bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspects of rating communicative interaction
Authors: Eriksson Karin , Bergström Sara , Carlsson Emilia , Hartelius Lena , Johansson Charlotte , Schwarz Anneli , Saldert Charlotta
Published: August 2014

Communication partner training can be effective in improving communication in aphasia. However, further research is needed on how to measure the outcome of such interventions. In this paper we discuss the phenomenon of reliability in assessments in relation to the results of analyses using a rating scale designed to measure the ability to support a person with aphasia in natural conversational interaction. The scale was used by four assessors to rate 45 video recordings. Calculations of reliability and agreement produced varying results but were mostly satisfactory. However, the results highlight how interaction between factors such as complexity of assessments; design of the rating scale; factors inherent in the individual assessor; and the statistical measures used to analyse the outcome may result in a conflict between aspects of validity and reliability. Interpretations of outcome obtained with rating scales thus need to be based on knowledge about factors influencing the results.
A Method To Evaluate Lost-Circulation Materials—Investigation of Effective Wellbore-Strengthening Applications
Authors: Savari Sharath , Whitfill Donald L. , Jamison Dale E. , Kumar Arunesh
Published: August 2014

With increased drilling activity in deeper, harsher, and more-complex environments, controlling nonproductive time during drilling is critical to lowering the cost of well construction. Lost circulation (LC), one of the main contributors to nonproductive time, is a widely discussed topic drawing industry attention, as is evident from recent publications and forums/workshops on the topic. The literature on LC reveals several means of mitigation, ranging from the simple use of lost-circulation materials (LCMs) to the use of gunk/chemical sealants and methods for altering near-wellbore stresses (stress caging or wellbore strengthening). There is a subtle difference between LC and wellbore strengthening, and any research should help facilitate a better understanding of the two.

Presented previously (Kumar et al. 2010; Savari et al. 2012) were novel insights into LCMs for wellbore-strengthening applications. Continuing the research effort, this paper discusses another approach for designing LCMs to withstand higher wellbore pressures within a fracture. A property of plug-breaking pressure (PBP) was determined for different LCM combinations by use of a permeability-plugging apparatus (PPA) with tapered slots. LCM combinations with differing mechanical properties behaved differently compared with PBP data. Particles, such as ground marble, alone were not able to plug the tapered slot, and hence the PBP was zero. By use of the previous work described by Savari et al. (2012), the addition of resilient graphitic carbon (RCG) helped with plugging the tapered slot, with a PBP of approximately 900 psi. Adding fibers to the LCM combination was also evaluated. Plugging did not improve when fibers were added only to one other type of particulate LCM. But, the combination of ground marble, RGC, and specific fibers was found to provide the most-efficient plugging, with the highest PBP of approximately 2,100 psi.

This work confirms that all LCMs are not equal and that the LCM type plays a role in terms of both plugging and “toughness” to better withstand displacement pressures. It also validates that, most of the time, combinations of LCMs work more effectively compared with the use of only one type. The novel PBP data on different LCM combinations can provide a qualitative comparison of their ability to withstand displacement and/or failure pressures when designing LCM combinations in wellbore-strengthening applications.
A Pseudobubblepoint Model and Its Simulation for Foamy Oil in Porous Media
Authors: Chen Zhangxin , Sun Jian , Wang Ruihe , Wu Xiaodong
Published: August 2014

This is the second paper of a series in which we study heavy oil in porous media. The first paper dealt with an experimental study (Wang et al. 2008), whereas a mathematical and simulation study is presented here. The research program stems from the need to predict the field performance of a class of heavy-foamy-oil reservoirs. These reservoirs show a better-than-expected primary performance: lower production gas/oil ratios (GORs), higher-than-expected production rates, and higher oil recovery. A mechanism used to account for the observed performance is that the liberated solution gas is entrained in the oil when the reservoir pressure falls below the thermodynamic equilibrium bubblepoint pressure. The presence of entrained gas increases the effective compressibility of the oil phase and prevents gas from becoming a free phase. Hence, the foamy oil behaves as if it had a pseudobubblepoint pressure below the usual equilibrium bubblepoint pressure. This paper describes a pseudobubblepoint model and a methodology that can be used to compute foamy-oil fluid properties from conventional laboratory pressure/volume/temperature (PVT) data. The techniques developed are then used to study foamy oil in the Orinoco belt, Venezuela. The present mathematical model is validated by comparing numerical and experimental results.
Nitrogen Dynamics Affected by Management Practices in Croplands Transitioning from Conservation Reserve Program
Authors: Sainju Upendra M. , Stevens William B. , Caesar-TonThat Thecan , Montagne Cliff
Published: August 2014

