bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dead Sea Levels during the Bronze and Iron Ages
Authors: Joy Kagan Elisa , Langgut Dafna , Boaretto Elisabetta , Herald Neumann Frank , Stein Mordechai
Published: April 2015

The history of lake-level changes at the Dead Sea during the Holocene was determined mainly by radiocarbon dating of terrestrial organic debris. This article reviews the various studies that have been devoted over the past 2 decades to defining the Dead Sea levels during the Bronze and Iron Ages (≃5.5 to 2.5 ka cal BP) and adds new data and interpretation. In particular, we focus on research efforts devoted to refining the chronology of the sedimentary sequence in the Ze'elim Gully, a key site of paleoclimate investigation in the European Research Council project titled Reconstructing Ancient Israel. The Bronze and Iron Ages are characterized by significant changes in human culture, reflected in archaeological records in which sharp settlement oscillations over relatively short periods of time are evident. During the Early Bronze, Intermediate Bronze, Middle Bronze, and Late Bronze Ages, the Dead Sea saw significant level fluctuations, reaching in the Middle Bronze an elevation of ≃370 m below mean sea level (bmsl), and declining in the Late Bronze to below 414 m bmsl. At the end of the Late Bronze Age and upon the transition to the Iron Age, the lake recovered slightly and rose to ≃408 m bmsl. This recovery reflected the resumption of freshwater activity in the Judean Hills, which was likely accompanied by more favorable hydrological-environmental conditions that seem to have facilitated the wave of Iron Age settlement in the region.
The Transition from Bronze to Iron in Canaan: Chronology, Technology, and Context
Authors: Yahalom-Mack Naama , Eliyahu-Behar Adi
Published: April 2015

In the framework of the European Research Council-funded project, “Reconstructing Ancient (Biblical) Israel: The Exact and Life Sciences Perspective,” we carried out multiple analyses on iron and bronze objects from provenanced contexts in Israel, as well as on previously unidentified metallurgical remains from the production of both metals. In addition, we counted anew iron and bronze objects from well-stratified contexts and studied metalworking sequences at major sites, which included those that had undergone the bronze/iron transition. This enabled us to clarify some of the issues related to the bronze/iron transition in the southern Levant. Using this evidence, we showed that iron was not used for utilitarian purposes before the Iron I (late 12th century BCE) and that iron only became dominant concurrently with the beginning of its systematic production during the Iron IIA (10th–9th centuries BCE). A strong correlation between iron and bronze production suggests that during the Iron I local independent bronzesmiths adopted the new iron technology. Under local administrations that developed during the Iron IIA, workshops that previously produced bronze turned to iron production, although they continued to manufacture bronze items as a secondary venture. Significantly, at some of the major urban centers iron production was an independent industry that included the entire operational sequence, including the on-site smelting of the ore. This development appears to have been a major contributor to the transition to systematic production of iron.
Iron Age Pigs: New Evidence on Their Origin and Role in Forming Identity Boundaries
Authors: Sapir-Hen Lidar , Meiri Meirav , Finkelstein Israel
Published: April 2015

This article reviews recent studies of pigs in the Iron Age in the southern Levant. The studies were carried out as part of the European Research Council-funded Ancient Israel project, with the aim of examining questions of identity and ethnic boundaries, with special emphasis on Philistia and ancient Israel. On the Philistine side, the results show a dichotomy in pork consumption between urban centers and the rural sector, and suggest that European domestic pigs were brought to the Levant by the Sea Peoples, most probably to secure the supply of meat. Reviewed with previous evidence, we suggest that economic motivation was the driving force for pork consumption and abandonment. Regarding ancient Israel, new studies show that avoiding pork was a widespread phenomenon of much of the Iron Age in both the highland and the lowlands outside of Philistia. They also point to a rise in pork consumption in lowlands sites of the Northern Kingdom in the Iron IIB and suggest a link between this phenomenon and the early consolidation of the taboo on pigs in Judah in late-monarchic times.
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in a dog with acute large granular lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Suter Steven E. , Hamilton Matthew J , Sullivan Edmund W , Venkataraman Gopalakrishnan M
Published: April 2015

Case Description—A 3-year-old 10-kg (22-lb) neutered male Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was referred because of an episode of acute vomiting and diarrhea.

Clinical Findings—On physical examination, mild splenomegaly and prominent submandibular and popliteal lymph nodes were detected. Complete blood cell count revealed a high WBC count, characterized by a moderate lymphocytosis with 62% unclassified cells and severe thrombocytopenia with macroplatelets. On cytologic evaluation, the unclassified cells were described as large, neoplastic lymphoid cells containing a large nucleus with lacy chromatin and a large amount of blue vacuolated cytoplasm containing sparse, very fine azurophilic granules. A diagnosis of acute large granular lymphocytic leukemia of splenic origin was made.

Treatment and Outcome—Following induction chemotherapy, the affected dog underwent allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation with dog leukocyte antigen–matched CD34+ cells harvested from a sibling of the same litter. Chimerism analysis revealed full donor engraftment within 2 weeks after transplantation that remained stable for at least 2 years, with the dog remaining apparently healthy at home.

