bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fiber Bragg Grating Temperature Sensors in a 6.5-MW Generator Exciter Bridge and the Development and Simulation of Its Thermal Model
Authors: De Morais Sousa Kleiton , Probst Werner , Bortolotti Fernando , Martelli Cicero , Cardozo da Silva Jean
Published: September 2014

This work reports the thermal modeling and characterization of a thyristor. The thyristor is used in a 6.5-MW generator excitation bridge. Temperature measurements are performed using fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors. These sensors have the benefits of being totally passive and immune to electromagnetic interference and also multiplexed in a single fiber. The thyristor thermal model consists of a second order equivalent electric circuit, and its power losses lead to an increase in temperature, while the losses are calculated on the basis of the excitation current in the generator. Six multiplexed FBGs are used to measure temperature and are embedded to avoid the effect of the strain sensitivity. The presented results show a relationship between field current and temperature oscillation and prove that this current can be used to determine the thermal model of a thyristor. The thermal model simulation presents an error of 1.5 °C, while the FBG used allows for the determination of the thermal behavior and the field current dependence. Since the temperature is a function of the field current, the corresponding simulation can be used to estimate the temperature in the thyristors.
A Revised LRSPR Sensor with Sharp Reflection Spectrum
Authors: Yuan Yinquan , Dai Yutang
Published: September 2014

In this work, we have proposed a novel long-range surface plasmon resonance (LRSPR) sensor with sharp reflection spectrum, which consists of a glass prism, a (A/B)4-type waveguide-coupled layer and a metal layer. To reveal its sharp reflection spectrum perfectly, we have simulated the effects of all factors of this LRSPR sensor on the reflection spectrum, and finally presented the optimal parameters of the LRSPR sensor with sharp reflection spectrum.
Analysis and Measurements of Artificial Optical Radiation (AOR) Emitted by Lighting Sources Found in Offices
Authors: Leccese Francesco , Salvadori Giacomo , Casini Matteo , Bertozzi Marco
Published: September 2014

In this paper the authors describe in detail the exposure limit values concerning artificial optical radiation due to the main incoherent light sources found in offices. In particular, for some examples of significant sources chosen as case studies, we discuss the results of in situ measurements of the exposure values using a broadband photoradiometer. By comparing the measurement results with the exposure limit values specified in the European legislation, the maximum exposure times for workers have been evaluated. From the analysis of the results it can be concluded that the lighting sources typically present in indoor workplaces under usual conditions of use, do not pose a health risks for workers. However, in the case of accidental exposure during work activities or exposure linked to maintenance activities (short exposure distance), values in excess of the limit values have been observed, with decidedly short maximum exposure times.
Effects of Compact Urban Development on Air Pollution: Empirical Evidence from Korea
Authors: Cho Hee-Sun , Choi Mack
Published: September 2014

This study investigates the effects of compact urban development on air pollution, taking into account both the spatial distribution of pollutants resulting from an increase in inner urban densities and the dispersion of pollutants associated with an increase in outer green open spaces. The empirical analysis is based upon a panel data model covering 17 cities in Korea from 1996–2009; this approach is used because urban air pollution is influenced by spatial and temporal changes. Measuring the air pollution level by distance from city centers demonstrates that the spatial concentration of emission sources does not necessarily increase air pollution levels. The two-way fixed effects model, which is employed to control both individual (regional) and time effects, shows that SO2 decreases as the proportion of green area increases, while a rise in net density leads to an increase of NO2. Both effects are observed in the case of CO dispersion by green area as well as emission source concentration by high densities. Therefore, there is no clear impact of compact urban development on air quality, which is instead related to pollutant-specific characteristics and the emission source.
Sustainable E-Governance: The Relationship among Trust, Digital Divide, and E-Government
Authors: Myeong Seunghwan , Kwon Yongmin , Seo Hyungjun
Published: September 2014

This study empirically examines the correlation between the quality of e-government and trust in government. It used survey data collected in 2013 from the metropolitan areas of Seoul. An index was developed to measure the quality of e-government services, and the Gov 3.0 values were reflected in the analysis, including openness, sharing, communication, and collaboration. The results show a partial correlation between the quality of e-government service and trust in government. In addition, the level of trust varied according to the different type of the digital divide groups. It suggests that as ICT (Information Communication Technology) has become more sophisticated, a willingness to share information among organizations and stakeholders may become a major factor to thoseactively seeking information and resources to make value-added products. It also suggests that more integrated data management including network securityand an open attitude toward information sharing will be more important beyond the level of technical issues.
Twinning of Polymer Crystals Suppressed by Entropy
Authors: Karayiannis Nikos , Foteinopoulou Katerina , Laso Manuel
Published: September 2014

