bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantity and Quality of Organic Matter in Soil after Application of Various Organic Materials/Ilość I Jakość Materii Organicznej W Glebie Po Aplikacji Różnych Materiałów Organicznych
Authors: Gondek Krzysztof , Mierzwa Monika
Published: October 2014

Organic carbon concentrations in soil, irrespective of the year of research increased significantly after application of organic materials for the soil fertilization in comparison with the soil from the NPK mineral treatment. The content of low molecular humus compounds extracted from soil using H2SO4 solution was small, regardless of the applied fertilization or year of research. However, after the third year of research a significant increase in this humus fraction content was noted in soil of all treatments where fertilization was applied. After the third year of research, carbon content in alkaline extract rose significantly in soil of all treatments where fertilization with organic materials was applied, in comparison with the soil from mineral NPK treatment. The content of humic acid carbon in soil was lower than fulvic acid carbon, which resulted in lower than one values of Cha : Cfa ratio. However, obtained results point to marked increase in both humus fractions in results of residual effect of applied fertilization. Residual effect of applied fertilization apparently increased the value of absorbance coefficient A4/6, which points to a decreased degree of condensation of humic acid molecule and greater aliphatisation.
Effect of Manganese Nutrition on Content of Nutrient and Yield of Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L.) in Hydroponic/Wpływ Żywienia Manganem Na Zawartość Składników I Plonowanie Sałaty (Lactuca Sativa L.) W Hydroponice
Authors: Kleiber Tomasz
Published: October 2014

The aim of conducted studies was estimation of increase manganese nutrition on content of nutrient and yielding of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in hydroponic cultivation. Plants were grown in rockwool using closed system fertigation with recirculation of nutrient solution. In experiment were used nutrient solution with following nutrient contents [mg·dm-3]: N-NH4 < 10, N-NO3 150, P-PO4 50, K 150, Ca 150, Mg 50, Fe 3.00, Zn 0.44, Cu 0.03, B 0.011, pH 5.50, EC 1.8 mS·cm-1. It was studied the following manganese concentrations in nutrient solution (in [mg・dm-3]): 0.5, 4.8, 9.6, 19.2 (described as Mn-I, Mn-II, Mn-III and Mn-IV). It was found a significant influence of increasing manganese concentration applied in fertigation on the content of: N, K (for Mn-IV); P, Fe, Cu (for Mn-III and Mn-IV); Mg, Zn (for Mn-II to Mn-IV) in aboveground parts of lettuce. It was no differences in case of calcium and sodium content. Increasing concentration of manganese used to fertigation significantly influenced the content of Mn in plants. Manganese also affected on the SPAD measurement (decreasing at Mn-IV) and yielding of the plants (decreasing for Mn-II to Mn-IV comparing with Mn-I).
Inconsistencies of the Evaluation of Home Advantage in Sports Competitions Under the Three Points Per Victory System
Authors: García Miguel Saavedra , Aguilar Óscar Gutiérrez , Fernández Romero Juan J.
Published: October 2014

A recent letter sent to the Journal of Human Kinetics’ editor (Gómez & Pollard, 2014) warned about a supposed methodology error in the calculation of home advantage in football leagues used in Saavedra et al. (2013) and took the liberty of modifying the research’s data. The aim of this letter is to demonstrate that the evaluation system of the home advantage proposed by Pollard (1986) contains serious inconsistencies when applied to competitions which give three points for a win and one point for a draw, as it is the case of the UEFA football leagues in the 21th century
The Backstroke Swimming Start: State of the Art
Authors: de Jesus Karla , de Jesus Kelly , Fernandes Ricardo J. , Vilas-Boas João Paulo , Sanders Ross
Published: October 2014

As sprint swimming events can be decided by margins as small as .01 s, thus, an effective start is essential. This study reviews and discusses the ‘state of the art’ literature regarding backstroke start biomechanics from 23 documents. These included two swimming specific publications, eight peer-reviewed journal articles, three from the Biomechanics and Medicine in Swimming Congress series, eight from the International Society of Biomechanics in Sports Conference Proceedings, one from a Biomechanics Congress and one academic (PhD) thesis. The studies had diverse aims, including swimmers’ proficiency levels and data collection settings. There was no single consensus for defining phase descriptions; and kinematics, kinetics and EMG approaches were implemented in laboratory settings. However, researchers face great challenges in improving methods of quantifying valid, reliable and accurate data between laboratory and competition conditions. For example, starting time was defined from the starting signal to distances as disparate as ~5 m to 22.86 m in several studies. Due to recent rule changes, some of the research outcomes now refer to obsolete backstroke start techniques, and only a few studies considered the actual international rules. This literature review indicated that further research is required, in both laboratory and competition settings focusing on the combined influences of the current rules and block configuration on backstroke starting performances
Shoulder Rotator Muscle Dynamometry Characteristics: Side Asymmetry and Correlations with Ball-Throwing Speed in Adolescent Handball Players
Authors: Pontaga Inese , Zidens Janis
Published: October 2014

