bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Nystatin Containing Chitosan Hydrogels as Potential Dual Action Bio-Active Restorative Materials: in Vitro Approach
Authors: Perchyonok V. , Reher Vanessa , Zhang Shengmiao , Basson Nicki , Grobler Sias
Published: November 2014

Healing is a speciﬁc biological process related to the general phenomenon of growth and tissue regeneration and is a process generally affected by several systemic conditions or as detrimental side-effects of chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced inflammation of the oral mucosa. The objectives of this study is to evaluate the novel chitosan based functional drug delivery systems, which can be successfully incorporated into “dual action bioactive restorative materials”, capable of inducing in vitro improved wound healing prototype and containing an antibiotic, such as nystatin, krill oil as an antioxidant and hydroxyapatite as a molecular bone scaffold, which is naturally present in bone and is reported to be successfully used in promoting bone integration when implanted as well as promoting healing. The hydrogels were prepared using a protocol as previously reported by us. The physico-chemical features, including surface morphology (SEM), release behaviors, stability of the therapeutic agent-antioxidant-chitosan, were measured and compared to the earlier reported chitosan-antioxidant containing hydrogels. Structural investigations of the reactive surface of the hydrogel are reported. Release of nystatin was investigated for all newly prepared hydrogels. Bio-adhesive studies were performed in order to assess the suitability of these designer materials. Free radical defense capacity of the biomaterials was evaluated using established in vitro model. The bio-adhesive capacity of the materials in the in vitro system was tested and quantified. It was found that the favorable synergistic effect of free radical built-in defense mechanism of the new functional materials increased sustainable bio-adhesion and therefore acted as a functional multi-dimensional restorative material with potential application in wound healing in vitro.
Removal of Radioactive Cesium Using Prussian Blue Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Jang Sung-Chan , Hong Sang-Bum , Yang Hee-Man , Lee Kune-Woo , Moon Jei-Kwon , Seo Bum-Kyoung , Huh Yun , Roh Changhyun
Published: November 2014

Radioactive cesium (137Cs) has inevitably become a human concern due to exposure from nuclear power plants and nuclear accident releases. Many efforts have been focused on removing cesium and the remediation of the contaminated environment. In this study, we elucidated the ability of Prussian blue-coated magnetic nanoparticles to eliminate cesium from radioactive contaminated waste. Thus, the obtained Prussian blue-coated magnetic nanoparticles were then characterized and examined for their physical and radioactive cesium adsorption properties. This Prussian blue-coated magnetic nanoparticle-based cesium magnetic sorbent can offer great potential for use in in situ remediation.
Effects of Vitamin E on Cognitive Performance during Ageing and in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Fata Giorgio , Weber Peter , Mohajeri M.
Published: November 2014

Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that primarily protects cells from damage associated with oxidative stress caused by free radicals. The brain is highly susceptible to oxidative stress, which increases during ageing and is considered a major contributor to neurodegeneration. High plasma vitamin E levels were repeatedly associated with better cognitive performance. Due to its antioxidant properties, the ability of vitamin E to prevent or delay cognitive decline has been tested in clinical trials in both ageing population and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. The difficulty in performing precise and uniform human studies is mostly responsible for the inconsistent outcomes reported in the literature. Therefore, the benefit of vitamin E as a treatment for neurodegenerative disorders is still under debate. In this review, we focus on those studies that mostly have contributed to clarifying the exclusive function of vitamin E in relation to brain ageing and AD.
Canopy Height Estimation in French Guiana with LiDAR ICESat/GLAS Data Using Principal Component Analysis and Random Forest Regressions
Authors: Fayad Ibrahim , Baghdadi Nicolas , Bailly Jean-Stéphane , Barbier Nicolas , Gond Valéry , Hajj Mahmoud , Fabre Frédéric , Bourgine Bernard
Published: November 2014

Estimating forest canopy height from large-footprint satellite LiDAR waveforms is challenging given the complex interaction between LiDAR waveforms, terrain, and vegetation, especially in dense tropical and equatorial forests. In this study, canopy height in French Guiana was estimated using multiple linear regression models and the Random Forest technique (RF). This analysis was either based on LiDAR waveform metrics extracted from the GLAS (Geoscience Laser Altimeter System) spaceborne LiDAR data and terrain information derived from the SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) DEM (Digital Elevation Model) or on Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of GLAS waveforms. Results show that the best statistical model for estimating forest height based on waveform metrics and digital elevation data is a linear regression of waveform extent, trailing edge extent, and terrain index (RMSE of 3.7 m). For the PCA based models, better canopy height estimation results were observed using a regression model that incorporated both the first 13 principal components (PCs) and the waveform extent (RMSE = 3.8 m). Random Forest regressions revealed that the best configuration for canopy height estimation used all the following metrics: waveform extent, leading edge, trailing edge, and terrain index (RMSE = 3.4 m). Waveform extent was the variable that best explained canopy height, with an importance factor almost three times higher than those for the other three metrics (leading edge, trailing edge, and terrain index). Furthermore, the Random Forest regression incorporating the first 13 PCs and the waveform extent had a slightly-improved canopy height estimation in comparison to the linear model, with an RMSE of 3.6 m. In conclusion, multiple linear regressions and RF regressions provided canopy height estimations with similar precision using either LiDAR metrics or PCs. However, a regression model (linear regression or RF) based on the PCA of waveform samples with waveform extent information is an interesting alternative for canopy height estimation as it does not require several metrics that are difficult to derive from GLAS waveforms in dense forests, such as those in French Guiana.
Hyperspectral Sensing for Turbid Water Quality Monitoring in Freshwater Rivers: Empirical Relationship between Reflectance and Turbidity and Total Solids
Authors: Wu Jiunn-Lin , Ho Chung-Ru , Huang Chia-Ching , Srivastav Arun , Tzeng Jing-Hua , Lin Yao-Tung
Published: November 2014

