bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Five Years Seroprevalence Study of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus in Lithuanian Pig and Wild Boar Populations
Authors: Stankevičius Arunas , Buitkuviene Jurate , Deltuvytiene Jurgita , Čepuliene Ramune , Zilionyte Virginija , Pampariene Ina , Žymantiene Judita
Published: October 2014

Serological study of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection in pigs and wild boars was conducted in Lithuania between 2009 and 2013. Antibody level was measured using a commercial ELISA. The 4.32% (95% CI 3.92-4.72) out of 9856 examined porcine sera were positive for the PRRSV antibodies. The antibodies were detected in 11.82% (95% CI 10.28-13.36) of all investigated serum samples of sows and gilts. As much as 8.2% of serologically positive samples (95% CI 6.83-9.57) were determined in the piglets under three months of age. Considerably smaller (P < 0.05) seroprevalence was detected in boars (0.62%) and fattening pigs (1.84%). From 1357 examined sera of wild boar, collected between 2009 and 2013 hunting seasons, 5.38% (95% CI 4.52-8.2) of samples were positive for PRRSV antibodies in 23 locations out of 50 investigated. The analysis of seroprevalence in different age groups of wild boars showed that PRRSV antibodies were detected in all age groups; however, it was significantly higher in adults than in juveniles or subadults and reached up to 10.02% (95% CI 7.39-12.65).
In-house Validation of PCR Based Procedure for Specific Detection of Clostridium Botulinum Types C and D
Authors: Grenda Tomasz , Kukier Elżbieta , Goldsztejn Magdalena , Kwiatek Krzysztof
Published: October 2014

A PCR-based procedure for detection of C. botulinum C and D in corn silage samples was validated. During the validation, method specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy were determined according to PN - EN ISO 16140:2004. Additionally, the specificity of the validated methods was proved by sequence analysis of PCR products obtained from examination of samples connected with botulism cases in cattle and mallard ducks. Limit of detection was estimated according to the Spearman - Kärber formula and expressed as LOD50. The obtained results showed that a 100% specificity was achieved. The sequencing of PCR products revealed 99% identity with sequences of bont/C and bont/D genes deposited in the GenBank. The sensitivity value ranged from 63.3% for C. botulinum type C to 75% for type D. The accuracy value varied from 72% for type C to 81.3% for type D. LOD50 was estimated at the levels of 0.272 (0. D 188-0395) spore/g for type C and 0.17 (0.1-0.289) spore/g for type D. The described PCR-based procedure enabled detection of C. botulinum C and D at the stage of liquid culture. This makes examination of feed samples possible without isolation process. The presented procedure could support the diagnosis of botulism by faster and specific laboratory examination process.
Contamination of Omnivorous Freshwater Fish Species and Sediments by Chlorinated Hydrocarbons in Poland
Authors: Niewiadowska Alicja , Kiljanek Tomasz , Semeniuk Stanisław , Żmudzki Jan
Published: October 2014

The occurrence and concentrations of organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in 158 muscle samples of bream (Abramis brama) and roach (Rutilus rutilus), and 84 samples of sediments collected from 10 river and lake sampling sites in 2011 and 2012. The concentrations of DDTs (p,p’-DDT, o,p’-DDT, p,p’-DDE, and p,p’-DDD), HCH isomers (a-, ß-, and y-HCH), HCB, and PCBs (six indicator PCB congeners 28, 52, 101, 138, 153 and 180) were determined using the capillary gas chromatography. The mean concentrations of DDTs in bream and roach were in the range of 11.2-654 and 4.5-121 ug/kg wet weight respectively, and PCBs were in the range of 1.3-75.9 and 1.1-112 ug/kg wet weight, respectively. Mean concentrations of DDTs and PCBs in sediments were 0.5-270 ug/kg dry weight and ⋋0.1-2.2 ug/kg dry weight respectively. The study showed clear spatial differences in the levels of organochlorine pesticides and PCBs in fish and sediments from different aquatic ecosystems. The highest levels of contaminants were detected in fish and sediments from the Vistula River in vicinity of Cracow. The possible risk to the fish meat consumers and ecological risk were evaluated.
Determination of the Thyreostats in Animal Feeding Stuffs Using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Woźniak Barbara , Witek Sebastian , Matraszek-Żuchowska Iwona , Żmudzki Jan
Published: October 2014

A rapid liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated to detect and confirm five thyreostatic drugs: tapazole, thiouracil, methylthiouracil, propylthiouracil, and phenylthiouracil in animal feeding stuff samples. Thyreostats were extracted from feed with methanol, and then degreasing of the extract with petroleum ether was performed, followed by the derivatisation of the compounds with 3-iodobenzylbromide in basic medium (pH 8.0). The derivatives were extracted with diethyl ether and analysed by gradient elution on a Poroshell 120-EC C18 column with triple quadrupole MS detection with turbo spray source in positive ionisation mode. The method was validated in accordance with the Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. For validation level of 10 ļig kg-1, the recovery ranged from 82% to 97.5% for all examined compounds. The repeatability and reproducibility did not exceed the limit of 20% for all analytes. The linearity was good for all thyreostats in the whole range of tested concentrations, as proved by the correlation coefficients greater than 0.99. The decision limits (CCa) ranged from 1.63 ļig kg-1 to 3.95 ļig kg-1, whereas the detection capabilities (CCß) ranged from 2.74 ļig kg-1 to 6.73 ļig kg-1. The developed analysis is sensitive and robust, and therefore useful for quantification and confirmation of thyreostats in residue control programme.
Effect of Dietary Inulin Source on Piglet Performance, Immunoglobulin Concentration, and Plasma Lipid Profile
Authors: Grela Eugeniusz R. , Sobolewska Sandra , Kowalczuk-Vasilev Edyta , Krasucki Wacław
Published: October 2014