We propose an entropic argument as partial explanation of the observed scarcity of twinned structures in crystalline samples of synthetic organic polymeric materials. Polymeric molecules possess a much larger number of conformational degrees of freedom than low molecular weight substances. The preferred conformations of polymer chains in the bulk of a single crystal are often incompatible with the conformations imposed by the symmetry of a growth twin, both at the composition surfaces and in the twin axis. We calculate the differences in conformational entropy between chains in single crystals and chains in twinned crystals, and find that the reduction in chain conformational entropy in the twin is sufficient to make the single crystal the stable thermodynamic phase. The formation of cyclic twins in molecular dynamics simulations of chains of hard spheres must thus be attributed to kinetic factors. In more realistic polymers this entropic contribution to the free energy can be canceled or dominated by nonbonded and torsional energetics.
Near Field Communication: Technology and Market Trends
Authors: Arcese Gabriella , Campagna Giuseppe , Flammini Serena , Martucci Olimpia
Published: September 2014

Among the different hi-tech content domains, the telecommunications industry is one of the most relevant, in particular for the Italian economy. Moreover, Near Field Communication (NFC) represents an example of innovative production and a technological introduction in the telecommunications context. It has a threefold function: card emulator, peer-to-peer communication and digital content access, and it could be pervasively integrated in many different domains, especially in the mobile payment one. The increasing attention on NFC technology from the academic community has improved an analysis on the changes and the development perspective about mobile payments. It has considered the work done by the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) and the NFC Forum in recent years. This study starts from an analysis of the scientific contributions to Near Field Communication and how the main researches on this topic were conceived. Our focus is on the diffusion rates, the adoption rates and the technology life cycle. After that, we analyze the technical-economical elements of NFC. Finally, this work presents the state of art of the improvements to this technology with a deeper focus on NFC technologies applied to the tourism industry. In this way, we have done a case analysis that shows some of the NFC existent applications linked to each stage of the tourism value chain.
Seroprevalence Dynamics of European Bat Lyssavirus Type 1 in a Multispecies Bat Colony
Authors: López-Roig Marc , Bourhy Hervé , Lavenir Rachel , Serra-Cobo Jordi
Published: September 2014

We report an active surveillance study of the occurrence of specific antibodies to European Bat Lyssavirus Type 1 (EBLV-1) in bat species, scarcely studied hitherto, that share the same refuge. From 2004 to 2012, 406 sera were obtained from nine bat species. Blood samples were subjected to a modified fluorescent antibody virus neutralization test to determine the antibody titer. EBLV-1-neutralizing antibodies were detected in six of the nine species analyzed (Pipistrellus pipistrellus, P. kuhlii, Hypsugo savii, Plecotus austriacus, Eptesicus serotinus and Tadarida teniotis). Among all bats sampled, female seroprevalence (20.21%, 95% CI: 14.78%–26.57%) was not significantly higher than the seroprevalence in males (15.02%, 95% CI: 10.51%–20.54%). The results showed that the inter-annual variation in the number of seropositive bats in T. teniotis and P. austriacus showed a peak in 2007 (>70% of EBLV-1 prevalence). However, significant differences were observed in the temporal patterns of the seroprevalence modeling of T. teniotis and P. austriacus. The behavioral ecology of these species involved could explain the different annual fluctuations in EBLV-1 seroprevalence.
A sonochemical approach to the direct surface functionalization of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane
Authors: Sodipo Bashiru Kayode , Aziz Azlan Abdul
Published: September 2014

We report a sonochemical method of functionalizing superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES). Mechanical stirring, localized hot spots and other unique conditions generated by an acoustic cavitation (sonochemical) process were found to induce a rapid silanization reaction between SPION and APTES. FTIR, XPS and XRD measurements were used to demonstrate the grafting of APTES on SPION. Compared to what was reported in literature, the results showed that the silanization reaction time was greatly minimized. More importantly, the product displayed superparamagnetic behaviour at room temperature with a more than 20% higher saturation magnetization.
Étude d'organisateurs de l'activité enseignante pour une pratique de co-enseignement à visée inclusive
Authors: Souplet Catherine , Favier Claudine
Published: September 2014

Nous nous penchons sur une pratique de co-enseignement initiée par deux professeurs, un professeur spécialisé d’ULIS (unité locale d’inclusion scolaire) et un professeur de collège, dans le cadre d’une scolarisation inclusive d’élèves d’ULIS. Nous cherchons à mieux comprendre ce type de pratiques, à partir de l’étude d’une situation de co-enseignement, en mobilisant la notion d’organisateur de l’activité enseignante. Pour cela, nous analysons les discours des professeurs à propos de leur pratique déclarée, discours recueillis lors des entretiens pré et post séance. Cela nous permet d’identifier des dimensions relatives à chacun de ces enseignants, dimensions qui organisent leur activité et semblent permettre une complémentarité en situation, pour favoriser a priori les apprentissages des élèves handicapés.
Lessons in Writing a Self-Study
Authors: Cheramie Kimberly V.
Published: September 2014

