bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geospatial Analysis of the Building Heat Demand and Distribution Losses in a District Heating Network
Authors: Törnros Tobias , Resch Bernd , Rupp Matthias , Gündra Hartmut
Published: November 2016

The district heating (DH) demand of various systems has been simulated in several studies. Most studies focus on the temporal aspects rather than the spatial component. In this study, the DH demand for a medium-sized DH network in a city in southern Germany is simulated and analyzed in a spatially explicit approach. Initially, buildings are geo-located and attributes obtained from various sources including building type, ground area, and number of stories are merged. Thereafter, the annual primary energy demand for heating and domestic hot water is calculated for individual buildings. Subsequently, the energy demand is aggregated on the segment level of an existing DH network and the water flow is routed through the system. The simulation results show that the distribution losses are overall the highest at the end segments (given in percentage terms). However, centrally located pipes with a low throughflow are also simulated to have high losses. The spatial analyses are not only useful when addressing the current demand. Based on a scenario taking into account the refurbishment of buildings and a decentralization of energy production, the future demand was also addressed. Due to lower demand, the distribution losses given in percentage increase under such conditions.
Interactions between the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle Harmonia axyridis and the Parasitoid Dinocampus coccinellae
Authors: Dindo Maria , Francati Santolo , Lanzoni Alberto , Di Vitantonio Cinzia , Marchetti Elisa , Burgio Giovanni , Maini Stefano
Published: November 2016

Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) has been introduced either intentionally or accidentally in different areas outside its native range, where it is often regarded as invasive. Dinocampus coccinellae (Schrank) has been recorded to parasitize H. axyridis in the field, both in the native and introduced areas, Italy included. The percent of parasitism found in our field investigation was low (four percent). The effect of exposure time of H. axyridis to D. coccinellae and the impact of parasitization on host longevity, oviposition capacity and egg fertility were evaluated in the laboratory. The acceptance and suitability of H. axyridis as host for D. coccinellae were then studied, in comparison with the native coccinellid Adalia bipunctata (L.), which shares the same ecological niche. The effects of parasitization on female longevity and reproduction capacity in the exotic vs. the indigenous lady beetle were also investigated. The overall results showed that D. coccinellae negatively affected the fitness of H. axyridis, more than that of A. bipunctata. The parasitoid may thus play a marginal role in controlling the populations of the Asian lady beetle, without representing a threat to A. bipunctata.
Development of the Hydrodynamic Model for Long-Term Simulation of Water Quality Processes of the Tidal James River, Virginia
Authors: Shen Jian , Wang Ya , Sisson Mac
Published: November 2016

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) have frequently occurred in the James River. The State has convened a Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) to review the James River chlorophyll-a standards. The SAP will conduct a scientific study to review the basis for setting the chlorophyll-a standards. To support the SAP study of chlorophyll-a standards, the State of Virginia has decided to develop a numerical modeling system that is capable of simulating phytoplankton and HABs. The modeling system includes a watershed model, a three-dimensional hydrodynamic model and water quality models. The focus of this study will be on the development and verification of the hydrodynamic model. In order to simulate the complex geometry of the James River, a high-resolution model has been implemented. The model has been calibrated for a long-term period of 23 years. A series of model experiments was conducted to evaluate the impact of forcings on dynamic simulation and transport time. It was found that freshwater discharge is the most sensitive for an accurate simulation of salinity and transport time. The water age predicted by the model in the tidal freshwater region represents the fluctuation of transport processes, and it has a good correlation with the algal bloom, while at the downstream, the transport time simulation agrees with the delay of the HAB in the mesohaline of the James after the HAB occurred in the Elizabeth River due to the transport processes. The results indicate that the hydrodynamic model is capable of simulating the dynamic processes of the James and driving water quality models in the James River.
Microstructure and Characteristics of Calcium Phosphate Layers on Bioactive Oxide Surfaces of Air-Sintered Titanium Foams after Immersion in Simulated Body Fluid
Authors: Lee Hung-Bin , Hsu Hsueh-Chuan , Wu Shih-Ching , Hsu Shih-Kuang , Wang Peng-Hsiang , Ho Wen-Fu
Published: November 2016

We propose a simple and low-cost process for the preparation of porous Ti foams through a sponge replication method using single-step air sintering at various temperatures. In this study, the apatite-forming ability of air-sintered Ti samples after 21 days of immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) was investigated. The microstructures of the prepared Ca–P deposits were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In contrast to the control sample sintered in vacuum, which was found to have the simple hexagonal α-Ti phase, the air-sintered samples contained only the rutile phase. High intensities of XRD peaks for rutile TiO2 were obtained with samples sintered at 1000 °C. Moreover, the air-sintered Ti samples had a greater apatite-forming ability than that of the Ti sample sintered in vacuum. Ti samples sintered at 900 and 1000 °C had large aggregated spheroidal particles on their surfaces after immersion in SBF for 21 days. Combined XRD, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, and TEM results suggest that the calcium phosphate deposited on the rutile TiO2 surfaces consist of carbonated calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite instead of octacalcium phosphate.
Effect of Electrical Discharge Machining on Stress Concentration in Titanium Alloy Holes
Authors: Hsu Wei-Hsuan , Chien Wan-Ting
Published: November 2016

