bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal Stability of Nacre Proteins of the Polynesian Pearl Oyster: A Proteomic Study
Authors: Parker Alexandre , Immel Françoise , Guichard Nathalie , Broussard Cédric , Marin Frédéric
Published: January 2016

Mollusc shells are organic-inorganic composites that are often preserved in the fossil record. However, the way the organic fraction, also called shell matrix, gets fossilized remains an unsolved question, in spite of several old and more recent studies. In the present paper, we have tried to mimic a diagenetic process by constantly heating for ten days at 100°C fresh nacre powder samples of the Polynesian pearl oyster Pinctadamargaritifera. Each day, aliquots of nacre powder were sampled and the matrix was subsequently extracted. It was further analysed by direct weigh quantification, by immunological techniques and by proteomics. Our preliminary data suggest that nacre proteins, when heated at 100°C in dry condition, degrade rather slowly. We evidenced a differential degradation pattern of the soluble and insoluble fractions, and showed that some nacre proteins of the insoluble fraction are stable after ten days of heating. Factors that influence the diagenetic stability of some shell proteins are discussed.
Structure and Interactions in Chitosan Composites
Authors: Lewandowska Katarzyna , Sionkowska Alina , Furtos Gabriel , Grabska Sylwia , Michalska Matra
Published: January 2016

In the present study, the results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies of chitosan (Ch) with montmorillonite (MMT) or nanoclay are presented. MMT samples have been used without modification and after nanoclay surface modification. Composites of chitosan with montmorillonite samples were obtained by drop casting suspensions of montmorillonite (3% relative to chitosan) and polymer (2wt%) in 1% acetic acid. The FTIR spectra of film composites in the amide I, amide II bands and the hydroxyl stretching bands of chitosan have been analyzed. The homogeneity and morphology of chitosan composites were ascertained from tapping-mode atomic force microscopy. The obtained results suggested that there were interactions between chitosan and montmorillonite. The microstructure obtained by AFM microscopy for chitosan and its composites showed that particles are relatively well dispersed in the chitosan matrix.
Pore Structures in the Biomineralized Byssus of Anomia simplex
Authors: Frølich Simon , Leemreize Hanna , Thomsen Jesper Skovhus , Birkedal Henrik
Published: January 2016

Underwater attachment is a significant challenge, for which we have no good general solutions in our technology. Yet, a number of biological organisms have evolved solutions to this problem. One intriguing approach to underwater attachment is that of the marine bivalve mussel Anomia simplex that uses a biomineralized byssus to permanently anchor itself to substrates. The byssus has a highly complex hierarchical structure and contains over 90 wt% CaCO3. The byssus features a complex set of porosities, presumed to be highly important for the function of the attachment system. The pore space is the main focus of the present work. We characterize the three dimensional distribution of pore spaces in the byssus using micro-computed tomography (µCT) through a combination of in house mCT and high resolution synchrotron µCT. The pore structures are observed to fall into distinct categories in various parts of the byssus. We discuss the branching of one set of pores that reach the byssus substrate interface in particular. They form a network reaching the byssus surface that we now visualize in three dimensions.
Editorial Foreword
Authors: Mahaliyanaarachchi Rohana P
Published: January 2016

No abstract available The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, vol.11, No 1, January 2016
Microbial Status of Fresh Cut Cooking Banana Variety Alukesel (Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana, ABB Group) as Affected by Pre-Treatments
Authors: Siriwardana H. , Abeywickrama K. , Herath I.
Published: January 2016

Fresh cut (minimally processed) cooking banana variety Alukesel was subjected to different pre-treatments, packed in polystyrene packages and stored at 5-7 0C for a week. Effect of several identified pre-treatments on Total Plate Count (TPC) and Total Yeast and Mould counts (TYM) were evaluated. Bacteria isolated from plates were identified using biochemical tests and molecular tools. In pre-treated samples, microbial counts were within safe-to-consume limits. Bacillus cereus, Enterobacter ludwigii and Bacillus thuringiensis were identified from fresh cut samples using molecular tools. Citric acid at 3% w/v effectively controlled bacteria, yeasts and moulds and this observation was significantly different from the control (p<0.05). The present study has shown that 3% citric acid was the most effective pretreatment for minimal processing of Alukesel which controlled bacteria, yeasts & moulds completely. Alukesel pretreated with 3% citric acid was free from food borne pathogens such as Salmonella, Clostridium, Yersinia, and Listeria. The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, vol.11, No 1, January 2016, pp.24-34
The Changing Landscape of Community-Based Pharmacy Practice Part 2 of 2
Authors: McHenry Martin Caren
Published: January 2016

