bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Application Conditions of Solvent Injection Into Oil Sands To Minimize the Effect of Asphaltene Deposition: An Experimental Investigation
Authors: Moreno-Arciniegas L.. , Babadagli T..
Published: August 2014

Solvent injection into heavy-oil reservoirs is quite complex because of the asphaltene destabilization that occurs because of the changes in temperature, pressure, and solvent type dissolved in oil. As a result of this destabilization, the asphaltene flocculates, agglomerates, and eventually plugs the pores in the reservoir because of the formation of asphaltene clusters. In solvent applications, light-molecular-weight hydrocarbon solvents are preferred because of their high diffusion coefficient; however, as the carbon number of n-alkane solvents decreases, asphaltene precipitation increases. Therefore, the selection of the solvent and application condition is highly critical in cold and thermally aided solvent applications.

In this research, low-carbon-number n-alkane (propane, n-hexane, and n-decane) and a distillate-hydrocarbon (obtained from a heavy-oil-upgrading facility) injection into glass-bead-pack systems saturated with heavy oil (87,651 and 20,918 cp at 25°C) were evaluated at different pressure conditions that are applicable to typical Canadian oil-sand reservoirs (698–2068 kPa) and temperatures (25–120°C). First, the asphaltene behavior of different solvents at different pressures and temperatures was studied through deasphalting work in a pressure/volume/temperature (PVT) cell in previous work [Moreno and Babadagli (2013)]. By use of quantitative (amount of asphaltene precipitated) and qualitative (microscopic images of asphaltene clusters) observations, asphaltenes were classified in terms of their shape, size, and quantity for different oil/solvent types, pressure, and temperature.

Continually, the same n-alkane, distillate-hydrocarbon solvents, and heavy oil were used in gravity-stable-displacement glass-bead-pack experiments. 3-D (cylindrical) glass-bead-pack experiments were carried out at the same temperature and pressure conditions used for the PVT experiments. The operational conditions, oil composition, and solvent type showed significant effects on oil-recovery factor. Asphaltene deposition and residual oil saturation (ROS) in the glass-bead pack and the amount of asphaltene in the produced oil were measured, and the standard saturate, aromatic, resin, and asphaltene (SARA) analysis was applied to determine the optimal operating conditions yielding the highest recoveries with minimal pore plugging. Moreover, the pore-plugging process was analyzed through a visual scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical microscope to find the different organic deposition formation and agglomeration. Oil production was evaluated by use of microscope visualization, viscosity reduction, and refractive-index values. Eventually, optimal application conditions for solvent and thermally aided solvent injection were listed for a wide range of heavy-oil and solvent types.
Digital Image Analysis and Spectral Reflectance to Determine Turfgrass Quality
Authors: Leinauer Bernd , VanLeeuwen Dawn M. , Serena Matteo , Schiavon Marco , Sevostianova Elena
Published: August 2014

The limitations of the conventional visual rating system used to assess turfgrass quality include its subjective nature and the need for properly trained observers who can discern differences among treatments or turfgrass varieties. The objective of our study was to investigate if digital image analysis (DIA) and spectral reflectance [normalized difference vegetative index (NDVI)] can be used to evaluate turfgrass varieties. Trials were established at New Mexico State University and visual quality ratings, digital images, and NDVI were collected monthly on three warm‐season and three cool‐season variety trials and on one cool‐season and one warm‐season mixed species trial. Correlations among quality, NDVI, dark green color index (DGCI) and percent green cover (PCov) were computed. Multiple regression was used to determine if combining NDVI and DIA improved the association between visual turfgrass quality and other variables. Quality was most strongly associated with NDVI (R2 ranging from 0.37 to 0.65) for most datasets. Additionally, multiple linear regressions identified NDVI as the variable affecting a higher change in R2 when entered to the model than either DGCI or PCov. Visual quality had a weaker association with sampling date than did NDVI or DGCI, which indicates that NDVI may track quality changes more reliably over time. However, a stronger association between variety and visual quality than between variety and NDVI or DGCI indicates that a visual assessment detects varietal differences better. Therefore, it is questionable whether visual assessments can be replaced by NDVI or DIA to characterize the aesthetic appeal of turfgrasses accurately.
Q fever epidemic in Hungary, April to July 2013
Authors: Gyuranecz M , Sulyok K M , Balla E , Mag T , Balázs A , Simor Z , Dénes B , Hornok S , Bajnóczi P , Hornstra H M , Pearson T , Keim P , Dán A
Published: August 2014

