bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidating the Pozzolanic Characteristics of Pastes Containing Circulating Fluidized Bed Fly Ash
Authors: Lin Kae-Long , Hwang Chao-Lung , Chang Yu-Min
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study is to investigate the pozzolanic characteristics of circulating fluidized bed fly ash blended
cement (CFBFABC) paste containing circulating fluidized bed fly ash (CFBFA). The initial and final setting time of
CFBFABC pastes with CFBFA retards with an increasing CFBFA content. CFBFABC pastes containing 10% CFBFA
exhibited a compressive strength similar to that of ordinary Portland cement pastes at the ages of 90 days. X-ray diffraction
peaks indicated the presence of portlandite, ettringite, and unreacted C3S (32.6°) and C2 (41.9°). The gel/space ratio of the CFBFABC pastes increased with the curing time and decreased as the CFBFA content increased. The gel/space ratio
increased with the curing time because of the progress of hydration, which led to some of the pores being filled. At the
ages of 90 days, the gel/space ratio of the CFBFABC pastes containing 10% CFBFA increased to approximately 14%, it is
possibly the consumption of Ca(OH)2 and the formation of C-S-H in the CFBFABC pastes. The CFBFABC pastes containing
10% CFBFA did not exhibit any major decrease in the gel/space ratio. It exhibited favorable mechanical characteristics
that were observed when the mixing ratio of CFBFA was 10%. Furthermore, CFBFA has the potential, as a pozzolanic
material, partially to replace ordinary Portland cement.
The Haemus Mountains and the geopolitics of the first Bulgarian empire: An overview
Authors: Marinow Kirił
Published: April 2015

The role of the Haemus Mountains (that is Stara Planina and Sredna Gora) as a
geographical factor is visible in the fact that between the close of the 7th
century and the beginning of the 9th century, the eastern parts of that
massif turned naturally into a political border between Bulgaria and
Byzantium. Although in later times this border moved further to the south,
even for longer periods, still the mountain ridge remained the most lasting
demarcation element in the Byzantine-Bulgarian relations and the most certain
determinant of the heart of the Bulgarian statehood (the so-called internal
area of Bulgaria), which was concentrated in the years 680/681-971, i.e.
excluding the period of the reign of the Komitopouloi, in the area between
the mountains and the Danube valley. If the Haemus was the political border
of Bulgaria for almost a half of the functioning of this state during the
period of 7th-11th c., it proves irrefutably that the massif was of great
significance for the political history of Bulgaria and its contacts with
Byzantium.
Who was the eponym of the village with the enigmatic name of Kondofrej in the Valley of the Strymon?
Authors: Tomov Thomas
Published: April 2015

This paper sheds light on the eponym of the village of Kondofrej in the Upper
Strymon Valley. It mainly discussed the possibility that the village was
named after Manuel Kontofr?, commander of the Nicaean fleet. It is also very
probable that he was a Nicaean governor, who had his seat there.
Magicae trans fines le parcours de deux magiciens du XIVe siècle
Authors: Hedjan Jonel
Published: April 2015

By analyzing the fate of two Byzantine magicians in the second half of the
fourteenth century, this article tries to present the less known aspect of
the Byzantine-Slavic cultural relations beyond their hesychast vision.
Byzantine magic and its transmission in Bulgaria, on the eve of the Turkish
conquest, are presented from the available sources.
Contributions to the study of the images of hierarchs in the catholicon of Studenica Monastery
Authors: Zivkovic Milos
Published: April 2015

The paper is devoted to selected images of the saint hierarchs in the Church
of the Virgin in Studenica Monastery. The attention is first of all focused
on the figures of four bishops who were partially covered by the high
iconostasis from the XIX century. These are standing figures of St. Achillius
and an unidentified saint, and busts of St. Parthenius and St. Charalambos.
In adittion to mentioned, some other figures are also analyzed - three saints
named Gregory in the prothesis, St. Cyril of Alexandria in the apse, a bust
of St. Clement of Rome on the west wall of the nave, as well as the bust of
eponymous saint - probably Clement, bishop of Sardis - on the eastern arch
below the dome.
Les compositions votives sur la façade sud de l’eglise du Taxiarque Michel a Kastoria
Authors: Subotic Gojko
Published: April 2015

One of the oldest churches in Kastoria, dedicated to Taxiarches Michael, is
specially revered due to his role on Judgement Day. On the south facade
there was painted a series of deceased prominent members of the old society
that continued its life under the Ottoman rule with no major disturbances.
These extraordinary portraits, with their noble appearance, rich clothing
and inscriptions accompanying them, are a valuable source of knowledge of
the situation and artistic activity in the first half of the fifteenth
century.
Secular trends affect timing of emergence of permanent teeth
Authors: Eskeli Ritva , Lösönen Matias , Ikävalko Tiina , Myllykangas Riitta , Lakka Timo , Laine-Alava Maija T.
Published: April 2015

Objective: 

To examine the expression of possible secular trend in timing of the emergence of permanent teeth in Finnish children over the past few decades, considering the differences between genders.

