bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medición de la diversidad comercial minorista en áreas urbanas a través del uso de los índices de Shannon-Weaver y de Ullman-Dacey
Authors: Aguilera Ontiveros Antonio , Bárcenas Castro Mayra Angélica
Published: January 2015

Los índices de Shannon-Weaver y de Ullman-Dacey son usados para medir la diversidad comercial minorista de los dos principales centros de actividad económica de la zona metropolitana de San Luis Potosí, México. Se muestra la forma en que se realizó la definición del área de estudio, el procedimiento de obtención de los datos a través del uso de bases de datos gubernamentales, el modo en que se trabajaron los datos para usarlos en los cálculos de los índices. Por último, se realiza una discusión sobre los resultados y se hacen reflexiones en materia de planeación urbana y económica para el área de estudio.

[fr] Les indices de Shannon-Weaver et d’Ullman-Dacey sont utilisés pour mesurer la diversité du commerce de détail dans les deux principaux centres d’activité économique de la zone métropolitaine de San Luis Potosí, Mexique. On montre la façon dont on a défini la délimitation du milieu d’étude, le procédé d’obtention des données en utilisant des bases de données gouvernementales et comment les données ont été analysées et utilisées pour calculer les indices. Pour finir, les résultats sont soumis à discussion et des éléments de réflexion sont proposés concernant la planification urbaine et économique du milieu d’étude.
Entropía de grafos y su uso para medir la inteligibilidad de la ciudad
Authors: Aguilera Ontiveros Antonio , Ugalde Saldaña Edgardo
Published: January 2015

Dentro de los estudios de cognición del espacio, Hillier (1996) propuso el concepto de inteligibilidad como una propiedad del espacio que permite que éste sea comprendido por las personas que lo transitan y/o habitan. Hillier, dentro de la teoría de la sintaxis del espacio, propone que la inteligibilidad es la correlación entre una variable local y una variable global. Basados en lo anterior, Volchenkov y Blanchard (2008) han propuesto una forma de medir la inteligibilidad fuera del contexto técnico de la teoría de la sintaxis del espacio. Este trabajo recupera la discusión teórica-metodológica del trabajo de Hillier y expone el método de Volchenkov y Blanchard. Como ejemplo del mismo se midió la inteligibilidad del centro histórico de la ciudad de San Luis Potosí, México. Se encontró que dicho espacio tiene una inteligibilidad alta según el método propuesto por Volchenkov y Blanchard.

[fr] Dans le cadre des études de la cognition spatiale, Hillier (1996) a proposé le concept d’intelligibilité comme une propriété de l’espace permettant que celui-ci soit compris par les personnes qui y transitent et/ou l’habitent. Hillier propose, dans le contexte de la théorie de la syntaxe spatiale, que l’intelligibilité est la corrélation existante entre une variable locale et une variable globale. Conformément à cette théorie, Volchenkov et Blanchard (2008) ont proposé une méthode pour quantifier l’intelligibilité en dehors du contexte technique de la théorie de la syntaxe spatiale. Le travail ci-présent reprend la discussion théorique et méthodologique du travail de Hillier et expose la méthode de Volchenkov et Blanchard. À titre d’exemple, l’intelligibilité du centre historique de la ville de San Luis Potosí, au Mexique, est quantifiée. Le résultat est que cet espace possède un haut niveau d’intelligibilité selon la méthode proposée par Volchenkov et Blanchard.
Inmigración y distribución de la población anciana en España (2002-2011): una aproximación desde la escala municipal
Authors: López González Alejandro , Aldrey Vázquez José Antonio
Published: January 2015

La literatura científica sobre el fenómeno inmigratorio en la España de los últimos quince años ha sido abundante en tanto y cuanto a su carácter masivo. Sin embargo, muy poco o nada se ha profundizado en la repercusión de la inmigración sobre la población anciana. En este artículo se aborda este tema, desde una perspectiva que se aproxima a la escala municipal y a determinados colectivos de inmigrantes que, aunque diferentes en cuanto a su estructura interna y motivaciones de llegada, se cuentan entre los que han aportado mayores contingentes: británicos, marroquíes, ecuatorianos y rumanos. Se divide el análisis en dos períodos diferentes, 2002-2007, en el que el crecimiento económico y la demanda de mano de obra foránea eran elevadas, y 2008-2011, en el que la crisis dejó sentir ya de manera rotunda su incidencia. Los resultados muestran una aportación leve al crecimiento de la población de mayor edad, aunque con matices.