The American Nurses Credentialing Center requires a self-study submission that describes processes and provides examples demonstrating how accredited organizations adhere to accreditation criteria through narrative statements. This is not an easy task, and typically too little or too much information is provided while failing to clearly address the criteria. This column is a guide to creating a self-study for an accredited provider unit based on recent experience in writing a self-study.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2014;45(9):377–378.
The Jester of Leadership
Authors: Bleich Michael R.
Published: September 2014

Innovation can be stifled in hierarchical organizations, filled with traditions and rules. One organization created space for an individual whose position required stimulating professionals through scenarios and storytelling, being a disruptive force for keeping the spiritual and innovative health resiliency of its workforce alive. This role is described.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2014;45(9):382–383.
The Pediatrician’s Role in Community Advocacy for Childhood Obesity Prevention
Authors: Wacker Julia , Bosley Eric , Bolling Christopher
Published: September 2014

As childhood obesity rates continue to rise, increasing numbers of pediatric providers are advocating for healthier environments outside clinic walls. Understanding the role of the pediatrician in childhood obesity advocacy within the context of the socioecological model helps ground engagement efforts. Once a project is underway, applying evidence-based obesity clinical care principles to community-focused work creates a template for engaging with partners and developing an intervention. In addition to content expertise, providers can guide community partners through the project development process, particularly in setting realistic goals and determining relevant, attainable health outcomes. Capitalizing on existing advocacy resources designed for busy pediatricians, specifically those available through national and state chapters of the American Academy of Pediatrics, aids in initiating or continuing any community-engaged effort.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2014;43(9):e225–e229.]
Bariatric Surgery in Obese Adolescents: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Wasserman Halley , Inge Thomas H.
Published: September 2014

Extreme obesity is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a body mass index (BMI) higher than 120% of the 95th percentile for age. Four to six percent of American youths fall into this subcategory and are at increased risk for developing comorbidities, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, sleep apnea, and bone and joint problems. Many studies have shown that nonsurgical treatment programs do not provide significant long-term improvements in BMI in adolescents with severe obesity. In adults, bariatric (weight loss) surgery has been shown to dramatically reduce BMI and to reverse or prevent many complications of obesity; thus, bariatric surgery is being used in an attempt to reverse clinically severe obesity in adolescents.

This review highlights the indications for bariatric surgery in adolescents and outlines practice guidelines for adolescent surgical weight loss programs. The authors summarize available data on the effects of adolescent weight loss surgery on metabolic comorbidities and highlight the important acute and long-term complications that must be monitored by their general pediatricians. After reading this article, the general pediatrician should be able to identify adolescents who may be candidates for weight loss surgery and have the knowledge to assist in their postoperative medical management.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2014;43(9):e230–e236.]
The Impact of an Acute Psychiatry Environment on Older Patients and Their Families
Authors: Hung Lillian , Loewen Elizabeth , Bindley Buffy , McLaren Debra , Feist Travis , Phinney Alison
Published: September 2014

Ethnographic methods (observations and interviews) were used to investigate the physical environment of a geriatric psychiatry unit to understand how it meets the needs of patients with mental health conditions. Four interrelated themes of environmental qualities emerged as central in promoting healing: therapeutic, supportive of functional independence, facilitative of social connections, and personal safety and security. Therapeutic describes the existence of a home-like environment and quality sensory stimulations. Supportive of functional independence refers to the environmental features that make it easy for older adults to mobilize and perform activities of daily living. Facilitative of social connections indicates the provision of social spaces for patients, families, and staff to interact and engage in meaningful activities. Personal safety and security involves having staff in close proximity and minimizing disruptions from confused patients. The evidence suggests that the physical environment is important in making hospitals safe and supportive of healing for older adults with mental health conditions. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 40(9), 50–56.]

Ms. Hung is doctoral student and Clinical Nurse Specialist, Ms. Loewen and Ms. Bindley are Clinical Nurse Specialists, Ms. McLaren and Mr. Feist are Registered Psychiatric Nurses, Providence Health Care (PHC), and Dr. Phinney is Associate Professor, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise. The authors thank PHC Research Challenge for funding this research.

Address correspondence to Lillian Hung, MA, RN, Clinical Nurse Specialist, University of British Columbia, School of Nursing, T201-2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 2B5; e-mail:
lhung@providencehealth.bc.ca.