Materials and Methods: 

Two age groups of Finnish children, one born in 1976–1985 (group 1980) and the other born in 1999–2002 (group 2000), were examined. Group 2000 comprised 483 children (235 girls and 248 boys) aged 6.4 to 8.5 years at the time of the examination, and the same children were examined at the age of 9.0 to 11.8 years. Altogether 405 children could be recalled, 196 girls and 209 boys. For comparison, matching age groups were selected from the group 1980 data (n = 1579), resulting in a sample of 312 children (155 girls and 157 boys) aged 6.4 to 8.5 years and 393 children aged 9.0 to 11.8 years. The emergence stage of each permanent tooth was determined clinically (Grades 0–3), based on which the subjects were furthermore divided according to the emergence stage of the dentition.

Results: 

Linear regression models showed that the permanent teeth of the first phase of the mixed dentition erupted earlier in group 2000 than in group1980, but the teeth of the second phase of the mixed dentition erupted later in group 2000. Girls showed more advanced tooth eruption than boys.

Conclusion: 

The longer duration of mixed dentition in group 2000 than in group 1980 makes the duration of combined follow-up and active treatment longer, and should be considered in timing of efficient orthodontic treatment.
High-Precision Atmospheric 14CO2 Measurement at the Rafter Radiocarbon Laboratory
Authors: Turnbull Jocelyn C , Zondervan Albert , Kaiser Johannes , Norris Margaret , Dahl Jenny , Baisden Troy , Lehman Scott
Published: April 2015

This article describes a new capability for high-precision 14C measurement of CO2 from air at the Rafter Radiocarbon Laboratory, GNS Science, New Zealand. We evaluate the short-term within-wheel repeatability and long-term between-wheel repeatability from measurements of multiple aliquots of control materials sourced from whole air. Samples are typically measured to 650,000 14C counts, providing a nominal accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) statistical uncertainty of 1.3‰. No additional uncertainty is required to explain the within-wheel variability. An additional uncertainty factor is needed to explain the long-term repeatability spanning multiple measurement wheels, bringing the overall repeatability to 1.8‰, comparable to other laboratories measuring air materials to high precision. This additional uncertainty factor appears to be due to variability in the measured 14C content of OxI primary standard targets, likely from the combustion process. We observe an offset of 1.4‰ in our samples relative to those measured by the University of Colorado INSTAAR, comparable to interlaboratory offsets observed in recent intercomparison exercises.
Vascular Access for Hemodialysis: When and how?
Authors: Figurek Andreja , Papachristou Evangelos , Goumenos Dimitrios S.
Published: April 2015

As chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses to the terminal stage, proper actions must be taken to prepare the patient for the initiation of the renal replacement therapy (RRT). If hemodialysis is an option for RRT, decisions should be made about the right vascular access for each individual patient. The available options for vascular access include the use of native arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), synthetic arteriovenous grafts (AVG) and double lumen dialysis catheters. With the help of ultrasound mapping, chances for choosing a right access are today very high. For hemodialysis patients the selection of the proper vascular access is of vital issue in regard of preventing complications and unnecessary procedures. Planning, creation and monitoring of the vascular access in dialysis patients should involve not only the nephrologist, but also the vascular surgeon and the interventional radiologist. Thus, multidisciplinary approach should be taken, in order to choose the way that has the most advantages and the least damage for the patient. That is the proper mode for hemodialysis patients to have longer and better quality of life.
Vitamin D Status has no Influence on the Incidence of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Filipov Jean Jeanov , Zlatkov Borelli Kirilov , Dimitrov Emil Paskalev , Svinarov Dobrin A.
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs) after kidney transplantation (KT) are associated with significant decrease in graft survival. There is a growing body of evidence for the pleiotropic effects of vitamin D (VD), including immunomodulatory and antibacterial effect. The number of studies on VD’s pleiotropic effects in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) however is low. The aim of our study was to assess the influence of VD on the incidence of recurrent UTIs after KT.

Methods. The KTRs were tested for 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25VD) between 1.05.2012 and 30.11.2012. Patients within 12 months of transplantation, performed parathyroidectomy, concomitant intake of calcineurin inhibittors and mTOR inhibitors, advanced liver disease and VD supplementation were excluded from the study. Recurrent UTIs were defined as more than 3 episodes of active UTI within the last 12 months of testing for 25VD. Statistical analysis was carried out with SPSS version 22.0 and included descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test. Determination of total 25VD was performed by a validated LC-MS/MS method.

Results. A total of 275 patients met the above-mentioned criteria (males 182, females 93). The mean 25VD in patients with rUTIs (n=14) was 51.41±25.17 nmol/L, whereas in the group without rUTIs (n=261) the level was 60.35±23.29 nmol/L. After matching the two groups for seasonal factors (sampling for 25VD in July, August, September) and gender 169 patients were selected, and 11 were with rUTIs. No significant difference was detected in the 25VD level in the two groups (53.30±18.37 vs 49.08±21.04 nmol/L), p=0.342.