[fr] La littérature scientifique sur le phénomène migratoire de ces quinze dernières années en Espagne est abondante, à la mesure de son caractère massif. Cependant, très peu d’études, voire aucune, n’ont été faites sur l’influence de l’immigration sur la population du troisième âge. Cet article aborde ce sujet d’un point de vue proche à l’échelle locale et à certains collectifs d’immigrés qui, bien que différents quant à leur structure interne et leurs motivations d’arrivée, figurent parmi ceux qui ont apporté les plus grands contingents : Britanniques, Marocains, Équatoriens et Roumains. L’analyse est divisée en deux périodes différentes : 2002-2007, pendant laquelle la croissance économique et la demande de main d’oeuvre étrangère étaient élevées; et 2008-2011, pendant laquelle les effets de la crise se faisaient déjà sentir de manière évidente. Les résultats montrent un apport léger à la croissance de la population du troisième âge, bien qu’avec quelques nuances.
Síntesis biogeográfica y fitosociológica de la vegetación del Parque Natural de la Sierra de Baza (Cordillera Bética, Andalucía, Sur de España)
Authors: Olmedo-Cobo José Antonio , Gómez Zotano José , Gómez Zotano José , Molero Mesa Joaquín , Molero Mesa Joaquín
Published: January 2015

Se presenta una síntesis de la vegetación del Parque Natural de la Sierra de Baza (Cordillera Bética, Andalucía, Sur de España) desde un enfoque biogeográfico y fitosociológico integrado, siendo las directrices del análisis las series de vegetación y las asociaciones vegetales. Se parte de la revisión bibliográfica y del trabajo de campo para la clasificación sintaxonómica de las distintas fitocenosis identificadas, resaltando la condición de este territorio como enclave situado entre varios sectores corológicos de la provincia biogeográfica Bética que tienen una clara influencia en la configuración de las diferentes comunidades vegetales de la Sierra de Baza. Todo ello ha permitido incorporar algunas novedades y matizaciones de ciertas cuestiones fitosociológicas establecidas recientemente, partiendo de la última sectorización biogeográfica que se ha llevado a cabo para este territorio.

[fr] L’article pose une synthèse de la végétation du parc naturel de la Sierra de Baza (Cordillère Bétique Andalousie, Sud de l’Espagne) à partir d’une approche biogéographique et phytosociologique intégrée; les directrices pour l’analyse sont des séries de végétation et d’associations végétales. La revue de la littérature et le travail de champ ils ont permis la classification syntaxonomique des phytocénoses identifiés, soulignant situation géographique de ce territoire entre les différents secteurs chorologiques de la province biogéographique Bétique ayant une nette influence sur la configuration des différents communautés végétales de la Sierra de Baza. Tout cela a permis d’intégrer quelques nouvelles fonctionnalités et qualités de certaines questions phytosociologiques récemment mis en place basé, sur la base de la dernière sectorisation biogéographique qui a été réalisée pour ce territoire.
Material e instrumentos ligados a la alimentación saharaui. Aspectos culturales, lingüísticos y semánticos
Authors: Baya E. Moulay-Lahssan
Published: January 2015

En este artículo, centrado en la región denominada Sáhara Occidental (antiguo Sáhara Español), y directamente relacionado con la dialectología y las tradiciones populares, ofrecemos un estudio sobre el material y los instrumentos culinarios utilizados tradicionalmente (aunque mucho de ello se conserva hoy en día) por los habitantes autóctonos de dicha región. Para ello, abordamos cuestiones principales tales como el dialecto ḥassā-niya; la cocción y preparación tradicional de los alimentos en la zona objeto de estudio; los instrumentos y vasijas para el tratamiento de la leche; los instrumentos para el tratamiento del grano o el uso y aprovechamiento de arbustos para la obtención de la madera, ya que la inmensa mayoría de los recipientes de madera se fabricaban a partir de algunas de las especies leñosas más representativas del entorno. El enfoque es, básicamente, antropológico, con un evidente componente semántico, reflejado en el uso abundante de terminología árabe ḥassā-niya, con su equivalente castellano.
Cestos, gestos y género, en los azulejos portugueses de la primera mitad del siglo XX
Authors: Mingote Calderón José Luis
Published: January 2015

Este trabajo ofrece una aproximación parcial al variado contenido de los paneles de azulejos portugueses de la primera mitad del siglo XX que se encuentran en una amplia gama de edificios: estaciones de tren, mercados, plazas, fuentes, comercios, casas particulares, etc. En ellos, las imágenes de los campesinos aparecen filtradas por la óptica de las élites y están categorizadas por la interpretación nacionalista del «pueblo».
La copia de imágenes previas, mayoritariamente fotográficas, transmite una sensación de realismo y de veracidad, plasmada tanto en los elementos materiales como en los gestos de uso de los mismos. Algo que no impide la existencia de una interpretación ideológica de las imágenes. La elección de las escenas pretende reflejar la variedad regional a través de una selección ideológica. En la documentación recopilada priman determinados aspectos frente a otros, destacando el ámbito de la vid, y dentro de él, las vendimias. Junto a ellas, se representa la recogida de la aceituna, ciertos trabajos relativos al cereal, la recogida de algas para abonar los campos y, en menor medida, escenas de mercados o de otro tipo.
A Study to Explore Relationships Between Customer Demographics and Brand Loyalty in The Indian Telecom Sector
Authors: Prasad K Sai , Mishra Sita
Published: January 2015