Management practices are needed to reduce N losses from croplands converted from Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). We evaluated the effects of irrigation, tillage, cropping system, and N fertilization on surface residue N, soil total nitrogen (STN), NH4–N, and NO3–N at the 0‐ to 85‐cm depth in a sandy loam from 2005 to 2011 in croplands converted from CRP in western North Dakota. Treatments were two irrigation practices (irrigated vs. non‐irrigated) and six cropping systems (CRP, conventional till malt barley [Hordeum vulgaris L.] with nitrogen fertilizer [CTBN], conventional till malt barley without nitrogen fertilizer [CTBO], no‐till malt barley–pea (Pisum sativum L.) with nitrogen fertilizer [NTB–P], no‐till malt barley with nitrogen fertilizer [NTBN], and no‐till malt barley without nitrogen fertilizer [NTBO]). Surface residue N was greater in non‐irrigated CRP than irrigated and non‐irrigated CTBN, CTBO, and NTBO and non‐irrigated NTB–P. Soil total N at 0 to 10 cm was greater in irrigated CRP, but at 0 to 85 cm was greater in non‐irrigated NTBN than irrigated CRP, CTBN, CTBO, and NTBO and non‐irrigated NTB–P. Soil NH4–N content at 0 to 20 cm was also greater in irrigated CRP than irrigated and non‐irrigated CTBO, NTB–P, and NTBO. Soil NO3–N at 0 to 85 cm was greater in NTB–P than CRP, CTBO, and NTBO. Because of increased soil N sequestration and NO3–N level, irrigated NTB–P may be used to reduce soil N losses and optimize N availability compared to other treatments in croplands converted from CRP.
Sweet Sorghum as Biofuel Feedstock: Nutrient Source, Yield, Soil Quality, Economics, and Manure Transportation
Authors: Penn Chad J. , Vitale Jeffrey , Fine Scott T. , Godsey Chad B. , Payne Josh
Published: August 2014

A reticular set of environmental, agricultural, and energy issues may be alleviated through beneficial use of poultry litter as a nutrient source to poor quality soils for production of sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] as biofuel feedstock. This study assessed the viability of producing a biofuel crop using an organic by‐product as an alternative to commercial fertilizer (CF). Sweet sorghum was established annually for 3 yr on a relatively poor drainage, low organic matter, and low pH soil of eastern Oklahoma. Poultry litter was annually applied at four different application rates and CF applied at equivalent N, P, and K. Sorghum biomass yield and changes in soil properties were monitored. Yield and input costs were used to determine economic return and optimum distances for litter transportation. After 3 yr of litter application, several soil quality parameters increased for litter‐amended soils compared to CF. Although economic return was greater for litter, yields from litter were not significantly different from CF. Overall biomass yields and economic returns increased with higher nutrient rates and varied each year because of variable weather. As a result of increased economic return from litter compared to CF, litter could be transported to various distances depending on application rate and ethanol price. Use of litter as a nutrient source for growing sweet sorghum as biofuel feedstock can be economically sustainable and potentially improve water quality in environmentally sensitive watersheds, improve soil quality of marginal land, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Plant Density and Leaf Area Index Effects on the Distribution of Light Transmittance to the Soil Surface in Maize
Authors: Timlin Dennis J. , Fleisher David H. , Kemanian Armen R. , Reddy Vangimalla R.
Published: August 2014

The solar corridor concept examines approaches to better use light in row crops. To achieve this goal, an understanding of the diel patterns of light transmittance to the soil surface in the interrow zone in row crops is necessary. The objective of this study was to investigate the temporal and spatial distribution of light transmittance to the soil surface at different row positions. Light data and leaf area of maize (Zea mays L.) were collected over a period of 2 yr to quantify the spatial distribution of light transmittance to the soil surface under different plant and canopy densities. Leaf area index (LAI) was varied by using two different plant densities and a range of N applications. Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) was measured using quantum line sensors at three to seven row positions depending on row spacing (0.78 and 0.36 m). Light transmittance to the soil surface varied by position within the row and time of day. The variation was greatest for low N and low plant density spacing treatments. On cloudy days with more diffuse light the variation in light transmittance between the within and row positions was less. Light extinction coefficients decreased as solar elevation increased toward midday. The wide variation in light transmittance to the soil surface in the interrow zone points out the need to manage plant and management properties such as leaf area, plant density, and row spacing to take best advantage of light in the solar corridor.
Product Market Power and Tax Avoidance: Market Leaders, Mimicking Strategies, and Stock Returns
Authors: Kubick Thomas R. , Lynch Daniel P. , Mayberry Michael A. , Omer Thomas C.
Published: August 2014

Product market power provides firms with comparative advantages through more persistent profitability and insulation from competitive threats. These advantages likely provide firms with the ability to engage in greater tax avoidance. We present evidence consistent with this hypothesis. We also show that firms mimic the tax outcomes of their product market leaders. Among firms with greater product market power and comparatively high cash tax avoidance, we find stock prices to be less informative and that investors require additional compensation for the risks associated with comparatively high cash tax avoidance. Our results survive numerous robustness tests. Overall, our results suggest that industry dynamics, particularly related to a firm's competitive position, play a meaningful role in corporate tax policy.
The Distinction Between Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) and Preliminary Feasibility and Pilot Studies: What They Are and Are Not
Authors: Abbott J. Haxby
Published: August 2014

Feasibility and pilot studies play an important role in the preliminary planning of a proposed full-size randomized clinical trial (RCT). In essence, feasibility studies are used to help develop trial interventions or outcome measures, whereas pilot studies replicate, in miniature, a planned full-size RCT. However, the terms used for these preliminary studies are sometimes considered synonymous, and in practice may overlap considerably or be combined. The important issue is not the distinction between these: the important distinction is between such preliminary studies and a proper RCT.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(8):555–558. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.0110
Tear of the Lateral Meniscus With an Associated Parameniscal Cyst
Authors: O'Laughlin Shaun J. , Kreisel Brian R.
Published: August 2014