Conclusions. Despite the higher 25VD in the KTRs without rUTIs, the difference between the two groups remained insignificant.
Improving Low Achievers’ Academic Performance at University by Changing the Social Value of Mastery Goals
Authors: Dompnier Benoît , Darnon Céline , Meier Emanuele , Brandner Catherine , Smeding Annique , Butera Fabrizio
Published: April 2015

Recent research has shown that, in a university context, mastery goals are highly valued and that students may endorse these goals either because they believe in their utility (i.e., social utility), in which case mastery goals are positively linked to achievement, or to create a positive image of themselves (i.e., social desirability), in which case mastery goals do not predict academic achievement. The present two experiments induced high versus neutral levels of mastery goals’ social utility and social desirability. Results confirmed that mastery goals predicted performance only when these goals were presented as socially useful but not presented as socially desirable, especially among low achievers, those who need mastery goals the most to succeed.
“Every Kid Is Money”
Authors: Jabbar Huriya
Published: April 2015

One of the primary aims of choice policies is to introduce competition between schools. When parents can choose where to send their children, there is pressure on schools to improve to attract and retain students. However, do school leaders recognize market pressures? What strategies do they use in response? This study examines how choice creates school-level actions using qualitative data from 30 schools in New Orleans. Findings suggest that school leaders did experience market pressures, yet their responses to such pressures varied, depending in part on their perceptions of competition and their status in the market hierarchy. Some took steps toward school improvement, by making academic and operational changes, whereas others engaged in marketing or cream skimming.
Cerebral Palsy-an update
Authors: Pervin Rabeya , Ahmed Shafi , Hyder Rumy Tabrez , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Rahman Mizanur , Islam Farooqul
Published: April 2015

Abstract not availableNorthern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(1) 2013: 293-296
Practice of giving exclusive breastfeeding among the babies of working mothers and house wife mothers- a comparative study
Authors: Hassan Mahmuda , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Ahmed Taslim Uddin , Begum Marium , Rob AWS , Ahmed Ashraf Uddin , Rahman Hamidur
Published: April 2015

Objectives : There is gradual reduction of exclusive breast feeding practice as age advances from birth to 6 months. The aim of the study was to see the status of exclusive breast feeding up to 6 month of age, among the babies of working mothers and housewife mothers and also to see different contributing factors among the working mothers for the initiation of breast milk substitute within this period.Material and Methods : This is a descriptive type of study conducted in Ad- Din Hospital at OPD from 1st January 2008 to 31st December 2009.Total 400 babies were selected, among them 200 were the babies of the working mothers, considered as cases and 200 were the babies the of housewives considered as control. Sampling was done purposively. Then babies of working mothers were divided in to 2 groups according to their age- (Group-I babies of 3 months±15 days and Group-II 6 months±15 days). Also babies of the housewife mothers were also divided in to 2 groups (Group-I IIbabies of 3 months±15 days and Group-IV 6 months±15 days). Each group includes 100 babies. Mothers or caregivers of their babies were interviewed only once for the study with a set questionnaire.Results : Seventy eight percent (78%) working mothers were continued exclusive breast feeding up to 3 months±15 days but at the age of 6 months±15 days only 21% babies were continued exclusive breast feeding . On the other hand at the age of 3 months ±15days 66% and at 6 months ±15days of age 45% babies of housewife mothers were continued exclusive breast feeding. Highly significant reduction of exclusive breastfeeding among babies of working mothers (p value< 0.001) and also that of the housewife mothers (p value<0.05). Significant number of mothers (more than 80%)of both the groups had no or inadequate knowledge about expression and preservation of breast milk (p value <0.001 ). Maternity leave was less than 6 months, 4 months in government organization (GO) and even 45 days for in some non government organization (NGO) were observed.Conclusion : Exclusive breast feeding up to 6 months of age less among the babies of working mothers even with a good start. Lack of knowledge about expressed breast milk, policy adopted by the employers and maternity leave less than 6 months are the main contributing factors for reduction of exclusive feeding.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.5(2) 2014: 339-341
Detection of NAM-A1 Natural Variants in Bread Wheat Reveals Differences in Haplotype Distribution between a Worldwide Core Collection and European Elite Germplasm
Authors: Cormier Fabien , Throude Mickaël , Ravel Catherine , Gouis Jacques , Leveugle Magalie , Lafarge Stéphane , Exbrayat Florence , Duranton Nadine , Praud Sébastien
Published: April 2015

In wheat, remobilization of nitrogen absorbed before anthesis and regulation of monocarpic senescence is a major issue in breeding for nutrient use efficiency. We identified natural variants of NAM-A1, a gene having the same role as its well-characterized homoeolog NAM-B1, a NAC transcription factor associated with senescence kinetics and nutrient remobilization to the grain. Differences in haplotype frequencies between a worldwide core collection and a panel of European elite varieties were assessed and discussed. Moreover, hypotheses for the loss of function of the most common haplotype in elite European germplasm are discussed.
Determinants of Cat Choice and Outcomes for Adult Cats and Kittens Adopted from an Australian Animal Shelter
Authors: Zito Sarah , Paterson Mandy , Vankan Dianne , Morton John , Bennett Pauleen , Phillips Clive
Published: April 2015