Clinical Relevance—Acute leukemias in dogs are rapidly fatal diseases. If an appropriate donor can be located, allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation may offer a feasible treatment, although peripheral blood CD34+ cell harvesting requires the availability of cell separator machines and management of graft-versus-host disease with immunosuppressive agents.
L1-L2 Differences in the Acquisition of Form-Meaning Pairings in a Second Language
Authors: McManus Kevin
Published: April 2015

Abstract:

This paper examines the impact of L1/L2 form-meaning differences in the domain of aspect to investigate whether L2 learners are able to acquire properties of the L2 that are different from the L1. Oral data were collected from English- and German-speaking university learners of French L2 (n = 75) at two different levels of proficiency. The results show that appropriate use of aspect morphology at the advanced stages of learning is significantly influenced by differences in L1 background, with significant differences also revealed between French native speakers and L2 learners. The results suggest that an important role must be attributed to L1/L2 form-meaning mapping differences.
SUPREME GIFT—for Jeff Koons
Authors: Kantor (a.k.a. Monty Cantsin) Istvan
Published: April 2015

Abstract:

On 20 August 2014, Canadian Neoist and performance artist Istvan Kantor (a.k.a. Monty Cantsin) entered Jeff Koons’ retrospective at the Whitney Museum in New York City where he splattered a white gallery wall with a bloody X before being escorted out of the building by security. In SUPREME GIFT – for Jeff Koons—a manifesto accompanying the action—Kantor presents the celebrity artist with the gift of his own blood. The action of spraying his own blood on a museum wall and the manifesto are part of the ongoing Blood Campaign initiated in Montreal in 1979. Kantor explains that the main objectives of Blood Campaign have been to finance the operations of Neosim, a subcultural network of experimental performance and media artists. In SUPREME GIFT – for Jeff Koons, Kantor continues to address issues of art-stardom, art as a commodity, and the consequences of radical performative interventions in contemporary art institutions.
Performance Art, Pornography, and the Mis-spectator: The Ethics of Documenting Participatory Performance
Authors: Disman Adriana
Published: April 2015

Abstract:

When it comes to documenting participatory performance, what ethical concerns do performance artists face? How can we consider consent in situations like this? In part one, I engage Nicolas Ridout’s figure of the mis-spectator, to examine the ethics of documentation using Marina Abramović’s The Artist Is Present as a case study. Here, the participant-body is conscription as an object—a product—that performs as an extension of the artist’s body. The notion of “static consent” that undergirds archival logic, upon which the art market rests, is unethical and I propose, instead, that an emphasis on a dialogical culture of care could allow for more ethical forms of consent. In Part two, I examine an instance in which my own documentation of a naked performance art piece was appropriated unconsensually to pornography websites. Examining the complicated relations of power at play, I ask how we might do things differently.
Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) in paediatric diarrhoeal patients
Authors: Saha Shimu , Jhora Sanya Tahmina , Rahman Tanjila
Published: April 2015

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) mediated infantile diarrhoea among children is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. The antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of EPEC strains isolated from children under 5 years of age was studied. Stool samples from 272 patients with diarrhoea were collected from two tertiary care hospitals. Out of 272 stool samples, 20 (7.35%) isolates were identified as EPEC on the basis of presence of bfpA gene detected by polymerase chain reaction and antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed on these EPEC strains by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that the EPEC isolates were highly resistant to ampicillin (100%), nalidixic acid (95%) and tetracycline (95%) and were sensitive to ceftazidime (95%), cefotaxime (90%), ceftriaxone (95%), imipenem (100%) and levofloxacin (85%). Isolation of EPEC is of great importance since they are responsible for acute diarrhoeal diseases in large number of children under the age of five years. The high antimicrobial resistance observed in our study indicates indiscriminate or improper use of antimicrobials, besides the risks of self-medication.Ibrahim Med. Coll. J. 2014; 8(1): 12-16
3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′-Heptamethoxyflavone, a Citrus Polymethoxylated Flavone, Attenuates Inflammation in the Mouse Hippocampus
Authors: Okuyama Satoshi , Miyoshi Kazuhiro , Tsumura Yuichi , Amakura Yoshiaki , Yoshimura Morio , Yoshida Takashi , Nakajima Mitsunari , Furukawa Yoshiko
Published: April 2015

Citrus polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) have recently been shown to suppress inflammation in peripheral tissues. In the present study, we investigated the effects of 3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′-heptamethoxyflavone (HMF), one of the PMFs, on inflammation in the brain in vivo using mice injected intrahippocampally with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We demonstrated that subcutaneously injected HMF suppressed: (1) LPS-induced losses in body weight; (2) LPS-induced microglial activation in the hippocampus; and (3) LPS-induced interleukin-1β mRNA expression in the hippocampus. These results suggest that HMF has the ability to reduce neuroinflammation in the brain.
Regional Transport Indicators Used in Sweden for Measurement, Reporting and Verification of CO2 Emissions
Authors: Robertson Kerstin , Jägerbrand Annika , Eriksson Jan
Published: April 2015