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of an inulin source (aqueous or aqueous-alcoholic extract, dried chicory root, or dried Jerusalem artichoke tubers) on piglet performance, plasma lipid profile, and immunoglobulin concentration. The study was conducted on 534 piglets (44 litters) allocated to five nutritional groups: group I (control) - fed basal diet, groups II and III receiving basal diet supplemented with 2% of inulin (aqueous and aqueous-alcoholic extract respectively), and groups IV and V -4% additive of dried artichoke or dried chicory respectively. During the trial, piglets’ body weight, feed intake, diarrhoea incidence, and mortality were controlled. Blood samples were collected twice from six animals of each group. In blood plasma, indices of lipid profile and concentrations of IgA, IgG and IgM were measured. The addition of inulin, regardless of its form (extracts or dried plants), significantly improved the rearing indices. In piglets of groups III, IV and V a significant improvement of daily weight gains and feed efficiency was noted. Inulin showed hypolipidemic activity (lowered total cholesterol level) and stimulated piglet immune system manifested by elevated IgA and IgG concentrations. Irrespective of the inulin source, a lower mortality rate resulting from the improvement of animal health was noted in all experimental groups.
Capital Movements Between the European Union and Turkey Within the Integration Processes
Authors: Witkowska Janina
Published: October 2014

The institutional model used in the integration process between the European Union (EU) and Turkey was that of establishment of a customs union under an Association Agreement. In the context of the difficulties that have occurred in the membership negotiations between the EU and Turkey, the question arises whether real economic integration between them has gone further than that achieved at the stage of a customs union. Free movement of capital, constituting one of the so-called four fundamental freedoms within the single European market, is the subject of examination in this paper. The obligations of Turkey, as an EU candidate country, in the field of free movement of capital are more demanding under the EU scheme of liberalization of capital flows than within the OECD, which is regulated by the Code of Liberalisation of Capital Movements and the Code of Liberalisation of Current Invisible Operations. Real economic integration between the EU and Turkey requires further liberalization of the free movement of capital. While Turkey encourages the inflow foreign direct investment using a generous package of incentives, the role of FDI in its economy still remains moderate.
Response of the EU Member States to Climate Change in the Context of EU Policy and Strategy
Authors: Wysokińska Zofia
Published: October 2014

The aim of this paper is to present selected results achieved by the Member States of the EU in the context of the recent global and European strategies oriented toward enhancement of the role of renewable energy sources and on mitigation of negative climate changes in the Earth. Special attention has been paid to those countries that have approached or already reached, in the year 2012, a share of renewable energy indicators at a percentage level higher than the required 20%.
Transformations and Reforms of European Health Care Systems: The Case of Estonia
Authors: Suchecka Jadwiga
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this article is to present the main directions of changes in the Estonian health care system following the transformation of the national economy and the accession of Estonia to the European Union. Special attention has been paid to the ways of sourcing, and the collection and redistribution of financial resources allocated to health care in different periods of the transformation. The initial changes introduced far-reaching decentralization of the health system, while further reforms led to his re-centralization. The intensity of the re-centralization of finance and health management processes was accelerated after 2008, when the impact of the global financial crisis on the condition of the economy of Estonia was significant. As a result of the introduced changes, Bismarck’s mixed system – a hybrid system – has been formed.
Laboratoryjne Studium Porównawcze Środków Chemicznych Stosowanych W Zabiegach Ograniczania Dopływu Wody Do Odwiertów Gazowych
Authors: Falkowicz Sławomir , Dubiel Stanisław , Cicha-Szot Renata
Published: October 2014

Streszczenie

W publikacji przedstawiono procedury doboru i oceny skuteczności technologicznej środków chemicznych stosowanych w zabiegach selektywnego ograniczania dopływu wody złożowej do odwiertów wydobywczych gazu ziemnego. W zabiegach, nazywanych dalej zabiegami RPM (od angielskiego Relative Permeability Modification), wykorzystuje siê zjawisko zmniejszania przepusz-czalności wzglêdnej skał zbiornikowych dla wody po zatłoczeniu do nich specjalnych środków chemicznych zwanych produktami RPM. Na podstawie danych literaturowych opisano efekty kilku zabiegów typu RPM wykonanych w ostatnich latach w zawodnionych odwiertach gazowych na złożach o różnych parametrach geologiczno-eksploatacyjnych. Przeprowadzono analizê danych eks-ploatacyjnych kilku odwiertów gazowych pod kątem zasadności stosowania w tych odwiertach zabiegów typu RPM. Przedstawiono sposób oceny charakteru przypływu wody do odwiertu (stożkiem lub warstwowy), co ma podstawowe znaczenie przy wyborze odwiertu do zabiegu typu RPM. Oceny charakteru przypływu wody do odwiertu dokonano metodą graficznej analizy zmian przebiegu wykresu zależności pierwszej pochodnej wykładnika wodno-gazowego od czasu eksploatacji złoża gazu danym odwiertem. Przedstawione w układzie podwójnie logarytmicznym kształty tych wy-kresów stanowią podstawê rozróżnienia charakteru dopływu wody złożowej do odwiertu gazowego oraz doboru technologii zabiegu RPM.