The aim of the investigation was to: 1) compare shoulder external/internal rotator muscles’ peak torques and average power values and their ratios in the dominant and non-dominant arm; 2) determine correlations between shoulder rotator muscles’ peak torques, average power and ball-throwing speed in handball players. Fourteen 14 to 15- year-old male athletes with injury-free shoulders participated in the study (body height: 176 ± 7 cm, body mass 63 ± 9 kg). The tests were carried out by an isokinetic dynamometer system in the shoulder internal and external rotation movements at angular velocities of 60°/s, 90°/s and 240°/s during concentric contractions. The eccentric external- concentric internal rotator muscle contractions were performed at the velocity of 90°/s. The player threw a ball at maximal speed keeping both feet on the floor. The speed was recorded with reflected light rays. Training in handball does not cause significant side asymmetry in shoulder external/internal rotator muscle peak torques or the average power ratio. Positive correlations between isokinetic characteristics of the shoulder internal and external rotator muscles and ball-throwing speed were determined. The power produced by internal rotator muscles during concentric contractions after eccentric contractions of external rotator muscles was significantly greater in the dominant than in the non-dominant arm. Thus, it may be concluded that the shoulder eccentric external/concentric internal rotator muscle power ratio is significantly greater than this ratio in the concentric contractions of these muscles
Potentiation and Electrical Stimulus Frequency During Self-Paced Exercise and Recovery
Authors: Froyd Christian , Beltrami Fernando G. , Jensen Jørgen , Millet Guillaume Y. , Noakes Timothy David
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of potentiation on stimulation-induced muscle function during and after an intense bout of self-paced dynamic exercise. Ten active subjects performed a time trial involving repetitive concentric extension-flexion of the right knee using a Biodex dynamometer. Electrical stimulation before and after a 5 s maximal isometric voluntary contraction was performed before the start of the time trial and immediately (< 5 s) after each 20% of the time trial as well as 1, 2, 4 and 8 min after time trial termination. Potentiation was observed before the time trial and as early as 1-2 min after the time trial, but no potentiation was detected during or immediately after the time trial for neither single or paired stimuli. At termination of the time trial, “potentiated” peak torque was significantly more reduced than “unpotentiated" peak torque for single stimulus (-65 ± 10% and -42 ± 18%, respectively) and paired stimuli at 100 Hz (-51 ± 10% and -33 ± 15%, respectively). Faster recovery for “potentiated” compared to “unpotentiated” peak torque indicate that potentiate peak torque measurements or delay the post-exercise measurements more than a few seconds, will underestimate peripheral fatigue. In conclusion, the potentiation after maximal contraction disappears during intense exercise. Whether the muscle is already potentiated during intense contraction or fatiguing mechanisms inhibits potentiation remains to be clarified
Posture, Flexibility and Grip Strength in Horse Riders
Authors: Hobbs Sarah Jane , Baxter Joanna , Broom Louise , Rossell Laura-Ann , Sinclair Jonathan , Clayton Hilary M.
Published: October 2014

Since the ability to train the horse to be ambidextrous is considered highly desirable, rider asymmetry is recognized as a negative trait. Acquired postural and functional asymmetry can originate from numerous anatomical regions, so it is difficult to suggest if any is developed due to riding. The aim of this study was therefore to assess symmetry of posture, strength and flexibility in a large population of riders and to determine whether typical traits exist due to riding. 127 right handed riders from the UK and USA were categorized according to years riding (in 20 year increments) and their competition level (using affiliated test levels). Leg length, grip strength and spinal posture were measured and recorded by a physiotherapist. Standing and sitting posture and trunk flexibility were measured with 3-D motion capture technology. Right-left differences were explored in relation to years riding and rider competitive experience. Significant anatomical asymmetry was found for the difference in standing acromion process height for a competition level (-0.07±1.50 cm Intro/Prelim; 0.02±1.31 cm Novice; 0.43±1.27 cm Elementary+; p=0.048) and for sitting iliac crest height for years riding (-0.23±1.36 cm Intro/Prelim; 0.01±1.50 cm Novice; 0.86±0.41 cm Elementary+; p=0.021). For functional asymmetry, a significant interaction was found for lateral bending ROM for years riding x competition level (p=0.047). The demands on dressage riders competing at higher levels may predispose these riders to a higher risk of developing asymmetry and potentially chronic back pain rather than improving their symmetry
Effect of a MAST Exercise Program on Anthropometric Parameters, Physical Fitness, and Serum Lipid Levels in Obese Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Trabka Bartosz , Zubrzycki Igor Z. , Ossowski Zbigniew , Bojke Olgierd , Clarke Anna , Wiacek Magdalena , Latosik Ewelina
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine an influence of a mixed aerobic and strength training program (MAST) on anthropometry, serum lipid levels, physical performance, and functional fitness in obese postmenopausal women. The MAST sessions were held three times per week, and the exercise program lasted for 10 weeks. The exercise group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in maximal oxygen uptake, a waist/hip ratio, and strength of the upper and lower body. An increase in LDL-C levels was observed in the control group. A 10-week MAST program encompassing Nordic-walking as an aerobic component, and strength exercises, induces positive changes in functional fitness, HDL-C, LDL-C and a waist/hip ratio in obese postmenopausal women. The observed changes implicate an increase in a health-related quality of life among the women administered to the physical exercise program
Avoiding Systematic Errors in Isometric Squat-Related Studies without Pre-Familiarization by Using Sufficient Numbers of Trials
Authors: Pekünlü Ekim , Özsu İlbilge
Published: October 2014