The percentage of adult cats euthanized in animal shelters is greater than that of kittens because adult cats are less likely to be adopted. This study aimed to provide evidence to inform the design of strategies to encourage adult cat adoptions. One such strategy is to discount adoption prices, but there are concerns that this may result in poor adoption outcomes. We surveyed 382 cat adopters at the time of adoption, to assess potential determinants of adopters’ cat age group choice (adult or kitten) and, for adult cat adopters, the price they are willing to pay. The same respondents were surveyed again 6–12 months after the adoption to compare outcomes between cat age groups and between adult cats in two price categories. Most adopters had benevolent motivations for adopting from the shelter and had put considerable thought into the adoption and requirements for responsible ownership. However, adult cat adopters were more likely to have been influenced by price than kitten adopters. Adoption outcomes were generally positive for both adult cats and kittens and for adult cats adopted at low prices. The latter finding alleviates concerns about the outcomes of “low-cost” adoptions in populations, such as the study population, and lends support for the use of “low-cost” adoptions as an option for attempting to increase adoption rates. In addition, the results provide information that can be used to inform future campaigns aimed at increasing the number of adult cat adoptions, particularly in devising marketing strategies for adult cats.
Base Flipping in Open Complex Formation at Bacterial Promoters
Authors: Karpen Mary , DeHaseth Pieter
Published: April 2015

In the process of transcription initiation, the bacterial RNA polymerase binds double-stranded (ds) promoter DNA and subsequently effects strand separation of 12 to 14 base pairs (bp), including the start site of transcription, to form the so-called “open complex” (also referred to as RPo). This complex is competent to initiate RNA synthesis. Here we will review the role of σ70 and its homologs in the strand separation process, and evidence that strand separation is initiated at the −11A (the A of the non-template strand that is 11 bp upstream from the transcription start site) of the promoter. By using the fluorescent adenine analog, 2-aminopurine, it was demonstrated that the −11A on the non-template strand flips out of the DNA helix and into a hydrophobic pocket where it stacks with tyrosine 430 of σ70. Open complexes are remarkably stable, even though in vivo, and under most experimental conditions in vitro, dsDNA is much more stable than its strand-separated form. Subsequent structural studies of other researchers have confirmed that in the open complex the −11A has flipped into a hydrophobic pocket of σ70. It was also revealed that RPo was stabilized by three additional bases of the non-template strand being flipped out of the helix and into hydrophobic pockets, further preventing re-annealing of the two complementary DNA strands.
Modified Electrodes Used for Electrochemical Detection of Metal Ions in Environmental Analysis
Authors: March Gregory , Nguyen Tuan , Piro Benoit
Published: April 2015

Heavy metal pollution is one of the most serious environmental problems, and regulations are becoming stricter. Many efforts have been made to develop sensors for monitoring heavy metals in the environment. This review aims at presenting the different label-free strategies used to develop electrochemical sensors for the detection of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic etc. The first part of this review will be dedicated to stripping voltammetry techniques, on unmodified electrodes (mercury, bismuth or noble metals in the bulk form), or electrodes modified at their surface by nanoparticles, nanostructures (CNT, graphene) or other innovative materials such as boron-doped diamond. The second part will be dedicated to chemically modified electrodes especially those with conducting polymers. The last part of this review will focus on bio-modified electrodes. Special attention will be paid to strategies using biomolecules (DNA, peptide or proteins), enzymes or whole cells.
Non-Thermal Plasma Combined with Cordierite-Supported Mn and Fe Based Catalysts for the Decomposition of Diethylether
Authors: Trinh Quang , Mok Young
Published: April 2015

The removal of dilute diethylether (DEE, concentration: 150 ppm) from an air stream (flow rate: 1.0 L min−1) using non-thermal plasma combined with different cordierite-supported catalysts, including Mn, Fe, and mixed Mn-Fe oxides, was investigated. The experimental results showed that the decomposition of DEE occurred in a one-stage reactor without the positive synergy of plasma and supported catalysts, by which ca. 96% of DEE was removed at a specific input energy (SIE) of ca. 600 J L−1, except when the mixed Mn-Fe/cordierite was used. Among the catalysts that were examined, Mn-Fe/cordierite, the catalyst that was the most efficient at decomposing ozone was found to negatively affect the decomposition of DEE in the one-stage reactor. However, when it was utilized as a catalyst in the post-plasma stage of a two-part hybrid reactor, in which Mn/cordierite was directly exposed to the plasma, the reactor performance in terms of DEE decomposition efficiency was improved by more than 10% at low values of SIE compared to the efficiency that was achieved without Mn-Fe/cordierite. The ozone that was formed during the plasma stage and its subsequent catalytic dissociation during the post-plasma stage to produce atomic oxygen therefore played important roles in the removal of DEE.
Automatable Flow System for Paraoxon Detection with an Embedded Screen-Printed Electrode Tailored with Butyrylcholinesterase and Prussian Blue Nanoparticles
Authors: Arduini Fabiana , Neagu Daniela , Scognamiglio Viviana , Patarino Sabrina , Moscone Danila , Palleschi Giuseppe
Published: April 2015