The patient was a 21-year-old man who was referred to a physical therapist for a chief complaint of progressively worsening left lateral knee pain that limited his ability to run and perform his military duties. Given the presence of a palpable painful mass at the lateral aspect of the knee and concern for a lateral meniscus tear, magnetic resonance imaging was ordered by the physical therapist, which revealed a large multiloculated lateral parameniscal cyst. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(8):633. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.0409
Integrating Aerobic Training Within Subacute Stroke Rehabilitation: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Biasin Louis , Sage Michael D. , Brunton Karen , Fraser Julia , Howe Jo-Anne , Bayley Mark , Brooks Dina , McIlroy William E. , Mansfield Avril , Inness Elizabeth L.
Published: August 2014

Background

Aerobic activity positively affects patients recovering from stroke and is part of best practice guidelines, yet this evidence has not been translated to routine practice.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a model of care that integrated aerobic training in an inpatient rehabilitation setting for patients in the subacute stage of stroke recovery. Key elements of the program were personalized training prescription based on submaximal test results and supervision within a group setting.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study.

Methods

Participants (N=78) completed submaximal exercise testing prior to enrollment, and the test results were used by their treating physical therapists for exercise prescription. Feasibility was evaluated using enrollment, class attendance, adherence to prescription, and participant perceptions.

Results

Overall, 31 patients (40%) were referred to and completed the exercise program. Cardiac comorbidities were the main reason for nonreferral to the fitness group. Program attendance was 77%; scheduling conflicts were the primary barrier to participation. The majority of participants (63%) achieved 20 minutes of continuous exercise by the end of the program. No adverse events were reported, all participants felt they benefited from the program, and 80% of the participants expressed interest in continuing to exercise regularly after discharge.

Limitations

Cardiac comorbidities prevented enrollment in the program for 27% of the admitted patients, and strategies for inclusion in exercise programs in this population should be explored.

Conclusions

This individualized exercise program within a group delivery model was feasible; however, ensuring adequate aerobic targets were met was a challenge, and future work should focus on how best to include individuals with cardiac comorbidities.
Le Bug, vers la gestion commune d'une rivière frontière entre un pays de l'Union européenne, la Pologne, et ses voisins, l'Ukraine et la Biélorussie
Authors: Gaunard-Anderson Marie-France
Published: August 2014

The Western Bug is one of the major border rivers in Central and Eastern Europe. It is the border between Poland and Ukraine and between Poland and Belarus, but at the same time it is one of the European Union's external borders. Despite this particular position and a certain number of political, legal, economic and human barriers, cross-border cooperation is improving in order to preserve water resources and promote better management. This article illustrates the main steps that lead to this cooperation and seeks to analyze whether it will be possible to set up common management of the Bug river basin.

Spanish
El Bug occidental es uno de los ríos más importante en Europa central y oriental ya que sirve como límite entre Polonia y Ucrania, Polonia y Bielorusia, y como frontera externa a la Unión Europea. A pesar de esta situación particular y de los numerosos obstáculos que superar (políticos, jurídicos, económicos y humanos), la cooperación transfronteriza avanza para preservar el recurso agua y gestionar mejor la cuenca hidrográfica del Bug. El artículo presenta las principales etapas de esta cooperación, las medidas implementadas y, analizando los principales obstáculos al establecimiento de una política común, se interroga sobre la posibilidad de una gestión conjunta en la cuenca del Bug.

French
Le Bug occidental est une des principales rivières frontières en Europe centrale et orientale. Elle sert non seulement de limite entre la Pologne et l'Ukraine, la Pologne et la Biélorussie, mais aussi de frontière externe à l'Union européenne. Malgré cette position particulière et les nombreux obstacles à surmonter (politique, juridique, économique et humain), la coopération transfrontalière progresse en vue de préserver la ressource en eau et de mieux gérer le bassin hydrographique du Bug. L'article présente les principales étapes de cette coopération, les moyens mis en œuvre et s'interroge sur la possibilité de gérer en commun le bassin du Bug en analysant les principaux obstacles à la mise en place d'une politique commune.
La Comisión Binacional del Río Paz (El Salvador-Guatemala)
Authors: Herrera Eduardo Rodríguez
Published: August 2014

La cuenca del Río Paz, ubicada entre El Salvador y Guatemala, en América Central, presenta una degradación ambiental severa que, aunado con su condición de zona fronteriza, contribuye con el empobrecimiento de sus habitantes. Esta condición, sumada al acompañamiento de algunas organizaciones de segundo nivel, ha motivado el acercamiento de los actores locales de ambos lados de la frontera para compartir sus problemáticas, construir una visión conjunta y desarrollar acciones compartidas y coordinadas que han permitido desarrollar un músculo organizacional, promover el desarrollo de alianzas estratégicas y avanzar en la consolidación de la gobernanza ambiental transfronteriza, a pesar de la resistencia propia de la inercia política centralizante.
Intramedullary spinal cord abscess and subsequent granuloma formation: a rare complication of vertebral osteomyelitis detected by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Takebe Noriyoshi , Iwasaki Koichi , Hashikata Hirokuni , Toda Hiroki
Published: August 2014

An intramedullary spinal cord abscess, which is usually associated with discitis, is an uncommon but potentially important complication of vertebral osteomyelitis. The authors describe a rare case of an intramedullary conus medullaris abscess and lumbar osteomyelitis sparing the intervertebral discs and without discitis. The patient also developed a granuloma in the cauda equina during treatment. Diffusion-weighted MRI was useful for differentiating the granulomatous lesion from the relapse of infection.