 Received: October 04, 2013

 Accepted: February 14, 2014

 Posted Online: March 31, 2014
Kienbock’s Disease and Scapholunate Advanced Collapse
Authors: Chang I-Yuan Joseph , Mutnal Amar , Evans Peter J. , Sundaram Murali
Published: September 2014

A 43-year-old woman presented with left wrist pain for 6 months not helped by splinting.
Biomechanical Analysis of Rotator Cuff Repairs With Extracellular Matrix Graft Augmentation
Authors: Ely Erin E. , Figueroa Nathania M. , Gilot Gregory J.
Published: September 2014

Despite advances in surgical techniques, 20% to 90% of rotator cuff (RTC) repairs fail. They tend to fail at the suture-tendon junction due to tension at the repair and gap formation prior to healing. This study evaluated the gap formation and ultimate tensile failure loads of a RTC repair with a decellularized human dermal allograft. Augmentation of a RTC repair with an extracellular matrix graft decreased gap formation and increased load to failure in a human RTC repair model. [Orthopedics.2014; 37(9):608–614.]
Symptomatic Flexion Instability in Posterior Stabilized Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Deshmane Prashant P. , Rathod Parthiv A. , Deshmukh Ajit J. , Rodriguez Jose A. , Scuderi Giles R.
Published: September 2014

Flexion instability in posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty is a relatively uncommon but distinct problem that is often underdiagnosed and may require surgical management. This retrospective study evaluated the authors’ management strategy and assessed the results of revision surgery. The authors identified 19 knees that underwent revision for isolated flexion instability after primary posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty. All patients had typical symptoms and signs of flexion instability, which include diffuse pain, especially when negotiating stairs, a sense of instability without giving way, recurrent joint effusions, and diffuse periarticular tenderness. Knee Society scores were used to assess pain and function. Complete revision was performed in 11 knees, femoral revision with a thicker insert was performed in 1 knee, and isolated tibial polyethylene insert exchange was performed in 7 knees. Postoperatively, all patients reported improvement in instability symptoms and signs associated with improvement in mean Knee Society scores. Revision surgery with careful gap balancing is successful in the management of isolated flexion instability in posterior-stabilized total knee arthroplasty. Isolated tibial polyethylene insert exchange may have a role in selected patients where component malalignment and malrotation is ruled out and a thicker and/or semiconstrained insert can be used, while limiting the resultant flexion contracture to less than 5°.
Safety and Efficacy of Intra-articular Injection of Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Fu Xin , Liu Wen-Xing , Li Yao-Min , Ma Xin-Long , Li Zhi-Jun
Published: September 2014

Tranexamic acid was intra-articularly injected in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to reduce blood loss and transfusion. However, no single study has been large enough to definitively determine whether it is safe and effective. To determine the safety and efficacy of intra-articular tranexamic acid in TKA, the authors searched various databases for relevant randomized controlled trials. Mean difference (MD) in total blood loss, risk ratio (RR) for transfusion, and complication rate in the tranexamic acid-treated group vs the placebo group were calculated. Seven randomized controlled trials, including 622 patients (174 men and 448 women), were identified. All 7 placebo-controlled randomized trials had a low risk of bias. The pooled results showed a positive effect of tranexamic acid in all treatment groups, with significant reduction in total blood loss (MD, −396.42 mL [95% confidence interval (CI), −629.64 to −163.20];
P
=.0009). However, there was significant heterogeneity in the finding (chi-square=27.16,
df
=3,
I
2
=89%;
P
<.00001) among studies. The pooled results indicated that 5.8% (18 of 309) of tranexamic acid-treated patients required transfusion compared with 27.2% (85 of 313) of placebo-treated patients. This difference was significant (RR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.14–0.35;
P
<.00001). There was no significant difference between the groups in the incidence of deep venous thrombosis (RR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.35–1.98;
P
=.68) or pulmonary embolism (RR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.10–2.85;
P
=.46). In all, intra-articular tranexamic acid significantly reduced total blood loss, drainage, reduction of hemoglobin, and the need for transfusion without increasing the incidence of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Intra-articular tranexamic acid is safe and efficacious in TKA.
Trends in Bone Graft Use in the United States
Authors: Kinaci Ahmet , Neuhaus Valentin , Ring David C.
Published: September 2014

Bone graft and bone graft substitutes are used to provide structural support and enhance bone healing. Autogenous, allogeneic, and artificial bone grafts each have advantages and drawbacks. The development of allografts, synthetic bone grafts, and new operative techniques may have influenced the use of bone grafts in recent years. The goal of this study was to analyze the use of bone grafts and bone graft substitutes in the United States during a 16-year period. Using data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey, the authors analyzed the use of autogenous and artificial bone grafts in almost 2 million patients in the United States between 1992 and 2007 using
International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification
(ICD-9-CM) codes in 4 periods (1992–1995, 1996–1999, 2000–2003, and 2004–2007). Among an estimated almost 2 million bone graft procedures (83% autogenous, 17% artificial), the use of both types of grafts decreased. The main diagnoses for which bone grafts were used did not change; however, cervical spine diseases and lower-limb fractures decreased more remarkably. Although sex (52% male in the early 1990s to 47% in 2000–2003) and discharge status (more discharges to a short-term or long-term-care facility) significantly changed, age increased from 47 to 53 years and inpatient days decreased significantly from 6 to 5 days during the study period. The use of bone grafts and bone graft substitutes is decreasing in the United States, with a slight shift from autogenous to substitute grafts.
Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty Using Metaphyseal Sleeves at Short-term Follow-up
Authors: Huang Ronald , Barrazueta Gustavo , Ong Alvin , Orozco Fabio , Jafari Mehdi , Coyle Catelyn , Austin Matthew
Published: September 2014