Established practice is available as a reference for evaluating sustainable transport and CO2 emissions at national, European and global levels, but comparing corresponding systems at the regional and local levels are more challenging. Therefore, this paper analyses the use of indicators, evaluation methods and data availability at local and regional levels for applied policies and measures in transport planning. Sweden is used as a case study. Available data show that total surveys (e.g., vehicle registry data), sample surveys (e.g., interviews) or modelling can be used to develop transport indicators, and that either generated (volume generated in the area) or performed (volume in the area) traffic and transportation is estimated. However, there are limitations with all methods and the design of evaluations needs careful consideration in order to reflect changes in local and regional transport systems and to relate those changes to specific measures and policies. In most cases, survey methods need to be used in order to follow up the most common indicators. All evaluation methods need to be complemented with analyses of a baseline to determine additionality and also potential rebound effects need to be considered, which requires the application of a wider systems perspective.
The Use of Energy in Malaysia: Tracing Energy Flows from Primary Source to End Use
Authors: Chong Chinhao , Ni Weidou , Ma Linwei , Liu Pei , Li Zheng
Published: April 2015

Malaysia is a rapidly developing country in Southeast Asia that aims to achieve high-income country status by 2020; its economic growth is highly dependent on its abundant energy resources, especially natural gas and crude oil. In this paper, a complete picture of Malaysia’s energy use from primary source to end use is presented by mapping a Sankey diagram of Malaysia’s energy flows, together with ongoing trends analysis of the main factors influencing the energy flows. The results indicate that Malaysia’s energy use depends heavily on fossil fuels, including oil, gas and coal. In the past 30 years, Malaysia has successfully diversified its energy structure by introducing more natural gas and coal into its power generation. To sustainably feed the rapidly growing energy demand in end-use sectors with the challenge of global climate change, Malaysia must pay more attention to the development of renewable energy, green technology and energy conservation in the future.
Analysis of Urban Heat Island (UHI) in Relation to Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI): A Comparative Study of Delhi and Mumbai
Authors: Grover Aakriti , Singh Ram
Published: April 2015

The formation and occurrence of urban heat island (UHI) is a result of rapid urbanization and associated concretization. Due to intensification of heat combined with high pollution levels, urban areas expose humans to unexpected health risks. In this context, the study aims at comparing the UHI in the two largest metropolitan cities of India, i.e., Delhi and Mumbai. The presence of surface UHI is analyzed using the Landsat 5 TM image of 5 May 2010 for Delhi and the 17 April 2010 image for Mumbai. The validation of the heat island is done in relation to the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) patterns. The study reveals that built-up and fallow lands record high temperatures, whereas the vegetated areas and water bodies exhibit lower temperatures. Delhi, an inland city, possesses mixed land use and the presence of substantial tree cover along roads; the Delhi Ridge forests and River Yamuna cutting across the city have a high influence in moderating the surface temperatures. The temperature reaches a maximum of 35 °C in West Delhi and a minimum of 24 °C in the east at the River Yamuna. Maximum temperature in East Delhi goes to 30 °C, except the border areas. North, Central and south Delhi have low temperatures (28 °C–31 °C), but the peripheral areas have high temperatures (36 °C–37 °C). The UHI is not very prominent in the case of Delhi. This is proven by the correlations of surface temperature with NDVI. South Delhi, New Delhi and areas close to River Yamuna have high NDVI and, therefore, record low temperatures. Mumbai, on the other hand, is a coastal city with lower tree cover than Delhi. The Borivilli National Park (BNP) is in the midst of dense horizontal and vertical growth of buildings. The UHI is much stronger where the heat is trapped that is, the built-up zones. There are four small rivers in Mumbai, which have low carrying capacity. In Mumbai suburban district, the areas adjoining the creeks, sea and the lakes act as heat sinks. The coastal areas in South Mumbai record temperatures of 28 °C–31 °C; the Bandra-Kurla Complex has a high range of temperature i.e., 31 °C–36 °C. The temperature witnessed at Chattrapati Shivaji International Airport is as high as 38 °C. The temperature is nearly 37 °C–38 °C in the Dorai region in the Mumbai suburban district. The BNP has varied vegetation density, and therefore, the temperature ranges from 27 °C–31 °C. Powai Lake, Tulsi Lake and other water bodies record the lowest temperatures (24 °C–26 °C). There exists a strong negative correlation between NDVI and UHI of Mumbai, owing to less coverage of green and vegetation areas.
Stem Anatomy and Adventitious Root Formation in Cuttings of Angophora, Corymbia and Eucalyptus
Authors: Bryant Philippa , Trueman Stephen
Published: April 2015