Opierając siê na danych producentów, wybrano cztery komercyjne środki typu RPM, które przetestowano laboratoryjnie realizując zabiegi RPM w symulowanych warunkach złożowych. Re-alizując testy laboratoryjne, uwzglêdniono specyficzne właściwości dostêpnych na rynku środków chemicznych (polimery lub mikrożele), odmienny mechanizm zmian przepuszczalności wzglêdnej skały kolektorskiej dla wody złożowej oraz charakterystykê eksploatacyjną odwiertów wydobywczych gazu ziemnego na przedgórzu Karpat. Na podstawie uzyskanych danych laboratoryjnych i zaproponowanej procedury, dokonano oceny skuteczności technologicznej każdego z wytypo-wanych produktów, w przypadku ich zastosowania w zawodnionych odwiertach produkujących gaz ziemny.

W zakresie analizy doboru parametrów technologicznych zabiegu RPM wykonano obliczenia umożliwiające porównanie wartości strat ciśnienia na pokonanie oporów hydraulicznych przepływu dwóch cieczy zabiegowych o różnym współczynniku lepkości dynamicznej przez przewody zatła-czające o różnej średnicy, w zależności od wydatku zatłaczania. Uwzglêdniono przy tym charak-terystyki reologiczne wyznaczone laboratoryjnie dla tych wytypowanych produktów.
Analysis of Results of Spatial Development Plans for Management of Rock Raw Material Deposits
Authors: Kazmierczak Urszula
Published: October 2014

This publication describes a mechanism for shaping the policy of spatial development, the final outputs of which are local land development plans determining the spatial distribution of objects of different environmental and economic functions. Land development plans guarantee a spatial order, which means not only aesthetic qualities, utility, logic, and clarity of spatial structure, but also high usability and effectiveness harmonized with nature, both nationally and locally. Working out such a plan is determined by drawing up many other planning documents. This results from the fact that spatial development should be integrated and comprehensive not only at the local but also at the regional level. What is more, the article presented the results of spatial policy at every stage of deposit management, from a deposit documentation to a post-mining area reclamation, as well as, it discussed issues connected with inadequate protection of the deposits in the planning documents. Documented rock raw material deposits must be included in a study of conditions and directions of commune spatial development (Polish: Studium uwarunkowañ i kierunków zagospodarowania przestrzennego gmin) and in a local land development plan (Miejscowy plan zagospodarowania przestrzennego), and also in voivodeship area development plans. Admittedly, this mention does not protect the deposit from being used for non-mining purposes; still, lack of it might result in failure to obtain the concession for mining of deposits, which is not possible without exclusion of land from the previous use. As for the last phase of mining activity – that is, area reclamation after mining of mineral deposits – such ans area must undergo reclamation and be prepared for development in a way that enables it to function in accordance with the study of conditions and directions of commune spatial development and in the land development plan of the particular commune. This means the necessity of amendments to these documents unless they have already defined target functions of deposit area.
Single Pot Benzylation of O-Xylene with Benzyl Chloride and Benzyl Alcohol Over Pillared Montmorillonites
Authors: Kurian Manju , Sugunan S.
Published: October 2014

Improvement of product selectivity is a major concern of the day. Presence of a coreactant can alter the rate as well as product selectivity of many key reactions like Friedel-Crafts benzylation. Single pot benzylation of o-xylene with benzyl chloride and benzyl alcohol was studied over transition metal exchanged pillared clay catalysts. Complete conversion of benzyl alcohol occured within one hour with 100% monoalkylated product selectivity. The reaction of o-xylene with benzyl alcohol was found to proceed fast in presence of benzyl chloride in single pot, than when present alone as the benzylating species. This enhancement occurs at the expense of no reaction of benzyl chloride, which when present alone reacts faster than benzyl alcohol. Existence of a second transition metal exchanged between the pillars increased the rate of the reaction. A detailed investigation of the reaction variables suggested preferential adsorption of benzyl alcohol to catalyst active sites as the reason.
Dehydrochlorination of 1,3-Dichloropropan-2-Ol by Calcium and Sodium Hydroxide Solutions
Authors: Krzyżanowska Anna , Milchert Eugeniusz , Bartkowiak Marcin
Published: October 2014

The results of dehydrochlorination of 88 wt% aqueous solution of 1,3-dichloropropan-2-ol to epichlorohydrin are reported. The process was carried out in the reaction-stripping column system with a continuous removal of epichlorohydrin in the steam stream. Aqueous solutions of sodium and calcium hydroxides at concentrations in the range of 3-14 wt% were used for the dehydrochlorination. The infl uence of the type and concentration of dehydrochlorination agent on 1,3-dichloropropan-2-ol conversion, the selectivity of transformation to epichlorohydrin and by-products, and the composition of distillate and wastewater were studied.
Co(Salen) Catalysed Oxidation of Synthetic Lignin-Like Polymer: Naoh Effects
Authors: Zhou Xue-Fei
Published: October 2014