A 65-year-old immunocompetent man with moderately controlled diabetes presented with progressive lowerextremity numbness and weakness with urinary dysfunction. He had progressive paraparesis, bilateral leg paresthesia, and sphincter compromise. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intramedullary ring-enhanced lesion, which was hyperintense on diffusion-weighted images. The lesion, an intramedullary spinal cord abscess, was surgically drained. During antibiotic treatment, serial MRI showed an enlarging enhanced lesion in the cauda equina, and a recurrent infection was suspected. A second-look surgery confirmed the formation of a granuloma and the absence of a relapse of the abscess. Although the enhanced lesion increased in size, its intensity on diffusion-weighted images remained unchanged. After 3 months of antibiotic treatment, all enhanced lesions were diminished.

An intramedullary spinal cord abscess is a rare but important complication of vertebral osteomyelitis, and it requires immediate treatment. Diffusion-weighted MRI was useful for the initial diagnosis as well as for monitoring treatment efficacy.
Decompression and nonfusion dynamic stabilization for spinal stenosis with degenerative lumbar scoliosis
Authors: Lee Soo Eon , Jahng Tae-Ahn , Kim Hyun-Jib
Published: August 2014

Object

Spinal stenosis with degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) mostly occurs in the elderly population (typically > 65 years old), causing pain in the legs and back, claudication, and spinal deformity. The surgical strategy for DLS is controversial concerning the surgical approach, fusion area, decompression area, correction methods, and ideal angle of curve correction. A nonfusion stabilization system with motion preservation has been recently used for degenerative spinal diseases with favorable outcomes. This study attempted to analyze surgical outcomes after decompression and nonfusion stabilization for spinal stenosis with a mild to moderate degree of DLS.

Methods

Twenty-eight patients (21 women and 7 men, with a mean age of 65.3 years) with spinal stenosis and DLS who underwent decompressive surgery and nonfusion stabilization with the Dynesys system were included in this study. Medical records and radiological studies were reviewed to access clinical and radiological outcomes and surgery-related complications.

Results

Fifty-nine segments were decompressed and stabilized without fusion in 28 patients, consisting of 1 segmental stabilization in 8 patients (28.6%, L4–5), 2 segmental stabilizations in 11 patients (39.3%, L3–5), 3 segmental stabilizations in 7 patients (25.0%, L2–5 in 6 patients, L3–S1 in 1 patient), and 4 segmental stabilizations in 2 patients (7.1%, L2–S1 in 1 patient, L1–5 in 1 patient). The mean follow-up period was 30.7 months. Radiologically, the mean lumbar scoliotic angle was 13.7° before surgery, 5.1° at 3 months postoperatively, 3.8° at 12 months postoperatively, 4.2° at 24 months postoperatively, and 3.9° at the last follow-up, which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Lumbar lordosis and range of motion were preserved. The score on the visual analog scale for leg and back pain significantly decreased, and the Oswestry Disability Index significantly improved after surgery. There were no newly developed neurological deficits or aggravation of neurological symptoms. A radiolucent line around the pedicle screw was observed in 4 patients (14.2%) with 5 screws (2.8%).

Conclusions

Adding nonfusion stabilization after decompressive surgery resulted in a safe and effective procedure for elderly patients with lumbar stenosis with a mild to moderate scoliosis angle (< 30°). Statistically significant improvement of the clinical outcome was obtained at the last follow-up evaluation with no progression of the degenerative scoliosis.
Head injuries following television-related accidents in the pediatric population
Authors: Befeler Adam Ross , Daniels David J. , Helms Susan A. , Klimo Paul , Boop Frederick
Published: August 2014

Object

Current data indicate the rate of head injuries in children caused by falling televisions is increasing. The authors describe these injuries and the cost incurred by them.

Methods

In a single-institution retrospective review, all children treated for a television-related injury at LeBonheur Children's Hospital, a Level I pediatric trauma center, between 2009 and 2013 were identified through the institution's trauma registry. The type, mechanism, and severity of cranial injuries, surgical interventions, outcome, and costs were examined.

Results

Twenty-six patients were treated for a television-related injury during the study period. Most injuries (22 cases, 85%) occurred in children aged 2–4 years (mean age 3.3 years), and 19 (73%) of the 26 patients were male. Head injuries occurred in 20 patients (77%); these injuries ranged from concussion to skull fractures and subdural, subarachnoid, and intraparenchymal hemorrhages. The average Glasgow Coma Scale score on admission was 12 (range 7–15), and 3 patients (12%) had neurological deficits. Surgical intervention was required in 5 cases (19%). The majority of patients made a full recovery. There were no deaths. The total cost for television-related injuries was $1.4 million, with an average cost of $53,893 per accident.