There is no scientific evidence in the literature indicating that maximal isometric strength measures can be assessed within 3 trials. We questioned whether the results of isometric squat-related studies in which maximal isometric squat strength (MISS) testing was performed using limited numbers of trials without pre-familiarization might have included systematic errors, especially those resulting from acute learning effects. Forty resistance-trained male participants performed 8 isometric squat trials without pre-familiarization. The highest measures in the first “n” trials (3 ≤ n ≤ 8) of these 8 squats were regarded as MISS obtained using 6 different MISS test methods featuring different numbers of trials (The Best of n Trials Method [BnT]). When B3T and B8T were paired with other methods, high reliability was found between the paired methods in terms of intraclass correlation coefficients (0.93-0.98) and coefficients of variation (3.4-7.0%). The Wilcoxon’s signed rank test indicated that MISS obtained using B3T and B8T were lower (p < 0.001) and higher (p < 0.001), respectively, than those obtained using other methods. The Bland- Altman method revealed a lack of agreement between any of the paired methods. Simulation studies illustrated that increasing the number of trials to 9-10 using a relatively large sample size (i.e., ≥ 24) could be an effective means of obtaining the actual MISS values of the participants. The common use of a limited number of trials in MISS tests without pre-familiarization appears to have no solid scientific base. Our findings suggest that the number of trials should be increased in commonly used MISS tests to avoid learning effect-related systematic errors
Oxygen Uptake and Heart Rate Kinetics after Different Types of Resistance Exercise
Authors: Vianna Jeferson M. , Werneck Francisco Z. , Coelho Emerson F. , Damasceno Vinicius O. , Reis Victor M.
Published: October 2014

Oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate (HR) kinetics after exercise are important indicators of fitness and cardiovascular health. However, these variables have been little investigated in resistance exercise (RE). The current study compared post-exercise kinetics of VO2 and the HR among different types of REs. The study included 14 males (age: 26.5±5.4 years, body mass: 80.1±11.4 kg, body height: 1.77±0.07 m, fat content: 11.3±4.6%) with RE experience. Dynamic muscle strength was measured using one repetition maximum (1RM) with regard to the half-squat, bench press, pull-down, and triceps pushdown exercises. The participants performed a maximum number of repetitions at 80% of 1RM for each exercise, separated by a recovery period of 60 minutes. VO2 was measured using ergospirometry. VO2 and HR kinetics were assessed using the time constant of the recovery curves, and excess oxygen consumption (EPOC) was calculated afterward. Significant differences were not observed across the exercises with regard to VO2 kinetics. However, the half-squat exercise elicited a greater EPOC than the bench press and triceps pushdown exercises (p<.05). HR kinetics was slower for the half-squat exercise than for the other exercises (p<.05). These findings confirm that the type of RE influences both the cardiac autonomic response post-exercise and EPOC, but not VO2 kinetics
Somatotype of Competitive Youth Soccer Players From Brazil
Authors: Fidelix Yara Lucy , Berria Juliane , Ferrari Elisa Pinheiro , Ortiz Jaelson Gonçalves , Cetolin Tiago , Petroski Edio Luiz
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to identify the morphological configuration of youth athletes from professional soccer clubs and to verify their differences according to the tactical position on the field. Overall, 67 male players aged 15 to 17 years were evaluated. The examined anthropometric measurements included body mass, body height, skinfolds (triceps, subscapular, supraspinal and medial calf), girths (flexed and tensed arm and calf) and breadths (humerus and femur). For statistical purposes, analysis of variance and post hoc Bonferroni and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used. We concluded that goalkeepers were heavier and taller than center backs (p = 0.015 and p = 0.001), midfielders (p = 0.005 and p <0.001) and center forward players (p = 0.024 and p <0.001). The average somatotype for defense, forward and goalkeeper positions was a balanced mesomorph. Midfield players showed ectomorphic-mesomorph characteristics. It was concluded that goalkeepers were characterized as being taller and heavier and that somatotype features of athletes were similar between positions, except for midfield players
Height and Body Composition Determine Arm Propulsive Force in Youth Swimmers Independent of a Maturation Stage
Authors: Moura Tatiane , Costa Manoel , Oliveira Saulo , Júnior Marcos Barbosa , Ritti-Dias Raphael , Santos Marcos
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between anthropometric variables, body composition and propulsive force in swimmers aged 9-17 years. Anthropometric characteristics (body height and mass, sitting height, arm span, arm muscle area and body composition) and the propulsive force of the arm (tethered swimming test) were evaluated in 56 competitive male swimmers. Tanner’s stages of genital maturation (P1-5) were used. The data analysis included correlations and multiple linear regression. The propulsive force of the arm was correlated with body height (r = 0.34; p =0.013), arm span (r = 0.29; p =0.042), sitting height (r = 0.36; p =0.009), % body fat (r = 0.33; p =0.016), lean body mass (r = 0.34; p =0.015) and arm muscle area (r = 0.31; p =0.026). Using multiple linear regression models, the percent body fat and height were identified as significant predictors of the propulsive force of the arm after controlling for the maturation stage. This model explained 22% (R2 = 0.22) of associations. In conclusion, the propulsive force of swimmers was related to body height and percent body fat
The Analysis of Differences in Residential Property Price Indices
Authors: Kokot Sebastian
Published: October 2014