Total suspended solid (TSS) is an important water quality parameter. This study was conducted to test the feasibility of the band combination of hyperspectral sensing for inland turbid water monitoring in Taiwan. The field spectral reflectance in the Wu river basin of Taiwan was measured with a spectroradiometer; the water samples were collected from the different sites of the Wu river basin and some water quality parameters were analyzed on the sites (in situ) as well as brought to the laboratory for further analysis. To obtain the data set for this study, 160 in situ sample observations were carried out during campaigns from August to December, 2005. The water quality results were correlated with the reflectivity to determine the spectral characteristics and their relationship with turbidity and TSS. Furthermore, multiple-regression (MR) and artificial neural network (ANN) were used to model the transformation function between TSS concentration and turbidity levels of stream water, and the radiance measured by the spectroradiometer. The value of the turbidity and TSS correlation coefficient was 0.766, which implies that turbidity is significantly related to TSS in the Wu river basin. The results indicated that TSS and turbidity are positively correlated in a significant way across the entire spectrum, when TSS concentration and turbidity levels were under 800 mg·L−1 and 600 NTU, respectively. Optimal wavelengths for the measurements of TSS and turbidity are found in the 700 and 900 nm range, respectively. Based on the results, better accuracy was obtained only when the ranges of turbidity and TSS concentration were less than 800 mg·L−1 and less than 600 NTU, respectively and used rather than using whole dataset (R2 = 0.93 versus 0.88 for turbidity and R2 = 0.83 versus 0.58 for TSS). On the other hand, the ANN approach can improve the TSS retrieval using MR. The accuracy of TSS estimation applying ANN (R2 = 0.66) was better than with the MR approach (R2 = 0.58), as expected due to the nonlinear nature of the transformation model.
Vehicle Tracking for an Evasive Manoeuvres Assistant Using Low-Cost Ultrasonic Sensors
Authors: Jiménez Felipe , Naranjo José , Gómez Oscar , Anaya José
Published: November 2014

Many driver assistance systems require knowledge of the vehicle environment. As these systems are increasing in complexity and performance, this knowledge of the environment needs to be more complete and reliable, so sensor fusion combining long, medium and short range sensors is now being used. This paper analyzes the feasibility of using ultrasonic sensors for low cost vehicle-positioning and tracking in the lane adjacent to the host vehicle in order to identify free areas around the vehicle and provide information to an automatic avoidance collision system that can perform autonomous braking and lane change manoeuvres. A laser scanner is used for the early detection of obstacles in the direction of travel while two ultrasonic sensors monitor the blind spot of the host vehicle. The results of tests on a test track demonstrate the ability of these sensors to accurately determine the kinematic variables of the obstacles encountered, despite a clear limitation in range.
The Organization and Regulation of Full Contact Martial Arts: A Case Study of Flanders
Authors: Vertonghen Jikkemien , Theeboom Marc , Dom Els , Bosscher Veerle , Haudenhuyse Reinhard
Published: November 2014

To date, martial arts involvement is often described in controversial terms. While some studies report increased anti-social behavior as a result of martial arts involvement, other findings refer to a more positive social and personal development. This paradox has resulted in an ambiguous public discourse on their value and legitimacy as socially accepted sports, often leading to a dichotomization between “good” and “bad” styles of martial arts. Up until now however, there has been a lack of empirical proof that this “good versus bad” perspective divides along the lines of specific martial arts styles. Consequently, the distinct moral and medical concerns regarding the effects of involvement in harder martial arts—combined with their increased popularity, as well as their perceived positive outcomes for specific target groups—have resulted in a growing demand among policy makers to develop (or rethink) their strategy towards the regulation and support of these sports. By means of a case-study approach, the present paper discusses some of the key issues regarding the regulation of a number of full contact martial arts (e.g., kickboxing, Muay Thai, MMA), which are considered to be problematic for (sport) authorities, and which confront sports policy makers in Flanders. In describing the Flemish case, this paper aims to highlight the need to develop a sound martial arts policy that can provide a legitimation base for the provision and organization of full contact martial arts, which have become increasingly popular in recent years.
Factors Affecting Migration Intentions in Ecological Restoration Areas and Their Implications for the Sustainability of Ecological Migration Policy in Arid Northwest China
Authors: Li Yongjin , López-Carr David , Chen Wenjiang
Published: November 2014