Increasingly, care for elderly individuals with chronic diseases who take multiple medications is being provided in community-based settings. Pharmacists and other health care providers are responding to this trend by collaborating in new, innovative ways such as practicing in physicians'
offices or partnering with community pharmacies. The goal is to care for these elderly patients and help them effectively manage their medications where they live. These changes are having another result—they are transforming what patients, insurers, and other health providers expect
from pharmacists who are helping to manage the medications and health care of older adults.
Aspirin Use for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in the Elderly
Authors: Sarbacker G. Blair , Lusk Kathleen A. , Flieller Lauren A. , Van Liew Jeffrey R.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE:This article aims to use the available evidence assessing aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular (CV) events in the elderly to determine its appropriate use.DATA SOURCES:A literature search of clinical trials and meta-analyses was conducted using MEDLINE and PubMed with the search terms aspirin, bleeding, CV events, elderly, geriatrics, hemorrhage, myocardial infarction (MI), primary prevention, and stroke.STUDY SELECTION/DATA EXTRACTION:Twelve hundred fourteen (1,214) articles were initially found, and 55 were reviewed. These articles assessed the use of aspirin for primary prevention of CV events. Only trials comparing aspirin with placebo, a non-antiplatelet, or a non-anticoagulant were included in this review. Of the articles reviewed, 10 met the stated criteria.DATA SYNTHESIS:It is well documented that the risk of CV events increases as patients age. Primary prevention of these events with aspirin may be beneficial in some patients. Currently, a specific recommendation for the use of aspirin for primary prevention in the geriatric population is not available. This paper reviews the available evidence for primary prevention of CV disease. This population is under-represented in the literature, making it challenging to apply the study findings.CONCLUSION:Aspirin may be considered for the primary prevention of CV events in the elderly population. Because of the lack of data in patients 80 years of age and older, it is difficult to make a decision on the initiation of aspirin therapy in this population. Additional research is necessary to better balance the risk versus benefit of this treatment option.
Herpes Zoster Vaccine in the Long-Term Care Setting: A Clinical and Logistical Conundrum
Authors: Schafer Katherine Montag , Reidt Shannon
Published: January 2016

Advancing age is associated with an increased risk of herpes zoster (shingles) infection and latent effects such as postherpetic neuralgia. The herpes zoster vaccine is recommended in those 60 years of age and older and has been shown to prevent both the primary disease and associated
complications. While this recommendation applies to those living in long-term care facilities, there is little clinical evidence to support use in this population. Additionally, there are logistical barriers that may complicate the use of the vaccine. The article examines the evidence for
vaccinating residents in long-term care facilities and discusses logistical barriers to vaccination. Pharmacists and providers may consider life expectancy and other factors when evaluating which patients should receive the vaccination.
Isomorphisms of Twisted Hilbert Loop Algebras
Authors: Marquis Timothée , Neeb Karl-Hermann
Published: January 2016

The closest infinite-dimensional relatives of compact Lie algebras are
Hilbert-Lie algebras, i.e., real Hilbert spaces with a Lie algebra structure for
which the scalar product is invariant. Locally affine Lie algebras (LALAs)
correspond to double extensions of (twisted) loop algebras over simple Hilbert-Lie
algebras , also called
affinisations of . They possess a
root space decomposition whose corresponding root system is a locally affine root
system of one of the 7 families

for some infinite set J. To each of these types
corresponds a “minimal ” affinisation of some simple Hilbert-Lie algebra
, which we call
standard.

In this paper, we give for each affinisation g of a simple Hilbert-Lie
algebra an explicit
isomorphism from g to one of the standard affinisations of . The existence of
such an isomorphism could also be derived from the classiffication of locally
affine root systems, but for representation theoretic purposes it is crucial to
obtain it explicitly as a deformation between two twists that is compatible with
the root decompositions. We illustrate this by applying our isomorphism theorem to
the study of positive energy highest weight representations of g. In subsequent
work, this paper will be used to obtain a complete classification of the positive
energy highest weight representations of affinisations of .
Relaxation Schemes for the M1 Model with Space-Dependent Flux: Application to Radiotherapy Dose Calculation
Authors: Pichard Teddy , Aregba-Driollet Denise , Brull Stéphane , Dubroca Bruno , Frank Martin
Published: January 2016

Because of stability constraints, most numerical schemes applied to hyperbolic systems of equations turn out to be costly when the flux term is multiplied by some very large scalar. This problem emerges with the M1 system of equations in the field of radiotherapy when considering heterogeneous media with very disparate densities. Additionally, the flux term of the M1 system is non-linear, and in order for the model to be well-posed the numerical solution needs to fulfill conditions called realizability. In this paper, we propose a numerical method that overcomes the stability constraint and preserves the realizability property. For this purpose, we relax the M1 system to obtain a linear flux term. Then we extend the stencil of the difference quotient to obtain stability. The scheme is applied to a radiotherapy dose calculation example.
ADI-FDTD Method for Two-Dimensional Transient Electromagnetic Problems
Authors: Li Wanshan , Zhang Yile , Wong Yau Shu , Liang Dong
Published: January 2016

An efficient and accurate numerical scheme is proposed for solving the transverse electric (TE) mode electromagnetic (EM) propagation problem in two-dimensional earth. The scheme is based on the alternating direction finite-difference time-domain (ADI-FDTD) method. Unlike the conventional upward continuation approach for the earth-air interface, an integral formulation for the interface boundary is developed and it is effectively incorporated to the ADI solver. Stability and convergence analysis together with an error estimate are presented. Numerical simulations are carried out to validate the proposed method, and the advantage of the present method over the popular Du-Fort-Frankel scheme is clearly demonstrated. Examples of the electromagnetic field propagation in the ground with anomaly further verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
La cultura en la configuración del chiste sobre la mujer
Authors: El -Madkouri Maataoui Mohamed
Published: January 2016