Customer loyalty is vital in any relationship marketing effort. With little or no product and service differentiation in the telecom sector, retaining the loyalty of customers is a big challenge. Service providers are investing substantial amounts in a variety of CRM strategies. While on one hand customer loyalty is a function of good products and services, resulting in increased levels of satisfaction, on the other hand customers' social and demographic profile plays a key role in determining a customer's loyalty to his service provider. Four types of loyalty measures were categorized and relationships with the demographic variables studied. This paper explores whether customer loyalty and demographic factors are linked in the telecom sector and to what extent. The findings and interpretation are similar to what other researchers have arrived at in the past, in that there is no significant relationship between demographic factors and loyalty. This study will have a huge impact on CRM investments in the telecom sector and will make service providers rethink their customer loyalty strategies.
Research Practices in Public Relations Organizations in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Al-Jenaibi Badreya
Published: January 2015

This manuscript draws from extensive research conducted in various public relations firms in the United Arab Emirates, and describes contemporary research practices on which these firms are building. Their inclination is toward incorporation of permanent research in their organizational framework and in-depth analyses regarding how public relations firms evolve and meet clients' future expectations. In-depth analyses were conducted in national, international, small, average, and high-scale public relations firms to determine how research is helping, at various levels, to excel and impress clients. Mixed research methods were used; 350 questionnaires were distributed and 17 face-to- face interviews were conducted over 7 months. Results suggest that the economic, social, and institutional characteristics of public relations firms in the United Arab Emirates are dissimilar to other countries, so extensive research is required to determine the significance of research concerning improving public relations practices in the country.
Analyzing the Influence of Customer Relationship Management on Firm Performance
Authors: Yadav Brijesh Kumar , Singh Abhijeet
Published: January 2015

Today, companies have come to realize that customers are the foundation of a business and effective relationship management is indispensible for the success of an organisation. Hence, one of the most important objectives of a company is to satisfy its customers as they are the backbone and keep a business running. Moreover, it is being witnessed that customer's needs and buying behaviour have changed considerably. In order to meet ever changing demands, organisations need to adopt customer oriented marketing strategies to gain competitive advantage. Since customers nowadays are becoming more price sensitive and shift loyalty frequently in terms of selecting products and services of any company, it has become very difficult to retain them. As a result, emphasis on long term relationships with customers has gained momentum in businesses. The goal of the present study is to expand the study of customer relationship management (CRM) by investigating the association of dimensions of CRM and organizational performance. The study extends customer relationship management to the hotel industry context. It explores a set of CRM dimensions or constructs that are important for implementing CRM in hotel industry in Indian perspective.
Factors Hindering IT Outsourcing Relationship in Swedish Public Organizations
Authors: Rusu Horea , Jensen Emil
Published: January 2015

IT outsourcing relationship is the relationship in the outsourcing agreement between the service provider and service receiver. The overall IT outsourcing success is directly influenced by the IT outsourcing relationship. However, not much attention has been given in research literature to the IT outsourcing relationship in public organizations and even less regarding the IT outsourcing relationship in Swedish public organizations. This study investigates the factors that hinder the post-contract stage of IT outsourcing relationship in Swedish municipalities. The research was performed through case studies in two Swedish municipalities and has revealed nine hindering factors in the post-contract stage of an IT outsourcing relationship. The findings of this study contribute to the few existing research on the hindering factors of the post-contract stage of the IT outsourcing relationship in public organizations.
Antecedents and Consequences of E-News Brand Trust
Authors: Ardyan Elia , Aryanto Vincent Didiek Wiet
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this paper is to determine the effect of the antecedents of e-news brand trust and want to determine the consequences of e-news brand trust. The model used in this study were tested into two news brands online, which is Detik.com and Kompas.com. Sample of this study composed of 418 respondents, of which 239 respondents are Kompas.com readers and readers of Detik.com comprised of 179 respondents. The analysis used in this study is the Structural Equation Model. Results of this study indicate that both Detik.com and Kompas.com have the same result for the research model used. The result of this research are e-news brand attributes have positive and significant impact on e-news brand experience, e-news brand attributes have a positive and significant impact on e-news brand loyalty, e-news brand experience has negative effect but not significant at the customer confusion, customer confusion, has a negative but not significant effect on e-news trust brand, e -news brand experience has the effect of e-news brand trust and a significant positive effect on brand loyalty e-news.
Bitcoin
Authors: Saito Tetsuya
Published: January 2015

This paper considers whether the stability of Bitcoin in the market as a method of payment using a dual currency money-search model. In the model, there is traditional money and Bitcoin. The two currencies are classified by the storage cost and the probability that sellers accept particular money for payments. Agents are randomly matched for transactions. To consider substitution effect between monies, we allow new entries every period. In the beginning of each period, new entrants come into the matching process with a unit of money of their choice. A certain number of sellers also come into the same process to maintain the population share of sellers at a constant level. With appropriately chosen parameters, the author finds that there can be stable and unstable equilibria of the share of bitcoiners. In this case, a stable equilibrium is a success (bitcoiners take a large share) while the other (unstable) is a failure (bitcoiners take a marginal share or vanish). However, if the inflation rate of traditional money decreases, the successful equilibrium disappears to start approaching the failure even if Bitcoin is currently widely accepted. Furthermore, welfare comparisons suggest that an increase in the share of bitcoiners has a negative effect; hence, the benefit from reductions in the transaction costs must compensate for the welfare erosion if Bitcoin is accepted as a new kind of payment system. If the author is to succeed, the Bitcoin community or the public authorities need to be prepared for protecting the system from several illicit activities.
Robust Adaptive Central Difference Particle Filter
Authors: Xue Li , Gao Shesheng , Zhong Yongmin , Jazar Reza , Subic Aleksandar
Published: January 2015