Ecological migration policy has been proposed and implemented as a means for depopulating ecological restoration areas in the arid Northwest China. Migration intention is critical to the effectiveness of ecological migration policy. However, studies on migration intention in relation to ecological migration policy in China remain scant. Thus this paper aims to investigate the rural residents’ migration intentions and their affecting factors under ecological migration policy in Minqin County, an ecological restoration area, located at the lower terminus of Shiyang River Basin in arid Northwest China. The data for this study come from a randomly sampled household questionnaire survey. Results from logistic regression modelling indicate that most residents do not intend to migrate, despite rigid eco-environmental conditions and governance polices threatening livelihood sustainability. In addition to demographic and socio-economic factors, the eco-environmental factors are also significantly correlated with the possibility of a resident intending to migrate. The implications of the significant independent variables for the sustainability of ecological migration policy are discussed. The paper concludes that ecological migration policies may ultimately be more sustainable when taking into account household interests within complex migration intention contexts, such as household livelihoods dynamics and environmental change.
Energy Efficiency at the Base of the Pyramid: A System-Based Market Model for Improved Cooking Stove Adoption
Authors: Vahlne Niklas , Ahlgren Erik
Published: November 2014

A widespread dissemination of improved cooking stoves in the developing world can lead to considerable improvement of health, to reduced pressure on natural woody resources and to substantial reductions of emissions contributing to global warming. A number of programs have aimed to achieve such dissemination, while few of the programs have had any large-scale success. It has been suggested that a more commercial approach, as opposed to subsidized or freely distributed stoves, would achieve a higher level of success. However, a majority of the households that would benefit from an improved stove are poor and cannot afford the cost of the stove, especially if no monetary savings are possible from a more efficient fuel use, i.e., if the fuel used is collected biomass. The aim of this paper is to propose and evaluate a model that might overcome some of the barriers previous programs have experienced. The proposed model involves commercialization of collected fuels. The methods for evaluation include a qualitative assessment of the proposed model aided by the literature on improved cooking stove programs, fuel wood collection and fuel switching together with a quantitative simplistic model calculation of a hypothetical application of the proposed model principles, in order to assess its financial feasibility. The assessment indicates that the model would increase both households’ incentives and means to purchase and use improved cooking stoves. Furthermore, the model could possibly be partly financed based on carbon credits achieved from the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Impacts of Future Climate Change and Baltic Sea Level Rise on Groundwater Recharge, Groundwater Levels, and Surface Leakage in the Hanko Aquifer in Southern Finland
Authors: Luoma Samrit , Okkonen Jarkko
Published: November 2014

The impact of climate change and Baltic Sea level rise on groundwater resources in a shallow, unconfined, low-lying coastal aquifer in Hanko, southern Finland, was assessed using the UZF1 model package coupled with the three-dimensional groundwater flow model MODFLOW to simulate flow from the unsaturated zone through the aquifer. The snow and PET models were used to calculate the surface water availability for infiltration from the precipitation data used in UZF1. Infiltration rate, flow in the unsaturated zone and groundwater recharge were then simulated using UZF1. The simulation data from climate and sea level rise scenarios were compared with present data. The results indicated changes in recharge pattern during 2071–2100, with recharge occurring earlier in winter and early spring. The seasonal impacts of climate change on groundwater recharge were more significant, with surface overflow resulting in flooding during winter and early spring and drought during summer. Rising sea level would cause some parts of the aquifer to be under sea level, compromising groundwater quality due to intrusion of sea water. This, together with increased groundwater recharge, would raise groundwater levels and consequently contribute more surface leakage and potential flooding in the low-lying aquifer.
Investigating the Relationships Between Visitor and Trip Characteristics, Vacation Planning, Visitor Spending, and Destination Evaluation: The Case of Garrett County, Maryland
Authors: Maumbe Kudzayi , Deng Jinyang , Selin Steve
Published: November 2014

The study analyzes factors affecting vacation planning in terms of information search and length of vacation planning time. The study also investigates the relationships between: visitor and trip characteristics; vacation planning; and outcomes such as visitor spending and destination
evaluation. Analysis was conducted through structural equation modeling (SEM) in AMOS. Results show that visitor and trip characteristics affect vacation planning and that planning affects visitor spending and destination evaluation. Management implications are discussed.
Economic Sentiment Indicator as a Demand Determinant
Authors: Altin Mehmet , Uysal Muzaffer
Published: November 2014

This study incorporates the concept of economic sentiment indicator (ESI) into demand studies along with more traditional variables such as interest rate, relative price, and exchange rate. The study utilizes ARIMA and ARDL bound test approach to cointegration using 15 EU member countries to Turkey. The study supports that ESI is a good indicator to gauge and monitor tourism demand, and adding tourists' state of mind into the demand equation could reduce errors and increase variance in explaining tourist arrivals. Policy makers should monitor ESI as it fluctuates over time and assess its potential effect on visitation behavior. Using this information generated from the study, government officials and tourism suppliers could adjust their promotional activities and expenditures.
(Mis)Understanding the Nature of Tourist Experiences
Authors: Knobloch Uli , Robertson Kirsten , Aitken Rob
Published: November 2014

