bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermetallic Titanium Aluminides as Innovative High Temperature Lightweight Structural Materials – How Materialographic Methods Have Contributed to Their Development
Authors: Clemens H. , Mayer S.
Published: November 2015

The present article is considered the continuation of the two review articles “Intermetallische γ-Titanaluminid-Basislegierungen aus metallographischer Sicht” (“Intermetallic γ titanium aluminide based alloys from a metallographic point of view”) by H. Clemens and F. Jeglitsch in Pract. Metallogr. 37 (2000) 194 – 217 and “Intermetallische γ-Titanaluminid-Basislegierungen aus metallographischer Sicht – eine Fortsetzung” (“Intermetallic γ titanium aluminide based alloy from a metallographic point of view – a continuation”) by H. Clemens and S. Mayer in Pract. Metallogr. 48 (2011) 64 – 100. With reference to a γ TiAl based alloy specifically developed for aircraft engines, the so-called TNM alloy, this third and concluding part describes how materialographic methods, in combination with a targeted use of complementary investigation methods, have contributed to their development, manufacture, and processing, and, eventually, to their industrial launch. In this context, the alloy development strategy is discussed and representative microstructures and nanostructures are shown and described after different processing and heat treatment processes. Selected case studies from materialographic examinations are presented and interpreted using, for each and every of these aspects, approaches from the fields of physical metallurgy und metal physics.
Artificially Increased Yolk Hormone Levels and Neophobia in Domestic Chicks
Authors: Bertin Aline , Arnould Cécile , Moussu Chantal , Meurisse Maryse , Constantin Paul , Leterrier Christine , Calandreau Ludovic
Published: November 2015

In birds there is compelling evidence that the development and expression of behavior is affected by maternal factors, particularly via variation in yolk hormone concentrations of maternal origin. In the present study we tested whether variation in yolk hormone levels lead to variation in the expression of neophobia in young domestic chicks. Understanding how the prenatal environment could predispose chicks to express fear-related behaviors is essential in order to propose preventive actions and improve animal welfare. We simulated the consequences of a maternal stress by experimentally enhancing yolk progesterone, testosterone and estradiol concentrations in hen eggs prior to incubation. The chicks from these hormone-treated eggs (H) and from sham embryos (C) that received the vehicle-only were exposed to novel food, novel object and novel environment tests. H chicks approached a novel object significantly faster and were significantly more active in a novel environment than controls, suggesting less fearfulness. Conversely, no effect of the treatment was found in food neophobia tests. Our study highlights a developmental influence of yolk hormones on a specific aspect of neophobia. The results suggest that increased yolk hormone levels modulate specifically the probability of exploring novel environments or novel objects in the environment.
Quantum Wind Driven Optimization for Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle Path Planning
Authors: Zhou Yongquan , Bao Zongfan , Wang Rui , Qiao Shilei , Zhou Yuxiang
Published: November 2015

Unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) path planning aims to calculate the optimal or suboptimal flight path considering the different threats and constraints under the complex battlefield environment. This flight path can help the UCAV avoid enemy threats and improve the efficiency of the investigation. This paper presents a new quantum wind driven optimization (QWDO) for the path planning of UCAV. QWDO algorithm uses quantum rotation gate strategy on population evolution and the quantum non-gate strategy to realize the individual variation of population. These operations improve the diversity of population and avoid premature convergence. This paper tests this optimization in two instances. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm is feasible in these two cases. Compared to quantum bat algorithm (QBA), quantum particle swarm optimization (QPSO), wind driven optimization (WDO), bat algorithm (BA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and differential evolution (DE), the QWDO algorithm exhibited better performance. The simulation results demonstrate that the QWDO algorithm is an effective and feasible method for solving UCAV path planning.
Distributed Vector Quantization Based on Kullback-Leibler Divergence
Authors: Shen Pengcheng , Li Chunguang , Luo Yiliang
Published: November 2015

The goal of vector quantization is to use a few reproduction vectors to represent original vectors/data while maintaining the necessary fidelity of the data. Distributed signal processing has received much attention in recent years, since in many applications data are dispersedly collected/stored in distributed nodes over networks, but centralizing all these data to one processing center is sometimes impractical. In this paper, we develop a distributed vector quantization (VQ) algorithm based on Kullback-Leibler (K-L) divergence. We start from the centralized case and propose to minimize the K-L divergence between the distribution of global original data and the distribution of global reproduction vectors, and then obtain an online iterative solution to this optimization problem based on the Robbins-Monro stochastic approximation. Afterwards, we extend the solution to apply to distributed cases by introducing diffusion cooperation among nodes. Numerical simulations show that the performances of the distributed K-L–based VQ algorithm are very close to the corresponding centralized algorithm. Besides, both the centralized and distributed K-L–based VQ show more robustness to outliers than the (centralized) Linde-Buzo-Gray (LBG) algorithm and the (centralized) self-organization map (SOM) algorithm.
Neuropeptide Trefoil Factor 3 Reverses Depressive-Like Behaviors by Activation of BDNF-ERK-CREB Signaling in Olfactory Bulbectomized Rats
Authors: Li Jiali , Luo Yixiao , Zhang Ruoxi , Shi Haishui , Zhu Weili , Shi Jie
Published: November 2015