Conclusions

A high occurrence of head injuries was seen following television-related accidents in young children. This injury is ideal for a public education campaign targeting parents, health care workers, and television manufacturers.
Ein beliebter Alleskönner steht unter Druck (Essay)
Authors: Leugger-Eggimann Urs
Published: August 2014

Pressures on a multi-talented and beloved habitat (essay)

Animal and plant species in forest habitats are less threatened than those in other habitats. That is to be welcomed, but is no reason to rest on our laurels in self-satisfaction. This forest success story can be explained by the strict forest protection which exists in Switzerland. This model, which has been a success for over 100 years, is under greater and greater pressure. Some politicians and interest groups want to open the forest to residential development. For Pro Natura, a relaxation of forest protection on the Swiss Plateau is out of the question. The same harmful processes which have been responsible for the dramatic loss of agricultural land would be imported to the forest. The fact is that the increase in total Swiss forest area is entirely limited to the mountainous regions, and does not concern the Plateau. It is important, from an ecological and economic point of view, to use some parts of the forest in a sustainable way. However, it is also essential that other parts of the forest are allowed to follow their natural processes. Pro Natura recommends that 10% of the Swiss forest area should be forest nature reserves by 2030, and 8% special forest reserves. A fifth of the forest area can safely be devoted to conservation of biodiversity, while four fifths can be managed according to sustainability criteria.
Seroprevalence of Brucellosis and its Associated Risk Factors in Sheep and Goat in the Farms and Slaughter House in Mymensingh, Bangladesh
Authors: Akhter Laboni , Islam Md Ariful , Das Susanto , Khatun Mst Minara , Islam Md Ariful
Published: August 2014

A cross sectional study was performed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis in sheep and goat on the farms, Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), and animal slaughter house of Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Sera were prepared after collecting blood samples from sheep (n=101) and goat (n=113). Risk factors relating to brucellosis were determined considering the variables generated from a questionnaire. These variables included animals age, sex, pregnancy, and husbandry system. The sera were tested by Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) for the detection of Brucella abortus specific antibodies in sheep and goat. The results revealed that 5.94% (n=6/101) sera of sheep, and 6.19% (n=7/113) sera of goat were positive for brucellosis. Higher prevalence of brucellosis was recorded in female sheep (7.54%) and goat (6.49%) as compared to male sheep (4.16%) and goat (5.50%), respectively. The sheep and goat above two years of age showed higher prevalence of brucellosis (8.69% and 6.45%) as compared to other ages. No risk factor was found to be statistically significant (p>0.05). Data of this study suggest that sheep and goat could be the reservoir hosts of brucellosis that might constitute a hurdle in the controlling of bovine and human brucellosis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v3i1.19778 Microbes and Health, June 2014. 3(1): 25-28
3,2/-Dihydroxyflavone-Treated Pluripotent Stem Cells Show Enhanced Proliferation, Pluripotency Marker Expression, and Neuroprotective Properties
Authors: Han Dawoon , Kim Han Jun , Choi Hye Yeon , Kim Bongwoo , Yang Gwangmo , Han Jihae , Dayem Ahmed Abdal , Lee Hye-Rim , Kim Jin Hoi , Lee Kyung-Mi , Jeong Kyu-Shik , Do Sun Hee , Cho Ssang-Goo
Published: August 2014

Efficient maintenance of the undifferentiated status of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) may be important for preparation of high-quality cell sources that can be successfully used for stem cell research and therapy. Here we tried to identify a compound that can enhance the quality of pluripotent stem cells. Treatment of ESCs and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with 3,2′-dihydroxyflavone (3,2′-DHF) led to increases in cell growth, colony formation, and cell proliferation. Treatment with 3,2′-DHF resulted in high expression of pluripotency markers (OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG) and significant activation (STAT3 and AKT) or suppression (GSK3β and ERK) of self-renewal-related kinases. 3,2′-DHF-treated high-quality pluripotent stem cells also showed enhanced differentiation potential. In particular, treatment of iPSCs with 3,2′-DHF led to elevated expression of ectodermal differentiation markers and improved differentiation into fully matured neurons. Next, we investigated the in vivo effect of 3,2′-DHF-pretreated iPSCs (3,2′-DHF iPSCs) in a peripheral nerve injury model and found that transplantation of 3,2′-DHF iPSCs resulted in more efficient axonal regeneration and functional recovery than in controls. Upon histopathological and gene expression analyses, we found that transplantation of 3,2′-DHF iPSCs stimulated expression of cytokines, such as TNF-α, in the early phase of injury and successfully reduced convalescence time of the injured peripheral nerve, showing an effective neuroprotective property. Taken together, our data suggest that 3,2′-DHF can be used for more efficient maintenance of pluripotent stem cells as well as for further applications in stem cell research and therapy.
Peritoneal Protein Clearance Rather than Faster Transport Status Determines Outcomes in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Rajakaruna Gayathri , Caplin Ben , Davenport Andrew
Published: August 2014

Faster peritoneal transport has been associated with an increased risk of therapy failure and patient mortality. However, faster transport can the result of many factors. Peritoneal protein clearance (PPC) has been proposed to distinguish faster peritoneal transport attributable to inflammatory conditions, as protein clearance reflects large-pore flow, which increases during inflammation. We followed a cohort of 300 peritoneal dialysis patients, and after adjustments for age and comorbidity, higher PPC was associated with increased risk of death (hazard ratio: 1.81; 95% confidence interval: 1.11 to 2.95), even after patients underwent transplantation or transferred to hemodialysis.
Model systems for studying cell adhesion and biomimetic actin networks
Authors: Brüggemann Dorothea , Frohnmayer Johannes P , Spatz Joachim P
Published: August 2014

