi Bing , Chen Daidai , Jr. Landry René
Published: May 2015

This paper presents modification of Radial Basis Function Artificial Neural Network (RBF ANN)-based temperature compensation models for Interferometric Fiber Optical Gyroscopes (IFOGs). Based on the mathematical expression of IFOG output, three temperature relevant terms are extracted, which include: (1) temperature of fiber loops; (2) temperature variation of fiber loops; (3) temperature product term of fiber loops. Then, the input-modified RBF ANN-based temperature compensation scheme is established, in which temperature relevant terms are transferred to train the RBF ANN. Experimental temperature tests are conducted and sufficient data are collected and post-processed to form the novel RBF ANN. Finally, we apply the modified RBF ANN based on temperature compensation model in two IFOGs with temperature compensation capabilities. The experimental results show the proposed temperature compensation model could efficiently reduce the influence of environment temperature on the output of IFOG, and exhibit a better temperature compensation performance than conventional scheme without proposed improvements.
Risk Leveling in Program Environments—A Structured Approach for Program Risk Management
Authors: Rasheed Shahid , Wang ChangFeng , Lucena Bruno
Published: May 2015

Programs are demarcated as administrative structures established to realize planned organizational strategies through multi-project activities. Programs occupy a distinct locus in organizational hierarchy, so therefore necessitate specialized management approaches. Risks in programs tend to widen the gap between the organizational plans and the actual program realizations. However, effective risk management can minimize these gaps. This research frames a structured approach for program risk management, called Risk Leveling in Program Environments (RLPE), which suggests (a) a deliberate shift of risks to the right organizational level where they can be addressed most effectively; and (b) a unique procedure for risk management, which attempts to stabilize the risky contexts in programs. RLPE tracks the standard risk management process, preserves distinct program locus, and employs certain qualitative and quantitative measures to achieve risk leveled environments for program success. It has been demonstrated how certain tools and concepts, such as Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP), standard deviation, etc. can be employed for risk oriented decision making in programs. RLPE is an instrumental approach, which can help the policy makers in controlling the risky contexts thereby providing sustainable growth for development programs. The offered approach can be particularly advantageous for risk management in large-scale (development) programs.
Evaluating the Thermal Pollution Caused by Wastewaters Discharged from a Chain of Coal-Fired Power Plants along a River
Authors: Rosen Marc , Bulucea Cornelia , Mastorakis Nikos , Bulucea Carmen , Jeles Andreea , Brindusa Constantin
Published: May 2015

Reliable and safe operation of a coal-fired power plant is strongly linked to freshwater resources, and environmental problems related to water sources and wastewater discharge are challenges for power station operation. In this study, an evaluation on the basis of a wastewater thermal pollution vector is reported for the environmental impact of residual water generated and discharged in the Jiu River during the operation of thermoelectric units of the Rovinari, Turceni and Craiova coal-fired power plants in Romania. Wastewater thermal pollutant vector Plane Projection is applied for assessing the water temperature evolution in the water flow lane created downstream of each power plant wastewater outlet channel. Simulation on the basis of an Electricity of France model, and testing validation of the results for thermoelectric units of 330 MW of these power plants are presented.
Water Information as a Tool to Enhance Sustainable Water Management—The Australian Experience
Authors: Horne James
Published: May 2015

Many countries and regions have struggled to put in place adequate water information systems to assist with sustainable water management. This article describes and assesses the key components of Australia’s water information and data systems, with particular reference to rural and regional Australia, focusing on progress with strengthening these systems at a national level since 2007. Through the early part of the period, much of Australia was experiencing a crisis in water availability. The article concludes with ongoing challenges for Australia and lessons from the Australian experience for other countries embarking on upgrading their water information and data systems. Upgrading a nation’s water information systems is a long-term task, but an important one in a world of climate change and increased climate variability. Substantial progress is likely to take five to 10 years to materialize. From the outset, upgrading information systems needs to be focused on data series that will facilitate answering key policy questions, assist water users in making significant decisions more effectively, and allow businesses and government to better address risks from water-related events. As always, political support matters. To sustain investments in information, its coverage must facilitate illuminating key questions and issues. Custodians of information systems must ensure that the value proposition is clear to all.
TYPES OF PLANNING STRUCTURES OF SMALL HISTORIC TOWNS OF UKRAINE / MAŽŲ UKRAINOS ISTORINIŲ MIESTŲ PLANAVIMO STRUKTŪROS TIPAI
Authors: Zapunna Ievgeniia
Published: May 2015