Abstract An attempt has been made to selectively oxidise synthetic lignin-like polymer for fine chemicals. The G- and S-type polymers (G- and S- type lignin model polymers) were synthesized using simple aromatic compounds as starting materials and then oxidised to benzaldehydes by reacting them with Co(salen) catalytic system. The reaction was characterized by measuring the change of the polymer with FTIR, C-13 NMR and GC-MS spectroscopy. The results obtained by the FTIR and C-13 NMR showed that the effects of NaOH were important and higher yield of benzaldehydes characterized by GC-MS in the presence of NaOH in the course of catalytic oxidation of the polymer demonstrated these effects. From the results, the catalyst could suitably be used in green procedures for lignin transformation.
Philosophical Problems of Foundations of Logic
Authors: Karpenko Alexander S.
Published: October 2014

In the paper the following questions are discussed: (i) What is logical consequence? (ii) What are logical constants (operations)? (iii) What is a logical system? (iv) What is logical pluralism? (v) What is logic? In the conclusion, the main tendencies of development of modern logic are pointed out.
Ordinal Or Cardinal Utility: A Note
Authors: Block Walter E. , Wutscher Robert
Published: October 2014

Modern microeconomic theory is based on a foundation of ordinal preference relations. Good textbooks stress that cardinal utility functions are artificial constructions of convenience, and that economics does not attribute any meaning to “utils.” However, we argue that despite this official position, in practice mainstream economists rely on techniques that assume the validity of cardinal utility. Doing so has turned mainstream economic theorizing into an exercise of reductionism of objects down to the preferences of ‘ideal type’ subjects.
Exposure to ototoxic agents and hearing loss
Authors: Cannizzaro Emanuele , Cannizzaro Carla , Plescia Fulvio , Martines Francesco , Soleo Leonardo , Pira Enrico , Lo Coco Daniele
Published: October 2014

Several experimental and clinical studies have shown that a variety of ototoxic agents (such as drugs, industrial chemicals and noise) can cause sensorineural hearing loss. The most common ototoxic drugs used in clinical practice include: aminoglycoside and macrolide antibiotics, quinoline anti-malarials, platinum analog antineoplastics, loop diuretics, and acetylsalicylic acid. Among chemical agents with potential ototoxic properties are: organic solvents, heavy metals, organotins, nitriles, asphyxiants, and pesticides/herbicides. Acoustic exposure to high intensity and/or prolonged noise can also cause permanent threshold shifts in auditory perception. Ototoxic agents can influence auditory function by different mechanisms: ROS overload, inhibition of mitochondrial protein synthesis, DNA/RNA damage, activation of the apoptotic pathways, excessive calcium influx, increase of proinflammatory cytokines, interference with fluid and electrolyte balance of the endolymph, atrophy of the stria vascularis, changes in blood-labyrinth barrier and overstimulation of the stereocilia of the ear cells. Since noise exposure and many drugs or chemical compounds frequently share the same ototoxic mechanisms, this may explain why hearing loss can be potentiated by combined exposure to these agents. However, a great variability in the individual’s response to a given xenobiotic exists and depends on a complex interplay between endogenous and exogenous factors.
Sophorolipids Synthesized Using Non-Traditional Oils with Glycerol and Studies on Their Surfactant Properties with Synthetic Surfactant
Authors: Bhangale Akash P. , Wadekar Sushand D. , Kale Sandeep B. , Pratap Amit P.
Published: October 2014

The importances of bio-surfactants in industrial applications are huge due to their biodegradable and eco-friendly nature. Bio-surfactants mostly find application in cosmetics and health care products. Moreover, bio-surfactants like sophorolipids (SL) also exhibit antimicrobial and skin healing properties. The current studies involve production of SL using low cost substrates like glycerol (15%) instead of glucose (10%) with non-traditional oils (10%) such as jatropha oil, karanja oil and neem oil by using Starmerella bombicola (ATCC 22214). Neem oil gave lower yield i.e. (1.42 g/L) of SL as compared to jatropha oil (4.74 g/L) and karanja oil (5.91 g/L) with glycerol as substrate. Some pretreatment given to crude neem oil like oil refining and ethanol washing with glycerol helps in improved cell growth and SL yield i.e. 2.73 g/L and 3.82 g/L respectively. The comparison thin layer chromatography (TLC), Fourier Transform infrared spectra (FTIR), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), liquid chromatography mass spectra (LC-MS) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR) of SL produced on non-traditional oils with glycerol were carried out with that of SL produced on non-traditional oils with glucose. The surfactant properties of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) such as surface tension, interfacial tension, stabilization of foam, emulsification, and wetting were improved when SLS was replaced at different concentration of SL.
Application of Biosurfactant Surfactin on Copper Ion Removal from Sand Surfaces with Continuous Flushing Technique
Authors: Haryanto Bode , Chang Jo-Shu , Chang Chien-Hsiang
Published: October 2014

The potential of using the biosurfactant surfactin to remove adsorbed metal ions from sand surfaces with continuous flushing approaches was evaluated. With the surfactin solution flushing approach, low removal efficiency of 2–15% for copper ions was detected due to the contact of surfactin with copper ions occurring mainly in the inter-particle pore region. The channeling effect also contributed to the low removal efficiency. By incorporating foam in the flushing operation, the contact of surfactin with copper ions was enhanced due to reduced channeling effect. More copper ions with outer-sphere interaction type were thus available and the removal efficiency was increased. Increasing the surfactin concentration could increase the dynamic foaming capacity and lead to improved removal efficiency of 40%. The results demonstrated that the foam-enhanced solution flushing approach was efficient with a low usage of surfactin.
Synthesis and Properties of a Series of CO2 Switchable Gemini Imidazolium Surfactants
Authors: Lu Hongsheng , He Yu , Huang Zhiyu
Published: October 2014