This paper presents a new robust adaptive central difference particle filtering method for nonlinear systems by combining the concept of robust adaptive estimation with the central difference particle filter. This method obtains system state estimate and covariances using the principle of robust estimation. Subsequently, the importance density is obtained by adjusting the state estimate and covariances through the equivalent weight function and adaptive factor constructed from predicted residuals to control the contributions to the new state estimation from measurement and kinematic model. The proposed method can not only minimize the variance of the importance density distribution to resist the disturbances of systematic noises, but it also fully takes advantage of present measurement information to avoid particle degeneration. Experiments and comparison analysis with the existing methods demonstrate the improved filtering accuracy of the proposed method.
Mixed Autonomous/Teleoperation Control of Asymmetric Robotic Systems
Authors: Malysz Pawel , Sirouspour Shahin
Published: January 2015

This paper presents a unified framework for system design and control in human-in-the-loop asymmetric robotic systems. It introduces a highly general teleoperation system configuration involving any number of operators, haptic interfaces, and robots with possibly different degrees of mobility. The proposed framework allows for mixed teleoperation/autonomous control of user-defined subtasks by establishing position/force tracking as well as kinematic constraints among relevant teleoperation control frames. The control strategy is hierarchical comprising of a high-level teleoperation coordinating controller and low-level joint velocity controllers. The approach utilizes idempotent, generalized pseudoinverse and weighting matrices in order to achieve new performance objectives that are defined for such asymmetric semi-autonomous teleoperation systems. Three layers of velocity-based autonomous control at different priority levels with respect to human teleoperation are integrated into the framework. A detailed analysis of system performance and stability is presented. Experimental results with a single-master/dual-slave system configuration demonstrate an application of the proposed system design and control strategy.
Revision of the cricket species of the subfamily Itarinae (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) from China
Authors: Ma Libin , Zhang Yalin
Published: January 2015

Genus ofItaraWalker, 1869 (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) includes 10 subgenera and 54 species worldwide. These species are mainly distributed in the Asia-tropical region (e.g., Malay Archipelago, India, Vietnam, and Thailand). In China, one species (Itara minorChopard, 1925) has long been identified from tropical regions. In this study, three subgenera and eight species ofItarahave been identified. Three new species are described (Itara(Itara)basidentatanew species,Itara(Itara)dicrananew species, andItara(Gryllitara)denudatanew species, and four new distribution records are reported. Descriptions and illustrations for eight species are provided.
Can Wolbachia (Rickettsiaceae) explain female-biased sex ratios in mountain pine beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)?
Authors: Lachowsky Leanna E. , Lalonde Robert G. , Reid Mary L.
Published: January 2015

Wolbachia Hertig (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) is a genus of endosymbionts that are widespread in insects and can have important implications on population dynamics through cytoplasmic incompatibility or sex-ratio distortion. We considered Wolbachia as a possible explanation for female-biased sex ratios often observed in mountain pine beetle populations, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), a major pest species in western Canada whose most recent outbreak and range expansion has killed many millions of mature lodgepole pine, Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelmann (Pinaceae). We used wsp primers to screen for Wolbachia in 10 mountain pine beetle populations with varying degrees of female bias in southeast British Columbia and southwest Alberta, Canada. We found no evidence of Wolbachia in these populations and suggest that other factors may explain the sex-ratio bias.
A Nonhuman Primate Scrub Typhus Model: Protective Immune Responses Induced by pKarp47 DNA Vaccination in Cynomolgus Macaques
Authors: Paris Daniel H. , Chattopadhyay Suchismita , Jiang Ju , Nawtaisong Pruksa , Lee John S. , Tan Esterlina , Dela Cruz Eduardo , Burgos Jasmin , Abalos Rodolfo , Blacksell Stuart D. , Lombardini Eric , Turner Gareth D. , Day Nicholas P. J. , Richards Allen L.
Published: January 2015