With the emergence of experiential marketing, the positive customer experience has become fundamental to marketing, hospitality and tourism. However, positive experiences have not been defined. This study explores how the words often used to define positive experiences may actually
prevent us from understanding them. The terms “memorable,” “extraordinary,” “special,” and “peak” are particularly prevalent, but their meanings and characteristics are problematic and the nature of the experience to which they refer varies widely.
In-depth interviews with tourists investigated the nature of their experiences and the perceptions that defined them in relation to the terms commonly used by researchers. Findings showed that 1) respondents associate different meanings with each term and 2) types of experiences might stand
out in the minds of respondents for different reasons. This calls for a new approach for looking at tourists' experiences that emphasizes the multidimensional nature of experiences, as well as the importance of emotional aspects. Findings raise questions about the uninformed use of words by
researchers and the limitations for understanding the nature of experience, which may be a consequence. To contribute to experiential marketing and understanding experiences, researchers must embrace individual's terms and acknowledge how defining terms shape outcomes.
An Examination of Missing Links Between Quality of Life and Tourist Motivation
Authors: Kim Hyelin , Woo Eunju
Published: November 2014

The primary purpose of this study is to examine the missing links between elderly tourists' quality of life and their travel motivation. Moreover, the study assumes that the elderly tourist's overall quality of life is affected by five important life domain satisfactions: family life,
health life, emotional well-being, material well-being, and leisure life by applying bottom-up spillover theory. Using a sample drawn from retired persons over the age of 65 in South Korea, a structural equation modeling approach was used to identify the relevant relationships between the
five life domain satisfactions, overall quality of life, and travel motivation. The results reveal that satisfaction with family, health, emotional state, and leisure life positively influences satisfaction with overall quality of life. Overall quality of life is positively related to travel
motivation in the elderly.
Synthesis of an organic-soluble π-conjugated [3]rotaxane via rotation of glucopyranose units in permethylated β-cyclodextrin
Authors: Terao Jun , Konoshima Yohei , Matono Akitoshi , Masai Hiroshi , Fujihara Tetsuaki , Tsuji Yasushi
Published: November 2014

We synthesized symmetrically insulated oligo(para-phenylene) and oligothiophene with a pseudo-linked [3]rotaxane structure by full rotation of glucopyranose units via a flipping (tumbling) mechanism in the π-conjugated guest having two permethylated β-cyclodextrin units at both ends. We also succeeded in the synthesis of an organic-soluble fixed [3]rotaxane by a cross-coupling or complexation reaction of thus formed pseudo linked [3]rotaxane. Oligo(para-phenylene), oligothiophene, and porphyrin derivatives were used as π-conjugated guests with stopper groups.
Le traitement institutionnel des incestualités-mafieuses familiales intériorisées chez les adolescents
Authors: Pinel Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2014

Cet article se donne pour objet de dégager les conditions d’un traitement institutionnel en direction de préadolescents ou d’adolescents qui présentent une pathologie grave des limites et de la subjectivation associée à l’intériorisation de ce que l’auteur propose de désigner comme un fonctionnement familial incestuel-mafieux. Ce fonctionnement spécifique se rejouant, selon différentes modalités, sur la scène institutionnelle, il ne peut être contenu et élaboré qu’en appui sur des dispositifs de pensée à plusieurs, suffisamment amarrés au cadre institutionnel.
Voyeurisme et exhibitionnisme dans les familles d'adolescents
Authors: Eiguer Alberto
Published: November 2014

La crise familiale lors de l’adolescence de l’enfant suscite des manifestations perverses habituellement refoulées ou clivées-déniées. Parmi celles-ci, le voyeurisme et l’exhibitionnisme visent à contrôler autrui pour empêcher la dissolution du lien familial tout en trahissant les tendances incestueuses. Plus précisément, la prédation morale procurerait le cadre pour réaliser le vœu de « s’approprier les virtualités vitales d’autrui », l’adolescent ou l’adulte. Après avoir étudié le cas d’Arnolphe, personnage de L’École des femmes de Molière, l’auteur aborde la psychopathologie intersubjective : les narcissismes blessés, la crise du lien filial, la peur de la vérité et du savoir et les résistances à la subjectivation. Un cas de thérapie illustre ces idées.
La thérapie familiale psychanalytique (TFP) en institution
Authors: Mevel Françoise , Durmanova Helena , Robert Philippe , Tixier Élisabeth
Published: November 2014

Les participants ont resitué leur pratique à partir de l’histoire des thérapies familiales psychanalytiques (TFP) et leur lien avec l’histoire de la psychiatrie. Ils ont ensuite élaboré leur travail en reliant les échos fantasmatiques entre famille et institution, en insistant sur l’emboîtement des cadres et sur la répercussion institutionnelle de leurs pratiques. Ils ont conclu sur la place de la transmission au travers de ces dispositifs.
Gestion des assurances de dommages ou gestion des risques ? Telle est la question pour les gestionnaires
Authors: Moreau Rémi
Published: November 2014