Many cellular processes, such as migration, proliferation, wound healing and tumor progression are based on cell adhesion. Amongst different cell adhesion molecules, the integrin receptors play a very significant role. Over the past decades the function and signalling of various such integrins have been studied by incorporating the proteins into lipid membranes. These proteolipid structures lay the foundation for the development of artificial cells, which are able to adhere to substrates. To build biomimetic models for studying cell shape and spreading, actin networks can be incorporated into lipid vesicles, too. We here review the mechanisms of integrin-mediated cell adhesion and recent advances in the field of minimal cells towards synthetic adhesion. We focus on reconstituting integrins into lipid structures for mimicking cell adhesion and on the incorporation of actin networks and talin into model cells.
Sowing the Seeds of Change: Social Justice as Praxis in Undergraduate Nursing Education
Authors: Mohammed Selina A. , Cooke Cheryl L. , Ezeonwu Mabel , Stevens Christine A.
Published: August 2014

In undergraduate nursing curricula, the rhetoric of social justice has held more prominence than its operationalization. Although undergraduate education is a prime vehicle for fostering social change, articles that describe social justice as praxis in baccalaureate nursing curricula are relatively uncommon. Addressing this gap, we explain how four RN-to-BSN courses use social justice as a framework for instruction. The first two courses generate emancipatory knowledge and advocacy ideas among students by underscoring how privilege and oppression operate in society, as well as in the production of health inequities. The final two courses demonstrate how partnerships with communities can enhance student knowledge regarding structural barriers to health and health care and lead to actions that target those issues. Despite challenges that exist when implementing curricula on amending health inequities, nurse educators are urged to press onward in planting the seeds of social justice in their classrooms; suggestions are made for accomplishing this goal. [
J Nurs Educ.
2014;53(9):488–493.]
Large serpiginous thrombus straddling the patent foramen ovale and traversing through mitral and tricuspid valves into both ventricles: a therapeutic dilemma of impending paradoxical embolism and recurrent pulmonary embolism.
Authors: Hamirani Yasmin Shamshuddin , Hnatiuk Oleh , Pett Stuart , Roldan Carlos
Published: August 2014

A 51-year-old male with history of resected renal cell carcinoma and prior pulmonary embolism presented with tachypnea, tachycardia and progressive dyspnea on exertion. Chest computed tomography revealed bilateral acute pulmonary embolism. Transthoracic echocardiogram showed severe pulmonary hypertension with severe cor-pulmonale and presence of a large worm-like thrombus extending across the foramen ovale, entering both ventricles through the mitral and tricuspid valves.  The risks of anti-coagulation, pharmacologic thrombolysis, and surgical thrombectomy, in a hemodynamically stable patient, posed a significant therapeutic dilemma.  Ultimately, a collective decision was made to start anticoagulation, without incident. At 1 month follow up, complete resolution of the intracardiac thrombus, pulmonary hypertension, and cor-pulmonale were observed with full clinical recovery of the patient.
La formazione di un’aristocrazia: monache e monasteri femminili a Venezia tra IX e XIII secolo
Authors: Rapetti Anna
Published: August 2014

[it] L’articolo si propone di esaminare il processo di definizione dell’identità del ceto dirigente di Venezia nel periodo IX-XIII secolo e il ruolo occupato dalle relazioni tra le famiglie dell’aristocrazia che costituivano quel ceto e alcuni monasteri femminili. In questa prospettiva, innovativa nell’analisi della formazione dell’aristocrazia di Venezia, si prenderà in esame l’importante monastero femminile di San Zaccaria e si farà inoltre riferimento ad alcuni altri, sorti sulle isole della laguna tra XII e XIII secolo, espressione di un clima religioso e sociale nuovo e particolare. Attraverso l’analisi dei comportamenti adottati dalle famiglie aristocratiche nei confronti di questi monasteri, si dimostra che il ceto dirigente veneziano si servì delle relazioni costanti con le monache come di uno strumento della lotta politica particolarmente utilizzato dalle famiglie dell’aristocrazia della città. Si osserva anche che alcuni monasteri femminili furono a loro volta soggetti attivi nella definizione di un’identità cittadina che coincideva largamente con il suo gruppo dirigente e con l’esercizio del potere.
Dialogar con Dios: el uso de las imágenes en los conventos femeninos de dominicas en la Teutonia bajomedieval
Authors: Jäggi Carola
Published: August 2014

Procedentes de la antigua provincia dominica alto alemana han llegado hasta nosotros algunos Schwesternbücher o Libros de monjas de los siglos XIV y XV que ofrecen interesantes indicaciones sobre el uso que se hacía en los conventos de mujeres de la Baja edad Media de las obras de arte que en ellos se custodiaban. Entre otras cosas se desprende de estas fuentes que las hermanas utilizaban las imágenes no siempre y no sólo como instrumentos de meditación para conmemorar los acontecimientos de la Historia de Salvación, sino sobre todo acudían en tiempos de necesidad a las imágenes de la Madre de Dios y del crucifijo para obtener de ellas consejo y consuelo. Parece por consiguiente que se trata de una forma de comprensión de la imagen que unía el arquetipo original y su representación, “morando” el representado en su imagen. Casos como el de St. Katharinental en el noreste de Suiza, donde además de las fuentes escritas se ha conservado un buen número de tallas del siglo XIV, son especialmente interesantes para esta cuestión.
La princesa ermitana, Elionor d’Urgell
Authors: Vinyoles Vidal Teresa
Published: August 2014