Nowadays extensive volumes of pesticides are employed for agricultural and environmental practices, but they have negative effects on human health. The levels of pesticides are necessarily restricted by international regulatory agencies, thus rapid, cost-effective and in-field analysis of pesticides is an important issue. In the present work, we propose a butyrylcholinesterase (BChE)-based biosensor embedded in a flow system for organophosphorus pesticide detection. The BChE was immobilized by cross-linking on a screen-printed electrode modified with Prussian Blue Nanoparticles. The detection of paraoxon (an organophosphorus pesticide) was carried out evaluating its inhibitory effect on BChE, and quantifying the enzymatic hydrolysis of butyrylthiocholine before and after the exposure of the biosensor to paraoxon, by measuring the thiocholine product at a working voltage of +200 mV. The operating conditions of the flow system were optimized. A flow rate of 0.25 mL/min was exploited for inhibition steps, while a 0.12 mL/min flow rate was used for substrate measurement. A substrate concentration of 5 mM and an incubation time of 10 min allowed a detection limit of 1 ppb of paraoxon (corresponding to 10% inhibition). The stability of the probe in working conditions was investigated for at least eight measurements, and the storage stability was evaluated up to 60 days at room temperature in dry condition. The analytical system was then challenged in drinking, river and lake water samples. Matrix effect was minimized by using a dilution step (1:4 v/v) in flow analysis. This biosensor, embedded in a flow system, showed the possibility to detect paraoxon at ppb level using an automatable and cost-effective bioanalytical system.
Identifying the Most Relevant Lag with Runs
Authors: Faura Úrsula , Lafuente Matilde , Matilla-García Mariano , Ruiz Manuel
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we propose a nonparametric statistical tool to identify the most relevant lag in the model description of a time series. It is also shown that it can be used for model identification. The statistic is based on the number of runs, when the time series is symbolized depending on the empirical quantiles of the time series. With a Monte Carlo simulation, we show the size and power performance of our new test statistic under linear and nonlinear data generating processes. From the theoretical point of view, it is the first time that symbolic analysis and runs are proposed to identifying characteristic lags and also to help in the identification of univariate time series models. From a more applied point of view, the results show the power and competitiveness of the proposed tool with respect to other techniques without presuming or specifying a model.
Comparative Study of a Fault-Tolerant Multiphase Wound-Field Doubly Salient Machine for Electrical Actuators
Authors: Shi Li-Wei , Zhou Bo
Published: April 2015

New multiphase Wound-Field Doubly Salient Machines (WFDSMs) for electrical actuators with symmetric phases are investigated and compared in this paper. With a comparative study of the pole number and pole arc coefficient, the salient pole topology of the three-phase, four-phase, five-phase, and six-phase WFDSMs with little cogging torque is presented. A new winding configuration that can provide symmetrical phases for the multiphase WFDSMs is proposed. Suitable fault-tolerant converters for the multiphase WFDSM are presented. With the simulated results in terms of the pole topology, flux linkage, back EMF and converters, it can be concluded that the pole numbers of the new five-phase WFDSM are very large. The high accuracy position sensors should be required to make the five-phase WFDSM commutate frequently and accurately at a high speed. The four-phase and the six-phase WFDSM can be divided into two isolated channels, and both of them have a good performance as a fault-tolerant machine. All of the investigations are verified by finite element analysis results.
In Situ Hybridization of Pulp Fibers Using Mg-Al Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Lange Carl-Erik , Lastusaari Mika , Reza Mehedi , Latifi Seyed , Kallio Pasi , Fardim Pedro
Published: April 2015

Inorganic Mg2+ and Al3+ containing layered double hydroxide (LDH) particles were synthesised in situ from aqueous solution onto chemical pulp fibers of pine (Pinus sylvestris). High super saturated (hss) solution with sodium carbonate produced LDH particles with an average diameter of 100–200 nm. Nano-size (70 nm) LDH particles were found from fibers external surface and, to a lesser degree, from the S2 cell wall after synthesis via low super saturated (lss) route. The synthesis via slow urea hydrolysis (Uhyd) yielded micron and clay sized LDH (2–5 μm) and enabled efficient fiber densification via mineralization of S2 fiber wall layer as indicated by TEM and compliance analysis. The Uhyd method decreased fiber compliance up to 50%. Reduction in the polymerisation degree of cellulose was observed with capillary viscometry. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the hybridization with LDH reduced the exothermic heat, indicating, that this material can be incorporated in flame retardant applications. Fiber charge was assessed by Fibers 2015, 3 104 adsorption expermients with methylene blue (MB) and metanil yellow (MY). Synthesis via lss route retained most of the fibres original charge and provided the highest capacity (10 μmol/g) for anionic MY, indicating cationic character of hybrid fibers. Our results suggested that mineralized fibers can be potentially used in advanced applications such as biocomposites and adsorbent materials.
Dermal Exposure Assessment to Pesticides in Farming Systems in Developing Countries: Comparison of Models
Authors: Fabian Camilo , Binder Claudia
Published: April 2015