We developed an intradermal (ID) challenge cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis) model of scrub typhus, the leading cause of treatable undifferentiated febrile illness in tropical Asia, caused by the obligate intracellular bacterium, Orientia tsutsugamushi. A well-characterized animal model is required for the development of clinically relevant diagnostic assays and evaluation of therapeutic agents and candidate vaccines. We investigated scrub typhus disease pathophysiology and evaluated two O. tsutsugamushi 47-kDa, Ag-based candidate vaccines, a DNA plasmid vaccine (pKarp47), and a virus-vectored vaccine (Kp47/47-Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus replicon particle) for safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy against homologous ID challenge with O. tsutsugamushi Karp. Control cynomolgus macaques developed fever, classic eschars, lymphadenopathy, bacteremia, altered liver function, increased WBC counts, pathogen-specific Ab (IgM and IgG), and cell-mediated immune responses. Vaccinated macaques receiving the DNA plasmid pKarp47 vaccine had significantly increased O. tsutsugamushi–specific, IFN-γ–producing PBMCs (p = 0.04), reduced eschar frequency and bacteremia duration (p ≤ 0.01), delayed bacteremia onset (p < 0.05), reduced circulating bacterial biomass (p = 0.01), and greater reduction of liver transaminase levels (p < 0.03) than controls. This study demonstrates a vaccine-induced immune response capable of conferring sterile immunity against high-dose homologous ID challenge of O. tsutsugamushi in a nonhuman primate model, and it provides insight into cell-mediated immune control of O. tsutsugamushi and dissemination dynamics, highlights the importance of bacteremia indices for evaluation of both natural and vaccine-induced immune responses, and importantly, to our knowledge, has determined the first phenotypic correlates of immune protection in scrub typhus. We conclude that this model is suitable for detailed investigations into vaccine-induced immune responses and correlates of immunity for scrub typhus.
Prescribing patterns and perceptions of health care professionals about rational drug use in a specialist hospital clinic.
Authors: Ojo Moses A. , Igwilo Cecilia I. , Emedoh Thomas
Published: January 2015

Irrational drug use is associated with adverse consequences including drug resistance and avoidable adverse drug reactions. Studies of rational drug use in psychiatric facilities are scanty. This study evaluated prescription practices and perception of health care professionals regarding causes of irrational drug use. A retrospective study conducted at the outpatient clinic of Federal Neuro- psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos. Data on drug use indicators were analyzed. A cross-sectional assessment of perception of prescribers and dispensers regarding rational drug use was conducted. A total of 600 prescriptions were analyzed. Mean number of drugs per encounter was 3.5 and percentage generic prescribed was 58.5%. Poly-pharmacy (P=0.024, 95% CI=1.082-1.315) and non-generic prescribing (P=0.032, 95% CI=1.495-1.821) were significantly associated with young prescribers. Factors associated with irrational drug use include demand from patients, patients’ beliefs about injection drugs and influence of pharmaceutical sale representatives. Certain aspect of prescribers indicators are still poor in the hospital studied. Health care professionals identified possible associated factors for irrational drug use. Concerted efforts are required to ensure rational drug use especially in psychiatric facilities in Nigeria.
Factors influencing quality of life and predictors of low quality of life scores in patients on treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis: a cross sectional study.
Authors: Adeyeye Olufunke O. , Ogunleye Olayinka O. , Coker Ayodele , Kuyinu Yetunde , Bamisile Raymond T. , Ekrikpo Udeme , Onadeko Babatunde
Published: January 2015

There is paucity of information on the quality of life of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis in Nigeria. This study assessed the factors influencing their quality of life and the independent predictors of low quality of life scores. Two hundred and sixty consecutive patients with pulmonary tuberculosis seen at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital were evaluated for health related quality of life using the World Health Organization Quality of life instrument (WHOQoL-BREF). Sociodemographic characteristics of the patients were related to the various domains of quality of life and a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the independent predictors of low quality of life scores in the patients. The mean age of the patients was 36.7±12 years. Sex, age and marital status of patients were found to influence quality of life scores. The independent predictors of low quality of life scores were low monthly income, duration of the illness, concomitant illnesses, unemployment, advancing age and male gender. Several socio demographic and economic factors influenced the quality of life of patients with tuberculosis and are predictive of poor scores. It is important to consider these factors when treating patients with tuberculosis to optimise outcome of care.
Technical guidelines for reduction of space weather impacts on geostationary satellites
Authors: Lam H -L
Published: January 2015

An overview of space weather effects on geostationary satellites and engineering designs to mitigate the effects is presented. NRCan Space Weather Hazards Group's work related to the reduction of space weather impact on satellites is highlighted. It is shown that
NRCan's real-time geomagnetic data can be utilized to implement practical guidelines, hitherto not proposed before, to provide warning and situational awareness of possible surface charging of satellites. Since Space Weather Hazards Group also dispenses routine forecasts of energetic electron
fluence, dangerously high fluence level that signals possible impending internal charging of satellites can be forewarned 1-3 day in advance. The electron forecast web page has consistently received large numbers of visits over the years, indicating the usefulness of the electron forecast to the
space community regarding internal charging. Nonetheless, the existing prediction algorithm can be further improved to provide even better electron forecasts by incorporating the high cadence of NRCan's geomagnetic data using results of studies on ULF (Ultra Low Frequency) waves in relation to
electron enhancements. Attention should also be paid to possible triggers of electrostatic discharge by more closely examining natural electromagnetic transients after charging has occurred. A space weather anomaly investigation system to discern space environmental causes of satellite anomalies has
been developed so that anomaly history of a particular satellite due to specific space weather conditions can be chronicled for consideration in future design modification of satellites of similar make.
The effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy on the prevalence of oral manifestation in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients in Karnataka, India
Authors: Patil Neelkant , Chaurasia Vishwajit Rampratap , Babaji Prashant , Ramesh Dnsv , Jhamb Kshitij , Sharma Akanksha Manmohan
Published: January 2015