Residential property price indices can serve as a useful tool in the practice of real property market analysts, investment advisers, property developers, certified property appraisers, estate agents and managers. They can also be applied in property price valorization in specific legal positions. The Polish Act on Real Estate Management puts an obligation on the President of the Central Statistical Office to announce real property price indices, but the CSO fails to fulfill this obligation. The author’s rationale for this article is to contribute to works on rules of how to build property price indices. Presented within are the results of research on determining the price indices of such types of residential property as: a part of a building constituting a separate property and strata titles in housing cooperatives. The flats were divided into categories by floor area and by their location in 16 voivodeship capitals. The major purpose of the study is to prove that the prices of flats of different floor area change at different rates. Consequently, it seems worth considering whether a more detailed segmentation of the real estate market would be worthwhile for the sake of more accurate real property price indicators.
Variants of Modeling Dwelling Market Value
Authors: Barańska Anna , Michalik Sylwia
Published: October 2014

The object of this paper is to determine real estate market value on the basis of a multidimensional function model in different variants: A - directly from the model estimated on the basis of a big database, B - from the same model form, but estimated on the basis of a reduced database consisting of dwellings most similar to the estimated one, and C - based on modeled prices corrected by random correction, calculated from random deviations for dwellings most similar to the assessed one. In the framework of statistical inference procedures, the resulting comparison was carried out by parametric significance tests. They were applied to draw conclusions on the analyzed variants
Traffic Noise as a Factor Influencing Apartment Prices in Large Cities
Authors: Szczepańska Agnieszka , Senetra Adam , Wasilewicz Monika
Published: October 2014

Environmental factors are among the key determinants of real estate prices. They include landscape attractiveness, land relief, exposure to sunlight and proximity to natural features. In large urban centers, traffic noise emissions significantly affect decision-making on the real estate market. Weakly developed road networks and the absence of ring roads that shift road traffic outside residential districts are a widespread problem in the cities of Central-Eastern Europe. The prevention of traffic noise pollution, one of the key environmental problems in Europe, is an important goal of European Union policy. This paper analyzes the correlations between apartment prices and traffic noise levels in Olsztyn, the capital city of the Warminsko-Mazurskie Voivodeship (province) in north-eastern Poland. A linear correlation analysis was performed, and the distribution of unit prices of apartments was mapped by ordinary kriging.
The Possibilities and Limitations of Geostatistical Methods in Real Estate Market Analyses
Authors: Cellmer Radosław
Published: October 2014

In the traditional approach, geostatistical modeling involves analyses of the spatial structure of regionalized data, as well as estimations and simulations that rely on kriging methods. Geostatistical methods can complement traditional statistical models of property transaction prices, and when combined with those models, they offer a comprehensive tool for spatial analysis that is used in the process of developing land value maps. Transaction prices are characterized by mutual spatial correlations and can be considered as regionalized variables. They can also be regarded as random variables that have a local character and a specific probability distribution.

This study explores the possibilities of applying geostatistical methods in spatial modeling of the prices of undeveloped land, as well as the limitations associated with those methods and the imperfect nature of the real estate market. The results are discussed based on examples, and they cover both the modeling process and the generated land value maps.
Public Real Estate Management System in the Procedural Approach – A Case Study of Poland and Slovakia
Authors: Gross Marta , Źróbek Ryszard , Špirková Daniela
Published: October 2014

Public real estate management is performed according to country-specific procedures. However, there are some features which are common for all post-socialist countries. It may be possible to implement and transfer into the Polish system the good management practice which has been developed by leading countries. On the other hand, Poles may have a chance to become acquainted with the rules governing public real estate management in other countries and to identify some practices which ought to be avoided. There is no need to implement faithfully those procedures which in other countries have been recognized as generally inadequate or inefficient and have been replaced by new solutions. This pertains to some principal components of the real estate management system.