Novel switchable gemini imidazolium surfactants with different carbon atoms in hydrophobic group were successfully synthesized by condensation of fatty acid with triethylene tetramine, then the intermediates were reacted with CO2 to give the imidazolinium bicarbonates. The structures of intermediates and products were identified by IR and 1H-NMR spectra. As the results show, the structures of the products obtained correspond to the target compounds designed. By surface tension measurements, these Gemini surfactants have excellent surface activity with low cmc and surface tension. The conductivity and surface tension cycles show that these surfactants could be switched from imidazoline (neutral form) to imidazolium bicarbonate (charged form) reversibly and repeatedly.
Synthesis and Solution Properties of New Polysiloxane Bola Surfactants Containing Carbohydrate
Authors: Zeng Xiaojun , Wang Hanghang , Chen Yanhong , Wang Liang
Published: October 2014

Three polysiloxane bola surfactants containing carbohydrate (ATPS-LA) were synthesized using a two-step method. Structure characterization was performed by infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR). Their surface activities and aggregation properties in aqueous solution were investigated by surface tension measurements and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results indicated that these three surfactants have much higher surface activity than those of conventional hydrocarbon bola surfactants, such as sodium eicosanedioate, in aqueous solution, and they can self-assemble into spherical micelles with average diameters in the range from 100 to 600 nm.
Syntheses and Properties of Novel Ionic Twin-tail Trisiloxane Surfactants
Authors: Peng Zhongli , Deng Haiping , Chen Hongyan
Published: October 2014

To improve the hydrolysis resistant ability (HRA) of ionic trisiloxane surfactants, three novel ionic twin-tail trisiloxane surfactants have been synthesized. Their formulas are of (R)2N+(CH3)2I− (A), (R)2N(CH2)3SO3
−Na+ (B) and (R)2N+ (I)− (CH3)(CH2)3SO3
−Na+ (C) [R = Me3SiOSiMe(CH2)3OSiMe3], respectively. Their structures were characterized by ESI-MS, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. The surface activity and hydrolysis resistance of the synthesized ionic twin-tail trisiloxane surfactants are significantly better than that of the ionic single-tail analogue surfactants. The critical aggregation concentration (CAC) values of these ionic twin-tail trisiloxane surfactants are at levels of 10−6∼10−5 mol L−1 and the surface tension (γ) values of their aqueous solutions at CAC are below 21.0 mN m−1. The γ values of the aqueous solutions of anionic trisiloxane surfactant B and zwitterionic trisiloxane surfactant C are still less than 21 mN m−1 after having been placed in alkaline environment (pH 10.0) for 29 days. However, the spreading ability (SA) of their aqueous solutions on low-energy solid surfaces is not as good as that of the nonionic twin-tail trisiloxane surfactants previously prepared by us. By weight loss methods the cationic trisiloxane surfactant A was confirmed to be able to use as a corrosion inhibitor. The structure and surface area per molecule (as
m) of zwitterionic surfactant C were also discussed.
Modeling Station-Based and Free-Floating Carsharing Demand
Authors: Ciari Francesco , Bock Benno , Balmer Michael
Published: October 2014

Carsharing, in any form, is still growing around the world. One of the effects is the increasing number of cities in which multiple carsharing operators are competing. The carsharing industry has never been as competitive as it is now: the present is a good time for researchers to invest efforts in providing tools for the assessment and planning of carsharing programs. Nevertheless, efforts in this direction are still scarce, in particular for some of the newest forms in which carsharing has been implemented, such as free-floating carsharing. This paper reports on a study that made use of MATSim, an agent-based simulation software that had already been used to model station-based carsharing, to evaluate different carsharing scenarios for the city of Berlin. The main findings are the existing high potential to extend carsharing services further in Berlin and the apparent complementarity of station-based and free-floating carsharing. On the methodological level, the work introduces a new tool for the modeling of free-floating carsharing along with improvements of the previously existing station-based carsharing model.
Assessing Impact of Carsharing on Household Car Ownership in Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Authors: Klincevicius Mary G. Y. , Morency Catherine , Trépanier Martin
Published: October 2014

Carsharing is a service in which members of an organization have access to vehicles for predetermined periods of time (usually with short duration). One of the main impacts of this service in a city is said to be the reduction of car ownership. However, most studies used surveys of carsharing members to evaluate this effect, and these surveys may contain a bias because of the members’ interpretation of reality. This study proposes a first assessment of the reduction of car ownership in an area served by station-based carsharing service; the study used historical empirical data describing the population (Canadian census), typical travel behaviors, and car ownership (origin–destination surveys). Multiple regression models are used to study the relation between household and individual car ownership and exposure to carsharing, while controlling for other variables known to also influence ownership. Although more complex model formulations need to be tested to enhance the analysis, the results obtained in this analysis using linear regression models indicate that the number of shared vehicles in a 500-m radius is negatively correlated with car ownership.
Case Study of Autorickshaw Industry in Mumbai, India
Authors: Shlaes Emma , Mani Akshay
Published: October 2014