Titanium alloys have several advantages, such as a high strength-to-weight ratio. However, the machinability of titanium alloys is not as good as its mechanical properties. Many machining processes have been used to fabricate titanium alloys. Among these machining processes, electrical discharge machining (EDM) has the advantage of processing efficiency. EDM is based on thermoelectric energy between a workpiece and an electrode. A pulse discharge occurs in a small gap between the workpiece and electrode. Then, the material from the workpiece is removed through melting and vaporization. However, defects such as cracks and notches are often detected at the boundary of holes fabricated using EDM and the irregular profile of EDM holes reduces product quality. In this study, an innovative method was proposed to estimate the effect of EDM parameters on the surface quality of the holes. The method combining the finite element method and image processing can rapidly evaluate the stress concentration factor of a workpiece. The stress concentration factor was assumed as an index of EDM process performance for estimating the surface quality of EDM holes. In EDM manufacturing processes, Ti-6Al-4V was used as an experimental material and, as process parameters, pulse current and pulse on-time were taken into account. The results showed that finite element simulations can effectively analyze stress concentration in EDM holes. Using high energy during EDM leads to poor hole quality, and the stress concentration factor of a workpiece is correlated to hole quality. The maximum stress concentration factor for an EDM hole was more than four times that for the same diameter of the undamaged hole.
The Effect of UV Treatment on the Osteoconductive Capacity of Zirconia-Based Materials
Authors: Brezavšček Miha , Fawzy Ahmed , Bächle Maria , Tuna Taskin , Fischer Jens , Att Wael
Published: November 2016

Objective: Improvements in the bioactivity of zirconia implants for accelerated healing and reduced morbidity have been of continuing interest in the fields of dentistry and orthopedic surgery. The aim of the present study was to examine whether UV treatment increases the osteoconductivity of zirconia-based materials. Materials and Methods: Smooth and rough zirconia-based disks and cylindrical implants were treated with UV light for 15 min and subsequently placed in rat femurs. Surface characterization was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contact angle measurements. Results: In vivo histomorphometry revealed that the percentage of bone-implant contact and the amount of bone volume, formed around UV-treated implants, increased by 3–7-fold for smooth surfaces and by 1.4–1.7-fold for rough surfaces compared to non-treated specimens at Weeks 2 and 4 of healing, respectively. A biomechanical test showed that UV treatment accelerated the establishment of bone-zirconia integration and enhanced the strength of the bone-implant interface by two-fold. Additionally, surface characterization of the zirconia disks revealed that UV treatment decreased the amount of surface carbon and converted the hydrophilic status from hydrophobic to superhydrophilic. Conclusions: This study indicates that UV light pretreatment enhances the osteoconductive capacity of zirconia-based materials.
Tensile Strength Reliability Analysis of Cu48Zr48Al4 Amorphous Microwires
Authors: Sun Haichao , Ning Zhiliang , Wang Gang , Liang Weizhong , Shen Hongxian , Sun Jianfei , Xue Xiang
Published: November 2016

Uniform Cu48Zr48Al4 amorphous microwires with a high surface quality are fabricated by a melt extraction technique. The mechanical property of microwires is evaluated via tensile tests. To estimate the strength scattering, statistical analysis of fracture strengths is conducted using logarithmic normal distribution, and two- and three-parameter Weibull analysis, severally. The results show that the tensile strengths of Cu48Zr48Al4 amorphous microwires range from 1724 to 1937 MPa with the arithmetical average value of 1836 MPa, and the arithmetical standard deviation of 56.4 MPa. The geometric mean of fracture strength is 1840 MPa using logarithmic normal distribution statistical analysis. Using two- and three-parameter Weibull analysis, the Weibull modulus and fracture threshold value are respectively calculated for 34.8 and 1483 MPa, which shows the excellent tensile mechanical properties with a high predictability of Cu48Zr48Al4 amorphous microwires and further indicates the great potential of application.
Sodium Butyrate Reduces Colitogenic Immunoglobulin A-Coated Bacteria and Modifies the Composition of Microbiota in IL-10 Deficient Mice
Authors: Zhang Tenghui , Ding Chao , Zhao Mingli , Dai Xujie , Yang Jianbo , Li Yi , Gu Lili , Wei Yao , Gong Jianfeng , Zhu Weiming , Li Ning , Li Jieshou
Published: November 2016

High levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA)-coated bacteria may have a role in driving inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We therefore investigated the effect of sodium butyrate on microbiota in IBD prone interleukin (IL)-10−/− mice. At 8 weeks of age, mice were allocated into three groups (n = 4/group): normal (C57BL/6), IL-10−/−, and IL-10−/− treated with sodium butyrate (100 mM). Severity of colitis, inflammatory cytokine and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentration in proximal colon contents, the percentage of IgA-coated bacteria and microbiota composition by 16S ribosomal RNA assessment of stool were measured after 4 weeks of treatment. Sodium butyrate ameliorated histological colitis and decreased levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6 in IL-10−/− mice compared with those without treatment. At the phylum level, a reduction in Bacteroidetes and an increase in Firmicutes in IL-10−/− mice treated with sodium butyrate were observed. Additionally, Prevotellaceae species were reduced in IL-10−/− mice treated with sodium butyrate as compared with those without treatment. The level of biodiversity was slightly increased and the amount of IgA-coated bacteria decreased in IL-10−/− mice treated with sodium butyrate compared with those without treatment. Our results indicate that sodium butyrate protects against colitis, possibly through modifying the gut microbiota, enriching biodiversity and reducing the amount of colitogenic IgA-coated bacteria in IL-10−/− mice.
Estimation of Winter Wheat Biomass and Yield by Combining the AquaCrop Model and Field Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Jin Xiuliang , Kumar Lalit , Li Zhenhai , Xu Xingang , Yang Guijun , Wang Jihua
Published: November 2016

Knowledge of spatial and temporal variations in crop growth is important for crop management and stable crop production for the food security of a country. A combination of crop growth models and remote sensing data is a useful method for monitoring crop growth status and estimating crop yield. The objective of this study was to use spectral-based biomass values generated from spectral indices to calibrate the AquaCrop model using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to improve biomass and yield estimations. Spectral reflectance and concurrent biomass and yield were measured at the Xiaotangshan experimental site in Beijing, China, during four winter wheat-growing seasons. The results showed that all of the measured spectral indices were correlated with biomass to varying degrees. The normalized difference matter index (NDMI) was the best spectral index for estimating biomass, with the coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and relative RMSE (RRMSE) values of 0.77, 1.80 ton/ha, and 25.75%, respectively. The data assimilation method (R2 = 0.83, RMSE = 1.65 ton/ha, and RRMSE = 23.60%) achieved the most accurate biomass estimations compared with the spectral index method. The estimated yield was in good agreement with the measured yield (R2 = 0.82, RMSE = 0.55 ton/ha, and RRMSE = 8.77%). This study offers a new method for agricultural resource management through consistent assessments of winter wheat biomass and yield based on the AquaCrop model and remote sensing data.
Remote Blood Glucose Monitoring in mHealth Scenarios: A Review
Authors: Lanzola Giordano , Losiouk Eleonora , Del Favero Simone , Facchinetti Andrea , Galderisi Alfonso , Quaglini Silvana , Magni Lalo , Cobelli Claudio
Published: November 2016

Glucose concentration in the blood stream is a critical vital parameter and an effective monitoring of this quantity is crucial for diabetes treatment and intensive care management. Effective bio-sensing technology and advanced signal processing are therefore of unquestioned importance for blood glucose monitoring. Nevertheless, collecting measurements only represents part of the process as another critical task involves delivering the collected measures to the treating specialists and caregivers. These include the clinical staff, the patient’s significant other, his/her family members, and many other actors helping with the patient treatment that may be located far away from him/her. In all of these cases, a remote monitoring system, in charge of delivering the relevant information to the right player, becomes an important part of the sensing architecture. In this paper, we review how the remote monitoring architectures have evolved over time, paralleling the progress in the Information and Communication Technologies, and describe our experiences with the design of telemedicine systems for blood glucose monitoring in three medical applications. The paper ends summarizing the lessons learned through the experiences of the authors and discussing the challenges arising from a large-scale integration of sensors and actuators.
Environmental Profile of the Swiss Supply Chain for French Fries: Effects of Food Loss Reduction, Loss Treatments and Process Modifications
Authors: Mouron Patrik , Willersinn Christian , Möbius Sabrina , Lansche Jens
Published: November 2016

The production of food is responsible for major environmental impacts. Bearing this in mind, it is even worse when food is lost rather than consumed. In Switzerland, 46% of all processing potatoes and 53% of all fresh potatoes are lost on their way from field to fork. Our study therefore compares the environmental impacts of losses of fresh potatoes with those of French fries. With the aid of a Life Cycle Assessment, we assessed the impact categories “demand for nonrenewable energy resources”, “global warming potential”, “human toxicity”, “terrestrial ecotoxicity” and “aquatic ecotoxicity”. Our results show that 1 kg of potatoes consumed as French fries causes 3–5 times more environmental impacts than the same quantity of fresh potatoes, but also that the proportion of impacts relating to losses is considerably lower for French fries (5%–10% vs. 23%–39%). The great majority of processing potato losses occur before the resource-intensive, emission-rich frying processes and therefore the environmental “backpack” carried by each lost potato is still relatively small. Nonetheless, appropriate loss treatment can substantially reduce the environmental impact of potato losses. In the case of French fries, the frying processes and frying oil are the main “hot spots” of environmental impacts, accounting for a considerably higher proportion of damage than potato losses; it is therefore also useful to look at these processes.
Air Pollution Monitoring Changes to Accompany the Transition from a Control to a Systems Focus
Authors: Vallero Daniel
Published: November 2016