El discurso lúdico está impregnado de referencias extralingüísticas de índole social y cultural, amén de los ya consabidos procedimientos metalingüísticos y de autorreferencia, de ahí que una traducción o interpretación del mismo que mantenga la misma carga humorística resulte complicada. Esto se debe no solamente a las distintas complejidades lingüísticas implicadas en su construcción, sino también a las atribuciones culturales que se le confieren. No estamos hablando, por tanto, de la traducibilidad lingüística, sino de la cultural. Es decir, ¿son aceptables del mismo modo los chistes sobre la mujer a ambas orillas del Mediterráneo? Partiendo de este planteamiento, el presente trabajo tiene por objeto analizar lo universal y lo particular en el trasvase del chiste sobre la mujer de una cultura a otra. Para ello, se han elegido un par de culturas aparentemente diferentes como son la árabe y la española, aunque metafóricamente se designe a ambas con el nombre de cultura mediterránea. Así, se intentará averiguar cómo se representa a la mujer en el chiste desde los siguientes parámetros: el físico, el intelectual y el moral.
Presencia e importancia de la mujer en el Musnad de Ibn Marzūq al-Tilimsānī
Authors: Boloix Gallardo Bárbara
Published: January 2016

El Musnad del cronista Muhammad Ibn Marzuq (m. 781/1379) constituye una de las fuentes meriníes más ricas y personales al estar consagrada a ensalzar las virtudes del emir Abu l-Hasan (731-749/1331-1348). El gran valor de esta obra radica en la enorme  variedad de su contenido, que abarca múltiples facetas de la vida del Reino meriní. El presente artículo tratará, desde un enfoque crítico, uno de los temas menos explorados de esta fuente: la presencia de la mujer en la misma, así como el papel que ésta desempeñó en distintos ámbitos de la sociedad magrebí, según se desprende de las numerosas referencias femeninas ofrecidas a lo largo del Musnad, que serán extraídas y analizadas.
El tratamiento de la infancia y los derechos del niño en el sistema legal de al-Andalus y el derecho mālikí
Authors: Vidal-Castro Francisco
Published: January 2016

Estudio de algunos de los aspectos fundamentales sobre los derechos que el sistema jurídico mālikí aplicado en al-Andalus contempla para los niños en las distintas fases de la infancia, incluso desde antes de nacer, tanto desde el punto de vista material y patrimonial como de los afectivos y psicológicos. Entre otros, se abordan los derechos de guarda y custodia (ḥaḍāna), tutela ejercida por el padre u otro (wālī), protección del patrimonio del menor y especial protección de huérfanos y niños abandonados.
Anhelos y recelos alimentarios su prefiguración en la literatura utópica del siglo XIX
Authors: Lizcano Emmánuel , Herrera-Racionero Paloma
Published: January 2016

Sabemos cómo debemos comer pero no comemos como debemos. Esta paradoja del comensal actuales objeto de debate entre sociólogos, nutricionistas y responsables de salud. Las dificultades para afrontarla sugieren ensayar aproximaciones diferentes a las habituales. Pensar el comer desde los imaginarios colectivos que pueden entrar en colisión quizá arroje nueva luz sobre dicha paradoja. Aquí ensayamos ese acercamiento a partir de cuatro textos canónicos de la literatura utópica en los albores de la revolución industrial. Su análisis revela un conflicto de larga duración entre dos modos de imaginar la comida ideal: el de las utopías modernas e ilustradas, que comparten los expertos en nutrición, y el de las utopías populares, donde una cierta racionalidad social, basada en los hábitos y tradiciones culinarias, se opone a una alimentación racional.
Radioactive Seed Localization for Nonpalpable Breast Lesions in a Community Hospital Setting
Authors: Wheeler James A. , Harrod Karlyn , Liu Fang , Garber Elizabeth , Grove-Narayan Lisa , Moore Adam
Published: January 2016

Purpose: To compare the positive margin rates for women with nonpalpable breast tumors whom had wire localization compared to radioactive seed localization in a small community hospital.Introduction: Wire localized (WL) breast biopsies have been performed on patients with nonpalpable breast lesions for many years. Radioactive seed localization (RSL) offers advantages of patient comfort and scheduling convenience.There is an extensive literature from large centers regarding the RSL technique. Little is known whether physicians performing these procedures in smaller community hospitals can achieve comparable negative margin rates as those performed with wire localization.Methods: The thirty-six patients who underwent wire localized breast conserving surgery between September 18, 2013 and December 10, 2014, were compared to the 48 radioactive seed localization patients resected between February 12, 2014 and December 18, 2014. The primary objective was to determine if the introduction of the radioactive seed localization technique significantly changed the positive margin rate.Results: Two of 36 wire localized breast biopsied patients had positive margins, compared to 5 of 48 radioactive seed localization patients, a difference which is not statistically different. The specimen weight was larger for the patients treated with the RSL technique. There was a trend toward a higher positive margin rate with older patients.Conclusion: The positive margin rate was similar between the wire localized and radioactive seed localized patients, and comparable to those in the published literature.
An Actively Quenched Single Photon Detector with a Light Emitting Diode
Authors: Starling David J. , Burger Blake , Miller Edward , Zolnowski Joseph , Ranalli Joseph
Published: January 2016