Many plantation eucalypts are difficult to propagate from cuttings, and their rooted cuttings often possess very few adventitious roots. We microscopically examined the stem anatomy of cuttings from 12 species of eucalypts and we determined whether adventitious root formation in auxin-treated cuttings of four species was limited to particular positions around the vascular tissue. Most species contained a central pith that was arranged in a four-pointed stellate pattern. The surrounding vascular tissue was also arranged in a stellate pattern near the shoot apex but it developed a more rectangular shape at the outer phloem as the stems enlarged radially. Adventitious roots formed at, or slightly peripheral to, the vascular cambium, and they formed at both the corners and the sides of the rectangular-shaped vascular tissue. The study highlighted that auxin-treated eucalypt cuttings can produce roots at multiple positions around the vascular tissue and so propagation methods can aim to produce more than four adventitious roots per rooted cutting. Higher numbers of adventitious roots could improve the root system symmetry, stability, survival and growth rate of clonal eucalypt trees.
Bone Regeneration Using Bone Morphogenetic Proteins and Various Biomaterial Carriers
Authors: Sheikh Zeeshan , Javaid Mohammad , Hamdan Nader , Hashmi Raheel
Published: April 2015

Trauma and disease frequently result in fractures or critical sized bone defects and their management at times necessitates bone grafting. The process of bone healing or regeneration involves intricate network of molecules including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). BMPs belong to a larger superfamily of proteins and are very promising and intensively studied for in the enhancement of bone healing. More than 20 types of BMPs have been identified but only a subset of BMPs can induce de novo bone formation. Many research groups have shown that BMPs can induce differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and stem cells into osteogenic cells which are capable of producing bone. This review introduces BMPs and discusses current advances in preclinical and clinical application of utilizing various biomaterial carriers for local delivery of BMPs to enhance bone regeneration.
Optimization of γ-Aminobutyric Acid Production by Lactobacillus plantarum Taj-Apis362 from Honeybees
Authors: Tajabadi Naser , Ebrahimpour Afshin , Baradaran Ali , Rahim Raha , Mahyudin Nor , Manap Mohd , Bakar Fatimah , Saari Nazamid
Published: April 2015

Dominant strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from honey bees were evaluated for their γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-producing ability. Out of 24 strains, strain Taj-Apis362 showed the highest GABA-producing ability (1.76 mM) in MRS broth containing 50 mM initial glutamic acid cultured for 60 h. Effects of fermentation parameters, including initial glutamic acid level, culture temperature, initial pH and incubation time on GABA production were investigated via a single parameter optimization strategy. The optimal fermentation condition for GABA production was modeled using response surface methodology (RSM). The results showed that the culture temperature was the most significant factor for GABA production. The optimum conditions for maximum GABA production by Lactobacillus plantarum Taj-Apis362 were an initial glutamic acid concentration of 497.97 mM, culture temperature of 36 °C, initial pH of 5.31 and incubation time of 60 h, which produced 7.15 mM of GABA. The value is comparable with the predicted value of 7.21 mM.
Studies on the Alkaloids of the Calycanthaceae and Their Syntheses
Authors: Xu Jin-Biao , Cheng Ke-Jun
Published: April 2015

Plants of the Calycanthaceae family, which possesses four genera and about 15 species, are mainly distributed in China, North America and Australia. Chemical studies on the Calycanthaceae have led to the discovery of about 14 alkaloids of different skeletons, including dimeric piperidinoquinoline, dimeric pyrrolidinoindoline and/or trimeric pyrrolidinoindolines, which exhibit significant anti-convulsant, anti-fungal, anti-viral analgesic, anti-tumor, and anti-melanogenesis activities. As some of complex tryptamine-derived alkaloids exhibit promising biological activities, the syntheses of these alkaloids have also been a topic of interest in synthetic chemistry during the last decades. This review will focus on the structures and total syntheses of these alkaloids.
Total, Added, and Free Sugars: Are Restrictive Guidelines Science-Based or Achievable?
Authors: Erickson Jennifer , Slavin Joanne
Published: April 2015

Sugar consumption, especially added sugars, is under attack. Various government and health authorities have suggested new sugar recommendations and guidelines as low as 5% of total calories from free sugars. Definitions for total sugars, free sugars, and added sugars are not standardized, nor are there accepted nutrient databases for this information. Our objective was to measure total sugars and added sugars in sample meal plans created by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). Utilizing the Nutrition Data System for Research (NDSR) nutritional database, results found that plans created by the USDA and AND averaged 5.1% and 3.1% calories from added sugar, 8.7% and 3.1% from free sugar, and 23.3% and 21.1% as total sugars respectively. Compliance with proposed added sugar recommendations would require strict dietary compliance and may not be sustainable for many Americans. Without an accepted definition and equation for calculating added sugar, added sugar recommendations are arbitrary and may reduce intakes of nutrient-rich, recommended foods, such as yogurt, whole grains, and tart fruits including cranberries, cherries, and grapefruit. Added sugars are one part of excess calorie intake; however, compliance with low added sugar recommendations may not be achievable for the general public.
Monitoring the Corrosion Process of Reinforced Concrete Using BOTDA and FBG Sensors
Authors: Mao Jianghong , Chen Jiayun , Cui Lei , Jin Weiliang , Xu Chen , He Yong
Published: April 2015