During the 20th century, air pollution control technologies grew at an amazingly rapid rate. Air quality in much of the industrialized world greatly improved as the efficiencies of these technologies improved. This continued improvement in pollution control has more recently been complemented with measures to prevent the emission of air pollutants. The previous, exclusive focus on treatment requires systems thinking. This review provides a framework for this Special Issue of Sustainability by describing the new tools that are needed to support this new, broader focus, including life cycle assessments, exposure models, and sustainable design.
Creating Customer Value for Product Service Systems by Incorporating Internet of Things Technology
Authors: Shih Li-Hsing , Lee Yen-Ting , Huarng Fenghueih
Published: November 2016

Product service system (PSS) design has drawn much attention in the last decade and is expected to be affected by the fast-growing application of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. This study proposes a six-step design method by extending visual mapping design methods for the PSSs that plan to apply IoT technologies. A new concept of “pseudo actors” that highlights the role of the objects incorporating IoT technology is introduced in plotting actors and system maps and a useful table is recommended to help evaluate alternatives of IoT technology application. An example of a battery swapping system for electric scooters is illustrated for application potential. Actors and system maps with “pseudo actors” are presented and analyzed, while IoT technologies are applied in batteries, charging stations, cell phones, and scooters. Designers could use the proposed method to select appropriate application of IoT technologies with higher customer value in a product service system design.
Feasibility Study on Parametric Optimization of Daylighting in Building Shading Design
Authors: Lee Kyung , Han Ki , Lee Jae
Published: November 2016

Shading design to optimize daylighting is in many cases achieved through a designer’s sense based on prior knowledge and experience. However, computer-assisted parametric techniques can be utilized for daylighting design in an easy and much more accurate way. If such tools are utilized in the early stages of a project, this can be more effective for sustainable design. This study compares the conventional approach, which depends on a designer’s sense of judgment to create optimal indoor lighting conditions by adjusting louver shapes and window patterns, with the approach of making use of genetic algorithms. Ultimately, this study discusses the advantages and disadvantages of those two approaches. As a starting point, 30 designers were instructed to design a facade by manually adjusting several input parameters of shading. The parameters govern six kinds of louver and window types, with the ratio of analysis grid surface area achieving a daylight factor of 2%–5%. Secondly, input parameters were automatically created by using genetic algorithm optimization methods to find optimal fitness data. As a conclusion, conventional approaches result in a strong disposition toward designing certain shading types represented by linear relationships. Computer-assisted daylight simulation can help influence this, being effective when dealing with a large amount of data and non-linear relationships.
Local Expert Perceptions of Migration as a Climate Change Adaptation in Bangladesh
Authors: Stojanov Robert , Kelman Ilan , Ullah AKM , Duží Barbora , Procházka David , Blahůtová Klára
Published: November 2016

People have long migrated for many reasons, often with a combination of forced and voluntary reasons combining to push them away from current situations and to pull them towards new situations. Bangladesh is one example where environmental changes have long been amongst the multitude of reasons for migrating, with contemporary climate change suggested as a major impetus towards more migration. This paper examines local expert perceptions of migration as a climate change adaptation strategy for Bangladeshis. Seventeen in-depth interviews were conducted with local experts in Bangladesh and Assam (India) on environmental change and migration to understand the perspectives of those with formal education and expert-related jobs who come from the areas being directly affected by Bangladeshi migration. Findings show that local experts consider that migration is used and will be used for climate change adaptation in Bangladesh, but migration is not solely for climate change adaptation, instead interweaving with all other factors influencing migration-related decisions.
Insights into the Hypertensive Effects of Tityus serrulatus Scorpion Venom: Purification of an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-Like Peptidase
Authors: Cajado-Carvalho Daniela , Kuniyoshi Alexandre , Duzzi Bruno , Iwai Leo , Oliveira Úrsula , Junqueira de Azevedo Inácio , Kodama Roberto , Portaro Fernanda
Published: November 2016

The number of cases of envenomation by scorpions has grown significantly in Brazil since 2007, with the most severe cases being caused by the Tityus serrulatus scorpion. Although envenomed patients mostly suffer neurotoxic manifestations, other symptoms, such as hypertension, cannot be exclusively attributed to neurotoxins. Omics analyses have detected plentiful amounts of metalloproteases in T. serrulatus venom. However, the roles played by these enzymes in envenomation are still unclear. Endeavoring to investigate the functions of scorpion venom proteases, we describe here for the first time an Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme-like peptidase (ACE-like) purified from T. serrulatus venom. The crude venom cleaved natural and fluorescent substrates and these activities were inhibited by captopril. Regarding the serum neutralization, the scorpion antivenom was more effective at blocking the ACE-like activity than arachnid antivenom, although neither completely inhibited the venom cleavage action, even at higher doses. ACE-like was purified from the venom after three chromatographic steps and its identity was confirmed by mass spectrometric and transcriptomic analyses. Bioinformatics analysis showed homology between the ACE-like transcript sequences from Tityus spp. and human testis ACE. These findings advance our understanding of T. serrulatus venom components and may improve treatment of envenomation victims, as ACE-like may contribute to envenomation symptoms, especially the resulting hypertension.
Worldwide Mycotoxins Exposure in Pig and Poultry Feed Formulations
Authors: Guerre Philippe
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this review is to present information about raw materials that can be used in pig and poultry diets and the factors responsible for variations in their mycotoxin contents. The levels of mycotoxins in pig and poultry feeds are calculated based on mycotoxin contamination levels of the raw materials with different diet formulations, to highlight the important role the stage of production and the raw materials used can have on mycotoxins levels in diets. Our analysis focuses on mycotoxins for which maximum tolerated levels or regulatory guidelines exist, and for which sufficient contamination data are available. Raw materials used in feed formulation vary considerably depending on the species of animal, and the stage of production. Mycotoxins are secondary fungal metabolites whose frequency and levels also vary considerably depending on the raw materials used and on the geographic location where they were produced. Although several reviews of existing data and of the literature on worldwide mycotoxin contamination of food and feed are available, the impact of the different raw materials used on feed formulation has not been widely studied.
Priority Actions and Progress to Substantially and Sustainably Reduce the Mortality, Morbidity and Socioeconomic Burden of Tropical Snakebite
Authors: Harrison Robert , Gutiérrez José
Published: November 2016