The aim of the paper has been to present public real estate management systems in Poland and Slovakia in the context of good governance, and to suggest some indicators for assessing the procedures in these systems in terms of their efficiency.
Carrying Out Municipal Tasks in the Scope of Housing Stock Management – Case Study of Poznań City
Authors: Trojanek Maria
Published: October 2014

The municipal real estate stock, including housing, serves as an asset base in the process of carrying out statutory tasks by the municipality. Due to the numerous functions of municipal housing in socioeconomic development and its influence on people’s living conditions, it is essential that local governments manage the stock with particular rationality and effectiveness. Management activities differ according to the aim, type and functions of the stock. This paper discusses conditions and potential benefits for the municipality from replacing budgetary units with commercial companies that take over the statutory tasks of municipalities in the field of public social housing and providing the right conditions to enable people’s housing needs to be met. Furthermore, the author presents possible financial settlement forms resulting from leasing municipal housing to commercial companies.
In vitro effects of prolonged exposure to quercetin and epigallocatechin gallate of the peripheral blood mononuclear cell membrane
Authors: Margina Denisa , Ilie Mihaela , Manda Gina , Neagoe Ionela , Danciulescu-Miulescu Rucsandra , Purdel Carmen , Gradinaru Daniela
Published: October 2014

The study aimed to assess biophysical changes that take place in the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) membranes when exposed in vitro to 10 μM quercetin or epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) for 24 and 48 h. PBMCs isolated from hypercholesterolemia patients were compared to those from normocholesterolemia subjects. The membrane fluidity and transmembrane potential were evaluated and the results were correlated with biochemical parameters relevant to oxidative stress, assessed in the patients’ plasma. The baseline value of PBMC membrane anisotropy for the hypercholesterolemia patients was lower than that of the control group. These results correlated with the plasma levels of advanced glycation end products, which were significantly higher in the hypercholesterolemia group, and the total plasma antioxidant status, which was significantly higher in normocholesterolemia subjects. In the case of normocholesterolemia cells in vitro, polyphenols induced a decrease in membrane anisotropy (7.25–11.88% at 24 h, 1.82–2.26% at 48 h) and a hyperpolarizing effect (8.30–8.90% at 24 h and 4.58–13.00% at 48 h). The same effect was induced in hypercholesterolemia cells, but only after 48 h exposure to the polyphenols: the decrease in membrane anisotropy was 5.70% for quercetin and 2.33% for EGCG. After 48 h of in vitro incubation with the polyphenols, PBMCs isolated from hypercholesterolemia patients exhibited the effects that had been registered in cells from normocholesterolemia subjects after 24 h exposure. These results outlined the beneficial action of the studied polyphenols, quercetin and EGCG, as dietary supplements in normocholesterolemia and hypercholesterolemia patients.
Outbreak of adenovirus type 1 severe pneumonia in a French intensive care unit, September–October 2012
Authors: Cassir N , Hraiech S , Nougairede A , Zandotti C , Fournier P E , Papazian L
Published: October 2014

We herein describe and analyse the first outbreak of severe pneumonia caused by human adenovirus type 1 (HAdV C type 1), which included immunocompetent patients in an intensive care unit (ICU) of Marseille, France, and occurred between September and October 2012. Seven successive patients were diagnosed by HAdV specific real-time polymerase chain reaction with a positive bronchoalveolar lavage. After the collection of nasopharyngeal swabs from healthcare workers, three nurses working night shifts tested positive for HAdV C including one that had exhibited respiratory signs while working one week before the outbreak. She was the most likely source of the outbreak. Our findings suggest that HAdV-1 could be considered as a possible cause of severe pneumonia even in immunocompetent patients with a potential to cause outbreaks in ICUs. HAdV rapid identification and typing is needed to curtail the spread of this pathogen. Reinforcing hand hygiene with antiseptics with demonstrated activity against non-enveloped viruses and ensuring that HCWs with febrile respiratory symptoms avoid direct patient contact are critical measures to prevent transmission of HAdV in healthcare settings.
Influenza season in Réunion dominated by influenza B virus circulation associated with numerous cases of severe disease, France, 2014
Authors: Brottet E , Vandroux D , Gauzere B A , Antok E , Jaffar-Bandjee M C , Michault A , Filleul L
Published: October 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Competing Wind Energy Discourses, Contested Landscapes
Authors: Leibenath Markus , Otto Antje
Published: October 2014

The impairment of landscapes is a concern constantly raised against wind energy developments in Germany as in other countries. Often, landscapes or landscape types are treated in the literature as essentialist or at least as uncontested categories. We analyse two examples of local controversies about wind energy, in which “landscape” is employed by supporters and opponents alike, from a poststructuralist and discourse theoretical angle. The aim is to identify and compare landscape constructs produced in the micro discourses of wind energy objectors and proponents at local level (a) within each case, (b) between the two cases and (c) with landscape constructs that were previously found in macro discourses. One major finding is that several different landscapes can exist at one and the same place. Furthermore there seems to be a relatively stable set of competing landscape concepts which is reproduced in specific controversies. The paper concludes by highlighting  practical consequences and by identifying promising avenues of further research.
Alienation and Precarious Contract Academic Staff in the Age of Neoliberalism
Authors: Faucher Kane Xavier
Published: October 2014