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) have applications in many industries for illumination. However, the LED is not limited to the generation of light. In this article, we demonstrate and analyze a low-cost LED for use as a single photon detector, rather than as an emitter. While many technologies have been developed for single photon detection, the focus has been on timing resolution and efficiency—not on cost of production. We compare our device to commercial solutions and validate the efficacy of active quenching to improve maximum photon count rate. While this device may be useful for labs requiring a large number of low-cost detectors, it can also serve as a teaching tool in advanced laboratory settings.
Institutional System of Watershed Management in Leitimor Peninsula, Ambon Island (Watershed Management Institution in Ambon Island Peninsula Leitimor)
Authors: D. Putuhena Jusmy , Sapei Asep
Published: January 2016

Regional decentralization has made a change to any development sectors where a region (regency/town) holds a broader authority in managing natural resources, including watershed. Watershed management will run well if there is coordination and policy integration between the central and local government and between related institutions within a region. Relationship between institutions shall be always built on a coordination in order to prevent overlapping and conflict of interest in watershed management. The study aims to collect the data/information on main duties and functions of, authority of and roles of watershed management institution, especially the watershed in Ambon City, Leitimor Peninsula and to analyze them through stakeholder analysis approach. The findings found seventeen stakeholders who are in charge of the watershed management. Among those stakeholders, the primary and most important watershed managers are the Watershed Forum and forest farmer group.
The Random of Lacunary Statistical on Γ3 Over P-Metric Spaces Defined by Musielak Orlicz Functions
Authors: Shri Prakash T. V. G. , Chandramouleeswaran M. , Subramanian N.
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we define and study the notion of lacunary statistical convergence and lacunary of statistical Cauchy sequences in random on G3 over p-metric spaces defined by Musielak-Orlicz functions.
Exact Solution of Two-Dimensional Unsteady Airflow in an Inclined Trachea
Authors: A. Ahmed Alnussairy Esam. , Bakheet Ahmed , Amin Norsarahaida
Published: January 2016

The exact solution of the two-dimensional momentum and continuity equations governing the unsteady airflow in an inclined trachea was carried out. The oscillating airflow was described by setting one side of the boundaries be a periodic pressure function. The solution was obtained using Bromwich integral. The present results show that the inclination angle θ and gravitational force g reduces the pressure drop and has a greater effect on the velocity profile of airflow from the trachea to the lungs. Therefore, sleeping in a horizontal position may lead to negative effects for many patients. However, the inclined position is better, and it is dependent on the slope angle position taking, the benefits of gravitational force and utilizing it to improve the breathing of the body. These results are of help in breathing problems, mild sleep apnea, snoring, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Differences in Motivation between Male and Female in Slovakia in 2015
Authors: Hitka Miloš , Vetráková Milota , Balážová Žaneta
Published: January 2016

Meeting human needs or life’s challenges, internal and external environments as well as some further factors affect motivation significantly. All factors are interconnected to each other and they create mutually connected parts of network.  In the paper we mention the issue of motivational differences between male and female in Slovakia in the year 2015. Sampling unit contains 4,099 respondents. Deep knowledge of the differences plays a key role in employee job performance and affects the employees’ motivation effectively.  Results of the social inquiry confirm great similarity between motivation factors of male and female in Slovakia in 2015. Despite small significant differences we can state that there is a possibility of creating unified motivation programme for employees regardless of gender.  Specific gender differences in the level of motivation have to be taken into account in order to increase motivation. In the future meeting the needs of employees can cause the changes in their motivation requirements. Therefore we suggest the organisation to update motivation programme from time to time.
 
The Multi Ideal Convergence of Difference Strongly of X2 in P-Metric Spaces Defined by Modulus
Authors: Murugesan C. , Subramanian N.
Published: January 2016

The aim of this paper is to introduce multi and study a new concept of the x2 space via ideal convergence of difference operator defined by modulus. Some topological properties of the resulting sequence spaces are also examined.
Establishment of Shaped Charge Optimum Parameters for Small Scale Hydrodynamic Penetration
Authors: H. Kamarudin Khairul , Mujahid Ahmad Zaidi Ahmad , Abdullah Shohaimi , Fuad Shah Koslan Md
Published: January 2016