[ca] Presentem una breu biografia d’Elionor d’Urgell, descendent dels reis d’Aragó i dels emperadors de Constantinoble, amb l’objectiu de comprendre especialment la seva opció de vida ermitana duta a terme en la darrera etapa de la seva vida. Elionor va néixer vers 1380, era fi lla del comte Pere d’Urgell i de Margarida de Montferrat. Es va veure immersa en els confl ictes politics i bèl·lics que s’esdevingueren després de la mort del rei Martí I d’Aragó, ja que el seu germà Jaume era un dels pretendents a la corona. Després de l’entronització de Ferran I com a rei (1412) i de la rebel·lió de Jaume d’Urgell, aquest, la seva mare i ella mateixa van ser jutjats i condemnats. Elionor va veure confi scats tots els seus béns i fou exiliada del comtat. Després d’un llarg pelegrinar pel país, amb la seva cunyada i la seva germana, vivint pobrament, lluitant perquè se li tornés alguna part del seu ric patrimoni per poder viure, va decidir apartar-se del món i fer vida d’ermitana en la solitud d’una muntanya abrupta i en un indret poc habitat. Va seguir les petjades d’un penitent, el monjo ermità Pere Marginet, i va fer vida de penitència, dejuni i pregària a l’ermita de Sant Joan de Montblanc i a la cova dita de Nialó, fi ns a la seva mort, esdevinguda l’any 1430 en una epidèmia de pesta.
Marginalia olvidados y tradición manuscrita francesa y latina en Le Mirouer des simples ames de Marguerite Porete
Authors: García Acosta Pablo
Published: August 2014

En las páginas siguientes reivindicamos un retorno crítico al estudio de los manuscritos del libro “herético” escrito por Marguerite dicta Porete (Le Mirouer des simples ames) para estudiar aspectos codicológicos que ni las ediciones estándar ni las traducciones modernas han tenido en cuenta. Para ello, proponemos una serie de análisis del llamado “manuscrito de Chantilly” (Musée Condé, ms. F xiv 26, cat. 157) y de los manuscritos de la tradición latina de la Biblioteca Vaticana (Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana, Vat. Lat. 4355; Cod. Rossianus 4; Cod. Chigianus B IV 41; Cod. Chigianus C IV 85 y Vat. Lat. 4953) basados en las anotaciones marginales (manículas, nota bene e iconografía) que identifican estos libros más como dispositivos de lectura que como meros soportes materiales de un texto. Mostraremos cómo tales elementos nos dotan de información sobre la transmisión del texto y su recepción, considerando las funciones de estas notas como interfaces que dan acceso, evalúan o incluso construyen los sentidos del Espejo.
La ciudad celeste de Hildegard von Bingen
Authors: Cirlot Victoria
Published: August 2014

El artículo comienza con una introducción a la experiencia visionaria de Hildegard según se comprendía en el siglo XII, esto es, como una revelación y una inspiración del Espíritu Santo y por tanto como un acontecimiento que repite el suceso de Pentecostés. Se aborda seguidamente la visión de la ciudad celeste en la obra profética de la santa, en concreto, en Scivias y en Liber Divinorum operum, en la poesía y en la correspondencia, para luego dar entrada a una comparación de esta visión de la ciudad con la visión de la Jerusalén celeste y su función y signifi cado en la cultura medieval. Se concluye con un ejemplo de visión de la ciudad celeste en el siglo XX que proporciona el Libro Rojo de Carl Gustav Jung. Este último punto tiene como objetivo mostrar la supervivencia del tema en la cultura moderna aunque expresado en contextos y lenguajes muy diferentes.
La transformación urbana y territorial de la ciudad de Murcia y su entorno (1977-2010)
Authors: Martí Ciriquián Pablo , Moreno Vicente Elisa
Published: August 2014

La mayoría de las ciudades españolas han desarrollado importantes cambios urbanísticos desde el inicio de la etapa autonómica cuyos resultados han sido, por un lado, la transformación de las ciudades existentes y, por otro, una desmesurada expansión urbana. Sin embargo, en cada una de las ciudades, esos cambios han tenido sus propias características y singularidades. El caso de Murcia y su territorio resulta especialmente interesante al producirse, con cierta intensidad, tres fenómenos de diferente calado afectando a la ciudad central, al espacio periurbano de la huerta y a la creación de nuevas periferias.
Así, en un primer periodo –hasta 1995 aproximadamente– se lleva a cabo la transformación del centro histórico, ofreciendo una nueva imagen de capitalidad; posteriormente, los esfuerzos de transformación territorial y urbana se sitúan en las nuevas periferias de carácter residencial y terciario situadas a cierta distancia de la ciudad tradicional. Y, de manera paralela, se produce la ocupación del espacio agrícola de huerta de manera continua a lo largo de todo el periodo autonómico. La conjugación de estos tres procesos ha desembocado en un nuevo espacio en el que las relaciones territoriales urbanas han cambiado radicalmente.