Objectives: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a highly lethal, progressively epidemic viral infection characterized by profound impairment of the immune system. Oral manifestations are common in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected AIDS patients, and are usually the first indicator of symptom and disease progression. The main objective of the current study was to compare the prevalence of oral manifestations in HIV patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) with those, not on HAART therapies. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 100 patients diagnosed as human immune virus sero-positive. These patients were divided equally into two groups (50 each); Group I patients on HAART and Group II patients who were not on HAART. Information regarding age, sex and cluster of differentiation 4 cell count was obtained from the medical records. Oral examination was done, and findings were recorded by using internationally accepted presumptive clinical criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square statistical test. Results: The presence of oral manifestations was significantly decreased in subjects on HAART (32%) compared to those who are not on HAART (56%). The most common oral lesions detected in patients on HAART were increased oral hyper-pigmentation (14%), recurrent aphthous stomatitis (8%), non-specific ulcerations (4%), pseudo-membranous candidiasis (2%), periodontitis (2%) and xerostomia (2%), whereas in non HAART oral hyperpigmentation (10%), pseudo-membranous candidiasis (8%), angular cheilitis (4%), and erythematous candidiasis (4%) and Periodontitis (14%) were more prevalent. Conclusion: The number and severity of oral manifestation decreased, and even there was a change in the type of oral manifestations on HAART, which may be because of the improvement in immunity gained by the therapy.
Histological evaluation of the cleaning effectiveness of two reciprocating single-file systems in severely curved root canals: Reciproc versus WaveOne
Authors: Carvalho Maira de Souza , Sponchiado Emílio Carlos , Garrido Angela Delfina Bitencourt , Garcia Lucas da Fonseca Roberti , Marques André Augusto Franco
Published: January 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the cleaning effectiveness achieved with two reciprocating single-file systems in severely curved root canals: Reciproc and WaveOne. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five mesial roots of mandibular molars were randomly separated into two groups, according to the instrumentation system used. The negative control group consisted of five specimens that were not instrumented. The mesial canals (buccal and lingual) in Reciproc Group were instrumented with file R25 and the WaveOne group with the Primary file. The samples were submitted to histological processing and analyzed under a digital microscope. Results: The WaveOne group presented a larger amount of debris than the Reciproc Group, however, without statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). A larger amount of debris in the control group was observed, with statistically significant difference to Reciproc and WaveOne groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The two reciprocating single-file instrumentation systems presented similar effectiveness for root canal cleaning.
Bacterial microleakage of aged adhesive restorations
Authors: Cobanoglu Nevin , Kara Emine , Unlu Nimet , Ozer Fusun
Published: January 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the marginal bacterial leakage of two self-etch adhesive systems after long-term water storage. Materials and Methods: Class V cavities were prepared on the buccal and lingual surfaces of extracted premolar teeth. After the sterilization of the teeth, four cavities were not restored for control purposes, whereas the other teeth were divided into two groups (n = 16 cavities each): Clearfil Protect Bond (CPB), Clearfil SE Bond (CSE). After the application of the bonding agent, cavities were restored with a composite resin. Then, the teeth were thermo cycled, stored in saline solution for 6 months and put into a broth culture of Streptococcus mutans. The teeth were fixed, sectioned and stained using the Gram-Colour modified method. The stained sections were then evaluated under a light microscope. The bacterial leakage was scored as: 0 - absence of stained bacteria, 1 - bacterial staining along the cavity walls, 2 - bacterial staining within the cut dentinal tubules. The data were analysed using the Kruskal—Wallis and Mann—Whitney U-test (P = 0.05). Results: The bacterial staining was detected within the cut dentinal tubules in all control cavities, in three cavities in the CSE group and one cavity in the CPB group. There were no observed statistically significant differences between the bacterial penetrations of the two bonding systems (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Both bonding systems provided acceptable prevention of marginal bacterial leakage after long-term water storage.
Investigating types and sources of organic aerosol in Rocky Mountain National Park using aerosol mass spectrometry
Authors: Schurman M. I. , Lee T. , Sun Y. , Schichtel B. A. , Kreidenweis S. M. , Collett Jr. J. L.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. The environmental impacts of atmospheric particles are highlighted in remote areas where visibility and ecosystem health can be degraded by even relatively low particle concentrations. Submicron particle size, composition, and source apportionment were explored at Rocky Mountain National Park using a High-Resolution Time-of-Flight Aerosol Mass Spectrometer. This summer campaign found low average, but variable, particulate mass (PM) concentrations (max = 93.1 μg m−3, avg. = 5.13 ± 2.72 μg m−3) of which 75.2 ± 11.1% is organic. Low-volatility oxidized organic aerosol (LV-OOA, 39.3% of PM1 on average) identified using Positive Matrix Factorization appears to be mixed with ammonium sulfate (3.9% and 16.6% of mass, respectively), while semi-volatile OOA (27.6%) is correlated with ammonium nitrate (nitrate: 4.3%); concentrations of these mixtures are enhanced with upslope (SE) surface winds from the densely populated Front Range area, indicating the importance of transport. A local biomass burning organic aerosol (BBOA, 8.4%) source is suggested by mass spectral cellulose combustion markers (m/z 60 and 73) limited to brief, high-concentration, polydisperse events (suggesting fresh combustion), a diurnal maximum at 22:00 local standard time when campfires were set at adjacent summer camps, and association with surface winds consistent with local campfire locations. The particle characteristics determined here represent typical summertime conditions at the Rocky Mountain site based on comparison to ~10 years of meteorological, particle composition, and fire data.
The influence of the grain-size, mineralogical and geochemical composition on the Verdesca landslide
Authors: Summa V. , Margiotta S. , Colaiacovo R. , Giannossi M. L.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Silty sands and clayey silts taken from a landslide in the Agri Valley have been analysed in order to study the role of sediment composition in the slope stability and the development of a slip zone. A geognostic hole was used to collect samples and monitor movements. A slip zone at a depth of about 14 m was identified. Compositional and physical–mechanical characterisation of samples was carried out. Some compositional characters, such as a 32–2 μm grain-size fraction, clay mineral content, cation exchange capacity and total nitrogen, increase in the slip zone. Some correlations have been found between geotechnical properties (residual shear strength and residual friction angle) and the same compositional characters, which can therefore be considered possible factors influencing slope stability.
Effect of a Selective COX-2 Inhibitor, Celecoxib, on Heterotopic Ossification after Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Case-Controlled Study
Authors: Oni Julius K. , Pinero Joseph R. , Saltzman Bryan M. , Jaffe Fredrick F.
Published: January 2015

