Adjustment and Completion of BASNEF Model to Provide a New Model for Educating Large Populations in Relation to Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

Background: Educational models that have been created for educating small populations do not have enough efficacy for educating large populations, so based on this premise and also high prevalence of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) in the Islamic Republic of Iran and lack of efficient methods for CL control, this study was designed and done with the aim of applying BASNEF model to provide a new model for educating large populations in relation to Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. Methods: In a quasi-experimental study, 60 Volunteer Health Workers (VHWS) and 120 households that were resident in endemic areas of CL in Yazd were selected through census and multi-stage sampling method, respectively. Then, educational intervention was designed and implemented on the basis of BASNEF model. After educating VHWS based on BASNEF model, they were asked to educate households on the basis of BASNEF model. Before and after 3 months of VHWS training activities, data were collected in intervention and control groups via valid and reliable questionnaires and were analyzed with the SPSS software. Results: The mean score of knowledge, attitude, behavioral intention, enabling factors, behaviors and influence of subjective norms after educational intervention in households in experimental were significantly increased (P<0.05) while the changes in control group were not significant. Conclusions: This educational program led to empowering of VHWS and a change in their educational behavior which in turn led to preventive measures in households under study region. It can be concluded that the new educational model presented in this research, formed based on the BASNEF model, is able to educate a large population. Keywords: BASNEF Model, Volunteer Health Workers, Health Education, Cutaneous Leishmaniasi

Attenuation of morphine physical dependence and blood levels of cortisol by central and systemic administration of ramelteon in rat

Background: Chronic administration of morphine cause physical dependence but the exact mechanism of this phenomenon remains unclear. The aim of this study is the assessment of systemic and intracerebroventricular (icv) administration of ramelteon (a melatonin receptor agonist) on morphine physical dependence. Methods: 88 adult male rats were divided into 2 major groups, namely �systematic� and �central� administration of ramelteon. In the first category, systemic administration of ramelteon at various dosages (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) was assessed on dependent animals and withdrawal signs were compared with positive (received morphine and saline as systemic administration), negative control (saline) and group under treatment by ramelteon (40 mg/kg) groups. In the second category, central administration of ramelteon at various dosages (25, 50, or 100 μg,) was assessed on dependent animals and withdrawal signs were compared with the positive control (received morphine and saline as icv) and negative control (saline) groups, and the group under treatment by ramelteon (50 μg/5 μl/rat). On the test day, all animals received naloxone (3 mg/kg) and were observed for withdrawal signs. Total withdrawal score (TWS) was also determined. Finally, to evaluate the stress level of dependent rats, blood cortisols were measured. Results: Central administration of ramelteon in all doses and systemic administration in high doses attenuate withdrawal syndrome in comparison with the dependent positive control group (P<0.05). Both central and systemic administrations of ramelteon can attenuate the blood cortisol level in comparison with the dependent positive control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, we found that central administration of ramelteon attenuated morphine withdrawal symptoms and cortisol level as a stress marker. © 2015 Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved

Configurable unitary transformations and linear logic gates using quantum memories

We show that a set of optical memories can act as a configurable linear optical network operating on frequency-multiplexed optical states. Our protocol is applicable to any quantum memories that employ off-resonant Raman transitions to store optical information in atomic spins. In addition to the configurability, the protocol also offers favourable scaling with an increasing number of modes where N memories can be configured to implement an arbitrary N-mode unitary operations during storage and readout. We demonstrate the versatility of this protocol by showing an example where cascaded memories are used to implement a conditional CZ gate.Comment: 5 pages, 2 figure

Paper and Fiber-Based Bio-Diagnostic Platforms: Current Challenges and Future Needs

In this perspective article, some of the latest paper and fiber-based bio-analytical platforms are summarized, along with their fabrication strategies, the processing behind the product development, and the embedded systems in which paper or fiber materials were integrated. The article also reviews bio-recognition applications of paper/fiber-based devices, the detected analytes of interest, applied detection techniques, the related evaluation parameters, the type and duration of the assays, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. Moreover, some of the existing challenges of utilizing paper and/or fiber materials are discussed. These include control over the physical characteristics (porosity, permeability, wettability) and the chemical properties (surface functionality) of paper/fiber materials are discussed. Other aspects of the review focus on shelf life, the multi-functionality of the platforms, readout strategies, and other challenges that have to be addressed in order to obtain reliable detection outcomes. Keywords: paper-based bio-analytical devices; shelf life; equipment-free bio-recognition; flow rate; readout strategies; multi-functional platform