The trefoil factors (TFFs) are a family of three polypeptides, among which TFF1 and TFF3 are widely distributed in the central nervous system. Our previous study indicated that TFF3 was a potential rapid-onset antidepressant as it reversed the depressive-like behaviors induced by acute or chronic mild stress. In order to further identify the antidepressant-like effect of TFF3, we applied an olfactory bulbectomy (OB), a classic animal model of depression, in the present study. To elucidate the mechanism underlying the antidepressant-like activity of TFF3, we tested the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK)-cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein (CREB) signaling in the hippocampus in the process. Chronic systemic administration of TFF3 (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.) for seven days not only produced a significant antidepressant-like efficacy in the OB paradigm, but also restored the expression of BDNF, pERK, and pCREB in the hippocampal CA3. Inhibition of BDNF or extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) signaling in CA3 blocked the antidepressant-like activity of TFF3 in OB rats. Our findings further confirmed the therapeutic effect of TFF3 against depression and suggested that the normalization of the BDNF-ERK-CREB pathway was involved in the behavioral response of TFF3 for the treatment of depression.
Gene Expression Profiles of Main Olfactory Epithelium in Adenylyl Cyclase 3 Knockout Mice
Authors: Wang Zhenshan , Zhou Yanfen , Luo Yingtao , Zhang Jing , Zhai Yunpeng , Yang Dong , Zhang Zhe , Li Yongchao , Storm Daniel , Ma Runlin
Published: November 2015

Adenylyl Cyclase 3 (AC3) plays an important role in the olfactory sensation-signaling pathway in mice. AC3 deficiency leads to defects in olfaction. However, it is still unknown whether AC3 deficiency affects gene expression or olfactory signal transduction pathways within the main olfactory epithelium (MOE). In this study, gene microarrays were used to screen differentially expressed genes in MOE from AC3 knockout (AC3−/−) and wild-type (AC3+/+) mice. The differentially expressed genes identified were subjected to bioinformatic analysis and verified by qRT-PCR. Gene expression in the MOE from AC3−/− mice was significantly altered, compared to AC3+/+ mice. Of the 41266 gene probes, 3379 had greater than 2-fold fold change in expression levels between AC3−/− and AC3+/+ mice, accounting for 8% of the total gene probes. Of these genes, 1391 were up regulated, and 1988 were down regulated, including 425 olfactory receptor genes, 99 genes that are specifically expressed in the immature olfactory neurons, 305 genes that are specifically expressed in the mature olfactory neurons, and 155 genes that are involved in epigenetic regulation. Quantitative RT-PCR verification of the differentially expressed epigenetic regulation related genes, olfactory receptors, ion transporter related genes, neuron development and differentiation related genes, lipid metabolism and membrane protein transport etc. related genes showed that P75NTR, Hinfp, Gadd45b, and Tet3 were significantly up-regulated, while Olfr370, Olfr1414, Olfr1208, Golf, Faim2, Tsg101, Mapk10, Actl6b, H2BE, ATF5, Kirrrel2, OMP, Drd2 etc. were significantly down-regulated. In summary, AC3 may play a role in proximal olfactory signaling and play a role in the regulation of differentially expressed genes in mouse MOE.
Carbon Ion Irradiated Neural Injury Induced the Peripheral Immune Effects in Vitro or in Vivo
Authors: Lei Runhong , Zhao Tuo , Li Qiang , Wang Xiao , Ma Hong , Deng Yulin
Published: November 2015

Carbon ion radiation is a promising treatment for brain cancer; however, the immune system involved long-term systemic effects evoke a concern of complementary and alternative therapies in clinical treatment. To clarify radiotherapy caused fundamental changes in peripheral immune system, examinations were performed based on established models in vitro and in vivo. We found that brain-localized carbon ion radiation of neural cells induced complex changes in the peripheral blood, thymus, and spleen at one, two, and three months after its application. Atrophy, apoptosis, and abnormal T-cell distributions were observed in rats receiving a single high dose of radiation. Radiation downregulated the expression of proteins involved in T-cell development at the transcriptional level and increased the proportion of CD3+CD4−CD8+ T-cells in the thymus and the proportion of CD3+CD4+CD8− T-cells in the spleen. These data show that brain irradiation severely affects the peripheral immune system, even at relatively long times after irradiation. In addition, they provide valuable information that will implement the design of biological-based strategies that will aid brain cancer patients suffering from the long-term side effects of radiation.
Synthesis of Biocompatible Hydroxyapatite Using Chitosan Oligosaccharide as a Template
Authors: Wang Jinyu , Liu Guanxiong , Chen Jinshuai , Zhao Bo , Zhu Peizhi
Published: November 2015