In the field of occupational hygiene, researchers have been working on developing appropriate methods to estimate human exposure to pesticides in order to assess the risk and therefore to take the due decisions to improve the pesticide management process and reduce the health risks. This paper evaluates dermal exposure models to ﬁnd the most appropriate. Eight models (i.e., COSHH, DERM, DREAM, EASE, PHED, RISKOFDERM, STOFFENMANAGER and PFAM) were evaluated according to a multi-criteria analysis and from these results five models (i.e., DERM, DREAM, PHED, RISKOFDERM and PFAM) were selected for the assessment of dermal exposure in the case study of the potato farming system in the Andean highlands of Vereda La Hoya, Colombia. The results show that the models provide different dermal exposure estimations which are not comparable. However, because of the simplicity of the algorithm and the speciﬁcity of the determinants, the DERM, DREAM and PFAM models were found to be the most appropriate although their estimations might be more accurate if specific determinants are included for the case studies in developing countries.
Structural, Magnetic and Luminescent Properties of Lanthanide Complexes with N-Salicylideneglycine
Authors: Vančo Ján , Trávníček Zdeněk , Kozák Ondřej , Boča Roman
Published: April 2015

A series of anionic heavy lanthanide complexes, involving the N-salicylideneglycinato(2-) Schiff base ligand (salgly) and having the general formula K[Ln(salgly)2(H2O)2]∙H2O (1–6), where Ln stands for Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er and Tm, was prepared using the one-pot template synthesis. The complexes were thoroughly characterized by elemental and Thermogravimetric/Differential Thermal Analyses (TG/DTA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), and photoluminescence spectroscopies, electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry, and their magnetic properties were studied by temperature-dependent dc magnetic measurements using the superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID). The X-ray structure of the terbium(III) complex (2), representing the unique structure between the lanthanide complexes of N-salicylideneamino acids, was determined. The results of spectral and structural studies revealed the isostructural nature of the prepared complexes, in which the lanthanide ion is octacoordinated by two O,N,O-donor salgly ligands and two aqua ligands. The analysis of magnetic data confirmed that the complexes behave as paramagnets obeying the Curie law. The results of photoluminescence spectral studies of the complexes showed the different origin in their luminescent properties between the solid state and solution. An antenna effect of the Schiff base ligand was observed in a powder form of the complex only, while it acts as a fluorophore in a solution.
Fabrication and Characterization of a SPR Based Fiber Optic Sensor for the Detection of Chlorine Gas Using Silver and Zinc Oxide
Authors: Usha Sruthi , Mishra Satyendra , Gupta Banshi
Published: April 2015

A fiber optic chlorine gas sensor working on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technique fabricated using coatings of silver and zinc oxide films over unclad core of the optical fiber is reported. The sensor probe is characterized using wavelength interrogation and recording SPR spectra for different concentrations of chlorine gas around the probe. A red shift is observed in the resonance wavelength on increasing the concentration of the chlorine gas. The thickness of the zinc oxide film is optimized to achieve the maximum sensitivity of the sensor. In addition to wavelength interrogation, the sensor can also work on intensity modulation. The selectivity of the sensor towards chlorine gas is verified by carrying out measurements for different gases. The sensor has various advantages such as better sensitivity, good selectivity, reusability, fast response, low cost, capability of online monitoring and remote sensing.
Investigation of Carbohydrate Recognition via Computer Simulation
Authors: Johnson Quentin , Lindsay Richard , Petridis Loukas , Shen Tongye
Published: April 2015

Carbohydrate recognition by proteins, such as lectins and other (bio)molecules, can be essential for many biological functions. Recently, interest has arisen due to potential protein and drug design and future bioengineering applications. A quantitative measurement of carbohydrate-protein interaction is thus important for the full characterization of sugar recognition. We focus on the aspect of utilizing computer simulations and biophysical models to evaluate the strength and specificity of carbohydrate recognition in this review. With increasing computational resources, better algorithms and refined modeling parameters, using state-of-the-art supercomputers to calculate the strength of the interaction between molecules has become increasingly mainstream. We review the current state of this technique and its successful applications for studying protein-sugar interactions in recent years.
Anti-Trypanosomal Activity of Nigerian Plants and Their Constituents
Authors: Nwodo Ngozi , Ibezim Akachukwu , Ntie-Kang Fidele , Adikwu Michael , Mbah Chika
Published: April 2015

African trypanosomiasis is a vector-borne parasitic disease causing serious risks to the lives of about 60 million people and 48 million cattle globally. Nigerian medicinal plants are known to contain a large variety of chemical structures and some of the plant extracts have been screened for antitrypanosomal activity, in the search for potential new drugs against the illness. We surveyed the literatures on plants and plant-derived products with antitrypanosomal activity from Nigerian flora published from 1990 to 2014. About 90 plants were identified, with 54 compounds as potential active agents and presented by plant families in alphabetical order. This review indicates that the Nigerian flora may be suitable as a starting point in searching for new and more efficient trypanocidal molecules.
Riluzole as a Neuroprotective Drug for Spinal Cord Injury: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Nagoshi Narihito , Nakashima Hiroaki , Fehlings Michael
Published: April 2015