Expansion and cracking induced by the corrosion of reinforcement concrete is the major factor in the failure of concrete durability. Therefore, monitoring of concrete cracking is critical for evaluating the safety of concrete structures. In this paper, we introduce a novel monitoring method combining Brillouin optical time domain analysis (BOTDA) and fiber Bragg grating (FBG), based on mechanical principles of concrete expansion cracking. BOTDA monitors concrete expansion and crack width, while FBG identifies the time and position of cracking. A water-pressure loading simulation test was carried out to determine the relationship between fiber strain, concrete expansion and crack width. An electrical accelerated corrosion test was also conducted to evaluate the ability of this novel sensor to monitor concrete cracking under practical conditions.
Comparison of Whole-Cell SELEX Methods for the Identification of Staphylococcus Aureus-Specific DNA Aptamers
Authors: Moon Jihea , Kim Giyoung , Park Saet , Lim Jongguk , Mo Changyeun
Published: April 2015

Whole-cell Systemic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential enrichment (SELEX) is the process by which aptamers specific to target cells are developed. Aptamers selected by whole-cell SELEX have high affinity and specificity for bacterial surface molecules and live bacterial targets. To identify DNA aptamers specific to Staphylococcus aureus, we applied our rapid whole-cell SELEX method to a single-stranded ssDNA library. To improve the specificity and selectivity of the aptamers, we designed, selected, and developed two categories of aptamers that were selected by two kinds of whole-cell SELEX, by mixing and combining FACS analysis and a counter-SELEX process. Using this approach, we have developed a biosensor system that employs a high affinity aptamer for detection of target bacteria. FAM-labeled aptamer sequences with high binding to S. aureus, as determined by fluorescence spectroscopic analysis, were identified, and aptamer A14, selected by the basic whole-cell SELEX using a once-off FACS analysis, and which had a high binding affinity and specificity, was chosen. The binding assay was evaluated using FACS analysis. Our study demonstrated the development of a set of whole-cell SELEX derived aptamers specific to S. aureus; this approach can be used in the identification of other bacteria.
Hydrometeorological Research in South Africa: A Review
Authors: Botai Christina , Botai Joel , Muchuru Shepherd , Ngwana Isaac
Published: April 2015

Water resources, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions of the world are of great concern, as they are closely linked to the wellbeing of humankind. Sophisticated hydrological prediction tools are required to assess climatic and hydrometeorological conditions, as they impact the sustainability of water resources as well as water availability. Research and data collection activities from multi-hydrometeorological sensors (e.g., gauges, radars, satellites) form the basis for quantifying the impact of extreme episodes along the hydrologic phases that manifest in terms of the magnitude, duration and frequency of floods, droughts and other hydrometeorological hazards that affect water resources management. A number of hydrometeorological research activities have been reported in the literature by various researchers and research groups globally. This contribution presents (a) a review of the hydrometeorology resource landscape in South Africa; (b) an analysis of the hydrometeorology services and products in South Africa; (c) a review of the hydrometeorological research that has been conducted in South Africa for the last four decades; and (d) highlights on some of the challenges facing the sustained advancement of research in hydrometeorology in South Africa.
Observing the morphology of single-layered embedded silicon nanocrystals by using temperature-stable TEM membranes
Authors: Gutsch Sebastian , Hiller Daniel , Laube Jan , Zacharias Margit , Kübel Christian
Published: April 2015

We use high-temperature-stable silicon nitride membranes to investigate single layers of silicon nanocrystal ensembles by energy filtered transmission electron microscopy. The silicon nanocrystals are prepared from the precipitation of a silicon-rich oxynitride layer sandwiched between two SiO2 diffusion barriers and subjected to a high-temperature annealing. We find that such single layers are very sensitive to the annealing parameters and may lead to a significant loss of excess silicon. In addition, these ultrathin layers suffer from significant electron beam damage that needs to be minimized in order to image the pristine sample morphology. Finally we demonstrate how the silicon nanocrystal size distribution develops from a broad to a narrow log-normal distribution, when the initial precipitation layer thickness and stoichiometry are below a critical value.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of Brucellosis in small ruminants slaughtered at Debre Ziet and Modjo export abattoirs, Ethiopia
Authors: Tsegay Amanuel , Tuli Getachew , Kassa Tesfu , Kebede Nigatu
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Brucellosis is a global zoonotic disease and major public and animal health problem in many parts of the world, particularly in places where livestock is a major source of food and income. This cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2012 and May 2013 to determine the seroprevalence and assess potential risk factors of brucellosis in small ruminants in five export abattoirs at Debre Ziet and Modjo, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Methodology: Serology and questionnaire were the methods used. In this investigation, 853 sera samples of 485 caprines and 368 ovines brought for slaughter were selected randomly. The Rose Bengal plate test and complement fixation test were conducted using sera samples at National Animal Health Diagnostic and Investigation Center (NAHDIC) serology laboratory. Data collection sheets were used to gather information on possible risk factors believed to influence the occurrence of Brucella infection in small ruminants such as age, species, breed, body condition score, and origin of small ruminants. Results: Brucellosis was found in 17 (1.99%) and 15 (1.76%) small ruminants using the Rose Bengal plate test and complement fixation test, respectively. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age and body condition score of the animals were risk factors to Brucella infection (p = 0.008 and p = 0.001, respectively) in small ruminants. Conclusions: Based on this survey, brucellosis is a potential problem in small ruminants in Ethiopia that should be further explored.
The Extent of Subclinical Atherosclerosis Is Partially Predicted by the Inflammatory Load: A Prospective Study over 5 Years in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Matched Controls
Authors: Södergren Anna , Karp Kjell , Bengtsson Christine , Möller Bozena , Rantapää-Dahlqvist Solbritt , Wållberg-Jonsson Solveig
Published: April 2015

Objective.