The treatment of bone loss in revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has involved using revision implants in association with cement, augments, particulate, and structural allograft. Newer metaphyseal augments were introduced to allow for metaphyseal fixation of the prosthesis while managing significant bone loss. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the outcome of revision TKA using metaphyseal sleeves. The authors prospectively followed 96 knees that underwent revision TKA with metaphyseal sleeves. Eighty-three knees met the minimum 2-year criteria for follow-up. Thirty-six sleeves were used in femoral revisions and 83 sleeves were used in tibial revisions. The defects were classified according to the Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute classification. Femoral defects were classified as type I in 4 knees, type IIb in 25 knees, and type III in 7 knees. Tibial defects were classified as type I in 9 knees, type IIa in 1 knee, type IIb in 68 knees, and type III in 5 knees. The patients were followed for an average of 2.4 years (range, 2.0–3.7 years). Mean Knee Society function score improved from 47.9 to 61.1 points. Mean Short Form 36 physical score improved from 43.3 to 56.3 points. Mean Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index improved from 55.3 to 25.9 points. None of the implants demonstrated progressive radiolucent lines around the metaphyseal sleeves. At final follow-up, only 2 (2.7%) tibial components required revision for aseptic loosening. At short-term follow-up, revision TKA with metaphyseal sleeves provided reliable fixation. This is especially encouraging given the severe nature of bone loss in the majority of patients in whom a metaphyseal sleeve was used. Long-term follow-up is needed to demonstrate the true effectiveness of these devices.
Unilateral Versus Bilateral Balloon Kyphoplasty in the Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures
Authors: Chen Hua , Tang Peifu , Zhao Yanpeng , Gao Yuan , Wang Yan
Published: September 2014

Bilateral and unilateral approaches are the main methods for balloon kyphoplasty. However, controversy exists about which leads to superior outcomes. The goal of this study was to compare the clinical effects and safety of unilateral vs bilateral balloon kyphoplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Five databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Chinese Biomedical Database) were searched without language, publication, or date restrictions. Randomized controlled trials involving a total of 876 patients and comparing the efficacy of unilateral vs bilateral balloon kyphoplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures were identified. Meta-analysis revealed no significant differences in visual analog scale pain score up to 2-year follow-up (mean difference at 1 week, 0.17 [95% confidence interval (CI), −0.11 to 0.44]; mean difference at 1 year, 0.01 [95% CI, −0.29 to 0.32]; mean difference at 2 years, 0.28 [95% CI, −0.13 to 0.70]), Oswestry Disability Index pain score up to 1-year follow-up (mean difference at 1 week, 1.28 [95% CI, −2.62 to 5.17]; mean difference at 1 year, 1.87 (95% CI, −5.33 to 9.06]), anterior and middle vertebral height (mean difference anterior, −0.13 [95% CI, −0.32 to 0.06]; mean difference middle, −0.16 [95% CI, −0.36 to 0.03]), or kyphotic angle (mean difference, −0.02 [95% CI, −0.65 to 0.61]); however, the unilateral approach resulted in a shorter operative time (mean difference, −19.33 [95% CI, −4.42 to −14.24]), smaller amount of cement injected (mean difference, −2.07 [95% CI, −2.42 to −1.71]), and lower risk of cement leakage (mean difference, 0.47 [95% CI, 0.24–0.92]) than the bilateral approach. The unilateral approach resulted in pain relief and vertebral height and kyphotic angle restoration comparable with that of bilateral kyphoplasty. The unilateral approach should be considered an effective option for the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.
Ocular Findings and Treatment of a Young Boy With Coats’ Plus
Authors: Yannuzzi Nicolas A. , Tzu Jonathan H. , Ko Audrey C. , Hess Ditte J. , Cristian Ingrid , Berrocal Audina M.
Published: September 2014