With a growing population of more than 12 million in Mumbai, India, intense stress is placed on the transport system. It is crucial that the many moving parts can function together efficiently. The nearly 110,000 auto-rickshaws of Mumbai are a ubiquitous part of this system and cater to the daily commute needs of a large section of the population. The objective of this paper is to conduct an in-depth assessment of Mumbai's autorickshaw sector to gain insights into its role in the city's transport system and the challenges that the sector faces and to present recommendations for reforms that would benefit autorickshaw drivers and users. It is envisioned that the implementation of these reforms would promote autorickshaws as part of a sustainable urban transport system for the city. The various aspects considered in the research of Mumbai's autorickshaw sector include market characteristics, regulations, operational characteristics, profile of drivers and users, financial aspects, and infrastructure. Quantitative and qualitative research methods employed over a 2-month period reveal myriad challenges within the industry, including the illegal sale of permits for more than 600 times the legal price, a loss of 95% of autorickshaw stands, tension between drivers and police, refusals of service, and an urgent need to regulate space. Autorickshaw passengers also cite advantages, such as speed of service, but autorickshaws compete directly with Mumbai's bus system. Solutions are proposed in the following focal areas: training, infrastructure, enforcement, supply and demand, fares, fleet services, and drivers.
A Driverless Alternative
Authors: Brownell Chris , Kornhauser Alain
Published: October 2014

Over the past six decades, as private automobiles have become more affordable and more universal among American families, previously uncounted costs for cars have come to the forefront of the modern transportation debate, with some activists calling for an end to cars. This paper identifies five transit criteria that a transportation system must satisfy if it hopes to dethrone the individually owned and operated car as king of the road: (a) a solution to the congestion problem, (b) safety improvements over conventional manually operated cars, (c) lesser impact on the environment, (d) economic feasibility, and (e) comfort and convenience to rival the automobile. Given recent advancements in the field of vehicle autonomy, a potential solution to the car's growing problems has presented itself: an autonomous taxi network (ATN). Drawing from the classic personal rapid transit model as well as Mark Gorton's idea of smart paratransit, two potential designs for an ATN are presented and compared with one another, and the viability of the ATN concept is explored in view of statewide transportation demand in New Jersey. With travel demand as generated by Talal Mufti in 2012, the smart paratransit model emerges as the more economically viable implementation, requiring a fleet size between 1.6 and 2.8 million six-passenger vehicles to meet the state's travel demand in its entirety, at a cost to consumers of $16.30 to $23.50 per person per day.
Optimization of Charging Infrastructure for Electric Taxis
Authors: Sellmair Reinhard , Hamacher Thomas
Published: October 2014

For the transportation sector, electromobility presents a chance both to abolish oil dependency and to open the possibility of using sustainable energy sources. In the case of taxis, the substitution of electric vehicles for conventional vehicles with an internal combustion engine may be especially favorable because the driving patterns involve several waiting periods, which can be used for recharging the battery. An infrastructure consisting of charging stations at taxi stands needs to be developed to ensure the energy supply of these taxis. Designing a charging infrastructure requires the development of an optimization method to maximize the economic benefit of the whole system, consisting of electric taxis (e-taxis) and charging stations (CSs). The number of charging stations should be kept as minimal as possible to reduce costs. Simultaneously, the energy supply for these taxis has to be ensured to enable high mileage and earnings. This study introduces an event-based simulation of the e-taxis’ mileage and an economic analysis that evaluates the benefit of possible configurations of numbers of e-taxis and numbers of CSs per taxi stand. Because the number of possible configurations is high, an optimization algorithm is presented to reduce the calculation time and to find configurations with the highest economic efficiency. One result of the infrastructure optimization indicates that 445 CSs would be economically ideal for a taxi fleet in Munich, Germany, with 3,402 vehicles with a battery capacity of 20 kW-h.
Taxicab Operation in Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Rodriguez-Valencia Alvaro
Published: October 2014

Taxicabs are one of the least studied urban transportation systems. Taxis make more than 8% of the total motorized trips in Bogotá, Colombia (this figure is 4.3% in New York City, 2.2% in London, and 0.8% in Paris). Understanding the main differences in taxicab operations during the day and the night (involving drivers, vehicles, and service) will yield important conclusions that may help implement policies toward sustainability, help the industry improve efficiency, and contribute to understanding this mode of transportation. The objective of this paper is to explore the differences in all aspects of the supply of taxicabs in Bogotá between day and night. The analysis is based on 389 drivers’ surveys in the city. Radio dispatch devices played an important role in night operation, more specifically for road and personal safety. In addition, drivers in Bogotá did not always seek to maximize their profit. With respect to sustainability, taxicab operations during the night was more efficient (less fuel, more income, and more resting time). This study aims to enrich the scant and limited literature on taxicabs, with the hope that it will motivate similar studies in other cities.
Correction: Soppa, V.J., et al. Respiratory Effects of Fine and Ultrafine Particles from Indoor Sources—A Randomized Sham-Controlled Exposure Study of Healthy Volunteers Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2014, 11, 6871–6889
Authors: Soppa Vanessa , Schins Roel , Hennig Frauke , Hellack Bryan , Quass Ulrich , Kaminski Heinz , Kuhlbusch Thomas , Hoffmann Barbara , Weinmayr Gudrun
Published: October 2014