The present article exhibits the results of systematic analysis on structure and planning of fragments of urban environment. The results have been obtained by looking into the prerequisites of formation of urban environment, specifically the impact of the Magdeburg Rights on urban culture. The study covers the small towns in Ukraine, which retained their historical background to a greater extent. 70 towns in Ukraine that had the Magdeburg Law have been analyzed and their historic, architectural and planning capacity investigated. The most valuable urban fragments have been classified in accordance with a number of criteria, such as the form of the plan, planning composition, etc. Based on the conducted analysis the author presents further generalized proposals for comprehensive development of historical and architectural heritage within the socio-cultural and tourism infrastructure of the Ukrainian towns.
Pateikiami urbanistinės aplinkos fragmentų struktūros ir planavimo sisteminės analizės rezultatai, gauti nagrinėjant urbanistinės aplinkos formavimosi prielaidas, ypač – Magdeburgo teisių įtaką miesto kultūrai. Tyrimas apima mažus Ukrainos miestelius, kurie geriausiai išlaikė savo istorinę praeitį. Buvo išanalizuota 70 Magdeburgo teises turėjusių Ukrainos miestų, ištirtos jų istorinės, architektūrinės ir planavimo galimybės. Patys vertingiausi miesto fragmentai buvo klasifikuojami pagal tam tikrus kriterijus, pavyzdžiui, plano formą, planavimo struktūrą ir kt. Remdamasi atlikta analize, autorė pristato apibendrintus pasiūlymus dėl Ukrainos miestų istorinio ir architektūrinio paveldo plėtotės atsižvelgiant į sociokultūrinę ir turizmo infrastruktūrą.
THEORETICAL INTERPRETATION OF MODULAR ARTISTIC FORMS BASED ON THE EXAMPLE OF CONTEMPORARY LITHUANIAN ARCHITECTURE / MODULINIŲ MENINIŲ FORMŲ TEORINĖS INTERPRETACIJOS ŠIUOLAIKINĖS LIETUVOS ARCHITEKTŪROS PAVYZDŽIU
Authors: Černauskienė Aušra
Published: May 2015

The article analyses modular artistic forms that emerge in all scale structures of contemporary architecture. Module, as a standard unit of measure has been in use since antiquity. It gained even more significance amid innovative building and computing technologies of the 20th and 21st centuries. Static and fixed perceptions of a module were supplemented with concepts of dynamic and adaptable modular units, such as fractals, parameters and algorithms. Various expressions and trends of modular design appear in contemporary architecture of Lithuania, where modular forms consist of repetitive spatial and planar elements. Spatial modules as blocks or flats and planar modular wall elements are a characteristic expression of the contemporary architecture in Lithuania.
Straipsnyje nagrinėjamos modulinės meninės formos, kurios šiuolaikinėje architektūroje skverbiasi į įvairių mastelių struktūras – nuo miesto urbanistinio audinio kompozicijos, pastatų konfigūracijos iki detalių. Modulis, kaip proporcijų matas, architektūroje taikytas nuo antikos laikų, o dar didesnę reikšmę įgavo XX–XXI a., didėjant inovatyvių statybų mastui ir tobulėjant informacinėms technologijoms. Įprastinė modulio, kaip statinio fiksuotojo dydžio, samprata pasipildė kintamų, prisitaikančių modulinių dydžių, tokių, kaip antai: fraktalas, parametras, algoritmas, – sąvokomis. Įvairios modulių išraiškos ir tendencijos atsiskleidžia ir nūdienos Lietuvos architektūros pavyzdžiuose, kuriuose modulines menines formas sudaro pasikartojantys erdviniai bei plokštuminiai elementai. Erdviniai moduliai, tokie kaip sekcija-butas / patalpa, ir plokštuminiai moduliniai sienos elementai tampa būdinga, tik vis dinamiškesnės ir plastiškesnės išraiškos šiuolaikinės architektūros forma.
THE INTERACTION BETWEEN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT. DO WE HAVE A COMMON GOAL? / KRAŠTOVAIZDŽIO ARCHITEKTŪROS IR URBANISTIKOS SĄVEIKA – AR TURIME BENDRĄ TIKSLĄ
Authors: Deveikienė Vaiva
Published: May 2015

The article analyses the problem of the relationship and interaction between urban design and landscape architecture. This refers to the period of the modern city from the late nineteenth century to the present day. There are presented and discussed urbanization processes and examples of solutions with emphasis on problems arising from the relationship between a city and nature as well as those related to urban landscape and sustainability of urban landscaping in the twentieth century.
Straipsnyje analizuojama urbanistikos ir kraštovaizdžio architektūros santykio ir sąveikos problema. Aprėpiamas moderniojo miesto laikotarpis – nuo XIX a. antrosios pusės iki nūdienos. Pateikiama XX a. urbanizacijos procesų ir sprendinių pavyzdžių, aptariama akcentuojant miesto santykio su gamta, želdynais, t. y. gyvo, tvaraus miesto kraštovaizdžio, formavimo problematiką.
URBAN WATERFRONTS AS A DESERTED HERITAGE. GUBIN-GUBEN CASE STUDY / APLEISTAS MIESTO KRANTINIŲ PAVELDAS. GUBINO IR GUBENO PAVYZDYS
Authors: Amiri Oskar
Published: May 2015