Toutes les entreprises sont sujettes aux effets dévastateurs des risques liés à leurs opérations, dont certains sont assurables (les risques aléatoires) et certains ne le sont pas (les risques opérationnels). Traditionnellement, elles faisaient appel exclusivement aux assureurs pour obtenir les protections dont elles avaient besoin pour les sécuriser, et elles se mêlaient rarement de la gestion courante de leurs polices, si ce n’est qu’elles veillaient à leur renouvellement et avisaient l’assureur à la suite d’un sinistre. Les entreprises ont graduellement compris que les protections d’assurance de dommages obtenues ne comblaient pas tous leurs besoins. Ainsi, une nouvelle discipline est née au sein des entreprises : la gestion des risques. Cette gestion repose sur trois types d’interventions. D’abord, le gestionnaire procède à une analyse approfondie des menaces auxquelles l’entreprise fait face. Puis, il essaie d’évaluer et de traiter ces menaces, en termes de fréquence et de gravité. Enfin, il est en mesure de décider quels risques l’entreprise peut assumer elle-même, par une politique de rétention, sans mettre en danger sa solidité financière, et en confiant à des compagnies d’assurance les risques supérieurs à cette rétention 1 .
Les rôles et les pratiques des médias lors d'un scandale impliquant une marque-personne
Authors: Béroard Élodie , Parmentier Marie-Agnès
Published: November 2014

En 2005, le mannequin Kate Moss a vécu un scandale médiatique qui a considérablement perturbé son parcours et son image de marque. L’analyse du discours des médias, touchant trois médias distincts durant un an, a permis de mettre en lumière les pratiques d’interprétation des acteurs médiatiques modelant l’image d’une marque touchée par un scandale. Les différents rôles et les pratiques des médias renseignent le gestionnaire d’image de marque sur les démarches à entreprendre lorsqu’il fait face à un scandale.
Pourquoi et comment innover par le design management ?
Authors: Gallen Céline , Pantin-Sohier Gaëlle
Published: November 2014

La démarche du design management comporte des enjeux considérables pour les industries qui innovent. Dans le domaine agroalimentaire, secteur qui compte 20 % des plus grandes marques, la place accordée au design reste pourtant marginale et l’innovation est le plus souvent entre les mains des services Marketing et Recherche et Développement (R&D). Cet article montre que le design management constitue une voie prometteuse lorsque la pression à innover est forte malgré un marché saturé. Il fournit des pistes de réflexion aux fabricants pour intégrer le design au processus de production, à condition de bien définir la stratégie et d’adapter l’organisation et son contexte.
Enjeux et perspectives du métier de responsable des ressources humaines à temps partagé : une réponse au besoin d'innovation en matière d'emploi ?
Authors: Joyeau Anne , Poilpot-Rocaboy Gwénaëlle
Published: November 2014

Devant les besoins, fragmentés ou limités en temps, de compétences spécifiques dans les entreprises et sur un territoire, le travail à temps partagé, réalisé dans le cadre d’un groupement d’employeurs, apparaît comme une forme d’emploi innovante. En effet, il semble répondre à la fois aux besoins de flexibilité dans les organisations et aux attentes d’un emploi stable et durable des salariés. Pourtant, le temps partagé en général et le métier de responsable des ressources humaines à temps partagé en particulier sont peu développés et mal connus dans les entreprises. Sur la base d’une littérature rare et d’une étude qualitative menée auprès d’acteurs-experts, cet article vise à mettre en avant les enjeux et les avantages de ce métier à temps partagé, à repérer les freins à son développement et à faire des recommandations afin d’accélérer son développement au sein des organisations.
Contribuer à l'émergence d'une intelligence collective entrepreneuriale dans un projet collaboratif interorganisationnel
Authors: Lafaye Christophe , Berger-Douce Sandrine
Published: November 2014

Afin d’obtenir des occasions d’affaires et d’assurer leur compétitivité ou leur pérennité, certaines petites entreprises s’insèrent dans des stratégies collaboratives. Elles s’associent entre elles autour d’un projet qu’elles n’auraient pas pu, su ou voulu mener seules. Cependant, faire émerger une intelligence collective n’est pas un processus naturel en soi, et encore moins dans une configuration interorganisationnelle. Cet article vise à dégager les déterminants théoriques de l’émergence d’une intelligence collective entre des petites entreprises. Par la suite, nous confrontons ces déterminants théoriques avec l’abandon précoce d’un projet innovant collaboratif. Enfin, nous formulons des recommandations de gestion en vue de favoriser l’émergence d’une intelligence collective entre de petites entreprises.
Apical Pneumocystis jiroveci as an AIDS defining illness: A case report illustrating a change in the paradigm
Authors: Pfeifer Kyle , Kalra Vivek , Adebowale Adeniran , Juthani-Mehta Manisha , Soo-Shin Myung
Published: November 2014

Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia is a common acquired immune deficiency syndrome defining illness. Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia is classically described as having symmetrical bilateral perihilar ground-glass opacities on chest radiographs.  We present an "atypical" case of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia presenting as symmetric biapical cystic spaces with relative sparing of the remainder of the lungs in a 22 year-old male, previously undiagnosed with acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Our case illustrates that formerly unusual presentations of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia are becoming more common as acquired immune deficiency syndrome defining illnesses as more patients are being imaged with further imaging such as high resolution computed tomography.
Ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor with heterologous elements of gastrointestinal type associated with elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein level: an unusual case and literature review
Authors: Horta Mariana , Cunha Teresa Margarida , Canas Marques Rita , Félix Ana
Published: November 2014