In this study, a novel biocompatible hydroxyapatite (HA) was synthesized by using chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) as a template. These HA samples were studied by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The biocompatibility of HA samples was evaluated via cell viability, cell morphology and alkaline phosphatase staining of MG-63 cell lines. The results show that HA synthesized in the presence of COS was favorable to proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of MG-63 cells. These hydroxyapatites are potentially attractive biomaterials for bone tissue engineering applications.
Order Reconstruction in a Nanoconfined Nematic Liquid Crystal between Two Coaxial Cylinders
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Zhang Zhidong , Zhang Qian , Ye Wenjiang
Published: November 2015

The dynamics of a disclination loop (s = ±1/2) in nematic liquid crystals constrained between two coaxial cylinders were investigated based on two-dimensional Landau–de Gennes tensorial formalism by using a finite-difference iterative method. The effect of thickness (d = R2 − R1, where R1 and R2 represent the internal and external radii of the cylindrical cavity, respectively) on the director distribution of the defect was simulated using different R1 values. The results show that the order reconstruction occurs at a critical value of dc, which decreases with increasing inner ratio R1. The loop also shrinks, and the defect center deviates from the middle of the system, which is a non-planar structure. The deviation decreases with decreasing d or increasing R1, implying that the system tends to be a planar cell. Two models were then established to analyze the combined effect of non-planar geometry and electric field. The common action of these parameters facilitates order reconstruction, whereas their opposite action complicates the process.
The Position of Aβ22-40 and Aβ1-42 in Anionic Lipid Membranes Containing Cholesterol
Authors: Barrett Matthew , Alsop Richard , Hauß Thomas , Rheinstädter Maikel
Published: November 2015

Amyloid-β peptides interact with cell membranes in the human brain and are associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. An emerging explanation of the molecular mechanism, which results in neurodegeneration, places the cause of neurotoxicity of the amyloid- peptides on their potentially negative interaction with neuronal membranes. It is known that amyloid-β peptides interact with the membrane, modifying the membrane’s structural and dynamic properties. We present a series of X-ray diffraction experiments on anionic model lipid membranes containing various amounts of cholesterol. These experiments provide experimental evidence for an interaction of both the full length amyloid-β1-42 peptide, and the peptide fragment amyloid-β22-40 with anionic bilayer containing cholesterol. The location of the amyloid-β peptides was determined from these experiments, with the full length peptide embedding into the membrane, and the peptide fragment occupying 2 positions—on the membrane surface and embedded into the membrane core.
Hydrothermal Conversion of Giant Reed to Furfural and Levulinic Acid: Optimization of the Process under Microwave Irradiation and Investigation of Distinctive Agronomic Parameters
Authors: Antonetti Claudia , Bonari Enrico , Licursi Domenico , Nassi o Di Nasso Nicoletta , Raspolli Galletti Anna
Published: November 2015

The hydrothermal conversion of giant reed (Arundo donax L.) to furfural (FA) and levulinic acid (LA) was investigated in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid. FA and LA yields were improved by univariate optimization of the main reaction parameters: concentration of the acid catalyst, solid/liquid ratio of the reaction mixture, hydrolysis temperature, and reaction time. The catalytic performances were investigated adopting the efficient microwave (MW) irradiation, allowing significant energy and time savings. The best FA and LA yields were further confirmed using a traditionally heated autoclave reactor, giving very high results, when compared with the literature. Hydrolysis temperature and time were the main reaction variables to be carefully optimized: FA formation needed milder reaction conditions, while LA more severe ones. The effect of the crop management (e.g., harvest time) on FA/LA production was discussed, revealing that harvest time was not a discriminating parameter for the further optimization of both FA and LA production, due to the very high productivity of the giant reed throughout the year. The promising results demonstrate that giant reed represents a very interesting candidate for a very high contemporary production of FA and LA of up to about 70% and 90% of the theoretical yields, respectively.
Environmental Entitlements: Institutional Influence on Mangrove Social-Ecological Systems in Northern Vietnam
Authors: Orchard Steven , Stringer Lindsay , Quinn Claire
Published: November 2015

Environment and development issues are complex and interdependent. Institutions underpinning state, private sector and civil society actions at various levels must address complexity to ensure social-ecological system integrity. However, responses often operate at only one governance level, with limited interactions with other levels, restricting their ability to support communities who depend on natural resources for their livelihoods. This paper explores institutional factors influencing household entitlements to mangrove system provisioning goods on Vietnam’s northern coast. The environmental entitlements framework is used to identify: (1) current formal and informal institutional structures relating to mangrove systems; (2) the influence of state, private sector and non-governmental organisation actors at various levels; and (3) how actions occurring at and among various levels of governance shape mangrove system entitlements at the local level. Employing a case study approach, this research utilises qualitative methods and a multi-level governance approach to understand prevailing institutional contexts. Results indicate that reforms occurring within weak regulatory frameworks led to the concentration of power at the meso level, reducing the endowments of marginalized households. Market forces facilitated inequality and environmental degradation, negatively impacting household entitlements. Finally, a lack of formally recognised civil society constrained household capabilities to participate in mangrove planning. Mangrove dependent households must be integrated into mangrove planning at the local level, as processes at higher institutional levels affect household environmental entitlements and threaten sustainable outcomes. Ensuring views from the local level feed into the multi-level governance process is vital.
Enhanced Two-Factor Authentication and Key Agreement Using Dynamic Identities in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Chang I-Pin , Lee Tian-Fu , Lin Tsung-Hung , Liu Chuan-Ming
Published: November 2015