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a well-known complication of total hip arthroplasty (THA), especially when the direct lateral approach is used. In this study, we examined the effect of the selective COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib, on the rates of HO after THA. A control group consisting of 108 patients that did not receive celecoxib was compared with a study group consisting of 106 patients that did receive celecoxib. We assessed the presence and grade of HO using the Brooker classification and Harris hip scores were determined pre- and postoperatively to better quantify clinical outcomes. In this retrospective study of prospectively collected data, celecoxib is associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of HO in patients undergoing THA.
Computational Modeling of Passive Furrowed Channel Micromixers for Lab-on-a-chip Applications
Authors: Nason Francesca , Pennati Giancarlo , Dubini Gabriele
Published: January 2015

Background

Effective micromixers represent essential components for micro total analysis systems or lab-on-a-chip. Indeed, mixing is a key process for the success of all chemical or biochemical reactions. Most microfluidic systems operate in a laminar flow regime dominated by molecular diffusion, which is not favorable to mixing. In the present work, numerical analyses of mixing in 3-dimensional channels with obstacles on the walls were performed to investigate mixing behavior and flow characteristics with geometric parameters as well as Reynolds number.

Methods

Several channel wall geometries were numerically modeled, and the influence of obstacle height, phase shift between the walls, channel cross-section shape (aspect ratio) and Reynolds number on mixer performances was investigated. Wall geometries were evaluated comparatively in terms of index of mixing and pressure drops caused.

Results

Results indicated that furrowed channels with proper triangle-shaped obstacles show good performances in terms of achieving complete mixing in a very short length of channel, and at the same time offer low pressure losses. Convective motions are the main influences responsible for successful mixing, and micromixers with triangle-shaped obstacles show an improvement in the mixing performances for increasing Reynolds numbers. Moreover, short times are required for the mixing process. Finally, depending on the Reynolds number that one works at, there is also some flexibility in the choice of the channel geometry, as the occurrence of effective chaotic advection was obtained for several conformations of the channels proposed in this study.

Conclusions

Mixing enhancement can be achieved by optimizing the shape of the furrowed channel.
Evaluation of Implant Sonication as a Diagnostic Tool in Implant-associated Infections
Authors: Dapunt Ulrike , Lehner Burkhard , Burckhardt Irene , Zimmermann Stefan , Hänsch Gertrud M. , Ewerbeck Volker
Published: January 2015

Infections of implants pose a severe problem in the field of orthopedic surgery, because they can cause bone degradation with subsequent loosening of the implant. The discrimination between septic implant loosening and aseptic loosening can be a challenge, and hence novel diagnostic methods have been introduced to improve the detection of bacteria. Because a major problem is their firm adherence to implants due to biofilm formation, sonication has been introduced, followed by identification of bacteria by culture or genetic methods. In this study, we compared the results obtained after sonication pretreatment with those of microbiological testing of tissue samples and histopathological evaluation of the same tissue. Furthermore, we related the results obtained following sonication to the clinical diagnosis of septic or aseptic implant loosening, respectively. Sonication of explanted devices also enhances the likelihood of detecting bacterial growth in patients who were considered “aseptic” based on the clinical evaluation.
Potential Role of Soluble CD40 Ligand as Inflammatory Biomarker in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Dymicka-Piekarska Violetta , Korniluk Aleksandra , Gryko Mariusz , Siergiejko Elzbieta , Kemona Halina
Published: January 2015

Platelet activation observed in cancer patients is associated with the release of various cytokines, including P-selectin and CD40 ligand (CD40L). We analyzed the plasma levels of sCD40L in association with adhesion molecules (sP-selectin and sVCAM-1) to check the hypothesis of a possible involvement in cancer progression.