Here we describe the case of a 19-year-old woman with a poorly differentiated ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor and an elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein level. The patient presented with diffuse abdominal pain and bloating. Physical examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a right ovarian tumor that was histopathologically diagnosed as a poorly differentiated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor with heterologous elements. Her alpha-fetoprotein serum level was undetectable after tumor resection. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors are rare sex cord-stromal tumors that account for 0.5% of all ovarian neoplasms. Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors tend to be unilateral and occur in women under 30 years of age. Although they are the most common virilizing tumor of the ovary, about 60% are endocrine-inactive tumors. Elevated serum levels of alpha-fetoprotein are rarely associated with Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, with only approximately 30 such cases previously reported in the literature. The differential diagnosis should include common alpha-fetoprotein-producing ovarian entities such as germ cell tumors, as well as other non-germ cell tumors that have been rarely reported to produce this tumor marker.
Sixth Sense Technology
Authors: Sridevi Haritha
Published: November 2014

Sixth sense is a gestural interface gadget representing a neck-worn pendant that holds both an information projector and Polaroid. Head-worn alternatives were additionally constructed at MIT Media Lab in 1997 that consolidated Polaroids and light frameworks for intelligent photographic craftsmanship, and likewise included signal distinguishment (e.g. finger-following utilizing hued tape which are worn on the fingers)

Sixth-sense is a name for additional data supplied by a wearable workstation, for example, the gadget called "WUW" (Wear your World) by Pranav Mistry expanding on the idea of the Telepointer, a neckworn projector and Polaroid mix initially proposed and decreased to practice by MIT Media Lab scholar Steve Mann.
ICTs in English Learning and Teaching
Authors: Drigas Athanasios , Charami Fani
Published: November 2014

A great number of articles have been written about English language teaching and the use of ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) during the last decade, achieving a laudable outcome. Recent literature has shown that the use of ICTs in the language classroom has a lot to offer to both learners and teachers, with learners enhancing their vocabulary, improving their reading and speaking skills, and with teachers having to hold a double role; the role of the educator and that of the facilitator, while having to cope with complex situations which include lack of training or lack of equipment in the language classroom. In this paper we shall review and present some representative studies on this field during the last decade.
Framework for Building Collaborative Research Environment
Authors: Devarakonda Ranjeet , Palanisamy Giriprakash , Gil Inigo San
Published: November 2014

Wide range of expertise and technologies are the key to solving some global problems. Semantic web technology can revolutionize the nature of how scientific knowledge is produced and shared. The semantic web is all about enabling machine-machine readability instead of a routine human-human interaction. Carefully structured data, as in machine readable data is the key to enabling these interactions. Drupal is an example of one such toolset that can render all the functionalities of Semantic Web technology right out of the box. Drupal’s content management system automatically stores the data in a structured format enabling it to be machine. In this article we will discuss how Drupal promotes collaboration in a research setting such as Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Long Term Ecological Research Center (LTER) and how it is effectively using the Semantic Web in achieving this.
Advertising Arrangements: An Attempt in Improving the Visual Quality of Urban Areas
Authors: Marlina Endy , Wijayanto Punto , Rani Dita Ayu , Ratriningsih Desrina , Herawan Tutut
Published: November 2014

Advertisement plays a role to create an effective communication among societies and urban environment. Its existence has enabled urban society to access information. In the very dynamic era of Yogyakarta society today, advertisement undeniably has been becoming one of the essential components in modern urban landscape. However, inaccuracy of advertisement design conversely can emerge inconvenience and interruption for society. Again it can also lead to the decline of the urban visual quality. Advertisement regulation in Yogyakarta, therefore, is required. In this paper, a study on advertisement regulation in Yogyakarta is conducted using a descriptive-qualitative approach based on the analysis on the communication aspect and spatial aspect. The results are used in recommending for the advertisement regulation based on three criteria: aesthetics, ethics, and safety. Aesthetics is in consideration of cultural values suitable in Yogyakarta (Local Regulation of Special District of Yogyakarta (DIY) No.4/2011) and visual consideration (American Society of Landscape Architects, 1979). Meanwhile, ethics is in accordance with Government Regulation 109/2012 and Law No. 11 Year 2010 and safety, in turn, is in accordance with Government Regulations No. 34 year 2006 and Regulations on Building No. 28 Year 2002.
Experimental Analysis of the Supply Pressure Variation of the Hydraulic System
Authors: Castro Richard , Morona Yan Medeiros , Machado Kainã , Cavaler Luiz Carlos , Rocha Alexandre Da Silva
Published: November 2014