Key agreements that use only password authentication are convenient in communication networks, but these key agreement schemes often fail to resist possible attacks, and therefore provide poor security compared with some other authentication schemes. To increase security, many authentication and key agreement schemes use smartcard authentication in addition to passwords. Thus, two-factor authentication and key agreement schemes using smartcards and passwords are widely adopted in many applications. Vaidya et al. recently presented a two-factor authentication and key agreement scheme for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Kim et al. observed that the Vaidya et al. scheme fails to resist gateway node bypassing and user impersonation attacks, and then proposed an improved scheme for WSNs. This study analyzes the weaknesses of the two-factor authentication and key agreement scheme of Kim et al., which include vulnerability to impersonation attacks, lost smartcard attacks and man-in-the-middle attacks, violation of session key security, and failure to protect user privacy. An efficient and secure authentication and key agreement scheme for WSNs based on the scheme of Kim et al. is then proposed. The proposed scheme not only solves the weaknesses of previous approaches, but also increases security requirements while maintaining low computational cost.
Multiple-Point Temperature Gradient Algorithm for Ring Laser Gyroscope Bias Compensation
Authors: Li Geng , Zhang Pengfei , Wei Guo , Xie Yuanping , Yu Xudong , Long Xingwu
Published: November 2015

To further improve ring laser gyroscope (RLG) bias stability, a multiple-point temperature gradient algorithm is proposed for RLG bias compensation in this paper. Based on the multiple-point temperature measurement system, a complete thermo-image of the RLG block is developed. Combined with the multiple-point temperature gradients between different points of the RLG block, the particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to tune the support vector machine (SVM) parameters, and an optimized design for selecting the thermometer locations is also discussed. The experimental results validate the superiority of the introduced method and enhance the precision and generalizability in the RLG bias compensation model.
Simulated and Real Sheet-of-Light 3D Object Scanning Using a-Si:H Thin Film PSD Arrays
Authors: Contreras Javier , Tornero Josep , Ferreira Isabel , Martins Rodrigo , Gomes Luis , Fortunato Elvira
Published: November 2015

A MATLAB/SIMULINK software simulation model (structure and component blocks) has been constructed in order to view and analyze the potential of the PSD (Position Sensitive Detector) array concept technology before it is further expanded or developed. This simulation allows changing most of its parameters, such as the number of elements in the PSD array, the direction of vision, the viewing/scanning angle, the object rotation, translation, sample/scan/simulation time, etc. In addition, results show for the first time the possibility of scanning an object in 3D when using an a-Si:H thin film 128 PSD array sensor and hardware/software system. Moreover, this sensor technology is able to perform these scans and render 3D objects at high speeds and high resolutions when using a sheet-of-light laser within a triangulation platform. As shown by the simulation, a substantial enhancement in 3D object profile image quality and realism can be achieved by increasing the number of elements of the PSD array sensor as well as by achieving an optimal position response from the sensor since clearly the definition of the 3D object profile depends on the correct and accurate position response of each detector as well as on the size of the PSD array.
C-Anchor for Strengthening the Connection between Adhesively Bonded Laminates and Concrete Substrates
Authors: Razaqpur Ghani , Mostafa Ahmed
Published: November 2015

A new carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) anchor is developed and tested to delay debonding in reinforced concrete (RC) beams externally strengthened with FRP laminate/sheet. The C-shape anchor is made from a commercially available CFRP grid. The anchors legs are 95 mm long while the spacing between the legs is adjustable, depending on FRP laminate and beam widths. Nine full scale RC beams, 3.0 m long, 250 mm wide and 400 mm deep, were strengthened with CFRP laminate/sheet, with and without the C-anchor. The main test parameters were the type and amount of FRP laminate and the presence/absence of the anchor. Test results showed that beams with the anchor had generally 5%–10% higher debonding and failure load, and they reached higher deflection at failure than the companion beams without anchors. Although complete separation of the FRP laminate from the concrete was not observed in any of the beams with anchors, there was noticeable slip at failure at one end of the laminate. A significant outcome of the study is that anchors are effective in limiting the extent of debonding along the laminate, thus contributing to the flexural stiffness of the beam by reducing the extent of cracking and limiting the crack width along the beam. Finally, the anchor allowed the FRP to reach or exceed its theoretically allowable strain computed based on the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Committee 440 recommendation while in none of the beams without anchors, the FRP reached its theoretically allowable strain.
Biological and Enzymatic Characterization of Proteases from Crude Venom of the Ant Odontomachus bauri
Authors: Silva Mariana , Mota Caroline , Miranda Vanessa , Oliveira Cunha Amanda , Silva Maraísa , Naves Karinne , Oliveira Fábio , Silva Deise , Mineo Tiago , Santiago Fernanda
Published: November 2015