An investigation is intended to establish suitable parameters for a simple shaped charge mechanism (SCM) assembly that can be utilized for small scale hydrodynamics penetration test. Some basic features of the SCM parameters were based on previous researchers’ findings. Three sets of tests were conducted to verify parameters such as cone liner angle and thickness, material of charge (explosive) casing and standoff distance (SoD). Single and welded stacks of mild steel plates and Aluminium blocks were used as targets. Two type of explosive were used, military grade plastic explosive (PE) or C4 and a commercial grade explosive, Emulex 700. A simple but effective compressing mechanism was developed to eliminate air pockets and maximised the explosive density. The SCM parameters were improved through series of tests and results have shown that hydrodynamic penetrations have taken place in every test conducted. Suitable small scale SCM parameters were successfully established which can be utilized for future study on hydrodynamics penetration.
Improvement of Asthma and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease with Oral Pulvis stomachicus cum Belladonna, a Combination of Matricaria recutita, Atropa belladonna, Bismuth, and Antimonite: A Pediatric Case Report
Authors: Von Schoen-Angerer Tido , Madeleyn René , Kiene Helmut , Kienle Gunver S. , Vagedes Jan
Published: January 2016

The association between gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and asthma, although well established in adults, is less strong in the pediatric age group. Benefits of proton pump therapy are limited across age ranges. While there is a growing body of literature on the use of complementary treatments for both asthma and GERD, few studies have focused on treatment benefits for the GERD-asthma association. We present the case of a 2-year-old boy with asthma and GERD who was not responding to inhaled, low-dose corticosteroids, beta-mimetic therapy, and a 6-week course of proton pump inhibitor treatment. We noted a gradual disappearance of symptoms when he was given an oral preparation of Pulvis stomachicus cum Belladonna, an anthroposophic medication containing Matricaria recutita, Atropa belladonna, bismuth, and antimonite. Matricaria recutita and bismuth have known gastric protective properties, and Atropa belladonna contains anticholinergic agents that have a bronchodilatory effect. These complementary medications appear promising in terms of relieving the symptoms of GERD-associated asthma.
Post-gastrectomy Syndrome Successfully Treated with Kampo Medicine: A Case Report
Authors: Ohgishi Miwako , Horiba Yuko , Watanabe Kenji
Published: January 2016

Cancer-related gastrectomy can cause post-gastrectomy syndrome, which includes weight loss, dumping syndrome, and reflux esophagitis and negatively affects the quality of life. Comprehensive and individualized patient management is required; however, there is a limit to Western medicine's ability to treat these symptoms. Kampo, a traditional Japanese medicine, adapts treatments to each individual's symptoms and constitution. We treated a 68-year-old male patient with post-gastrectomy syndrome using senpukukataishasekito, a Kampo medicine. He was diagnosed with Stage II-A gastric cancer at age 66 years and underwent a laparoscopic, pylorus-preserving gastrectomy followed by chemotherapy for 13 months. He visited our clinic for chemotherapy-related fatigue, postsurgical weight loss, and limb numbness. He was prescribed both hachimijiogan and hochuekkito. At the second visit, he complained of stomach discomfort, so we prescribed senpukukataishasekito. As his stomach function improved, his body weight increased and his fatigue decreased. We suggest that senpukukataishasekito may be an effective treatment for post-gastrectomy syndrome.
Provider Perspective on Integrative Medicine for Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease-related Pain
Authors: Neri Caitlin M. , Beeson Tishra , Mead Holly , Darbari Deepika S. , Meier Emily Riehm
Published: January 2016

Objective

Integrative medicine (IM) approaches are sometimes used to manage sickle cell disease (SCD)— related pain. The purpose of this research is to (1) understand provider perspective towards the use of IM for pain in children with SCD at a large urban children's hospital and (2) provide recommendations on how to better promote IM for children and adolescents with SCD.

Methods

After approval from the institutional review board, a qualitative case study approach was used with criterion-type purposeful sampling to select providers from the division of hematology to adequately inform the study. Semistructured interviews were completed using audiotape to facilitate transcription. NVivo 10 analytic software (QSR International Pty Ltd, Doncaster, Victoria, Australia) was used to organize data into themes to answer the study questions.

Results

Ten provider interviews were completed. Attitudes were generally positive, and most providers felt that IM is generally helpful. All providers reported that they do not optimally use integrative therapies for children with SCD. The barriers uncovered focused on lack of process for integration of IM, specifically that IM resources seem transient and based on short-term funding. Provider attitude towards CAM is generally positive, but provider comfort level is highly variable. No providers are completely comfortable with their knowledge base about IM, and increased knowledge is desired.

Conclusions

Creation of protocols and processes to incorporate IM into management plans for patients with SCD could help to promote its use. Education of providers about utility and efficacy of IM for SCD-related pain and about existing resources would aid in promotion of IM for children with SCD.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in the US Adult Low Back Pain Population
Authors: Ghildayal Neha , Jo Johnson Pamela , Evans Roni L. , Jo Kreitzer Mary
Published: January 2016

Background

Many people suffering from low back pain (LBP) have found conventional medical treatments to be ineffective for managing their LBP and are increasingly turning to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to find pain relief. A comprehensive picture of CAM use in the LBP population, including all of the most commonly used modalities, is needed.