The article discusses the process of changing the shape of urban waterfronts by the Lusatian Neisse River in Gubin and Guben, comparing the post-war urban solutions with the pre-war ones. Among others, the elements of urban composition, first introduced by K. Wejchert and K. Lynch, have been applied in the analysis. What has been discovered is that visual openings, compositional dominants, possible connections and other urban bonds were ruined, which resulted in spatial fragmentation. The urban factors are presented taking into account the holistic background of the complex social and political situation of the divided city.
Aptariami Lusatian Neisse upės krantinių formų kaitos procesai Gubino ir Gubeno miestuose, lyginant pokarinius urbanistinius sprendimus su prieškariniais. Analizuojama nagrinėjant urbanistinės kompozicijos elementus, kuriuos pirmieji pristatė K. Wejchertas ir K. Lynchas. Nustatyta, kad atveriamų reginių, kompozicinių elementų galimos jungtys ir kiti urbanistiniai saitai buvo suardyti, o tai nulėmė erdvių fragmentaciją. Urbanistiniai veiksniai nagrinėjami atsižvelgiant į praeityje buvusią sudėtingą padalyto miesto socialinę ir politinę situaciją.
La recherche-intervention en tant que renforcement de la communauté politique
Authors: Claudia Mayorga , Geíse Pinheiro Pinto
Published: May 2015

Dans le présent article, nous présentons la conception théorico-méthodologique de la recherche-intervention, considérée comme un outil susceptible de contribuer au renforcement de la communauté politique dans des contextes de communautés et d’institutions, en nous appuyant sur l’expérience tirée du projet de recherche-intervention de l’université fédérale de Minas Gerais, projet intitulé Cidadania em ação (Citoyenneté en action), et réalisé auprès de la communauté existant autour d’une école municipale située dans une favela de la ville de Belo Horizonte, au Brésil. Fondé sur les présupposés théorico-méthodologiques de la psychologie sociale communautaire, le projet s’est construit sur trois perspectives centrales : des positions théoriques et conceptuelles qui cherchent à comprendre, de manière critique, le rapport complexe entre la jeunesse de la favela, l’école et la citoyenneté ; des choix théoriques et analytiques qui, refusant le regard individualisé et psychologisant de l’école, proposent une analyse du contexte et des rapports sociaux dans le domaine scolaire ; enfin, les demandes présentées par l’école citée ci-dessus. Répondant aux critiques dont ont fait l’objet des recherches à caractère participatif, nous soutenons, tout en soulignant le caractère disciplinaire pris par ces initiatives, que la recherche-intervention peut, dans le contexte contemporain, contribuer à la politisation des rapports sociaux. En outre, nous mettons en avant l’importance de la réflexivité dans les processus de recherche-intervention.
Les inventions clinico-politiques dans l’intervention de la psychologie dans la favela
Authors: Livia Fortuna do Valle , Thiago Colmenero Cunha , Gastalho de Bicalho Pedro Paulo
Published: May 2015

Cet article est le résultat d’une expérience dans le cadre d’un projet de recherche-intervention « Construire un processus de choix, même quand “choisir” n’est pas un verbe disponible », de l’Institut de psychologie de l’université fédérale de Rio de Janeiro. Le projet est élaboré autour de la proposition d’une nouvelle intervention, l’analyse des vocations, questionnant l’hégémonie des pratiques d’orientation, marquées par le paradigme statistique, lesquelles annoncent des vocations prétendument en adéquation avec des personnalités jusqu’alors inconnues. Dans notre proposition, le psychologue n’est plus celui qui détermine le chemin, mais celui qui le met en question. Il ne conçoit pas le sujet comme « en-soi », mais il considère la subjectivité comme résultant d’agencements et de conjonctures historiques, sans être détaché de sa condition politique. L’analyse des vocations s’appuie sur un autre regard et sur une nouvelle clinique, qui génère, chez les sujets, de nouvelles possibilités de construction de demandes et de parcours.
Catastrophe et temps
Authors: Ogino Masahiro
Published: May 2015

RÉSUMÉ La rupture du temps apportée par la catastrophe donne lieu à deux types de conception du temps : la logique d’absorption du futur dans le présent et l’éphémérité. La première est née pour prévenir les risques et elle a aidé le développement capitaliste alors que la dernière a, dans un premier temps, remis en cause le désir d’accumulation de richesses. Mais le capitalisme arrive aujourd’hui à domestiquer le sentiment d’éphémérité qui acquiert une valeur dans la société de consommation.
La psychose est-elle le fruit de l’Histoire ? À propos de la crise de septembre 1938 et de l’exode de mai-juin 1940
Authors: Guillemain Hervé
Published: May 2015