The deliberations and conclusions of a Hinxton Retreat convened in September 2015, entitled “Mechanisms to reverse the public health neglect of snakebite victims” are reported. The participants recommended that the following priority actions be included in strategies to reduce the global impact of snake envenoming: (a) collection of accurate global snakebite incidence, mortality and morbidity data to underpin advocacy efforts and help design public health campaigns; (b) promotion of (i) public education prevention campaigns; (ii) transport systems to improve access to hospitals and (iii) establishment of regional antivenom-efficacy testing facilities to ensure antivenoms’ effectiveness and safety; (c) exploration of funding models for investment in the production of antivenoms to address deficiencies in some regions; (d) establishment of (i) programs for training in effective first aid, hospital management and post-treatment care of victims; (ii) a clinical network to generate treatment guidelines and (iii) a clinical trials system to improve the clinical management of snakebite; (e) development of (i) novel treatments of the systemic and local tissue-destructive effects of envenoming and (ii) affordable, simple, point-of-care snakebite diagnostic kits to improve the accuracy and rapidity of treatment; (f) devising and implementation of interventions to help the people and communities affected by physical and psychological sequelae of snakebite.
Seasonal Variation of Nutrient Removal in a Full-Scale Artificial Aerated Hybrid Constructed Wetland
Authors: Zhai Jun , Xiao Jun , Rahaman Md. , John Yasinta , Xiao Jingsong
Published: November 2016

To improve nutrient removal, a full-scale hybrid constructed wetland (CW) consisting of pre-treatment units, vertical-baffled flow wetlands (VBFWs), and horizontal subsurface flow wetlands (HSFWs) was installed in August 2014 to treat sewage wastewater. Artificial aeration (AA) was applied continuously in the VBFW stage to improve the aerobic condition in the hybrid CW. Water samples were collected and analyzed twice a month between the period of August 2015 and July 2016. The results suggest that this new hybrid CW can achieve a satisfactory reduction of chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) with average removal rates of 85% ± 10% (35% ± 19 g/m2 per day), 76% ± 18% (7% ± 2 g/m2 per day), 65% ± 13% (8% ± 2 g/m2 per day), and 65% ± 21% (1 g/m2 per day), respectively. AA significantly improved the aerobic condition throughout the experimental period, and the positive influence of AA on nitrogen removal was found to be higher during summer that during winter. A significant positive correlation between water temperature and nutrient removal (p < 0.01) was observed in the system. Overall, this study demonstrates the application of AA in a full-scale hybrid CW with satisfactory nutrient removal rates. The hybrid CW system with artificial aeration can serve as a reference for future applications areas where land availability is limited.
ASSESSMENT OF TFP IN EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS – APPLICATION OF MALMQUIST INDICES
Authors: WOLSZCZAK-DERLACZ Joanna
Published: November 2016