Hymenoptera venoms constitute an interesting source of natural toxins that may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. The present study investigated the enzymatic and biological characteristics of the crude venom of the ant Odontomachus bauri. Its crude venom presents several protein bands, with higher staining for six proteins with gelatinolytic activity (17, 20, 26, 29, 43 and 48 kDa). The crude venom showed high proteolytic activity on azocasein at optimal pH 8.0 and 37 °C. In the presence of protease inhibitors as aprotinin, leupeptin and EDTA, the azocaseinolytic activity was reduced by 45%, 29% and 9%, respectively, suggesting that the enzymes present in the crude venom belong to the three classes of proteases, with the serine proteases in greater intensity. The crude venom degraded the fibrinogen α-chain faster than the β-chain, while the fibrinogen γ-chain remained unchanged. In biological assays, O. bauri venom showed hemolytic and coagulant activity in vitro, and defibrinating activity in vivo. In addition, the venom showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as well as antiparasitic activity on Toxoplasma gondii infection in vitro. In that sense, this study sheds perspectives for pharmacological applications of O. bauri venom enzymes.
Technologies for Decentralized Fluoride Removal: Testing Metallic Iron-based Filters
Authors: Ndé-Tchoupé Arnaud , Crane Richard , Mwakabona Hezron , Noubactep Chicgoua , Njau Karoli
Published: November 2015

Since the realization in the 1930s that elevated fluoride concentrations in drinking water can have detrimental effects on human health, new methods have been progressively developed in order to reduce fluoride to acceptable levels. In the developing world the necessity for filtration media that are both low-cost and sourced from locally available materials has resulted in the widespread use of bone char. Since the early 1990s metallic iron (Fe0) has received widespread use as both an adsorbent and a reducing agent for the removal of a wide range of contaminant species from water. The ion-selectivity of Fe0 is dictated by the positively charged surface of iron (hydr)oxides at circumneutral pH. This suggests that Fe0 could potentially be applied as suitable filter media for the negatively charged fluoride ion. This communication seeks to demonstrate from a theoretical basis and using empirical data from the literature the suitability of Fe0 filters for fluoride removal. The work concludes that Fe0-bearing materials, such as steel wool, hold good promise as low-cost, readily available and highly effective decentralized fluoride treatment materials.
The added value of SPECT/spiral CT in patients with equivocal bony metastasis from hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Shi H. , Li B. , Cai L. , Gu Y. , Xiu Y. , Zhang Y.
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incremental value provided by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/spiral computed tomography (CT) over SPECT alone for the evaluation of equivocal bone lesions in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients, methods: This was a retrospective study of 65 patients (61 men and 4 women; mean age, 53.1 ± 10.1 years; age range, 31–78 years) with HCC confirmed by pathology who underwent planar whole body scintigraphy and SPECT/CT. Each lesion was scored visually using a 5-point scale (0, negative; 1, benign; 2, likely benign; 3, likely bone metastasis; 4, bone metastasis). Lesions in which diagnostic confidence was scored as 3 or 4 were categorized into metastases.The final diagnosis of each lesion was based on pathological confirmation or follow-up by whole body scintigraphy and SPECT/spiral CT conducted two or more times. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of SPECT alone and SPECT/CT were computed. Results: The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of SPECT alone were 78.4, 70.9%, 94.9%, 96.8% and 59.7%, respectively. Moreover, for agreement of SPECT alone and the final results, the kappa value was 0.567 (p < 0.001), which was considered to be moderate agreement. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of SPECT/CT were 99.2%, 100%, 97.4%, 98.9% and 100 %, respectively. Furthermore, for agreement of SPECT/CT and the final results, the kappa value was 0.981 (p < 0.001), which was considered to be nearly perfect agreement. Conclusions: SPECT/spiral CT is more accurate and valuable than SPECT alone in the differential diagnosis of equivocal bone lesions in patients with HCC.
Ramadan fasting and infectious diseases: a systematic review
Authors: Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Briki Walid , Khabbache Hicham , Rammouz Ismail , Mnadla Sofiane , Demaj Taned , Zouhir Mohamed
Published: November 2015