Study Objective

To examine prevalence and perceived benefit of CAM use within the US LBP population by limiting vs nonlimiting LBP and to evaluate the odds of past year CAM use within the LBP population

Methods

Data are from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey, Alternative Health Supplement. We examined a nationally representative sample of US adults with LBP (N=9665 unweighted). Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of past year CAM use.

Results

In all, 41.2% of the LBP population used CAM in the past year, with higher use reported among those with limiting LBP. The most popular therapies used in the LBP population included herbal supplements, chiropractic manipulation, and massage. The majority of the LBP population used CAM specifically to treat back pain, and 58.1% of those who used CAM for their back pain perceived a great deal of benefit.

Conclusion

The results are indicative of CAM becoming an increasingly important component of care for people with LBP. Additional understanding of patterns of CAM use among the LBP population will help health professionals make more informed care decisions and guide investigators in development of future back pain—related CAM research.
China's Other Medical Systems: Recognizing Uyghur, Tibetan, and Mongolian Traditional Medicines
Authors: Yu Elaine , Amri Hakima
Published: January 2016

Background

Traditional Chinese medicine, as it is understood and adopted by those with a growing interest in complementary and alternative practices to biomedicine, is often used as an umbrella term for traditional medical practices from regions within and bordering the People's Republic of China. However, there are multiple distinct medical traditions in China, including that of the Uyghurs, Tibetans, and Mongolians.

Objective

It is important to recognize the commonalities and differences of these unique systems of medicine practiced by the 3 different cultures among China's borders.

Methods

Through an in-depth analysis of the individual beliefs and theories that form the foundation of each system, we trace the origins of the concepts that were synthesized into the Uyghur, Tibetan, and Mongolian medical systems. Furthermore, we compare diagnostic techniques and contrast treatment modalities among the 3 systems.

Discussion

We discuss humoral theory, constitution theory, elemental theory, organ theory, and yin and yang theory. We find that imbalance is the common cause of disease or illness, but the conditions and external factors that explain such imbalances differ among the Uyghur, Tibetan, and Mongolian systems. Through these comparisons, we seek to highlight the unique beliefs, practices, and treatments utilized by these cultures.

Conclusion

The features and attributes, while not exclusive to each population, are nonetheless uniquely synthesized by each system and thus demonstrate the distinct nature of Uyghur, Tibetan, and Mongolian medical systems.
Health-related Culinary Education: A Summary of Representative Emerging Programs for Health Professionals and Patients
Authors: Polak Rani , Phillips Edward M. , Nordgren Julia , La Puma John , La Barba Julie , Cucuzzella Mark , Graham Robert , Harlan Timothys , Burg Tracey , Eisenberg David
Published: January 2016

Background

Beneficial correlations are suggested between food preparation and home food preparation of healthy choices. Therefore, there is an emergence of culinary medicine (CM) programs directed at both patients and medical professionals which deliver education emphasizing skills such as shopping, food storage, and meal preparation.

Objective

The goal of this article is to provide a description of emerging CM programs and to imagine how this field can mature.

Methods

During April 2015, 10 CM programs were identified by surveying CM and lifestyle medicine leaders. Program directors completed a narrative describing their program's structure, curricula, educational design, modes of delivery, funding, and cost. Interviews were conducted in an effort to optimize data collection.

Results

All 10 culinary programs deliver medical education curricula educating 2654 health professionals per year. Educational goals vary within the domains of (1) provider's self-behavior, (2) nutritional knowledge and (3) prescribing nutrition. Six programs deliver patients’ curricula, educating 4225 individuals per year. These programs’ content varies and focuses on either specific diets or various culinary behaviors. All the programs’ directors are health professionals who are also either credentialed chefs or have a strong culinary background. Nine of these programs offer culinary training in either a hands-on or visual demonstration within a teaching kitchen setting, while one delivers remote culinary tele-education. Seven programs track outcomes using various questionnaires and biometric data.

Conclusions

There is currently no consensus about learning objectives, curricular domains, staffing, and facility requirements associated with CM, and there has been little research to explore its impact. A shared strategy is needed to collectively overcome these challenges.
Quando o cinema vira urbanismo: o documentário como ferramenta de abordagem da cidade
Authors: Oliveira Silvana
Published: January 2016

Quando o cinema vira urbanismo tem como foco a produção cinematográfica e documentária – brasileira e estrangeira – que aborda questões que se relacionam com a cidade e a vida urbana. A autora busca discutir a influência que esses recursos audiovisuais podem exercer sobre a prática de urbanismo, tendo como grande influência as noções de “orgânico” e “cristalino”, desenvolvidas, sobretudo, por Gilles Deleuze.
Tunable waveguide bends with graphene-based anisotropic metamaterials
Authors: Chen Zhao-xian , Chen Ze-guo , Ming Yang , Wu Ying , Lu Yan-qing
Published: January 2016