This prospective followup study investigated subclinical atherosclerosis in relation to traditional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) recruited at diagnosis compared with controls.

Methods.

Patients diagnosed with early RA were consecutively recruited into a prospective study. From these, a subgroup aged ≤ 60 years (n = 71) was consecutively included for ultrasound measurement of intima-media thickness (IMT) and flow-mediated dilation (FMD) at inclusion (T0) and after 5 years (T5). Age- and sex-matched controls (n = 40) were also included.

Results.

In the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, both IMT and FMD were significantly aggravated at T5 compared to baseline in patients with RA, whereas only IMT was significantly increased in controls. In univariate linear regression analyses among patients with RA, the IMT at T5 was significantly associated with age, systolic blood pressure (BP), cholesterol, triglycerides, Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE), and Reynolds Risk Score at baseline (p < 0.05). Similarly, FMD at T5 was significantly inversely associated with age, smoking, systolic BP, SCORE, and Reynolds Risk Score (p < 0.05). A model with standardized predictive value from multiple linear regression models including age, smoking, BP, and blood lipids at baseline significantly predicted the observed value of IMT after 5 years. When also including the area under the curve for the 28-joint Disease Activity Score over 5 years, the observed value of IMT was predicted to a large extent.

Conclusion.

This prospective study identified an increased subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with RA. In the patients with RA, several traditional CVD risk factors at baseline significantly predicted the extent of subclinical atherosclerosis 5 years later. The inflammatory load over time augmented this prediction.
Qu’est-ce qu’un classique « africain » ?
Authors: Ducournau Claire
Published: April 2015

Depuis le milieu des années 1990, la catégorie de classique a été de plus en plus souvent et rapidement appliquée aux auteur-e-s issu-e-s d’Afrique par la critique et les institutions littéraires spécialisées en littérature africaine de langue française. Pour comprendre cette situation, l’article s’appuie sur une enquête ethnographique et statistique pour restituer les paramètres historiques et sociologiques de l’accès à la reconnaissance puis à la classicisation littéraires de ces écrivain-e-s. L’étude des fluctuations du marché du livre, de l’évolution des institutions littéraires spécialisées, des carrières éditoriales et des propriétés sociales de ces auteur-e-s permet de montrer qu’une forte sélectivité culturelle et sociale régit l’obtention d’un seuil minimal de reconnaissance littéraire. Le recours aux grands éditeurs français et l’appartenance générationnelle jouent en outre un rôle déterminant pour la minorité numérique d’écrivain-e-s accédant au statut de classique africain, au détriment des écrivain-e-s ayant publié leur premier titre à la fin des années 1980, dans un moment de reflux entre deux vagues transnationales de légitimation de cette littérature. L’importance des éditeurs puis des médias français dans l’accès à la consécration internationale de ces auteur-e-s, qui se sédentarisent de plus en plus hors de leur continent d’origine, reflète un ordre mondial inégalitaire.
Logiques d’engagement des réalisateurs de films au sujet de la loi HADOPI
Authors: Pacouret Jérôme
Published: April 2015

Adoptée en 2009, la loi HADOPI a mis en place un dispositif de sanction des pratiques de téléchargement illégal de biens culturels. À travers des pétitions, elle a été soutenue par les cinéastes membres de plusieurs organisations professionnelles et dénoncée par des représentants du « cinéma d’auteur ». En recourant aux méthodes de l’analyse des correspondances multiples, de l’analyse de réseaux, ainsi qu’à des entretiens et observations, l’article examine les relations objectives, interactions, intermédiaires et ressources militantes à l’origine de ces prises de position collectives. Il montre que les logiques d’engagement des cinéastes dans les luttes professionnelles se distinguent en fonction de leur position dans le champ du cinéma. Il révèle les rapports de force de l’espace de représentation professionnelle des cinéastes et l’autonomie relative de cet espace par rapport au champ du cinéma.
Une puéricultrice au domicile
Authors: Batard Christine , de Courson Françoise
Published: April 2015

Les camps ont pour mission d’accompagner les enfants et leur famille dans les premières années en cas de situation de vulnérabilité ou dans un contexte de handicap avéré. Les puéricultrices, de par leur formation et leurs compétences, trouvent une place privilégiée dans cet accompagnement. Mais elles sont peu nombreuses dans les équipes pluridisciplinaires de camps . Nous allons décrire une place et un rôle très spécifiques dans le travail effectué au sein d’un camps , celui de l’Institut de puériculture de Paris ( ipp ).
Repérage et prise en charge multidisciplinaire des troubles du développement cognitif et relationnel de l’enfant né prématurément
Authors: Daude Hubert , Bousquet-Jacq Nathalie , Von Kanel Karine , Boulay Nicole , Faye Mariama , Coquery Mathieu , Tronel Sylvie , Beltran Magali
Published: April 2015