The authors describe a 34-month-old boy who presented with a bilateral and asymmetric exudative retinopathy with similarities to Coats’ disease. The patient’s medical history was remarkable for hypotonia, developmental delay, seizures, and intracranial calcifications. Genetic testing revealed a diagnosis of Coats’ plus. This rare genetic disease should be in the differential diagnosis in patients who present with a bilateral and asymmetric Coats’-like retinopathy in the presence of other systemic abnormalities.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:462–456.]
Obtención, caracterización y evaluación in vitro de recubrimientos de policaprolactona-quitosano sobre la aleación Ti6Al4V tratada químicamente
Authors: Gómez Rodríguez Liliana S. , Quintero Jaime Andrés F. , Peña Ballesteros Darío Y. , Estupiñan Durán Hugo A.
Published: September 2014

Se obtuvieron recubrimientos poliméricos de policaprolactona-quitosano, aplicados mediante la técnica Dip-Coating, sobre sustratos de Ti6Al4V tratados químicamente con NaOH. Con base en los análisis SEM y los espectros infrarrojos, se observó que la cantidad de policaprolactona en el recubrimiento presentó un efecto en la retención de quitosano en la superficie, relacionado con la emisión del enlace R-OH y las características morfológicas. Los espectros de impedancia realizados a las películas poliméricas, mostraron procesos relacionados con fenómenos de adsorción de especies iónicas hasta la formación de monocapas en la superficie. Igualmente, estos espectros mostraron fenómenos de transferencia de carga generados por las características morfológicas de los recubrimientos, como sus porosidades, densidad y homogeneidad. La inmersión de los sustratos recubiertos en una solución SBF durante 8 días, permitió observar su capacidad de adsorción de calcio mediante la nucleación y precipitación de fosfatos de calcio, mostrando un carácter bioactivo frente al medio.
Foreground Trust as a Security Paradigm
Authors: Marsh Stephen , Dwyer Natasha , Basu Anirban , Storer Tim , Renaud Karen , El-Khatib Khalil , Esfandiari Babak , Noël Sylvie , Bicakci Mehmet Vefa
Published: September 2014

Security is an interesting area, one in which we may well be guilty of misunderstanding the very people we are working for whilst trying to protect them. It is often said that people (users) are a weak link in the security chain. This may be true, but there are nuances. In this chapter, the authors discuss some of the work they have done and are doing to help users understand their information and device security and make informed, guided, and responsible decisions. This includes Device Comfort, Annoying Technologies, and Ten Commandments for designers and implementers of security and trust systems. This work is exploratory and unfinished (it should in fact never be finished), and this chapter presents a step along the way to better security users.
Design of an IPTV Conditional Access System Supporting Multiple-Services
Authors: Harding Gregory L. , Kayem Anne V. D. M.
Published: September 2014

Conditional Access (CA) is typically used by pay-television operators to restrict access to content to authorized subscribers. While several commercial CA solutions exist for structured broadcasting, Internet-based television, and video-on-demand services, these solutions are mostly proprietary. Use of proprietary solutions incurs royalty payments and increased cost of components for Set-Top-Box manufacturers. In many developing countries Set-Top-Boxes for the migration to Digital Television will be subsidized by government. An efficient, flexible, and open conditional system that does not incur royalties or require specialised security hardware would be beneficial for these countries. In this chapter, the authors explore conditional access solutions that draw on the area of cryptographic key management and distribution for IPTV environments. They wrap up with propositions on how an open Cryptographic Access Control (CAC) system can be implemented practically by pay-television operators who have to handle a large number of subscriptions.
Necessary Standard for Providing Privacy and Security in IPv6 Networks
Authors: Rafiee Hosnieh , Meinel Christoph
Published: September 2014

Security and privacy have become important issues when dealing with Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) networks. On one hand, anonymity, which is related to privacy, makes it hard for current security systems to differentiate between legitimate users and illegitimate users, especially when the users need to be authenticated by those systems whose services they require. On the other hand, a lack of privacy exposes legitimate users to abuse, which can result from the information gained from privacy-related attacks. The current problems inherent within IPv6-enabled networks are due, in part, to the fact that there is no standard available telling companies about the current deficiencies that exist within IPv6 networks. The purpose of this chapter is to show a balance between the use of privacy and security, and to describe a framework that can offer the minimum standard requirement needed for providing security and privacy to IPv6 networks.
A Security Analysis of MPLS Service Degradation Attacks Based on Restricted Adversary Models
Authors: Al-Mutairi Abdulrahman , Wolthusen Stephen D.
Published: September 2014

Whilst the security and integrity of exterior gateway protocols such as the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) and, to a lesser extent, interior gateway protocols, including the Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS), have been investigated previously, more limited attention has been paid to the problem of availability and timeliness that is crucial for service levels needed in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services and electric power (smart grid) networks. The authors describe a method for modeling adversaries for the analysis of attacks on quality of service characteristics underpinning such real-time networks as well as a model of policies employed by MPLS routers based on simplified networks and give an analysis of attack vectors based on assumed adversaries derived from the introduced method.
The Future of National and International Security on the Internet
Authors: Dawson Maurice , Omar Marwan , Abramson Jonathan , Bessette Dustin
Published: September 2014