Ramadan represents the fourth of the five pillars of the Islamic creed. Although patients are exempted from observing this duty, they may be eager to share this moment of the year with their peers. However, there are no guidelines that can help physicians to address the concerns of patients with infectious diseases fasting during Ramadan. For this purpose, we performed a systematic review. of 51 articles. Our main findings are that: 1) patients suffering from diabetes at risk of developing infectious complications should not fast; 2) Ramadan fasting has little impact on diarrheal patients; 3) HIV represents a challenge, and ad hoc drug combinations should be recommended to patients, and the patients should be advised not to take fatty meals that could interfere with the treatment; 4) Ramadan has no effect on the effectiveness of anti-helminthic therapy; and 5) patients with active ulcers should not fast, as they have a higher probability of developing complications.
Bordetella pertussis diagnosis in children under five years of age in the Regional Hospital of Cajamarca, Northern Peru
Authors: Del Valle-Mendoza Juana , Casabona-Oré Veronica , Petrozzi-Helasvuo Veronica , Cornejo-Tapia Angela , Weilg Pablo , Pons Maria J , Cieza-Mora Erico , Bazán-Mayra Jorge , Cornejo-Pacherres Hernan , Ruiz Joaquin
Published: November 2015

Introduction: Bordetella pertussis is an important human pathogen that causes whooping cough (pertussis), an endemic illness responsible of significant morbidity and mortality, especially in infants and children. Worldwide, there are an estimated of 16 million cases of pertussis, resulting in about 195,000 child deaths per year. In Peru, pertussis is a major health problem that has been on the increase despite immunization efforts. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of B. pertussis among children under five years of age suspected to have whopping cough in Cajamarca, Peru. Methodology: Children diagnosed with whooping cough admitted to the Hospital Regional de Cajamarca from August 2010 to July 2013 were included. Nasopharyngeal samples were obtained for B. pertussis culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection. Results: In 133 children, the pertussis toxin and IS481 gene were detected in 38.35% (51/133) of the cases by PCR, while only 9.02% (12/133) of the Bordetella cultures were positive. The most frequent symptoms in patients with positive B. pertussis were paroxysm of coughing 68.63% (35/51), cyanosis 56.86% (29/51), respiratory distress 43.14% (22/51), and fever 39.22% (20/51). Pneumonia and acute bronchial obstructive syndrome were present in 17.65% (9/51) and 13.72% (7/51) of the cases, respectively. Conclusions: B. pertussis is responsible for an important proportion of whooping cough in hospitalized children in Cajamarca. Epidemiologic surveillance programs for B. pertussis are essential in Peru, especially in children who could most benefit from the vaccine.
Association of blaCTX-M-15 and qnr genes in multidrug-resistant Salmonella Typhimurium and Shigella spp from India
Authors: Muthuirulandi Sethuvel Dhiviya Prabaa , Anandan Shalini , Devanga Ragupathi Naveen Kumar , Veeraraghavan Balaji , Vinod Ohri , Walia Kamini
Published: November 2015

This item has no abstract. Follow the links below to access the full text.
La relation entre le rachat d’actions et la politique des stock-options salariales
Authors: El Houcine Rim , Boubaker Adel
Published: November 2015

Ce papier étudie la relation entre rachat d’action et la politique de stock-options en France. Les théories financières trouvent que les firmes qui offrent des stock-options sont incitées à procéder à des rachats afin d’éviter la dilution liée à l’exercice des options. Un lien positif apparait entre l’exercice futur des stock-options salariales et les rachats. La volonté d’éviter la dilution liée à l’exercice des stock-options peut être ainsi l’un des motifs des rachats.
Learning Aided Digital Image Compression Technique for Medical Application
Authors: Sarma Kandarpa Kumar
Published: November 2015

The explosive growths in data exchanges have necessitated the development of new methods of image compression including use of learning based techniques. The learning based systems aids proper compression and retrieval of the image segments. Learning systems like. Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) have established their efficiency and reliability in achieving image compression. In this work, two approaches to use ANNs in Feed Forward (FF) form and another based on Self Organizing Feature Map (SOFM) is proposed for digital image compression. The image to be compressed is first decomposed into smaller blocks and passed to FFANN and SOFM networks for generation of codebooks. The compressed images are reconstructed using a composite block formed by a FFANN and a Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) based compression-decompression system. Mean Square Error (MSE), Compression ratio (CR) and Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) are used to evaluate the performance of the system.
Attendance, Employability, Student Performance, and Electronic Course Materials
Authors: Sund Kristian J
Published: November 2015

This chapter discusses the possible detrimental effects of low attendance on the achievement of important learning outcomes in terms of “soft” employability-enhancing skills among undergraduate students in business schools, and explores how the use of learning technologies may contribute to high or low class attendance levels. The chapter describes the exploratory results of a survey carried out among final year bachelor students attending a strategic management course, the findings of which suggest that a significant number of students view virtual learning environments as a substitute for lectures. I find only very limited evidence that such students actually attend classes any less than other students do. Furthermore, I find that reasons for non-attendance are similar to those reported in existing literature.
Scholarship of Trans Disciplinary Learning (TDL) as an Innovative Pedagogy in University System
Authors: Rahul Manmohan , Mishra Pratika , Gupta Shikha , Bhandari Jitender
Published: November 2015