Les séquelles sensorielles, les paralysies cérébrales, les troubles moteurs mineurs, les déficiences intellectuelles globales, les troubles cognitifs spécifiques (troubles du langage, dyspraxies visuo-spatiales et autres troubles praxiques, troubles de la mémoire et de l’attention, troubles des fonctions exécutives) et les troubles émotionnels et comportementaux sont plus fréquents chez les prématurés que chez les nouveau-nés à terme. Les particularités sensori-motrices et relationnelles du bébé prématuré doivent être bien connues et leur rôle dans les interactions et le développement doit être précisément pris en compte par tous les professionnels impliqués dans le suivi. Parmi les séquelles cognitives qui doivent bénéficier d’un diagnostic précoce, certaines sont plus fréquemment retrouvées chez les anciens grands prématurés, notamment les troubles visuo-spatiaux et les difficultés praxiques, les troubles attentionnels, du comportement et de la relation pour lesquelles un regard pluridisciplinaire est indispensable afin d’étayer un diagnostic, de proposer une prise en charge et surtout de reconnaître le trouble afin d’accompagner au mieux ces enfants lors de leurs premières années de développement puis tout au long de leur scolarité.
« En avance, parlons-en ! »
Authors: Rimond Patricia , Belouin Laurence , Hemelsdael Marie , Lemaire Sylvie , Liaudet Nathalie , Nicolas Corine , Sureau Ségolène , Boissel Anne
Published: April 2015

Récit de la mise en place d’un groupe d’accompagnement des bébés prématurés et de leurs parents coanimé par le camsp , l’association sos Préma et la pmi .
L’association sos Préma
Authors: Bouvard Charlotte , Biraud Morgane , Dannay Myriam
Published: April 2015

sos Préma est une association loi 1901 créée en octobre 2004 par une mère, Charlotte Bouvard. Elle est reconnue d’intérêt général et agréée association d’usagers par le ministère de la Santé. Elle œuvre pour une meilleure prise en charge de la prématurité et travaille avec tous les acteurs de la prématurité, à travers trois axes : l’accompagnement et le soutien des familles ; le dialogue avec les équipes médicales ; la sensibilisation des pouvoirs publics. « Les enfants prématurés sont nos plus petits, nos plus fragiles et sont aussi notre avenir, comme tous les enfants. Il est de notre devoir à tous de tout faire pour aider ces enfants, qui n’arrivent pas dans la vie avec les mêmes chances que les autres, et ainsi, réduire les inégalités. »
Enfants martyrisés : les « sociaux » coupables
Authors: Faucoup Yves
Published: April 2015

Dans les cas de maltraitance à enfant, l’opinion publique et une partie des médias ne se contentent pas d’incriminer les coupables (le plus souvent les parents) mais dirigent aussi leurs accusations vers les services sociaux. Quitte parfois à s’arranger avec les faits pour pouvoir démontrer la responsabilité sinon la complicité des professionnels éducatifs, sociaux et médico-sociaux dans ces tragédies. L’article montre les différents protagonistes qui participent à cette curée, propose de tirer les conséquences de la loi de 2007 relative à la protection de l’enfance en vue de mieux évaluer les situations en cas de suspicion, et d’organiser des débriefings réguliers afin d’améliorer le dispositif, tout en mettant en garde contre le risque de laisser croire que le champ de la protection de l’enfance se limite aux victimes de parents tortionnaires.
Le prochain Synode africain est-il pertinent ?
Authors: Ramazani Bishwende Augustin
Published: April 2015

Benoît XVI souhaite poursuivre le programme de son prédécesseur, en convoquant, à Rome, la deuxième Assemblée spéciale pour l’Afrique du Synode des évêques sous le thème : L’Église en Afrique au service de la réconciliation, de la justice et de la paix : ‘Vous êtes le sel de la terre [...] . Vous êtes la lumière du monde’ (Mt 5,13.14) ». Mais avant toute chose, évaluons d’abord de façon concrète l’héritage de son prédécesseur. Comment le Synode africain de 1994 a-t-il été reçu par les Églises et par les théologiens de la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC) ? Bientôt un autre synode. À partir d’une lecture critique des Lineamenta , quels sont les signes d’attente et d’espérance ?
Learning Theory and Online Learning in K-12 Education
Authors: Kumi-Yeboah Alex
Published: April 2015