In this study we apply Malmquist methodology, based on the estimation of distance measures through Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), to a sample of 500 universities (in 10 European countries and the U.S.) over the period 2000 to 2010 in order to assess and compare their productivity. On average, a rise in TFP is registered for the whole European sample (strongest for Dutch and Italian HEIs), while the productivity of American HEIs suffered a slight decline. Additionally, we show that productivity growth is negatively associated with size of the institution and revenues from government, and positively with regional development in the case of the European sample, while American HEI productivity growth is characterised by a negative association with GDP and a positive one with the share of government resources out of total revenue.
Pertussis in north-central and northwestern regions of Algeria
Authors: Benamrouche Nabila , Tali Maamar Hassiba , Lazri Malika , Hasnaoui Sonia , Radoui Abdelkarim , Lafer Ourida , Boukari Rachida , Kaddache Chawki , Arrada Zakia , Rahal Kheira
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Pertussis outbreaks continue to occur in many countries despite high vaccination coverage. Under-diagnosed cases in adolescents and adults may result in increased transmission to infants, who are at risk of severe pertussis. Additional measures to protect both groups should be considered. Methodology: Nasopharyngeal samples and sera were collected from patients and household contacts with clinically suspected pertussis. Diagnoses were confirmed by culture, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and serology. Bordetella pertussis isolates were characterized by antimicrobial sensitivity and fimbrial serotyping. Results: Of 392 participants, 134/248 patients (54%) and 66/144 contacts (45.8%) had confirmed pertussis infections. B. parapertussis was not detected. All B. pertussis isolates were sensitive to the antibiotics tested, and all expressed the Fim3, not the Fim2, fimbrial serotype. Most patients (81.2%) were <6 months (51.8% of whom were <3 months) of age; 77.6% were unvaccinated, and most positive contacts were mothers 20–40 years of age. Conclusions: Despite high vaccination coverage, pertussis is circulating in Algeria. Most infections occur in unvaccinated infants <6 months of age, with mothers as the main source of infection. An adolescent/adult booster should be considered. Adoption of sensitive and specific laboratory tests would improve pertussis diagnosis and surveillance.
Antimicrobial susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa before and after initiation of inhaled tobramycin in Bulgaria
Authors: Petrova Guergana , Strateva Tanya , Miteva Dimitrinka , Lazova Snezhina , Perenovska Penka
Published: November 2016

Introduction: In aim to achieve better infection control and possible eradication of the pathogens involved in chronic infections of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) scientists have developed a new way to administer antimicrobials – inhalation. The first and so far the only available inhalable antimicrobial in Bulgaria is inhaled tobramycin (TOBI), introduced in 2009.We aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from cystic fibrosis (CF) patients before and after initiation of TOBI in the regular treatment regimen. Methodology: We have determined the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 17 antimicrobials by the E-test (LIOFILCHEM) in sputa samples of 118 CF patients for the period of 2005–2014. The results were interpreted according to the annual Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Results:  In the sputa of 70 patients a total of 102 P. aeruginosa isolates were found.  Sixty-eight out of 102 (66.7%) were susceptible to all studied antimicrobials. We divided the isolates in two chronological groups: those collected before the introduction of TOBI as a regular treatment in 2009 and those collected after 2009. A significant reduction (p < 0,001–0,02) in susceptibility for the strains after 2009 was noted towards piperacillin (100% vs 50%), ceftazidime (100% / 77.3%), cefepime (97.9% / 68.2%), amikacin (100% / 63.6%), gentamicin (95.7% / 40.9%), tobramycin (93.6% / 59.1%) and ciprofloxacin (93.6% / 45.5%). Conclusion: The introduction of inhaled tobramycin as a regular therapy for CF patients in Bulgaria lead to a significant change in antimicrobial susceptibility of CF P. aeruginosa.
Prevalence, assessment, and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Salmonella from raw chicken eggs in Haramaya, Ethiopia
Authors: Kemal Jelalu , Sibhat Berhanu , Menkir Sissay , Beyene Desta
Published: November 2016

Introduction: The presence of antimicrobial-resistant Salmonella in poultry and poultry products, including eggs, is a global public health concern. This study aimed to estimate the levels and patterns of antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella from chicken eggs and assess consumers’ raw egg consumption and farmers’ handling practices. Methodology: A total of 300 egg samples were collected from Haramaya open market (n = 150) and Haramaya University poultry farm (n = 150) in Ethiopia. Questionnaires were administered to egg sellers and buyers. A sterile cotton swab was used to sample the surface of eggs. The shells were sterilized and the egg content sampled. Isolation was done using the conventional methods for the detection of Salmonella, following the standard guidelines from ISO 6579. Sensitivity to 12 selected antibiotics was tested following the procedure of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Results: A level of 5.3% was observed among eggs shells from the open market and 0% among egg shells from the poultry farm, for an overall level of 2.7%. There was a significant difference (p = 0.004) between the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in sample site and sample type. Of the antimicrobials tested, Salmonella isolates were all resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin. Isolates were sensitive to ciprofloxacin (100%) and chloramphenicol (87.5%). All isolates were resistant to multiple antibiotics. One-third of the consumers were found to have eaten raw eggs for perceived medicinal values. Conclusion: To minimize the potential contamination of eggs by pathogens, the eggs should be properly handled, transported, and stored.
First detection of the blaOXA-23 gene in a multidrug-resistant A. baumannii clinical isolate from Cochabamba, Bolivia
Authors: Sevillano Elena , Moreno Mirella , Funes Fatima , Espinoza Magaly , Bustamante Zulema , Gallego Lucía
Published: November 2016

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Veiled Menace: Word-Play ( Ofljóst ) in a Stanza by Egill Skallagrímsson
Authors: Sayers William
Published: November 2016