In many industrial processes the variation of pressure in hydraulic systems can directly affect products that are being manufactured. So it is important to know the fundamental characteristics of construction of hydraulic components so that they can contribute positively during the use of hydraulic machines. This study aimed to analyse the characteristics of the variation in supply pressure in a hydraulic system under different conditions of operation. In the initial phase was presented constructive operating characteristics of the major components analysed, these being the proportional directional valve, pressure relief valve direct operated (relief valve) and the accumulator. Subsequently, was determined the relation between the operation of the relief valve and the behavior of supply pressure. In the experiments, the proportional directional valve is subjected to different conditions of pressure difference and aperture alternating, and also the use of an accumulator in the circuit. The results show the relation between the operating conditions of the hydraulic circuit and the change in supply pressure.
Stochastic economic evaluation of dairy farm reproductive performance
Authors: Kalantari Afshin S. , Cabrera Victor E.
Published: November 2014

Kalantari, A. S. and Cabrera, V. E. 2015. Stochastic economic evaluation of dairy farm reproductive performance. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 59–70. The objective of this study was to assess the economic value of reproductive performance in dairy farms under uncertain and variable conditions. Consequently, the study developed methods to introduce stochasticity into transition probabilities of a Markov chain model. A robust Markov chain model with 21-d stage length and three state variables, parity, days in milk, and days in pregnancy, was developed. Uncertainty was added to all transition probabilities, milk production level, and reproductive costs. The model was run for 10 000 replications after introducing each random variable. The expected net return (US$ cow−1yr−1±standard deviation) was $3192±75.0 for the baseline scenario that had 15% 21-d pregnancy rate (21-d PR). After verifying the model's behavior, it was run for 2000 replications to study the effect of changing 21-d PR from 10 to 30% with one-unit-percentage interval. The economic gain of changing 21-d PR from 10 to 30% resulted in a US$75 cow−1yr−1, and this overall increase in the net return was observed mainly due to the lower reproductive and culling cost and higher calf value. The gain was even greater when milk price and milk cut-off threshold decreased.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae live culture affects rapidly fermentable carbohydrates fermentation profile in precision-fed dairy heifers
Authors: Lascano G. J. , Heinrichs A. J. , Tricarico J. M.
Published: November 2014

Lascano, G. J., Heinrichs, A. J. and Tricarico, J. M. 2015. Saccharomyces cerevisiae live culture affects rapidly fermentable carbohydrates fermentation profile in precision-fed dairy heifers. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 117–127. The experimental objective was to determine the dose effect of live yeast culture (YC) on rumen fermentation profiles and microbial total cell concentrations in precision-fed dairy heifers exposed to different rapidly fermented carbohydrates diets. A split-plot design with starch level as the whole plot and YC dose as sub-plot was administered in a four-period (21 d) 4×4 Latin square balanced for carryover effects. Eight Holstein heifers were allocated to two starch treatments (28% starch: HS; 17% starch: LS) and to a sequence of YC doses (0, 10, 30, and 50 g d−1). Total volatile fatty acid concentration was not different among YC doses or starch level, but molar proportions of propionate, isobutyrate, and isovalerate were higher for HS than for LS. Mean ruminal ammonia concentration was increased in HS-fed heifers. Heifers fed HS had an increased number of viable, non-viable, and total fluid-associated bacteria, particle-associated bacteria, and total bacteria. Increasing YC dose linearly beyond 10 g d−1 decreased viable and total fluid-associated bacteria. The effects of various YC doses on ruminal fermentation products, pH, and microbial total cell concentrations indicate diet dependency between source of readily available carbohydrates and YC addition in dairy heifers.
Comparison of fatty acids in beef tissues from conventional, organic and natural feeding systems in western Canada
Authors: Turner Tyler D. , Jensen Jessica , Pilfold Jessica L. , Prema Dipesh , Donkor Kingsley K. , Cinel Bruno , Thompson Donald J. , Dugan Michael E. R. , Church John S.
Published: November 2014

Turner, T. D., Jensen, J., Pilfold, J. L., Prema, D., Donkor, K. K., Cinel, B., Thompson, D. J., Dugan, M. E. R. and Church, J. S. 2015. Comparison of fatty acids in beef tissues from conventional, organic and natural feeding systems in western Canada. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 49–58. The effect of production system on intramuscular and associated trim fatty acid (FA) profiles of retail ribeye steaks from conventional and niche market organic and natural (grain- or grass-fed) beef were compared. Meat from organic grain- and grass-fed systems was leaner, containing greater proportions of polyunsaturated FA, i.e., 18:3n-3, 20:5n-3, 22:5n-3, 22:6n-3. Correspondingly, the n-6/n-3 ratios of organic grain- and grass-fed systems were 3:1, while conventional and natural grain systems had ratios of 8:1. High forage-to-grain ratio production systems increased proportions of desirable biohydrogenation intermediates (BI), including t11-18:1 and c9,t11-18:2, whereas conventional and natural grain systems elevated t10-18:1. Trim fat was similarly affected by production system, and was a relatively richer source of BI. Overall, proportions of desirable FAs, including n-3 and BI, were greater for organic grain- and grass-fed systems, emphasizing the importance of a high forage-to-grain ratio to enhance the healthfulness of beef, whereas conventional and natural grain-fed systems were largely equivalent.
Community considerations for quinoa production in the urban environment
Authors: Thomas E. C. , (Les) Lavkulich L. M.
Published: November 2014