Pour les malades entrés à l’hôpital psychiatrique durant la Seconde Guerre mondiale ou sortis peu après celle-ci, et pour leurs familles, il ne fait aucun doute que les événements de la guerre ont joué un rôle majeur dans le déclenchement de la psychose dont ils souffrent. Au premier abord les discours médicaux qui paraissent nier ce fait montrent que la controverse scientifique sur les liens entre guerre et folie ne s’est guère enrichie depuis la Grande Guerre. Pourtant en nous appuyant sur les effets psychiatriques de deux événements de l’histoire contemporaine française - la panique de septembre 1938 et l’exode de mai-juin 1940 – il est possible d’affirmer que ces événements et les travaux médicaux qui sont liés à eux permettent de consolider la notion récente et très discutée de « psychose réactionnelle » - pensée en tant que point de contact entre le terrain et l’expérience vécue, entre l’Histoire et l’histoire individuelle.
Permettre aux morts de mourir. Psychopathologie et prise en charge des séquelles de la shoah
Authors: Zajde Nathalie
Published: May 2015

L’auteur, enseignant-chercheur à l’Université de Paris 8, responsable de la cellule psychologique dédiée aux survivants et descendants de survivants de la Shoah du Centre Georges Devereux, rappelle l’évolution du statut du survivant des camps de concentration dans le corpus psychiatrique, elle remet en cause certains préjugés sur l’usage de la parole et sa fonction dans les familles de survivants, enfin, en s’appuyant sur des vignettes cliniques, elle présente l’intérêt et la singularité de l’approche ethno-psychiatrique.
L’Identité individuelle et les contextualisations de soi
Authors: Mucchielli Alex
Published: May 2015

Cet article développe l’idée que l’identité concerne avant tout un ensemble de significations, issues de diverses contextualisations de soi. Il explore l’identité en tant qu’elle est une construction subjective, élaborée au cours d’interactions sociales, professionnelles, culturelles et autres. Il montre que cette construction dépend aussi fortement d’une visée intentionnelle elle-même toujours contextualisée et, donc, toujours changeante. L’article propose aussi de considérer que ces constructions subjectives ne peuvent cacher une identité plus profonde qui reposerait sur une expérience intérieure échappant à toute subjectivisation tels que le sentiment d’identité et le sentiment d’appartenance.
Qui suis-je ? Identité- ipse , identité- idem et identité narrative
Authors: Cabestan Philippe
Published: May 2015

La question de l’identité du sujet est envisagée dans ce bref article à partir de l’œuvre de Paul Ricœur, l’auteur notamment de Soi-même comme un autre . On sait que le soi, pour Ricœur, est ce qui répond à la question “qui ?”. Il a en tant que tel une identité personnelle qui peut être décrite de différentes manières. Ainsi Ricœur distingue-t-il l’identité- ipse , l’identité- idem et l’identité narrative. Cependant, en dépit de sa fécondité, y compris dans le domaine de la psychopathologie, une telle distinction permet-elle véritablement de saisir le soi du sujet, autrement dit le soi d’un être qui, comme le montre Sartre dans L’Être et le néant , est tout d’abord pour-soi ?
Vygotski avec Spinoza, au-delà de Freud
Authors: Clot Yves
Published: May 2015

L’importance de l’apport du psychologue russe Lev Vygotski est largement sous-estimée. Au-delà du dualisme qui domine toujours la psychologie et la psychanalyse, Vygotski ouvre la voie, par sa conception spinoziste des affects et de la transindividualité, à une pratique inédite de la dynamique collective dépassant l’opposition freudienne de l’individu et de la société. Un nouvel art des passions en commun serait la condition d’une régénération des individus déficients aussi bien que de la psychanalyse elle-même.
Measuring the Poverty of Elderly People with Needs Analysis in Turkey
Authors: Özmete Emine
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to analyze the economic, social, and cultural needs of elderly people to determine the poverty thereof in Ankara (the capital city of Turkey).The economic, social, and cultural needs of individuals, which are among the indicators taken into consideration by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in measurement of human poverty index, were subject to research in measurement of poverty of elderly people. Face-to-face surveys were conducted with individuals over 65 years of age in the study, with 2.522 surveys qualified for evaluation. It was seen that the majority of elderly people were covered by social security. The elderly people reported their health to be good. They stated satisfaction regarding interindividual relationships with regard to social needs. However, it was concluded that the income of elderly people was not sufficient, and that they could not sufficiently afford electrical power and water invoices, medicine, food, and clothing expenses.