Les trois poèmes improvisés que compose Egill Skallagrímsson au manoir royal sur l’île d’Atley dans la présence du roi Eiríkr, de sa reine Gunnhildr et de leur gérant Bárðr réalisent un crescendo narratif qui prend son départ dans un acte de jugement et passe par des actes rituels pour finir avec des menaces de revanche. Ils réalisent également un crescendo stylistique qui finit par un kenning (la métaphore nordique) qui est susceptible de pas moins de trois interprétations interdépendantes et qui tout aussi bien met en scène le procédé stylistique appelé ofljóst (trop clair), qui se constitue de substitutions et sémantiques et phonologiques dans des jeux de mots provocants, menaçants et diffamatoires.
Violence et religions : réponse ouverte au Rapporteur spécial sur la liberté de religion et de croyance
Authors: Nebel Mathias
Published: November 2016

Cet article s’intéresse au rapport existant entre violence et religions et à la manière dont les pays occidentaux l’envisagent. Il se conçoit comme une réponse ouverte au Rapporteur spécial des Nations Unies pour la liberté de religion et de croyance, Heiner Bielefeldt. La première partie présente le détail du rapport qu’il présente en mars 2015 à la Commission des Droits de l’homme à Genève sur les causes profondes de la violence d’origine religieuse. La seconde partie reprend de manière critique ce texte et conteste certains de ses aprioris, notamment la possibilité de considérer toute les religions comme ayant une même conception de la légitimité de la paix et de l’usage de la violence. La troisième partie s’intéresse à la notion aux arguments théologiques de la violence des mouvements islamistes. La conclusion revient sur l’aveuglement plus ou conscient de l’Occident sur les rapports troubles qui existent entre violence et religions.
Le rôle et la place de la « théologie spirituelle » dans l’enseignement de la théologie et la recherche universitaire
Authors: Berceville Gilles , Fino Catherine
Published: November 2016

La définition de la théologie spirituelle comme « l’étude théologique des parcours spirituels concrets » convient bien au moraliste, dans la mesure où il détermine un corpus spécifique qui témoigne que l’action est évaluée selon les exigences de la sequela Christi , plutôt que sous l’angle du discernement moral qui vise à promouvoir le bien, l’humanisation ou la justice. Cette définition n’empêche pas pour autant, à l’instar de Régamey, de continuer le dialogue avec les éthiques de la charité qui a permis de surmonter de part et d’autre la dissociation héritée de la période moderne. Paolo Carlotti relève que cette perspective rapproche les deux disciplines au point de faire disparaître la référence à la théologie spirituelle dans les textes conciliaires, comme en témoigne Optatam totius n° 16. Certes, dans un contexte pluraliste, un nouveau « dualisme » peut s’instaurer entre une éthique autonome qui confine la charité dans le champ de la motivation, et une théologie spirituelle qui analyse des parcours biographiques construits sur des pratiques de la charité. Mais cette distinction ne tient pas au regard de l’ensemble des orientations contemporaines en théologie morale, soit qu’elles se réfèrent au Christ comme « norme concrète » de l’action, soit que la revalorisation de l’éthique des vertus amène à prendre en compte la contribution des pratiques à l’humanisation et la sanctification des sujets. L’attention au corpus maintient néanmoins la spécificité des deux disciplines, évitant ainsi d’occulter ou de paralyser le débat éthique en se référant immédiatement à un engagement existentiel ou identitaire non négociable
Au cœur des réseaux d’affaires français en Asie du Nord-Est : Roger Chambard, premier ambassadeur de France en Corée du Sud (années 1950-1980)
Authors: Fauvet Anne
Published: November 2016

En 1959, Roger Chambard devient le premier ambassadeur de France à Séoul, quelques années avant que la Corée du Sud entame un spectaculaire développement économique. Rapidement, il s’impose au centre des réseaux d’affaires en Asie du Nord-Est et se fait l’artisan de l’établissement d’un courant d’affaires avec la Corée du Sud fondé sur les ventes de biens d’équipement français. Après avoir quitté son poste d’ambassadeur et le Quai d’Orsay en 1969, Chambard poursuit son engagement en faveur des échanges franco-coréens, d’abord au sein du grand groupe industriel Pechiney-Ugine-Kuhlmann puis du Conseil national du patronat français (CNPF). Pendant vingt ans, il impose sa marque au développement des relations économiques franco-coréennes, dont il est l’un des principaux instigateurs.
Lipofibromatous Hamartoma of the Median Nerve: A Case Report
Authors: Shekhani Haris Naseem , Hanna Tarek Noel , Johnson Jamlik-Omari
Published: November 2016

Lipofibromatous hamartoma is a rare and slow growing benign fibro-fatty tumor. It is characterized by the proliferation of mature adipocytes within the epineurium and the perineurium of the peripheral nerves. In the upper extremity, it most commonly affects the median nerve. Median nerve involvement commonly leads to pain, numbness, paresthesia and carpal tunnel syndrome.  This article presents a case of lipofibromatous hamartoma in an 8-year-old child followed by a discussion of the epidemiology, diagnosis, imaging details and treatment options for this condition.
Case of Spigelian hernia with incarcerated appendix
Authors: Bevilacqua Michael , Ahmed Saif , Miller Mark , Sallee David , Angel Wesley
Published: November 2016