The authors wish to make the following amendments to their paper published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [1][...]
Platelets: Still a Therapeutical Target for Haemostatic Disorders
Authors: Geraldo Reinaldo , Sathler Plínio , Lourenço André , Saito Max , Cabral Lucio , Rampelotto Pabulo , Castro Helena
Published: October 2014

Platelets are cytoplasmatic fragments from bone marrow megakaryocytes present in blood. In this work, we review the basis of platelet mechanisms, their participation in syndromes and in arterial thrombosis, and their potential as a target for designing new antithrombotic agents. The option of new biotechnological sources is also explored.
The Child Protection System from the Perspective of Young People: Messages from 3 Studies
Authors: Montserrat Carme
Published: October 2014

This article reports findings and reflections based on the results of three different research projects conducted between 2008 and 2013 and focusing on the perspective of young care leavers in Spain. The overall aim was to examine these young people’s perceptions and evaluations of how they were treated while in the public care system, mainly residential care. Reviewing these qualitative studies, the most common and relevant issues highlighted by young people were related to the following themes: (a) entering care; (b) stability and emotional bonds in care; (c) education; (d) friends; (e) labelling, stigmatization, rights and opportunities; (f) autonomy and responsibility versus overprotection; (g) contact with parents, siblings and extended family; (h) maltreatment in care; and (i) leaving care. One of the main elements used in their assessments was comparison (i) between their previous situation within their birth family and the quality of care experienced in the residential home; and (ii) between what these young people commonly refer to as “normal children” and children in care. Recommendations deriving from their advice and opinions are also debated.
A modular phosphate tether-mediated divergent strategy to complex polyols
Authors: Hanson Paul R , Jayasinghe Susanthi , Maitra Soma , Ndi Cornelius N , Chegondi Rambabu
Published: October 2014

An efficient and divergent synthesis of polyol subunits utilizing a phosphate tether-mediated, one-pot, sequential RCM/CM/reduction process is reported. A modular, 3-component coupling strategy has been developed, in which, simple “order of addition” of a pair of olefinic-alcohol components to a pseudo-C2-symmetric phosphoryl chloride, coupled with the RCM/CM/reduction protocol, yields five polyol fragments. Each of the product polyols bears a central 1,3-anti-diol subunit with differential olefinic geometries at the periphery.
Que nul n'entre si...
Authors: Elguezabal Eleonora
Published: October 2014

La ville contemporaine est-elle une ville d’enclaves ? Jusqu’où l’entre-soi des classes aisées peut-il être concrétisé ? Dans une démarche ethnographique, cet article explore la production d’espaces d’entre-soi à partir de l’analyse d’un cas extrême : l’usage de dispositifs de sécurité dans les nouveaux immeubles issus de la promotion privée à Buenos Aires. L’article montre que les dispositifs de sécurité ne se limitent pas à marquer des frontières territoriales définies en amont par les dynamiques de ségrégation, comme le soutiennent les études sur les gated communities  : ils sont utilisés à l’intérieur même des espaces « fermés » pour marquer des frontières entre les habitants eux-mêmes, originaires de différents milieux, et, surtout, entre les habitants et leurs employés. Plutôt qu’un fait établi, l’entre-soi est une catégorie de l’action qui opère des distinctions et des classements en situation d’interdépendance.
La parité sous contrôle
Authors: Achin Catherine , Lévêque Sandrine
Published: October 2014

Alors que les règles légales visant la féminisation des assemblées politiques sont de plus en plus nombreuses et contraignantes et qu’elles s’étendent désormais à d’autres espaces sociaux, le leadership masculin sur le microcosme politique est loin d’être renversé. Cet article s’interroge ainsi sur les effets ambivalents des lois sur la parité. Des enquêtes menées entre 2001 et 2014 permettent de montrer que les professionnelles de la politique, tout en se déclarant éminemment favorables à l’égalité des sexes, parviennent à contrôler la sélection et la circulation des élues. Le jeu avec les règles orchestre une entrée maîtrisée des femmes, tandis que la mise en lumière de quelques symboles masque la fragilité du processus de professionnalisation de la plupart. Les coulisses et les véritables lieux de pouvoir de l’espace politique restent préservés et la mise en scène symbolique du champ contribue à maintenir le statu quo de la domination masculine. Les usages de la parité participent alors à la reproduction d’un ordre du genre différenciant et hiérarchisant les catégories de sexe et favorisent la préservation de l’entre-soi.
4. L'école, premier vecteur de la ségrégation professionnelle ?
Authors: Duru-Bellat Marie
Published: October 2014

Alors que les taux d’activité et les taux de scolarisation féminins ont connu une hausse spectaculaire en un demi-siècle, la mixité des emplois et des filières de formation est très loin d’avoir progressé proportionnellement. Le texte explore le rôle de l’école dans la reproduction de la ségrégation professionnelle. Certes, l’élévation du niveau d’instruction des filles a réduit la ségrégation verticale, mais la socialisation scolaire tend à entretenir la ségrégation horizontale, entre filières, en entérinant le partage entre disciplines masculines et féminines. De plus, la ségrégation qui existe dans le monde du travail est elle-même anticipée par les jeunes, de même que le fonctionnement de la famille qui entraîne des contraintes spécifiques, encore aujourd’hui, sur les choix des jeunes filles. Au total, le rôle propre de l’école, par rapport à ces anticipations réalistes apparaît plus modeste que ce qui est volontiers imaginé.
15. Comment le manque de femmes en Chine peut-il expliquer le niveau très élevé de l'épargne des ménages chinois ?
Authors: LaFarguette Romain
Published: October 2014