Blood samples were obtained from 59 patients with different stages of colorectal cancer (CRC) and 29 age and gender-matched control subjects. Plasma sCD40L, sP-selectin, and sVCAM-1 concentrations were measured with quantitative sandwich enzyme-linked immunoassay.

All patients with CRC had significantly higher levels of sCD40L (p<0.001), sP-selectin (p<0.02), and sVCAM-1 (p<0.03), as compared to healthy subjects. The level of sCD40L significantly correlated with sP-selectin (p<0.05) in patients with distant metastases to the liver. We also observed a high negative correlation between sP-selectin and platelets count (p<0.02) in patients with lymph node metastasis. The receiver-operator curve for CRC patients indicated that the area under the curve for sCD40L was 0.915, which may indicate its high efficiency as an inflammatory marker.

In our study, the sCD40L correlated with sP-selectin in patients with advanced stage of CRC, which might indicate its possible participation in metastasis formation.
Lymphatic Vessels in Peritoneal Endometriotic Lesions
Authors: Hey-Cunningham Alison J. , Berbic Marina , Ng Cecilia H.M. , Markham Robert , Fraser Ian S.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

While the exact pathogenesis of endometriosis remains unclear, it has been hypothesized that fragments of viable endometrial tissue shed at menstruation can transit via the lymphatic circulation and establish endometriotic lesions at distant sites. Mounting evidence suggests that related parameters such as immune cell densities are altered in peritoneal endometriotic lesions. However, lymphatic vessels in lesions have not been previously investigated. In this study, the presence and distribution of lymphatic micro-vessels were characterized in peritoneal endometriotic lesions and surrounding tissues.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining was performed with an antibody specific for lymphatic endothelium (podoplanin, D2–40 clone) on 48 peritoneal endometriotic lesion specimens and 15 samples of normal surface peritoneum. Lymphatic micro-vessel density (LVD) was quantified in and around endometriotic lesions, and in normal surface peritoneum using an automated cellular imaging system.

Results

LVD in endometriotic stroma (mean ± SD = 31.1 ± 28.8 vessels per mm2) was significantly increased compared to both adjacent (8.8 ± 7.6, P<.001) and distant sub-peritoneum (17.7 ± 12.0, P=.002). In addition, lesion-adjacent LVD was significantly lower than distant (P<.001). No statistically significant differences in LVD were observed between endometriotic stroma and normal surface peritoneum from women without endometriosis (31.1 ± 26.5) or at different phases of the menstrual cycle.

Conclusions

This is the first report of LVD in peritoneal endometriotic lesions. LVD is increased in the stroma of peritoneal lesions compared to the surrounding sub-peritoneal tissue. Lymphatic micro-vessels play an important role in the trafficking of immune cells within endometriotic lesions and may be involved in lesion establishment.
Which Cannulation Technique for Which Patient
Authors: Gallieni Maurizio , Brenna Irene , Brunini Francesca , Mezzina Nicoletta , Pasho Sabina , Fornasieri Alessandro
Published: January 2015

Cannulation of arteriovenous (AV) access is a crucial part of vascular access management in hemodialysis patients. It can significantly affect survival of the AV access, and consequently, it probably influences patient survival. The best type of cannulation technique, rotating site versus constant site (or buttonhole), is currently debated, but the increase in infectious complications observed with the buttonhole technique suggests a prudent use of this technique, restricting it to specific patients. Even in cases with a specific indication, the balance between advantages of the constant site needling and the potentially severe consequences of access related systemic infection should be considered. Educational efforts in improving cannulation skills of dialysis staff are important for improving outcomes, as the proper use of the rotating site technique might still be the best approach to cannulation.
Current Diagnostic Procedure on Neuroendocrine Differentiation of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sciarra Alessandro , Innocenzi Michele , Ravazlol Michele , Minisola Francesco , Alfarone Andrea , Cattarino Susanna , Panebianco Valeria , Buonocore Valeria , Gentile Vincenzo , Di Silverio Franco
Published: January 2015

Chromogranin A (CgA) is considered as a major specific neuroendocrine tumor marker. It belongs to the secretogranin family, which is present in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, endocrine glands and in a group of endocrine cells such us pancreas and thyroid. Serum levels of CgA could reflect the neuroendocrine activity and could be used when evaluating advance prostate carcinoma. Moreover, there are also several factors that may increase the serum level of CgA: treatment with proton-pump inhibitors or H2-receptor blockers, chronic atrophic gastritis, rheumatoid arthritis, liver and renal failure. Another method to evaluate NE differentiation is scintigraphy with the 111In-labeled somatostatin analogue (DTPA-D-Phe)-octrotide, (Octreoscan). This method takes advantage of the overexpression of type II somatostatin receptors on the cell surface of NE tumors. With this technique the presence of NE differentiation can be detected both at the primary (prostate) and the metastatic sites. A more specific system to detect NE cell activity is obtained by analyzing CgA gene expression in prostate tissue by a semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).