We design tunable waveguide bends filled with graphene-based anisotropic metamaterials to achieve a nearly perfect bending effect. The anisotropic properties of the metamaterials can be described by the effective medium theory. The nearly perfect bending effect is demonstrated by finite element simulations of various structures with different bending curvatures and shapes. This effect is attributed to zero effective permittivity along the direction of propagation and matched effective impedance at the interfaces between the bending part and the dielectric waveguides. We envisage that the design will be applicable in the far-infrared and terahertz frequency ranges owing to the tunable dielectric responses of graphene.
Thermoelectric properties of supersaturated Re solid solution of higher manganese silicides
Authors: Yamamoto Akio , Ghodke Swapnil , Miyazaki Hidetoshi , Inukai Manabu , Nishino Yoichi , Matsunami Masaharu , Takeuchi Tsunehiro
Published: January 2016

In this study, we developed a higher manganese silicide (HMS) that possesses a high dimensionless figure of merit ZT exceeding unity. HMSs containing a larger amount of Re than its solubility limit were prepared by the liquid quenching technique, and the obtained metastable HMSs showed good thermal stability to enable pulse current sintering at 1240 K. The lattice thermal conductivity was effectively reduced with increasing Re concentration, whereas the electron transport properties were not greatly affected. Consequently, the ZT of p-type HMS increased to 1.04 at 6 at. % Re from 0.4 of the Re-free sample.
Insight into the energy loss in organic solar cells based on benzotrithiophene copolymers: A dark current analysis at low temperature
Authors: Al-Naamani Eman , Ide Marina , Gopal Anesh , Saeki Akinori
Published: January 2016

Owing to the formation of the charge transfer (CT) state, the open-circuit voltage (V
oc) of organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices commonly suffers an energy loss of 0.8–1.3 eV from the effective bandgap. Benzotrithiophene (BTT)-based low-bandgap polymers that we have recently reported showed deep HOMO levels (−5.4 to −5.6 eV) and moderate optical bandgaps of 1.7–1.8 eV, which resulted in high V
oc’s of 0.78–0.98 V and relatively low energy losses when blended with methano[60]fullerene (PCBM). Here, we report the temperature-dependent dark current analysis of organic solar cells of BTT copolymers:PCBM blends. Shockley diode analyses revealed the dominant contribution of CT energy and concomitant pre-exponential factor of dark saturation current density associated with charge recombination. The findings could establish a fundamental aspect to draw a design rule in BTT-based polymers towards their evolutions in OPV devices.
Ultimate limits of biaxial tensile strain and n-type doping for realizing an efficient low-threshold Ge laser
Authors: Sukhdeo David S. , Gupta Shashank , Saraswat Krishna C. , Dutt Birendra (Raj) , Nam Donguk
Published: January 2016

We theoretically investigate the methodology involved in the minimization of the threshold of a Ge-on-Si laser and maximization of the slope efficiency in the presence of both biaxial tensile strain and n-type doping. Our findings suggest that there exist ultimate limits beyond which no further benefit can be realized through increased tensile strain or n-type doping. In this study, we quantify these limits, showing that the optimal design for minimizing threshold involves approximately 3.7% biaxial tensile strain and 2 × 1018 cm−3 n-type doping, whereas the optimal design for maximum slope efficiency involves approximately 2.3% biaxial tensile strain with 1 × 1019 cm−3 n-type doping. Increasing the strain and doping beyond these limits will degrade the threshold and slope efficiency, respectively.
Surface properties of substituted-benzenethiol monolayers on gold and silver: Work function, wettability, and surface tension
Authors: Tatara Shingo , Kuzumoto Yasutaka , Kitamura Masatoshi
Published: January 2016

The surface properties, including work function and wettability, of Au and Ag surfaces modified with various substituted benzenethiols have been investigated. Whereas the work functions of the modified Au surfaces ranged from 4.42 to 5.48 eV, those of the modified Ag surfaces ranged from 3.99 to 5.77 eV. The highest work function of 5.77 eV was obtained on the Ag surface modified with pentafluorobenzenethiol, and the lowest work function of 3.99 eV was obtained on the Ag surface modified with 4-methylbenzenethiol. The water contact angle on modified Au surfaces was found to be in a wide range from 30.9 to 88.3°. The water contact angle on the Au surface modified with a substituted benzenethiol was close to that on the Ag surface modified with the same benzenethiol. Furthermore, the tension of the modified Au surfaces was estimated from their contact angles of water and ethylene glycol.
Are All Children Equal? Causative Factors of Child Labour in Selected Districts of South Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Haider Syed Zubair , Qureshi Ayesha
Published: January 2016

The present study investigates the causative factors of child labour in selected districts of South Punjab, Pakistan. As member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Pakistan has a responsibility to stamp out child labour from its regions. Our sample was selected from seven working environments (workshops, hotels, tea stalls, households, etc.) through purposive sampling. The data were collected via a questionnaire which was completed by a sample of 547 working children. The findings of the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) explored four factors from the research. Multilevel analyses were calculated to pinpoint the causative factors of child labour. The study results revealed that, due to family responsibilities, a lack of educational opportunities for children from low-income families, and increasing poverty, children develop an interest in working to earn their livelihood at the cost of their education. The children are involved in labour because their parents cannot meet their personal and educational requirements.
Web 2.0 for the invigoration and participation of families and communities
Authors: Marín Díaz Verónica , Sampedro Requena Begoña Esther
Published: January 2016