Spigelian hernias are uncommon lateral ventral wall hernias with a significant rate of incarceration; these hernias often produce nonspecific clinical signs and symptoms as well as elusive imaging findings.  Although there are reported cases of incarcerated appendices within Spigelian hernias, this case specifically illustrates the diagnostic difficulty these hernias present to both surgeons and radiologists.  Additionally, we discuss important anatomy, demographics and risk factors, clinical symptoms, imaging pitfalls and recommendations for repair based on a review of literature.
Las asociaciones de microfauna como indicadores de cambios paleoambientales en los ciclos fluvio-lacustres Miocenos (NE de la Cuenca del Duero, España)
Authors: Herrero-Hernández A. , Alonso-Gavilán G. , Civis Llovera J.
Published: November 2016

Los depósitos siliciclásticos y carbonatados se encuentran intercalados en el área de Villadiego (Mioceno, NE cuenca del Duero). Se han subdividido en dos secuencias de depósito de alto rango: DDS y CDS. El análisis de estas unidades sedimentarias y el estudio del contenido de microfauna, principalmente ostrácodos, condujo a la identificación de sistemas de interacción lacustre-fluvial. Las características sedimentarias revelan la existencia de los sistemas fluviales de grava, llanuras de inundación y sistemas lacustres que estaban interconectados e íntimamente relacionados en dirección N-S. En el análisis sedimentológico se reconocieron trece tipos de litofacies fluviales y lacustres y seis asociaciones de facies genéticas. La parte superior del DDS es el resultado de levantamientos del nivel del lago. El CDS muestra un ciclo de profundización-somerización. Los sedimentos se han estudiado mediatne análisis micropaleontológico de ostrácodos, con el objetivo de reconstruir la evolución paleoambiental de esta zona. Estos conjuntos de microfauna integrados con el análisis de las facies sedimentarias permiten concluir la existencia de lagos con un nivel acuífero de pocas decenas de metros. Se concluye que existió un cambio en las condiciones químicas de las aguas, que evolucionaron a partir de oligohalinos y sin gas a mesohalino y sulfatadas.
Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence Tutoring Techniques in Mathematics
Authors: Pappas Marios , Drigas Athanasios
Published: November 2016

Intelligent Tutoring Systems incorporate Artificial Intelligence techniques, in order to imitate a human tutor. These expert systems are able to assess student’s proficiency, to provide solved examples and exercises for practice in each topic, as well as to provide immediate and personalized feedback to learners. The present study is a systematic review that evaluates the contribution of the Intelligent Tutoring Systems developed so far, to Mathematics Education, representing some of the most representative studies of the last decade.
Applying Andragogy to Promote Active Learning in Adult Education in Russia
Authors: Sanger Phillip A. , Pavlova Irina V.
Published: November 2016

In this rapidly changing world of technology and economic conditions, it is essential that practicing engineers and engineering educators continue to grow in their skills and knowledge in order to stay competitive and relevant in the industrial and educational work space. This paper describes the results for a course that combined the best techniques of andragogy to promote active learning in a curriculum of chemistry education, in particular, chemistry laboratory education. This experience with two separate correspondence classes with similar demographics are reported on. Questionnaires and oral open-ended discussions were used to assess the outcome of this effort. Overall the approach received positive reception while pointing out that correspondence students have full time jobs and active learning in general requires more effort and time.
Fostering Engineering Students Engagement Using Problem-Based Learning and Course Learner Agent Object Portfolios
Authors: Abu-aisheh Akram Ahmad , Grant Lynroy , Sumukadas Narendar , Hadad Alan
Published: November 2016

Engineering education today is undergoing an unprecedented array of challenges, including maintaining student engagement during the lecture and throughout the semester. Fostering student engagement in the class room has become a challenging task for engineering educators. In this paper, the authors report on the application of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) to maintain student engagement throughout each lecture, and the use of Learner Agent Object (LAO) portfolios to maintain student engagement in the course throughout the semester.
A Validity and Reliability Study of the Basic Electronics Skills Self-Efficacy Scale (BESS)
Authors: Korkmaz Özgen , Korkmaz Makbule Kübra
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study is to improve a measurement tool to evaluate the self-efficacy of Electrical-Electronics Engineering students through their basic electronics skills. The sample group is composed of 124 Electrical-Electronics engineering students. The validity of the scale is analyzed with two different methods through factor analysis and distinctiveness. To evaluate the how much each item that exists in the scale can measure the factor they belong to, item total factor correlations and corrected correlations are calculated on the data. According to the acquired values, each item and each factor in the scale are found to serve to the run-of the scale and the aim of scaling the desired facility, in a meaningful level. Moreover, analyzing the t value related to the differences between the groups of top 27% and bottom 27%, the item distinctiveness’s are researched and it is detected that the distinctiveness of both of the run-of the scale and each one of the items is high level; in other words, it is detected that each item is distinctive in the desired level. The internal consistency coefficients of the scale is calculated using two congruent halves correlations, Cronbach Alpha, Sperman-Brown formula and Guttmann split-half reliability formula. Consequently, it is concluded that the scale is a reliable and valid scale and this scale can be used to determine the basic electronics skills of the Electrical-Electronics Engineering students through their self-perceptions.