Hyperconnectivity is a growing trend that is driving cyber security experts to develop new security architectures for multiple platforms such as mobile devices, laptops, and even wearable displays. The futures of national and international security rely on complex countermeasures to ensure that a proper security posture is maintained during this state of hyperconnectivity. To protect these systems from exploitation of vulnerabilities it is essential to understand current and future threats to include the laws that drive their need to be secured. Examined within this chapter are the potential security-related threats with the use of social media, mobile devices, virtual worlds, augmented reality, and mixed reality. Further reviewed are some examples of the complex attacks that could interrupt human-robot interaction, children-computer interaction, mobile computing, social networks, and human-centered issues in security design.
Transform Domain Techniques for Image Steganography
Authors: Singh Siddharth , Siddiqui Tanveer J.
Published: September 2014

Recent advancement of multimedia technology has posed serious challenges to copyright protection, ownership, and integrity of digital data. This has made information security techniques a vital issue. Cryptography, Steganography, and Watermarking are three major techniques for securing information and ensuring copyright ownership. This chapter presents an overview of transform domain techniques for image steganography. The authors discuss the characteristics and applications of image steganography and briefly review Discrete Cosine and Wavelet transform-based image steganography techniques. They also discuss the various metrics that have been used to assess the performance of steganography techniques and shed light on the future of steganography.
Solving Security and Availability Challenges in Public Clouds
Authors: Schnjakin Maxim , Meinel Christoph
Published: September 2014

Cloud Computing as a service-on-demand architecture has grown in importance over the previous few years. One driver of its growth is the ever-increasing amount of data that is supposed to outpace the growth of storage capacity. The usage of cloud technology enables organizations to manage their data with low operational expenses. However, the benefits of cloud computing come along with challenges and open issues such as security, reliability, and the risk to become dependent on a provider for its service. In general, a switch of a storage provider is associated with high costs of adapting new APIs and additional charges for inbound and outbound bandwidth and requests. In this chapter, the authors present a system that improves availability, confidentiality, and reliability of data stored in the cloud. To achieve this objective, the authors encrypt users' data and make use of the RAID-technology principle to manage data distribution across cloud storage providers. Further, they discuss the security functionality and present a proof-of-concept experiment for the application to evaluate the performance and cost effectiveness of the approach. The authors deploy the application using eight commercial cloud storage repositories in different countries. The approach allows users to avoid vendor lock-in and reduces significantly the cost of switching providers. They also observe that the implementation improved the perceived availability and, in most cases, the overall performance when compared with individual cloud providers. Moreover, the authors estimate the monetary costs to be competitive to the cost of using a single cloud provider.
Introduction
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: September 2014

Education is a significant sector, and higher education plays a great role in this knowledge era. Education is not only important and dynamic but also ever changing as per the needs of society. Education has a wider meaning nation wise and even culturally contextualized. This chapter gives a historical background of education and then critically delves into the origin of higher education, the current scenario, and the impending outlook, with focus on the MENA region. The education sector returns are immeasurable, but the sector is also demanding and challenging, especially for the MENA region. Education systems will need to become more effective in transmitting skills and competencies to all. MENA countries in particular will have to consider not only how education will be delivered but also how it will be paid for. Meeting the above challenges is fundamental. The succeeding chapters will facilitate policy makers to meet those challenges.
Impact of Ethical Dilemmas on the Dignity of Higher Education and Research
Authors: Shetty Krishna Prasad
Published: September 2014

Higher education broadens the mind, promotes ethicality, and ensures dignity. It can escalate a nation to new heights of progress and growth. However, there is an ethical debate going on. A massive young population is knocking at the doors of higher education while the society is crying “foul” for lack of emphasis on academic ethics. There is a need to re-orient, re-create, and enrich the systems of learning and to safeguard the dignity of higher education. This is the rationale behind this chapter, and the objective is to take an investigative look at the ethical dilemmas in higher education and research and the need for reforms. The study is based on a review of literature, discussion with experts, and an online survey probing the respondents' thoughts and feelings on the ethical conduct in the higher education sector. Responses show optimism that ethical culture can be altered and the dignity of higher education can be restored.
Some Keys for Success in Higher Education
Authors: Saiz-Alvarez José Manuel
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this chapter is to examine what the key issues that have contributed to situate several Israeli universities in high positions in the world ranking of universities are. Tertiary education is characterized in Israel by a dual education system, both from an internal (university-colleges) and from an educational perspective, with the arrival of foreign students. The keys to explain the success of universities in Israel are: (1) the coexistence of a dual system; (2) the intensive use of technology and informal-formal learning; (3) the early-childhood education; (4) the implementation of a very strict selection process; (5) the creation of a system based on efficient public expenditure on education; (6) the increasing role of women in education; and (7) the constant improvement of teachers. After having analyzed the Arab-Israeli and the ultra-Orthodox problems, the authors conclude with an outlook for the future.
Higher Education Concerns for Natives in the Post-Crisis Period
Authors: Das Rituparna , Das Mononita Kundu
Published: September 2014