Thomas, E. C. and Lavkulich, L. M. 2015. Community considerations for quinoa production in the urban environment. Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 397–404. Production of food crops in urban settings is an increasingly consumer-accepted means of contributing to local food security and access to fresh produce. Many urban gardens are located on former industrial sites (brownfields) that may be contaminated by heavy metals. Growing crops in trace metal contaminated soil can pose human health concerns. Little has been documented on the uptake of metals from urban sites by crops, and especially the partitioning of metals between roots, shoots and seeds. Human health impacts are of particular concern when locally grown produce constitutes a major proportion of the local diet. The results of this study show that quinoa grown on brownfield sites in Vancouver, Canada may contain elevated levels of metals such as Cd, Cu and Pb.
Evaluation of spontaneous generation of allelic variation in soybean in response to sexual hybridization and stress
Authors: Espinosa Katherine , Boelter Jessica , Lolle Susan , Hopkins Marianne , Goggi Susana , Palmer Reid G. , Sandhu Devinder
Published: November 2014

Espinosa, K., Boelter, J., Lolle, S., Hopkins, M., Goggi, S., Palmer, R. G. and Sandhu, D. 2015. Evaluation of spontaneous generation of allelic variation in soybean in response to sexual hybridization and stress. Can. J. Plant Sci. 95: 405–415. Intra-cultivar variation reported in pure lines of soybean has been hypothesized to result from genetic mechanisms contributing to de novo genetic variation. In this study we have detected allele switching by following segregation patterns of Aconitase-4 isozyme in sexual crosses and pure lines. In sexual crosses, one F2plant showed a switch at the Aconitase-4 (Aco4) locus from the expected heterozygous genotype Aco4-ac to Aco4-ab. In the pure lines grown in a honeycomb planting design and treated with an accelerated aging test, multiple cases of allele switching were detected at the Aco4 locus. Both single and double switches were detected that were stable and heritable. These findings indicate that the generation of endogenous variation continues in pure lines as a result of intrinsic genetic mechanisms. With a long-term goal of understanding the genetic nature of the changes, we genetically mapped the Aco4 gene to a 3.3 cM region on Chromosome 11. The corresponding physical region is ∼293 kb with 39 predicted genes. Of these, Glyma.11g080600 is of particular interest, as it shows 93% and 88% identity to Medicago truncatula and Arabidopsis aconitase genes, respectively. Further characterization of the soybean Aco4 gene may shed light on genetic mechanisms responsible for allele switching.
Effects of biochar and/or dolomitic limestone application on the properties of Ultisol cropped to maize under glasshouse conditions
Authors: Rabileh M. A. , Shamshuddin J. , Panhwar Q. A. , Rosenani A. B. , Anuar A. R.
Published: November 2014

Rabileh, M. A., Shamshuddin, J., Panhwar, Q. A., Rosenani, A. B. and Anuar, A. R. 2015. Effects of biochar and/or dolomitic limestone application on the properties of Ultisol cropped to maize under glasshouse conditions. Can. J. Soil Sci. 95: 37–47. Ultisols in the tropics are characterized by low pH and high exchangeable Al. Maize grown on them produces low yield. A study was conducted to determine changes in soil properties and their subsequent effects on maize growth, resulting from oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) biochar and/or dolomitic limestone application. The results show that the application of the EFB biochar improved soil fertility by increasing soil pH. The Al3+activities in the soil solution decreased exponentially with increasing rate of the biochar application. The decrease in Al in the biochar-treated soil occurred because: (1) at the rate of>5 t ha−1, soil solution pH increased significantly, precipitating Al as gibbsite; and (2) the biochar was able to fix some of the Al by chelation. Application of the biochar alone or in combination with lime significantly improved maize growth. The critical Al3+activity for maize grown on Ultisol was 10 µM, while critical pH was 4.7–4.8. Maize grown on the EFB biochar-amended soils produced greater root length compared with that of the control. The optimal rate of EFB biochar application to improve the productivity of the Ultisol for maize production under glasshouse condition was 5–10 t ha−1.
On elastic solids with limiting small strain: modelling and analysis
Authors: Bulíček Miroslav , Málek Josef , Rajagopal K. R. , Süli Endre
Published: November 2014

In order to understand nonlinear responses of materials to external stimuli of different sort, be they of mechanical, thermal, electrical, magnetic, or of optical nature, it is useful to have at one's disposal a broad spectrum of models that have the capacity to describe in mathematical terms a wide range of material behavior. It is advantageous if such a framework stems from a simple and elegant general idea. Implicit constitutive theory of materials provides such a framework: while being built upon simple ideas, it is able to capture experimental observations with the minimum number of physical quantities involved. It also provides theoretical justification in the full three-dimensional setting for various models that were previously proposed in an
ad hoc
manner. From the perspective of the theory of nonlinear partial differential equations, implicit constitutive theory leads to new classes of challenging mathematical problems. This study focuses on implicit constitutive models for elastic solids in general, and on its subclass consisting of elastic solids with limiting small strain. After introducing the basic concepts of implicit constitutive theory, we provide an overview of results concerning modeling within the framework of continuum mechanics. We then concentrate on the mathematical analysis of relevant boundary-value problems associated with models with limiting small strain, and we present the first analytical result concerning the existence of weak solutions in general three-dimensional domains.