Unconventional resource's production under desorption-induced effects

AbstractThousands of horizontal wells are drilled into the shale formations across the U.S. and hydrocarbon production is substantially increased during past years. This fact is accredited to advances obtained in hydraulic fracturing and pad drilling technologies. The contribution of shale rock surface desorption to production is widely accepted and confirmed by laboratory and field evidences. Nevertheless, the subsequent changes in porosity and permeability due to desorption combined with hydraulic fracture closures caused by increased net effective rock stress state, have not been captured in current shale modeling and simulation. Hence, it is essential to investigate the effects of induced permeability, porosity, and stress by desorption on ultimate hydrocarbon recovery.We have developed a numerical model to study the effect of changes in porosity, permeability and compaction on four major U.S. shale formations considering their Langmuir isotherm desorption behavior. These resources include; Marcellus, New Albany, Barnett and Haynesville Shales. First, we introduced a model that is a physical transport of single-phase gas flow in shale porous rock. Later, the governing equations are implemented into a one-dimensional numerical model and solved using a fully implicit solution method. It is found that the natural gas production is substantially affected by desorption-induced porosity/permeability changes and geomechancis. This paper provides valuable insights into accurate modeling of unconventional reservoirs that is more significant when an even small correction to the future production prediction can enormously contribute to the U.S. economy

People’s perspectives and expectations on preparedness against earthquakes: Tehran case study

Background: Public education is one of the most important elements of earthquake preparedness. The present study identifies methods and appropriate strategies for public awareness and education on preparedness for earthquakes based on people’s opinions in the city of Tehran. Method: This was a cross-sectional study and a door-to-door survey of residents from 22 municipal districts in Tehran, the capital city of Iran. It involved a total of 1 211 individuals aged 15 and above. People were asked about different methods of public information and education, as well as the type of information needed for earthquake preparedness. Results: “Enforcing the building contractors’ compliance with the construction codes and regulations” was ranked as the first priority by 33.4% of the respondents. Over 70% of the participants (71.7%) regarded TV as the most appropriate means of media communication to prepare people for an earthquake. This was followed by “radio” which was selected by 51.6% of respondents. Slightly over 95% of the respondents believed that there would soon be an earthquake in the country, and 80% reported that they obtained this information from “the general public”. Seventy percent of the study population felt that news of an earthquake should be communicated through the media. However, over fifty (58%) of the participants believed that governmental officials and agencies are best qualified to disseminate information about the risk of an imminent earthquake. Just over half (50.8%) of the respondents argued that the authorities do not usually provide enough information to people about earthquakes and the probability of their occurrence. Besides seismologists, respondents thought astronauts (32%), fortunetellers (32.3%), religious figures (34%), meteorologists (23%), and paleontologists (2%) can correctly predict the occurrence of an earthquake. Furthermore, 88.6% listed aid centers, mosques, newspapers and TV as the most important sources of information during the aftermath of an earthquake, Discussion: A participatory approach to earthquake-preparedness planning is recommended. This would ensure that program planners use methods, tools, media, and educational materials that are compatible with the culture, needs, and skills of the local communities. Conclusion: The findings of this study also reveal methods and tools that the local community considers to be most effective for earthquake-preparedness planning and management. The development of an earthquake-resistance and a safe community requires a high level of collaboration between broadcasting organizations, seismologists, experts in the disaster-preparedness field, as well as the local community. This will allow for timely planning, development, and dissemination of essential information to all stakeholders including the local communities

Attenuation of morphine withdrawal syndrome by various dosages of curcumin in comparison with clonidine in mouse: Possible mechanism

Background: Herbal medical compounds and their major constituent have been used in the management and treatment of opioid withdrawal syndrome and pain. This study was carried out to clarify the effect of curcumin, the major compound of turmeric, on morphine withdrawal syndrome in mouse model and its possible mechanisms of pain relieving activity by assessing in writhing test as a model of visceral pain. Methods: Due to two separate protocols (withdrawal syndrome and pain), 144 male albino mice were divided in two major groups. In withdrawal syndrome group, test effect of various dosages of curcumin (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) was assessed on withdrawal signs and compared with positive and negative control and standard treatment (clonidine 0.4 mg/kg) groups. In pain groups, to determine the mechanism of pain relieving activity of curcumin, various dosages of curcumin (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) in three separated groups, were used against acetic acid induced writhing (which is a constriction) test. The most effective dose (40 mg/kg) was used in writhing test and compared with groups pretreated with antagonist of major neurotransmitters involved in pain; and compared with group pretreated with vehicle (DMSO, 0.05) as control. Results: Curcumin attenuates withdrawal syndrome in a dose dependent manner in comparison with the dependent positive control group (P<0.05). It also indicated that pretreatment with naloxone and cyproheptadine significantly attenuate antinociception effect of curcumin (P<0.05). Conclusion: This study advocate that antinociception of curcumin was mediated by opioidergic and adrenergic system. © 2015, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved

Behaviour of reinforced concrete slabs flexurally strengthened using NSM technique with prestressed CFRP laminate

Neste trabalho apresenta-se um programa experimental que foi realizado para avaliar o comportamento de lajes de betão armado reforçadas à flexão usando a técnica NSM com laminados de CFRP pré-tensionados. No total foram testadas quatro lajes de betão armado: a de referência sem CFRP, e três reforçadas à flexão usando a técnica NSM com laminados de CFRP pré-tensionados, diferenciadas pela percentagem de pré-tensão nos laminados de CFRP: 0%, 20% e 40% da capacidade máxima resistente à tração do CFRP. As lajes tinham uma percentagem de armadura longitudinal de cerca de 0.35% e a percentagem de reforço de CFRP adotada foi de aproximadamente 0.08%. Os resultados obtidos são apresentados e analisados em termos do comportamento estrutural das lajes ensaiadas, modos de rotura e desempenho da técnica NSM com laminados de CFRP pré-tensionados.To investigate the behaviour of RC slabs flexurally strengthened using NSM technique with prestressed CFRP laminates, an experimental program was carried out. A total of four RC slabs were tested, a reference slab (without CFRP), and three slabs flexurally strengthened using NSM CFRP laminates with different prestress level: 0%, 20% and 40% of the ultimate tensile strength of the CFRP material. The tested slabs have a percentage of longitudinal tensile steel bars of about 0.35%, while the CFRP strengthening percentage is approximately 0.08%. The obtained results are presented and analysed in terms of the structural behaviour of the RC slabs, failure modes and performance of the NSM technique with prestressed CFRP laminates.Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT

Flexural strengthening of reinforced low strength concrete slabs using prestressed NSM CFRP laminates

The effectiveness of the Near Surface Mounted (NSM) technique with prestressed CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer) laminates for the flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) slabs of low strength concrete was assessed. Four RC slabs were tested, a reference slab (without CFRP), and three slabs flexurally strengthened using NSM CFRP laminates with different prestress level of the ultimate tensile strength of the CFRP: 0%, 20% and 40%. The experimental program is described and the main results are presented and analyzed in terms of the structural behavior of the RC slabs, failure modes and performance of the NSM technique with prestressed CFRP laminates. The results show that prestressing CFRP laminates with NSM technique is an effective technology to increase cracking, service, yielding and maximum loads of RC slabs made by low strength concrete. By applying NSM CFRP laminates prestressed at 20%, the cracking, service and maximum loads have increased, respectively, 258%, 123% and 125%, when the corresponding values of the reference slab are taken for comparison purposes, while 400%, 190% and 134% were the increase when applying laminates prestressed at 40%. Using available experimental results obtained with the same test setup, but using RC slabs of higher strength concrete, it can be concluded that as minimum is the concrete strength as more effective is the NSM technique with prestressed CFRP laminates in terms of serviceability limit states. A numerical strategy was used to evaluate the load-deflection of the tested RC slabs and to highlight the influence of the percentage of CFRP, the percentage of tensile longitudinal bars and the elasticity modulus of the CFRP on the effectiveness of the NSM technique with prestressed CFRP laminates for the flexural strengthening of RC slabs, by performing a parametric study.The authors wish to acknowledge the support provided by the “Empreiteiros Casais” and S&P. This work was supported by FEDER funds through the Operational Program for Competitiveness Factors - COMPETE and National Funds through FCT - Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology under the project Prelami PTDC/ECM/114945/2009. The first authors acknowledge the grant provided under the framework of this project

Hard-wall Potential Function for Transport Properties of Alkali Metals Vapor

This study demonstrates that the transport properties of alkali metals are determined principally by the repulsive wall of the pair interaction potential function. The (hard-wall) Lennard-Jones(15-6) effective pair potential function is used to calculate transport collision integrals. Accordingly, reduced collision integrals of K, Rb, and Cs metal vapors are obtained from Chapman-Enskog solution of the Boltzman equation. The law of corresponding states based on the experimental-transport reduced collision integral is used to verify the validity of a LJ(15-6) hybrid potential in describing the transport properties. LJ(8.5-4) potential function and a simple thermodynamic argument with the input PVT data of liquid metals provide the required molecular potential parameters. Values of the predicted viscosity of monatomic alkali metals vapor are in agreement with typical experimental data with the average absolute deviation 2.97% for K in the range 700-1500 K, 1.69% for Rb, and 1.75% for Cs in the range 700-2000 K. In the same way, the values of predicted thermal conductivity are in agreement with experiment within 2.78%, 3.25%, and 3.63% for K, Rb, and Cs, respectively. The LJ(15-6) hybrid potential with a hard-wall repulsion character conclusively predicts best transport properties of the three alkali metals vapor.Comment: 21 pages, 5 figures, 41 reference