The societies of the 21st century have experienced a technological and societal transformation that calls for the precise collaboration between families and education centers, as well as the inclusion of new professionals to invigorate this cooperation to favor a type of education that is adapted to today’s needs. This article presents the more significant results of a research study that tried to determine the ratings manifested by the students in the Social Educator degree of eleven Web 2.0 tools for the educational intervention in the area of invigoration and participation of the family and the community in educational centers. The results show that the social networks and learning environments were the best-rated technological resources for their application in the area of education by the participants of the study. Likewise, the rating was conditioned by factors such as the device used, the degree year or the temporal frequency of internet access.
Evaluation and development of digital competence in future primary school teachers at the University of Murcia
Authors: Gutiérrez Porlán Isabel , Serrano Sánchez José Luis
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the findings of a study carried out in the academic year 2014–2015 at the faculty of Education of the University of Murcia with first year degree students in Primary Education studying Research and ICT. The study started with the application of the DIGCOM questionnaire to analyze the digital competences of 134 students. The questionnaire served as an initial task to help students reflect on their digital competences. The subject was developed around tasks which adopted a transversal approach and used the nature of the contents itself to direct and improve students’ digital competencies. Finally, the initial questionnaire was reformulated and run in order to ascertain the students’ self-perception of their improvement in these competencies through the tasks they had performed.

Below we present the tasks carried out, the organization of each subject and the most relevant data regarding the self-perception of digital competencies of the future primary school teachers enrolled at the University of Murcia. The data reveal, on the one hand, that the students participating consider themselves to be competent in the most basic aspects of digital competencies and, on the other, their perception that the work done in the subject has helped them quite a lot in improving their competencies.
Promoting digital competence in secondary education: are schools there? Insights from a case study
Authors: Sancho Gil Juana M. , Padilla Petry Paulo
Published: January 2016

In recent years, a large number of educational systems, following the recommendations of international organisations, have introduced a competence-based emphasis into their traditionally subject-based curriculum. This move, beyond what any document can deal with, does not seem to find its way into everyday school practice easily or with instant results. This paper explores encounters and clashes between policy and practice regarding a competence-based curriculum framework. We refer firstly to the notions about information processing and digital competence held by international organisations and the Spanish and Catalan Ministry of Education, and the implications of said notions for teaching. Then, from evidence collected through class observations, interviews with students and teachers, and documents analysis in a case study, we draw on four teaching and learning scenarios where ICT is regularly used. Promoting students’ digital competence is one of the key competences prescribed in the curriculum; however, our study showed that the backgrounds and educational views of teachers, as well as the teaching culture and organisation of schools, should be deeply challenged to foster this competence.
TGF‐β triggers HBV cccDNA degradation through AID‐dependent deamination
Authors: Qiao Ying , Han Xiaoxu , Guan Gefei , Wu Na , Sun Jianbo , Pak Vladimir , Liang Guoxin
Published: January 2016

The covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a viral center molecule for HBV infection and persistence. However, the cellular restriction factors of HBV cccDNA are not well understood. Here, we show that TGF‐β can induce nuclear viral cccDNA degradation and hypermutation via activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID) deamination activity in hepatocytes. This suppression by TGF‐β is abrogated when AID or the activity of uracil‐DNA glycosylase (UNG) is absent, which indicates that AID deamination and the UNG‐mediated excision of uracil act in concert to degrade viral cccDNA. Moreover, the HBV core protein promotes the interaction between AID and viral cccDNA. Overall, our results indicate a novel molecular mechanism that allows cytokine TGF‐β to restrict viral nuclear cccDNA in innate immunity, thereby suggesting a novel method for potentially eliminating cccDNA.
Reconstructing input for artificial neural networks based on embedding theory and mutual information to simulate soil pore water salinity in tidal floodplain
Authors: Zheng Fawen , Wan Yongshan , Song Keunyea , Sun Detong , Hedgepeth Marion
Published: January 2016

Soil pore water salinity plays an important role in the distribution of vegetation and biogeochemical processes in coastal floodplain ecosystems. In this study, artificial neural networks (ANNs) were applied to simulate the pore water salinity of a tidal floodplain in Florida. We present an approach based on embedding theory with mutual information to reconstruct ANN model input time series from one system state variable. Mutual information between system output and input was computed and the local minimum mutual information points were used to determine a time lag vector for time series embedding and reconstruction, with which the mutual information weighted average method was developed to compute the components of reconstructed time series. The optimal embedding dimension was obtained by optimizing model performance. The method was applied to simulate soil pore water salinity dynamics at 12 probe locations in the tidal floodplain influenced by saltwater intrusion using 4 years (2005–2008) data, in which adjacent river water salinity was used to reconstruct model input. The simulated electrical conductivity of the pore water showed close agreement with field observations (RMSEand), suggesting the reconstructed input by the proposed approach provided adequate input information for ANN modeling. Multiple linear regression model, partial mutual information algorithm for input variable selection,k‐NN algorithm, and simple time delay embedding were also used to further verify the merit of the proposed approach.