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event resulting in permanent loss of neurological function. To date, effective therapies for SCI have not been established. With recent progress in neurobiology, however, there is hope that drug administration could improve outcomes after SCI. Riluzole is a benzothiazole anticonvulsant with neuroprotective effects. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a safe and well-tolerated treatment for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The mechanism of action of riluzole involves the inhibition of pathologic glutamatergic transmission in synapses of neurons via sodium channel blockade. There is convincing evidence that riluzole diminishes neurological tissue destruction and promotes functional recovery in animal SCI models. Based on these results, a phase I/IIa clinical trial with riluzole was conducted for patients with SCI between 2010 and 2011. This trial demonstrated significant improvement in neurological outcomes and showed it to be a safe drug with no serious adverse effects. Currently, an international, multi-center clinical trial (Riluzole in Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study: RISCIS) in phase II/III is in progress with riluzole for patients with SCI (clinicaltrials.gov, registration number NCT01597518). This article reviews the pharmacology and neuroprotective mechanisms of riluzole, and focuses on existing preclinical evidence, and emerging clinical data in the treatment of SCI.
Structural Ceramic Nanocomposites: A Review of Properties and Powders’ Synthesis Methods
Authors: Palmero Paola
Published: April 2015

Ceramic nanocomposites are attracting growing interest, thanks to new processing methods enabling these materials to go from the research laboratory scale to the commercial level. Today, many different types of nanocomposite structures are proposed in the literature; however, to fully exploit their exceptional properties, a deep understanding of the materials’ behavior across length scales is necessary. In fact, knowing how the nanoscale structure influences the bulk properties enables the design of increasingly performing composite materials. A further key point is the ability of tailoring the desired nanostructured features in the sintered composites, a challenging issue requiring a careful control of all stages of manufacturing, from powder synthesis to sintering. This review is divided into four parts. In the first, classification and general issues of nanostructured ceramics are reported. The second provides basic structure–property relations, highlighting the grain-size dependence of the materials properties. The third describes the role of nanocrystalline second-phases on the mechanical properties of ordinary grain sized ceramics. Finally, the fourth part revises the mainly used synthesis routes to produce nanocomposite ceramic powders, underlining when possible the critical role of the synthesis method on the control of microstructure and properties of the sintered ceramics.
MEMS Flow Sensors Based on Self-Heated aGe-Thermistors in a Wheatstone Bridge
Authors: Talic Almir , Cerimovic Samir , Beigelbeck Roman , Kohl Franz , Sauter Thilo , Keplinger Franz
Published: April 2015

A thermal flow transduction method combining the advantages of calorimetric and hot-film transduction principles is developed and analyzed by Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations and confirmed experimentally. The analyses include electrothermal feedback effects of current driven NTC thermistors. Four thin-film germanium thermistors acting simultaneously as heat sources and as temperature sensors are embedded in a micromachined silicon-nitride membrane. These devices form a self-heated Wheatstone bridge that is unbalanced by convective cooling. The voltage across the bridge and the total dissipated power are exploited as output quantities. The used thin-film thermistors feature an extremely high temperature sensitivity. Combined with properly designed resistance values, a power demand in sub-1mW range enables efficient gas-flow transduction, as confirmed by measurements. Two sensor configurations with different arrangements of the membrane thermistors were examined experimentally. Moreover, we investigated the influence of different layouts on the rise time, the sensitivity, and the usable flow range by means of two-dimensional finite element simulations. The simulation results are in reasonable agreement with corresponding measurement data confirming the basic assumptions and modeling approach.
Joint Infrared Target Recognition and Segmentation Using a Shape Manifold-Aware Level Set
Authors: Yu Liangjiang , Fan Guoliang , Gong Jiulu , Havlicek Joseph
Published: April 2015

We propose new techniques for joint recognition, segmentation and pose estimation of infrared (IR) targets. The problem is formulated in a probabilistic level set framework where a shape constrained generative model is used to provide a multi-class and multi-view shape prior and where the shape model involves a couplet of view and identity manifolds (CVIM). A level set energy function is then iteratively optimized under the shape constraints provided by the CVIM. Since both the view and identity variables are expressed explicitly in the objective function, this approach naturally accomplishes recognition, segmentation and pose estimation as joint products of the optimization process. For realistic target chips, we solve the resulting multi-modal optimization problem by adopting a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm and then improve the computational efficiency by implementing a gradient-boosted PSO (GB-PSO). Evaluation was performed using the Military Sensing Information Analysis Center (SENSIAC) ATR database, and experimental results show that both of the PSO algorithms reduce the cost of shape matching during CVIM-based shape inference. Particularly, GB-PSO outperforms other recent ATR algorithms, which require intensive shape matching, either explicitly (with pre-segmentation) or implicitly (without pre-segmentation).
A Construction Management Framework for Mass Customisation in Traditional Construction
Authors: Andújar-Montoya María , Gilart-Iglesias Virgilio , Montoyo Andrés , Marcos-Jorquera Diego
Published: April 2015