[fr] La plupart des villes espagnoles ont subi une évolution urbanistique importante depuis l’établissement des gouvernements régionaux –les communautés autonomes en Espagne– dont les résultats ont été, d’une part, la transformation des villes existantes et, d’autre part, l’expansion urbaine excessive. Cependant, dans chacune des villes, ces changements ont eu ses propres caractéristiques et particularités. Le cas de Murcia et son territoire est d’un intérêt particulier, trois différents phénomènes avec une certaine intensité, peuvent être identifie affectant : le centre de la ville, l’espace périurbain du Huerta (jardin potager) et la création de nouvelles périphéries.
Ainsi, ont peu identifié une première période –jusqu’en environ 1995– caractérisé para la transformation du centre historique, offrant une nouvelle image de la ville;
plus tard, les efforts de transformation urbaine et territoriale sont placés dans les nouvelles périphéries, à quelque distance de la ville traditionnelle, avec l’introduction de nouveaux espaces résidentiels et tertiaires. Et parallèlement, l’occupation de l’espace périurbaine agricole se produit en continu tout au long de la période autonome. La combinaison de ces trois processus a entraîné un nouvel espace dans lequel des relations territoriales et urbaines ont radicalement changé.
Quels objets numériques pour accompagner la conception dans des projets d’innovation ?
Authors: Verchère Céline , Collet Laurent
Published: August 2014

Depuis quelques années, les grandes entreprises, notamment celles qui sont engagées dans le numérique, ont renouvelé leur manière de “faire de l’innovation” en prenant en considération les usagers, mais aussi en faisant appel à des compétences nouvelles (sociologie, design, ergonomie). Ce “tournant praticien” n’est pas sans effet sur les pratiques des chercheurs « embarqués” dans ces processus. Notre équipe de recherche s’est penchée sur la question de la représentation et de la circulation de la connaissance dans les projets de conception d’innovations. Il s’agit d’interroger en quoi les différents supports multimedia utilisés peuvent faciliter la formation, la collecte et la transmission de connaissances entre pairs, l’interdisciplinarité, voire la prise en compte de la parole “d’usagers”. Les premiers retours montrent que cette démarche amène les chercheurs à un double travail de création : sur le contenu, et sur la manipulation des supports numériques. Ils font aussi état des difficultés de maîtrise de tels supports. Ainsi, la compétence sémiotique s’avère primordiale afin de penser l’écriture propre à ces supports : la « convergence disciplinaire » devient de fait une nécessité.
L’ameublement et le décor intérieur du salon de Mars (1673-1789)
Authors: Taxil Gaëlle
Published: August 2014

Lorsque le roi et son gouvernement s’installent durablement à Versailles à l’automne 1682, le salon de Mars est la salle des gardes, première pièce de l’appartement du Roi. Alors que Louis XIV n’occupe plus son Grand Appartement et que celui-ci devient un appartement de parade, le salon de Mars, par ses belles dimensions, se voit adjoindre deux tribunes pour les musiciens. La pièce dénommée alors « Salle de bal » dans les inventaires va jouer un rôle central dans le Grand Appartement pendant plus d’un siècle. Quel usage en fait-on ? Quels événements marquants s’y déroulent ? C’est ce que cette étude tente de mettre en lumière dans un premier temps. Le caractère festif du lieu éclaire ainsi d’un autre jour les choix décoratifs qui y furent faits. L’étude des inventaires, du Journal du Garde-Meuble de la Couronne, complétée des descriptions des mémorialistes, permet alors d’avancer des suppositions d’agencement et de distribution des meubles d’étoffes, lumières, tables, guéridons et autres objets décoratifs. Quelques-unes des plus belles pièces du mobilier d’argent y resplendissaient, situant le salon de Mars juste derrière celui d’Apollon dans la hiérarchie du décor. Après la fonte de celui-ci, les brocarts d’or et d’argent et l’éclat du mobilier de bois doré se substituèrent aux reflets de l’argent pour toujours mieux célébrer la pompe et le faste du lieu. C’est dans le respect de cette tradition que Louis XV puis Louis XVI continuèrent à entretenir ici la mémoire de leur aïeul.
Analog Learning Neural Network using Two-Stage Mode by Multiple and Sample Hold Circuits
Authors: Kawaguchi Masashi , Ishii Naohiro , Jimbo Takashi
Published: August 2014

In the neural network field, many application models have been proposed. A neuro chip and an artificial retina chip are developed to comprise the neural network model and simulate the biomedical vision system. Previous analog neural network models were composed of the operational amplifier and fixed resistance. It is difficult to change the connection coefficient. In this study, we used analog electronic multiple and sample hold circuits. The connecting weights describe the input voltage. It is easy to change the connection coefficient. This model works only on analog electronic circuits. It can finish the learning process in a very short time and this model will enable more flexible learning.
The Multi-Agents Architecture for Emotion Recognition
Authors: Néji Mohamed , Wali Ali , Alimi Adel M.
Published: August 2014

The author's research focuses on the problem of Information Retrieval System (IRS) that integrates the human emotion recognition. This system must be able to recognize the degree of satisfaction of the user for the result found through its facial expression, its physiological state, its gestures and its voice. This paper is an algorithm for recognizing the emotional state of a user during a search session in order to issue the relevant documents that the user needs. The authors also present the architecture agent of the envisaged system and the organizational model.
¿Influencias de poder, intervención o cooperación regional? La política exterior chilena en la crisis paraguaya de su centenario (1908-1911)
Authors: Tapia Claudio
Published: August 2014

Entre 1908 y 1911, la estabilidad política paraguaya pasaba por una fuerte crisis causada por una serie de revueltas internas, que repercutieron también en su relación con Argentina. El Estado chileno no quedó ajeno a este proceso, iniciando una campaña de recopilación de información, a la vez que concretaron algunas conversaciones a través de los representantes chilenos en Asunción y Buenos Aires, aunque también en Río de Janeiro, con la finalidad de establecer una estrategia política para colaborar en la solución del proceso. ¿Fue esta una acción premeditada de la política exterior chilena para manifestar su poder en el Cono Sur americano?