The higher education and academic research sectors of the Canadian education sector were victims of the 2008 global crisis. Those institutions that were relying on private funding suffered from crashing values of their endowments amidst a declining market. With shrinking government budget and the universities finding tough time in the higher education and research sector, the aboriginals of Canada would be at the most disadvantageous position with respective to their economic development, since education is a central pillar to what Amartya Sen calls “entitlements and capabilities” of a community, particularly when colonialism left aboriginal peoples among the poorest of Canadians. The higher education sector of India is cited as a similar case here. This chapter examines the impact of declining funding both from private and government sources and other adversaries to the access of the aboriginals to education and thus attempts to bring to light how many educational opportunities are available to the natives in the post-crisis period in a comparative tone with India.
Public and Private Higher Education Concerns and Challenges
Authors: Huq Sheikh Md. Monzurul , Huque Sheikh Mohammed Rafiul
Published: September 2014

Like in most developing countries, higher education in Bangladesh has experienced dramatic changes in recent years. This chapter examines four aspects—access, quality, equity, and governance—centring education in both public and private universities of the country. It also highlights obstacles and challenges the universities are facing and puts forward some recommendations in these respects. Two methods, (a) semi-structured informal interview and (b) document and publication study, were used in collecting data. Primary data were collected through semi-structured informal interviews. A total of 30 participants were interviewed. The study opines that higher educational institutions should not only have good governance but also be more devoted to instituting quality control. It also observes that sustaining the quality of education acceptable both nationally and internationally requires setting up an autonomous quality assurance body. It stresses that the active and sincere involvement of state and academia can help address issues related to four aspects—access, governance, equality, and quality—of higher education.
Intelligent Questioning System Based on Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Deperlioglu Omer , Sonugur Guray , Suzme Kadir
Published: September 2014

One of the most important functions of distance learning systems is determining the student knowledge level and performance clearly. In traditional education systems, students can be assessed in single-stage via tests and homework studies, which consist of multiple-choice questions. However, this method cannot provide accurate results since it is not able to evaluate student knowledge level and question difficulty level. In this chapter, a system and software structure that can determine student knowledge levels, topic difficulty level, and question difficulty levels according to instant student answers for the exam is introduced. In forming student knowledge levels, content monitoring and test data taken from distance education vocational school were used. In this way, more accurate results have been obtained. The fuzzy logic technique has been used to determine (classify) student knowledge levels and topic difficulty levels clearly. In order to determine next questions adaptively, the stored questions have been classified with division clustering methods, and the most suitable questions for the related student knowledge level have been found by using the nearest neighbor algorithm.
Review and Proposal for Intelligent Distance Education
Authors: Işik Ali Hakan , Aslan Göksel
Published: September 2014

Information and communication technologies have led to new developments in education. Time and place independent education has emerged. Furthermore, different characteristics and huge numbers of individuals have made the use of new technological methods inevitable. In this context, distance education has become a popular education method to meet the emerging needs, increasing satisfaction, and learning performance of students. Mobile technology, intelligent systems, and Three Dimensional (3D) animations also provide enhancements in this field. In addition, distance education systems should be selected and developed properly for target students and environments. For this purpose, the assessment of prominent studies provides a road map for new research. In this sense, this chapter evaluates intelligent distance education studies in literature. Furthermore, it proposes a novel Artificial Neural Network (ANN)-based distance education system for Mehmet Akif Ersoy University. This ANN-based system can be implemented on Mehmet Akif Ersoy University infrastructure with agent. The proposed system consists of a learning management system, Web conferencing system, and an ANN agent. The agent's inputs that are already stored in Mehmet Akif Ersoy University's distance education databases can be easily retrieved. This agent provides reusability of course content and Web conferencing records.
Resolving the Paradox of Overconfident Students with Intelligent Methods
Authors: Smolin Denis , Butakov Sergey
Published: September 2014

The chapter presents a case study of using data mining tools to solve the puzzle of inconsistency between students' in-class performance and the results of the final tests. Classical test theory cannot explain such inconsistency, while the classification tree generated by one of the well-known data mining algorithms has provided reasonable explanation, which was confirmed by course exit interviews. The experimental results could be used as a case study of implementing Artificial Intelligence-based methods to analyze course results. Such analyses equip educators with an additional tool that allows closing the loop between assessment results and course content and arrangements.