Not Available.
Experimental techniques for the characterization of carbon nanoparticles – a brief overview
Authors: Kempiński Wojciech , Łoś Szymon , Kempiński Mateusz , Markowski Damian
Published: October 2014

The review of four experimental methods: X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance and four-point electrical conductivity measurements is presented to characterize carbon nanoparticles. Two types of carbon nanoparticle systems are discussed: one comprising the powder of individual carbon nanoparticles and the second as a structurally interconnected nanoparticle matrix in the form of a fiber. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy reveal the atomic structure of the carbon nanoparticles and allow for observation of the changes in the quasi-graphitic ordering induced by ultrasonic irradiation and with the so-called quasi-high pressure effect under adsorption conditions. Structural changes have strong influence on the electronic properties, especially the localization of charge carriers within the nanoparticles, which can be observed with the EPR technique. This in turn can be well-correlated with the four-point electrical conductivity measurements which directly show the character of the charge carrier transport within the examined structures.
Intellectual Property Rights, Market Competition and Access to Affordable Antiretrovirals
Authors: Pascual Fernando
Published: October 2014

The number of patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) has increased from around half a million in 2003 to almost 10 million in only 10 years, and will continue to increase in the coming years. Over 16 million more are eligible to start ART according to the last World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The demand is also switching from the less expensive antiretrovirals (ARVs) that allowed such scale-up to newer more expensive ones with fewer side effects or those that can be used by people who have developed resistance to first-line treatment. However, patents on these new drugs can delay robust generic competition and, consequently, price reduction made possible by economies of scale. Various ways to address this issue have been envisaged or implemented, including the use of the flexibilities available under the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), systematic widespread voluntary licensing, of which the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) is an example, and the application of different prices in different countries, called tiered pricing. This paper helps explain the impact of patents on market competition for ARVs and analyses various approaches available today to minimize this impact.
Antiretroviral Procurement and Supply Chain Management
Authors: Ripin David J , Jamieson David , Meyers Amy , Warty Umesh , Dain Mary , Khamsi Cyril
Published: October 2014

Procurement, the country-level process of ordering antiretrovirals (ARVs), and supply chain management, the mechanism by which they are delivered to healthcare facilities, are critical processes required to move ARVs from manufacturers to patients. To provide a glimpse into the ARV procurement and supply chain, the following pages provide an overview of the primary stakeholders, principal operating models, and policies and regulations involved in ARV procurement. Also presented are key challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that the supply chain is not a barrier to the goal of universal coverage. This article will cover the steps necessary to order and distribute ARVs, including different models of delivery, key stakeholders involved, strategic considerations that vary depending on context and policies affecting them. The single drug examples given illustrate the complications inherent in fragmented supply and demand-driven models of procurement and supply chain management, and suggest tools for navigating these hurdles that will ultimately result in more secure and reliable ARV provision. Understanding the dynamics of ARV supply chain is important for the global health community, both to ensure full and efficient treatment of persons living with HIV as well as to inform the supply chain decisions for other public health products.
Application of Phage Biotechnology in Nanobiotechnology
Authors: Singleton Rana , Sanders Carrie , Waffo Alain B.
Published: October 2014

To date, the phage display system has enabled the discovery of material binding peptides. Diversity and functionality of these peptides could be improved using RNA-based display systems instead of the conventional DNA-based ones. RNA phage replication systems possess unique features that make them a versatile tool for any combinatory approach and evolutionary application. Phage display was used to monitor the chemical surface properties and to initiate nanoparticle assembly. Novel bio-panning was recently used in RNA-based display to screen new functionality without acidic elution used in other conventional DNA phage display systems. Therefore, Hybrid RNA phages would be a perfect platform for attachment and exploration of nanoparticles. In this chapter, the authors present an overview on research conducted on these cross fields and areas. They not only focus on the novel selection and amplification process but also on the importance of RNA phage and its peptide display as tools for preventing nanoparticle aggregation.
Nanomedicine Magic Bullet for Human Cancer
Authors: Patnaik Srinivas
Published: October 2014