Pedagogy in higher education is evolving by adopting and testing multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary pedagogy to make their students more knowledgeable and also more employable in industry. The pedagogy of Trans disciplinary is established as a project based and research oriented approach which is adopted by a private university in Haryana by the name of Star University which was established in 2012 as per UGC guidelines. The Star University management is dedicated to providing an advanced quality of education and so with the above ideology in mind they have incorporated Transdisciplinary learning as part of their basic curriculum. It is done in the form of a project wherein students are asked to take a project each semester from a pool of courses that have been designed and defined for every semester. The result makes the author believe that Trans disciplinary pedagogy is successful.
An Innovative Approach to Cultivate Responsible Next Generation Leaders
Authors: Heaton Dennis P.
Published: November 2015

The next generation of business leaders aspires to integrate financial success with social and environmental responsibility. A fundamental enabler of more enlightened business practice is a change of consciousness toward the compassion, comprehension, and courage needed to conduct business in a way that leads to sustainability and thriving. This chapter presents the system of Consciousness-Based Education (CBE), which incorporates the Transcendental Meditation program. CBE as practiced at Maharishi University of Management is an innovative approach of management education which integrates experiential, intellectual, pedagogical, and environmental features all aimed at developing students toward enlightened consciousness. Empirical evidence on the effects of this educational approach includes cognitive, moral, and emotional development and brain integration. This growth of consciousness gives rise to responsible business leadership to create shared value that integrates the interests of shareholders and stakeholders.
Learning and Knowing
Authors: Nandi Roopa , Simm David
Published: November 2015

This chapter aims to establish a clear distinction between learning and knowing. The chapter states that, in higher education learning, facilitates transfer of knowledge and builds the proposition that in higher education, learning essentially takes place when students construct meaning from various instructional messages. The authors build the discussion using literature and illustrate the argument using two cases to substantiate how learning and knowing are two different aspects. They argue that learning and knowing cannot be used interchangeably. The aim of higher education is to prepare students for the real world and the classroom is the simulated environment where students collaborate and learning facilitates transfer of knowledge.
Innovative Andragogy
Authors: Tandon Kamal
Published: November 2015

This chapter attempts to explain the management andragogies in use and demonstrate the paradigm shift to heutagogy by putting forth some of the innovative methods in their nascent stage in b-schools today. Previously college students learned from reading an assigned textbook, attending class, listening to the professor's lecture, and occasionally through research for term papers. Different methods are adopted to teach Management today ranging from tradition to co-operative and constructive methods. Use of art and literature is also a new trend. The focus, today now it has shifted from what the teacher can teach to what the learner can learn. Management concepts are continuously evolving. Consequently there is a need to develop in students the ability to sort through issues that resist discrete, pre-formulated solutions.
Preparing for Information Technology Driven Changes
Authors: Jha Davendranath G
Published: November 2015

For a business, profitability and positioning are two most important measurable end results. Technology advancement and digitization highly influences the change management process. Innovation is key to survival and information technology is expected to act as a cause as well as tool for change. The changing business environment demands well-thought of approach towards change management. The focus area being: reasoning the need for change, different ways for approaching the change, continuously fine tuning processes and analyzing what works and what not. The chapter aims at identifying drivers and inhibitors of change, preparation and establishing parameters needed for measuring change, importance of role played by change agents and change leaders, approaches for strategic execution and evaluation of change process. Besides, the chapter focuses on comparing acquiring of IT infrastructure with options for outsourcing.
A Comparison of the Digital Divide Across Three Countries with Different Development Indices
Authors: Chang Younghoon , Kim Hyerin , Wong Siew Fan , Park Myeong-Cheol
Published: November 2015

The digital divide between countries is a critical phenomenon that places developing countries in a disadvantaged position economically, politically, and socially. While the phenomenon has drawn the attention of many, a theoretical account using empirical test of primary data is lacking. Building on a three-level digital divide framework, this study tested the effect of country development index on three levels of the digital divide. Survey data from university students in Cambodia, Iran, and South Korea show that country development index has a significant effect on all three levels of the digital divide. While the countries differ on the hedonic values of IT use, there is no significant difference in the utilitarian values of IT use. Korea, being a developed country also differs significantly from Cambodia and Iran in the digital access divide, digital capability divide, and digital usage divide. The results have important implications for companies as well as government policy-making and intervention programs.
Influence Mechanisms That Leverage Participation Quality in a Professional Virtual Community
Authors: Shih Hung-Pin , Huang Echo
Published: November 2015

Despite the considerable attention paid to the determinants of participation (e.g., time spent and visit frequency) in professional virtual communities (PVCs), what and how to enhance participation quality have seldom been addressed. Participation quality is an affective outcome of social emotion for assessing the success of a PVC. By using the social-relationship perspective, this work develops a theoretical model based on relationship commitment and social psychology theories to examine how dedication-constraint mechanisms influence participation quality in a PVC. Empirical results of a PVC demonstrate that the dedication-based mechanisms (i.e. affective commitment and normative commitment) are more salient than the constraint-based mechanism (i.e. calculative commitment) to leverage participation quality. Additionally, identity-based attachment influences participation quality more than bond-based attachment does. Interestingly, the constraint-based mechanism positively affects identity-based attachment, yet negatively affects bond-based attachment to a virtual community.
Effectiveness of the credit-line approach for support of CD4 equipment functionality in northern Uganda
Authors: Kasusse Michael L. , Tumwesigye Nazarius M. , Aisu Steven , Matovu Joseph K.B. , Wanyenze Rhoda
Published: November 2015