Several questions need to be asked about how the applications of learning theories in online learning and how it impacts student learning. Online learning has the ability to promote rapid growth of student academic performance using instructional strategies such as differentiated instructions to meet the specific needs of students. However, less is known about the integration of learning theory and online learning in K-12 schools and its impact on student learning. This chapter seeks to demonstrate the integration of learning theories, online learning and its effects on student academic performance. In this chapter, researchers trace the trend of online learning in K-12 schools, discuss how instructional models are used to promote online learning in K-12 education, and provide discussion on the prospects and challenges facing online learning in the United States. Recommendation for future studies and conclusion are discussed.
A Mobile Learning Overview by Timeline and Mind Map
Authors: Parsons David
Published: April 2015

Mobile learning has been a research topic for some 20 years. Over that time it has encompassed a wide range of concepts, theories, designs, experiments and evaluations. With increasing interest in mobile learning from researchers and practitioners, an accessible overview of this area of research that encapsulates its many facets and features can provide a useful snapshot of the field to interested parties. This article provides a summary of the field of mobile learning, applying the main analysis categories of research, technology, content, learning and learner. The author presents these categories and subcategories in the form of a mind map, which outlines the details of the major themes in mobile learning. In addition, the author contextualises the key developments in mobile learning in a timeline. The intent of this article is that it may serve as an introduction to the research field of mobile learning, enabling researchers to quickly familiarise themselves with the type of work that has been done in the past, and the potential areas of investigation that might prove fruitful in the future.
Technology-Enhanced Learning
Authors: O'Donnell Eileen , O'Donnell Liam
Published: April 2015

There are many elements to an individual's life. Each individual engages in a variety of different activities which all require different types or forms of supports. Through family, friends, and colleagues, supports are available for many of the activities in which we engage. But, for students conducting research, specific types of support are necessary that can only be provided by supervisors and peers. This chapter reviews the supports necessary to learn how to effectively undertake research and how these supports could satisfactorily be provided through an e-learning portal or an e-learning platform. An e-learning module could be used to facilitate collaboration amongst student learners and researchers who share similar research interests. Students should be encouraged to develop a community of practice with fellow researchers as this relationship could provide beneficial peer support for as long as their research interests evolve and endure.
An Example Application of an Artificial Intelligence-Supported Blended Learning Education Program in Computer Engineering
Authors: Yigit Tuncay , Koyun Arif , Yuksel Asim Sinan , Cankaya Ibrahim Arda , Kose Utku
Published: April 2015

Blended Learning is a learning model that is enriched with traditional learning methods and online education materials. Integration of face-to-face and online learning with blending learning can enhance the learning experience and optimize seat time. In this chapter, the authors present the teaching of an Algorithm and Programming course in Computer Engineering Education via an artificial intelligence-supported blended learning approach. Since 2011, Computer Engineering education in Suleyman Demirel University Computer Engineering Department is taught with a blended learning method. Blended learning is achieved through a Learning Management System (LMS) by using distance education technology. The LMS is comprised of course materials supported with flash animations, student records, user roles, and evaluation systems such as surveys and quizzes that meet SCORM standards. In this chapter, the related education process has been supported with an intelligent program, which is based on teaching C programming language. In this way, it has been aimed to improve educational processes within the related course and the education approach in the department. The blended learning approach has been evaluated by the authors, and the obtained results show that the introduced artificial intelligence-supported blended learning education program enables both teachers and students to experience better educational processes.
Impact of Technological Advancement on the Higher Education Curriculum and Program Development
Authors: Scepanovic Snezana , Guerra Vania , Lübcke Maren
Published: April 2015

The current educational structure was created in response to the demands of an industrial society, which, alongside workers, needed an elite of highly educated professionals. The knowledge revolution accelerated this trend: professionals are now not only the people who “have” the knowledge, but they should be also able to find it quickly and efficiently, and have the skills to apply knowledge in new situations, extending the scope of their initial field of expertise. With massive growth of free open educational resources, knowledge became available and accessible to everyone with a simple Internet connection. All these conditions currently call into question the role and operationalization of educational processes in Higher Education, since universities are no longer the one central source of knowledge generation. In this chapter, the authors analyze the current situation in Higher Education, in terms of why a demand for transformation of educational models has been almost entirely unable to generate sustainable changes in curriculum development. Aside from theoretical foundations, the authors also analyze literature and what the practitioners have to say in that respect. The ultimate goal of this chapter is to set the basis for an analytical framework for discussions about the transformative process of Higher Education in order to be able to bring curriculum development a step forward, in a sustainable way.
The Effects of Problem-Based Learning with Flipped Classroom on Elementary Students' Computing Skills
Authors: Tsai Chia-Wen , Shen Pei-Di , Lu Yu-Jui
Published: April 2015

This study investigated, via quasi-experiments, the effects of problem-based learning with flipped classroom (FPBL) on the development of students' learning performance. In this study, 144 elementary school students were selected from six grade sections taking a course titled ‘Production of Ebook', and were assigned into the following three groups: FPBL group (n = 50), PBL group (n = 48), Control group (n = 46). The authors collected both quantitative and qualitative data, including interviews with students and teacher's journal. Based on the analysis in this study, it is found that the effect of FPBL on improving students' learning performance was significantly higher than other teaching methods investigated. This research provides an innovative design and illustration of PBL for teachers, educators, and schools which pay attention to enhancing students' learning performance.