Nanotechnology is the new tool that has changed healthcare, engineering, and space science. The technology involves nanoparticles that are effectively a bridge between bulk materials and atomic or molecular structures. The properties of materials change its surface plasmon resonance in metals, supermagnetism in magnetic materials as their size approaches to nanoscale. Taking in to account of their small sizes (less than 100nm) and their miraculous properties, unlike their precursor bulk material, nanoparticles are exploited to create new diagnostics and therapeutics with respect to several human diseases. Nanomedicine is generating a new generation of innovative revolution in nanoscale drug delivery strategies, site-specific drug delivery, and personalized therapy in cancer by releasing the drug at a specific site. This chapter discusses the evolution of nanomedicine to several advancements in the field of nanoparticle technologies, targeting and controlled release strategies, with the desire of generating robust and efficient nanotherapeutic tools against cancer.
Liposome-Encapsulated Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Gupta Anju , Gupta Reetu , Kurwardkar Sudarshan
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this chapter is to review the potential use of liposomes and peptides to address the ongoing challenges in infectious diseases involving antimicrobial resistance. The First section of this chapter describes and discusses the use of liposomes as model membrane to gain an insight on the membrane binding and disruption behavior of the potent peptides. Under this section, various biophysical techniques used to characterize the interactions are reviewed. In the second section, the use of antimicrobial peptides as an alternative to conventional antimicrobial therapy is presented. The final section of this chapter reviews liposomal encapsulation of antimicrobial peptides as an effective delivery strategy.
Implications of Nanotechnology into Next Generation Biofuel Industry
Authors: Muroski Matthew S. , Singh Om V.
Published: October 2014

Biofuels are emerging as integral and necessary research areas towards clean, next generation energy production, while providing alternative sources of sustainability. In addition to advancements in nanotechnology, many obstacles remain on the way for producing economically viable biofuels such as the challenges involved in the breakdown of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin found in woody biomass. The use of micro-algae as a feedstock in biofuel has already been impacted by the advancements of nanotechnology. However, interdisciplinary breakthroughs are needed to make biofuels viable contenders as replacements for traditional fossil fuels. The authors discuss recent advances, benefits, and challenges facing nanotechnology in accordance with furthering our understanding and improving the state of biofuel manufacturing, including the implementation of nanotechnology in other aspects of biofuels production, such as cracking catalyst design, carbon nanotube electrodes for fuel cells, and enzymatic production of biofuels.
Organobentonites with Crystalline Layer Separation Used for Adsorption in Water Treatment
Authors: Reza E. Manríquez , Bueno J.J. Pérez , Arreola F. Estrada , Arellano L.M. Avilés , Robles J.F. Pérez , Mendoza R. Nava , Macías A. Hurtado
Published: October 2014

In this chapter, the surface modification of a natural bentonite was performed with surfactants of different ionic nature: HDTMA and TX100 as cationic surfactant and nonionic surfactant, respectively. The results show the successful modification of sodium bentonite with an ionic surfactant and a non-ionic surfactant. It was observed that the modification of bentonite with HDTMA and TX-100 was carried out by different mechanisms. HDTMA on the external surface causes the decreasing in surface area and changes in surface charge. In the case of the clay modified with Triton X-100, surface changes were small. Despite this, it verified the existence of TX-100 in the outer area of the bentonite.
Applications of Nanotechnology in Cement and Concrete Science
Authors: Barbhuiya Salim , Qureshi Muneeb
Published: October 2014

The properties of concrete are strongly influenced by the properties of its components and hydrates at the nanoscale. Therefore, application of nanotechnology in cement and concrete science will engender new opportunities for improvement of strength and durability of concrete. The objective of this chapter is to advance the science and engineering of nanotechnology in modifying and monitoring the behaviour and performance of cement and concrete at the nanoscale. The chapter assists in the identification of promising new research and innovations in concrete materials using nanotechnology that can result in improved mechanical properties, volume change properties, durability, and sustainability. The chapter also provides a unique base for scientists, engineers, and practitioners to help set the future direction of the use of nanotechnology in cement and concrete science.
Data Mining and Business Intelligence
Authors: Azevedo Ana
Published: October 2014

Data Mining (DM) is being applied with success in Business Intelligence (BI) environments, and several examples of applications can be found. BI and DM have different roots and, as a consequence, have significantly different characteristics. DM came up from scientific environments; thus, it is not business oriented. DM tools still demand heavy work in order to obtain the intended results. On the contrary, BI is rooted in industry and business. As a result, BI tools are user-friendly. This chapter reflects on this difference from a historical perspective. Starting with a separated historical perspective of each one, BI and DM, the author then discusses how they converged into the current situation, when DM is used, and integrated, in BI environments with success.
ASD-BI
Authors: Alnoukari Mouhib
Published: October 2014

ASD-BI is an agile “marriage” between business intelligence and data mining. It is one of the first attempts to apply an Adaptive Software Development (ASD) agile method to business intelligence systems. The ASD-BI methodology's main characteristics are adaptive to environment changes, enhance knowledge capturing and sharing, and help in implementing and achieving an organization's strategy. The focus of the chapter is to demonstrate how agile methods would enhance the integration of data mining in business intelligence systems. The chapter presents ASD-BI main characteristics and provides two case studies, one on higher education and the other on (Bibliomining). The main result of the chapter is that applying agile methodologies for integrating business intelligence and data mining systems would increase transfer of tacit knowledge and raise the strategic dimension of using the knowledge discovery process.
Web Mining for the Integration of Data Mining with Business Intelligence in Web-Based Decision Support Systems
Authors: Domingues Marcos Aurélio , Jorge Alípio Mário , Soares Carlos , Rezende Solange Oliveira
Published: October 2014