Background: Improving laboratory service delivery requires a functioning logistics and supply system. Uganda’s Ministry of Health uses the credit-line approach to provide laboratory supplies including commodities for CD4 test equipment.Objectives: We examined the effectiveness of the credit-line approach in improving laboratoryservice delivery by using the functionality of CD4 test equipment as a proxy indicator.Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at 7 level-three health centres (HC IIIs), 18 level-four health centres (HC IVs), and 10 hospitals in 15 districts of mid-northern Uganda, including the Lango (17 facilities) and Acholi sub-regions (18 facilities), between July 2013 and August 2013. Functionality, was determined through self- and interviewer-administered questionnaires. The chi-squared test was used to assess differences in functionality by subregion, facility type, and equipment type.Results: A total of 38 CD4 test analysers were assessed. Of these, 26 (68%) were functional. In hospitals, 85% of CD4 analysers were functional, in HC IVs, 67% were functional and in HCIIIs, 43% were functional. The differences did not reach statistical significance. In the Langosub-region, 72% of analysers were functional; in the Acholi sub-region, 65% were functional. Non-functionality was mainly due to lack of reagents and cartridges, as well as low staffing levels of laboratory technicians with the skills necessary to operate the equipment.Conclusion: The credit-line approach supported the functionality of CD4 equipment in the surveyed facilities. However, there is a need to address issues of staffing and availability of reagents to enhance the functionality of CD4 equipment and improve patient care, especiallyat HC IIIs.
Godsspraak als drijfveer, standaard en model voor gebed bij Clemens van Rome aan de Corinthieërs
Authors: Zuiddam Benno A.
Published: November 2015

Die eerste brief van Clemens Romanus aan die Korintiërs vertoon ‘n afhankelikheid van heilige Skrif en gebed. In die konteks van hierdie vroegchristelike brief is dit die Skrif wat gebed bevorder en vorm gee. Clemens het vir sy kennis van God staatgemaak op God se skriftelike openbaring, aangesien hy die Skrif beskou as Godsspraak in terme van inhoud en gesag. Die kerkvader nader God daarvolgens in sy gebedsantwoord op die Skrif. Die doel van gebed by die kerkvader is onder meer gerig daarop dat menslike gedrag gehoorsaamheid moet vertoon aan God se geopenbaarde Woord. Die vorm van gebed in Clemens se eerste brief aan die Korintiërs is dan ook grootliks aan die Skrif ontleen, beid ein die woorde en uitdrukkings wat hy hanteer. Die agenda en die inhoudspunte van gebede in hierdie vroegchristelike brief word ook deur die heilige Skrifte bepaal. Op hierdie wyse is Godsspraak dryfveer, standaard en model vir gebed by dié kerkvader.Clement of Rome’s letter to the Corinthians shows an interdependence of holy Scripture and prayer. In the context of this early Christian epistle, Divine revelation, primarily through Scripture, takes on an initiatory role for prayer. Clement considers the Scriptures as oracles of God in terms of their contents and authority. In his prayer-response to Scripture, both for contents and words, Clement shows himself inspired by holy Scripture. Consequently, Clement’s prayer is aimed at conformity of human behaviour to what he considers God’s revealed standards. As to the format of prayer in Clement to the Corinthians, words and expressions are largely borrowed from the sacred Scriptures. The agenda and themes of prayer in this letter are set by holy Writ as well, reinforcing the role of Scripture as initiator, standard and prototype for prayer, as the early church father reaches out to God.
From ‘government’ to ‘governance’: Tensions in disaster-resilience leadership in Zimbabwe
Authors: Bongo Pathias P. , Manyena Siambabala B.
Published: November 2015

This article examines the challenges that disaster leadership faces to move away from a top-down, command-and-control style to distributed leadership. The article challenges the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction which appears to be silent on leadership and instead emphasises ‘good governance’ to enhance organisational and institutional capacity for disaster resilience. We posit that leadership is an indispensable component of good governance, and not emphasising it could be tantamount to a gross underestimation of disaster policy and practice. Using the data from participatory action research that was conducted in Matabeleland South Province, Zimbabwe, the findings reveal some tensions in shifting from command and control to distributed leadership in disaster-risk reduction, which has implications for the shift from government to governance in disaster risks. More importantly, this study reiterates the blurred distinctions between disaster-risk reduction and sustainable development. Thus, unless well-known, sustainable development challenges are addressed – particularly community-based leadership, good governance, the integration of local knowledge, empowerment and ownership of development programmes – shifting from government to disaster governance is likely to continue facing challenges.