Le niveau très élevé du taux d’épargne des ménages chinois depuis les années 2000 a donné naissance à une vaste littérature théorique et empirique pour tenter d’expliquer le phénomène. Une approche novatrice et intéressante développée par Wei et Zhang (2011) propose d’expliquer une partie de la hausse de l’épargne des ménages chinois par l’accroissement du déséquilibre du ratio de masculinité en Chine : le manque relatif de femmes par rapport aux hommes dans la société chinoise se traduirait par une compétition entre les hommes, ces derniers cherchant à améliorer leur statut social et économique en épargnant davantage pour attirer les femmes. Cette nouvelle approche propose donc de mettre en avant la question des inégalités entre hommes et femmes pour expliquer une question macroéconomique fondamentale qui a des répercussions en Chine et sur les grands déséquilibres mondiaux.
17. L' empowerment des femmes dans les politiques de développement : Histoire d'une institutionnalisation controversée
Authors: Calvès Anne-Emmanuèle
Published: October 2014

Cet article examine l’évolution historique du terme empowerment . D’abord utilisé par les féministes, il a ensuite été de plus en plus utilisé par les institutions internationales et la littérature standard d’économistes du développement. Ce changement d’utilisation a entraîné une transformation progressive du concept qui est utile pour comprendre le travail de développement effectué à destination des femmes.
Naître à la nation
Authors: Prokhoris Sabine , Zaoui Pierre
Published: October 2014

Résumé Hervé Le Bras est démographe. Il dirige le laboratoire de démographie historique de l’EHESS, et fut pendant douze ans directeur de la revue Population. Il a publié de nombreux ouvrages, notamment Marianne et les lapins (1991), sur l’obsession démographique, Le sol et le sang (1994) sur la question de la nationalité. Il est un des seuls démographes à avoir une pensée critique de la natalité.
« de beaux lendemains », Atom Egoyan
Authors: Chottin Ariane
Published: October 2014

Résumé Adaptation cinématographique du roman de Russel Banks De beaux lendemains, Harper Collins, New York, 1991, Actes Sud 1994 pour la traduction française.
Existenzgeld für alle !
Authors: Bonnaud Irène
Published: October 2014

Résumé L’année 1998 aura été marquée en Allemagne par les "journées d’action mensuelles" des chômeurs et des précaires, les "journées Jagoda", du nom du président de l’ANPE locale (la Bundesanstalt für Arbeit de Nuremberg) qui a la lourde tâche d’annoncer chaque mois les nou-veaux chiffres du chômage. « Les journées d’action mensuelles ont montré qu’à l’encontre de toutes les idées reçues fondées sur des enquêtes pseudo-scientifiques, les chômeurs sont tout à fait capables de s’organiser et d’accomplir des actes de (...)
La Construction / Der Bau
Authors: Müller Heiner
Published: October 2014

Résumé Heiner Müller a écrit La Construction en 1963-1964, et la pièce fut publiée en RDA dans la revue Sinn und Form au printemps 1965. En décembre, les répétitions dirigées par Benno Besson furent interdites après intervention du Comité Central de la SED.
El menfi (L'exilé) — extraits
Authors: Rouabhi Mohamed
Published: October 2014

Résumé La pièce El menfi (L’exilé) de Mohamed Rouabhi a été créée dans une mise en scène de Nadine Varoutsikos le 21 juillet 2000 à Ramallah, en Palestine. Elle sera jouée en Janvier 2001 à Épinay-sur-Seine, en France.
Petite biblio-filmo-sitographie portative et sommaire
Authors: Saint-Saëns Isabelle
Published: October 2014

Résumé Principalement (mais pas uniquement) sur les massacres d’octobre 61
Montage pervers
Authors: Grelet Stany
Published: October 2014

Résumé (faux) entretien avec Daniel Sibony
The Role of the Parent in Adolescent Substance Use
Authors: Williams Janet F. , Burton Rosalinda Strano , Warzinski Suyen Schneegans
Published: October 2014

The overall goal of adolescent development is personal emancipation through individuation. The parent is considered an adolescent’s most powerful formative influence and role model regarding health attitudes, behavioral norms, and social boundaries. For adolescents, engaging in risk-taking behaviors can be a normal maturational “rewarding” response or a strategy to cope with perceived stress and express emotions. Effective stress management is an important skill set for the developing adolescent who may experiment with a range of unhealthy strategies for coping or personal expression despite their high potential for hazardous consequences. Parenting the adolescent poses the immense challenge of promoting the adolescent’s development of life skills while enabling stimulating healthy opportunities during a time of increased access and vulnerability to risky choices, including substance use. Effective parenting includes consistency, communication, respect and safety-based boundaries as well as monitoring the adolescents’ friends and activities, particularly media use. Not only are parents important in deterring, suspecting, and at times detecting their adolescents’ substance use, they can facilitate the evaluation or interventions that may be needed to stop substance use, start recovery, and sustain it. The role of parents is to guide adolescents in developing strengths and resilience, and fulfilling their fullest life potential..

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Pediatr Ann
. 2014;43(10):e237–e241.]