Web mining can be defined as the use of data mining techniques to automatically discover and extract information from web documents and services. A decision support system is a computer-based information system that supports business or organizational decision-making activities. Data mining and business intelligence techniques can be integrated in order to develop more advanced decision support systems. In this chapter, the authors propose to use web mining as a process to develop advanced decision support systems in order to support the management activities of a website. They describe the web mining process as a sequence of steps for the development of advanced decision support systems. By following such a sequence, the authors can develop advanced decision support systems, which integrate data mining with business intelligence, for websites.
Business Intelligence and Nosocomial Infection Decision Making
Authors: Silva Eva , Alpuim Ana , Cardoso Luciana , Marins Fernando , Quintas César , Portela Carlos Filipe , Santos Manuel Filipe , Machado José , Abelha António
Published: October 2014

The implementation of Business Intelligence tools in healthcare organizations helps the managers and the healthcare professionals in their decision making process through data manipulation and data analysis. The main goal of this chapter is to evaluate the applicability of the Business Intelligence tools and concepts to healthcare and their performance as a Clinical Decision Support System, analyzing the evolution of nosocomial infection in the Centro Hospitalar do Porto, by defining a set of indicators that can help the nosocomial infection management and inducing Data Mining models to predict the occurrence of nosocomial infections (sensitivity of 91%). The knowledge obtained with the analysis of the indicators and the knowledge obtained with the nosocomial infection prediction can be applied by healthcare professionals in their decision making. Through the analysis of the data collected, Business Intelligence tools help overcome the problems associated with the complexity, heterogeneity, and distributiveness present in the healthcare environment.
A Comprehensive Workflow for Enhancing Business Bankruptcy Prediction
Authors: Sarmento Rui , Trigo Luís , Fonseca Liliana
Published: October 2014

Forecasting enterprise bankruptcy is a critical area for Business Intelligence. It is a major concern for investors and credit institutions on risk analysis. It may also enable the sustainability assessment of critical suppliers and clients, as well as competitors and the business environment. Data Mining may deliver a faster and more precise insight about this issue. Widespread software tools offer a broad spectrum of Artificial Intelligence algorithms and the most difficult task may be the decision of selecting that algorithm. Trying to find an answer for this decision in the relatively large amount of available literature in this area with so many options, advantages, and pitfalls may be as informative as distracting. In this chapter, the authors present an empirical study with a comprehensive Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining (KDD) workflow. The proposed classifier selection automation selects an algorithm that has better prediction performance than the most widely documented in the literature.
Synoptic, redactional, stylistic and narratological observations on the retelling of Mark 7:30 in Matthew 15:28
Authors: Smit Peter-Ben A.
Published: October 2014

The Matthean redaction of Mark 7:30 in Matthew 15:28 often receives scant attention in scholarship in terms of its narrative quality. At most, it is regarded as a truncation of the full Marcan version, while all attention is given to Matthew’s introduction of the notion of ‘faith’ in this verse. This article argues, by contrast, and on the basis of a synoptic comparison and narratological analysis of both texts, that more justice is done to both versions of the conclusion of this healing miracle when understanding them as achieving different narrative effects, with Matthew focusing on the immediacy of the healing, while Mark creates suspense, thus focusing on the veracity of Jesus’ statement that the girl in question is healed.
Onderskeid (בין) in die Ou Testament
Authors: Geyser-Fouche Ananda
Published: October 2014

Discernment () in the Old Testament. Discernment is one of the concepts that urge each and everyone to think critically and anew. The concept of a never-ending spiral of thinking is very familiar in the circles of reformed churches. This concept is also known from the wisdom literature in the Old Testament. The realisation that you do not know, means approaching the ability to grasp something of wisdom. In order to find out what the Old Testament is saying about ‘discern’, I did a textual research on the two Hebrew words: and I apply the results of this research to the context of the church (with specific reference to the ‘Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika’ [NH Church]) attempting to find out what the church’s responsibility is with regards to what is really important (i.e. discernment).
RNAseqPS: A Web Tool for Estimating Sample Size and Power for RNAseq Experiment
Authors: Guo Yan , Zhao Shilin , Li Chung-I , Sheng Quanhu , Shyr Yu
Published: October 2014

Sample size and power determination is the first step in the experimental design of a successful study. Sample size and power calculation is required for applications for National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding. Sample size and power calculation is well established for traditional biological studies such as mouse model, genome wide association study (GWAS), and microarray studies. Recent developments in high-throughput sequencing technology have allowed RNAseq to replace microarray as the technology of choice for high-throughput gene expression profiling. However, the sample size and power analysis of RNAseq technology is an underdeveloped area. Here, we present RNAseqPS, an advanced online RNAseq power and sample size calculation tool based on the Poisson and negative binomial distributions. RNAseqPS was built using the Shiny package in R. It provides an interactive graphical user interface that allows the users to easily conduct sample size and power analysis for RNAseq experimental design. RNAseqPS can be accessed directly at http://cqs.mc.vanderbilt.edu/shiny/RNAseqPS/ .