A Mass Customisation model is discussed as a competitive positioning strategy in the marketplace adding value to the customer’s end-use. It includes the user as part of the construction process responding to the customer’s demands and wishes. To the present day, almost all proposals for Mass Customisation have been focused on the design phase and single family houses. The reality is that the processes carried out in the work execution are so inefficient that the costs of the Mass Customisation models are assumed by the customer and they do not offer solutions that support the change management. Furthermore, this inefficiency often makes Mass Customisation unfeasible in terms of deadlines and site management. Therefore, the present proposal focuses on achieving the paradigm of Mass Customisation in the traditional residential construction complementary to the existing proposals in the design phase. All this through the proposal of a framework for the integral management in the work execution, which will address change management introduced by the users offering an efficient and productive model that reduces costs in the process. This model will focus on the synergy between different strategies, techniques and technologies currently used in the construction management (such as Lean Construction or Six Sigma), together with, other strategies and technologies that have proven to be valid solutions in other fields (such as Business Process Management, Service Oriented Architecture, etc.).
Taxane-Induced Peripheral Neurotoxicity
Authors: Velasco Roser , Bruna Jordi
Published: April 2015

Taxane-derived agents are chemotherapy drugs widely employed in cancer treatment. Among them, paclitaxel and docetaxel are most commonly administered, but newer formulations are being investigated. Taxane antineoplastic activity is mainly based on the ability of the drugs to promote microtubule assembly, leading to mitotic arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. Peripheral neurotoxicity is the major non-hematological adverse effect of taxane, often manifested as painful neuropathy experienced during treatment, and it is sometimes irreversible. Unfortunately, taxane-induced neurotoxicity is an uncertainty prior to the initiation of treatment. The present review aims to dissect current knowledge on real incidence, underlying pathophysiology, clinical features and predisposing factors related with the development of taxane-induced neuropathy.
Speciation in Metal Toxicity and Metal-Based Therapeutics
Authors: Templeton Douglas
Published: April 2015

Metallic elements, ions and compounds produce varying degrees of toxicity in organisms with which they come into contact. Metal speciation is critical to understanding these adverse effects; the adjectives “heavy” and “toxic” are not helpful in describing the biological properties of individual elements, but detailed chemical structures are. As a broad generalization, the metallic form of an element is inert, and the ionic salts are the species that show more significant bioavailability. Yet the salts and other chelates of a metal ion can give rise to quite different toxicities, as exemplified by a range of carcinogenic potential for various nickel species. Another important distinction comes when a metallic element is organified, increasing its lipophilicity and hence its ability to penetrate the blood brain barrier, as is seen, for example, with organic mercury and tin species. Some metallic elements, such as gold and platinum, are themselves useful therapeutic agents in some forms, while other species of the same element can be toxic, thus focusing attention on species interconversions in evaluating metal-based drugs. The therapeutic use of metal-chelating agents introduces new species of the target metal in vivo, and this can affect not only its desired detoxification, but also introduce a potential for further mechanisms of toxicity. Examples of therapeutic iron chelator species are discussed in this context, as well as the more recent aspects of development of chelation therapy for uranium exposure.
Blurring the Geo-Body: Mental Maps of Israel/Palestine
Authors: Ben-Ze'ev Efrat
Published: April 2015

This article explores how geographical forms of Israel/Palestine are represented in maps sketched by high school students. The results show that they are significantly different from the geopolitical map, demonstrating the unique ways through which these students think about the national
territory. The paper probes two sources that feed into the country's geographical image: its ongoing politics of treating boundaries as potential frontiers, and the school curriculum, which conveys a double message regarding borders. This image of a blurred geo-body invites for creative resolutions
of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Le défaut d’empathie
Authors: Laub Dori
Published: April 2015

Ce texte parle d’événements traumatiques délibérément infligés à des individus par d’autres êtres humains, comme lors d’un génocide. L’expérience qu’en ont les survivants est celle d’un effondrement de la relation humaine normalement empathique, avec comme conséquences la destruction de leur représentation des liens entre soi et l’autre, et une solitude dans leur monde interne. Au-delà des sentiments de déshumanisation, de condamnation à mort et de terreur, c’est à l’image d’eux-mêmes, acquise à un moment où l’agresseur était le seul autre/miroir disponible, qu’ils essaient d’échapper. Leur expérience vécue se présente sous forme de fragments, de réactualisations, qu’ils ne peuvent pas organiser dans un récit. Ce sera la tâche de l’analyste, dans une fonction d’objet primaire, en faisant l’expérience empathique de la situation traumatique et en l’expliquant, de promouvoir le déroulement d’un processus de savoir permettant la reconstruction d’une mémoire authentique.
Un événement sans témoin : vérité, témoignage et survie
Authors: Laub Dori
Published: April 2015

L’Holocauste est un événement qui n’a eu aucun témoin. Les victimes restent dans le trou béant du silence, d’un secret partagé par eux seuls. La possibilité de trouver un « Tu » intérieur pour témoigner a été détruite. Ce besoin de dire, de transmettre, d’être entendu, rencontre son impossibilité. À travers cette lutte partagée avec un écoutant emphatique et averti, l’acte du témoignage sera celui de la repossession de ce vécu : revivre à travers cette traversée pour être témoin à soi-même et à sa nouvelle vie. Des récits de survivants donnent tout le poids à ce voyage du témoignage et à son arrêt.