We investigated a Q fever outbreak with human patients showing high fever, respiratory tract symptoms, headache and retrosternal pain in southern Hungary in the spring and summer of 2013. Seventy human cases were confirmed by analysing their serum and blood samples with micro-immunofluorescence test and real-time PCR. The source of infection was a merino sheep flock of 450 ewes, in which 44.6% (25/56) seropositivity was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Coxiella burnetii DNA was detected by real-time PCR in the milk of four of 20 individuals and in two thirds (41/65) of the manure samples. The multispacer sequence typing examination of C. burnetii DNA revealed sequence type 18 in one human sample and two manure samples from the sheep flock. The multilocus variable-number tandem repeat analysis pattern of the sheep and human strains were also almost identical, 4/5-9-3-3-0-5 (Ms23-Ms24-Ms27-Ms28-Ms33-Ms34). It is hypothesised that dried manure and maternal fluid contaminated with C. burnetii was dispersed by the wind from the sheep farm towards the local inhabitants. The manure was eliminated in June and the farm was disinfected in July. The outbreak ended at the end of July 2013.
Posterior fixation without debridement for vertebral body osteomyelitis and discitis
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed S. , Yoo Jung , Hart Robert , Ragel Brian T. , Hiratzka Jayme , Hamilton D. Kojo , Barnes Penelope D. , Ching Alexander C.
Published: August 2014

Object

The authors evaluated the efficacy of posterior instrumentation for the management of spontaneous spinal infections. Standard surgical management of spontaneous spinal infection is based on debridement of the infected tissue. However, this can be very challenging as most of these patients are medically debilitated and the surgical debridement requires a more aggressive approach to the spine either anteriorly or via an expanded posterior approach. The authors present their results using an alternative treatment method of posterior-only neuro-decompression and stabilization without formal debridement of anterior tissue for treating spontaneous spinal infection.

Methods

Fifteen consecutive patients were treated surgically by 2 of the authors. All patients had osteomyelitis and discitis and were treated postoperatively with intravenous antibiotics for at least 6 weeks. The indications for surgery were failed medical management, progressive deformity with ongoing persistent spinal infection, or neurological deficit. Patients with simple epidural abscess without bony instability were treated with laminectomy and were not included in this series. Fourteen patients were treated with posterior-only decompression and long-segment rigid fixation, without formal debridement of the infected area. One patient was treated with staged anterior and posterior surgery due to delay in treatment related to medical comorbidities. The authors examined as their outcome the ambulatory status and recurrence of deep infection requiring additional surgery or medical treatment.

Results

Of the initial 15 patients, 10 (66%) had a minimum 2-year follow-up and 14 patients had at least 1 year of followup. There were no recurrent spinal infections. There were 3 unplanned reoperations (1 for loss of fixation, 1 for early superficial wound infection, and 1 for epidural hematoma). Nine (60%) of 15 patients were nonambulatory at presentation. At final followup, 8 of 15 patients were independently ambulatory, 6 required an assistive device, and 1 remained nonambulatory.

Conclusions

Long-segment fixation, without formal debridement, resulted in resolution of spinal infection in all cases and in significant neurological recovery in almost all cases. This surgical technique, when combined with aggressive antibiotic therapy and a multidisciplinary team approach, is an effective way of managing serious spinal infections in a challenging patient population.
Risk factors for the development of deformity in patients with spinal infection
Authors: Srinivasan Dushyanth , Terman Samuel W. , Himedan Mai , Dugo Domenico , La Marca Frank , Park Paul
Published: August 2014

Object

Bacterial spinal infections are infrequent but may lead to significant morbidity and death. Apart from neurological complications, infections may also lead to bone destruction resulting in deformity of the spine. However, the incidence of spinal deformities and risk factors is not well characterized in the literature.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using electronic medical records at a single institution. All patients were over 18 years of age and had a clinically and radiologically documented spinal infection that was treated surgically during the period 2006–2013. Infections were classified according to anatomical location including disc, bone, and/or epidural space. Deformities included kyphosis and/or subluxation. The authors analyzed risk factors for developing at least 1 deformity between the time of infection and operation using the Fisher exact test and chi-square test. Change in visual analog scale (VAS) scores preoperatively versus postoperatively was also analyzed using the paired t-test.

Results

The study included 48 patients. The most common types of spinal infections were osteomyelitis and discitis (31%); osteomyelitis, discitis, and spinal epidural abscess (SEA; 27%); SEA only (15%); and osteomyelitis only (13%). Overall, 21 (44%) of 48 patients developed a spinal deformity. Anatomical location of infection (bone and/or disc and/or epidural space) was significantly associated with development of deformity (p < 0.001). In particular, patients with SEA had lower odds of deformity compared with patients without SEA (odds ratio 0.2, 95% confidence interval 0.05–0.9; p < 0.001). No other factor was significantly associated with deformity. Pain measured by VAS score tended to improve by a mean of 1.7 ± 2.7 points (p < 0.001) when comparing preoperative to postoperative scores.

Conclusions

In this cohort of patients, 44% developed at least 1 deformity, predominantly kyphosis. The only variable significantly associated with deformity was infection location. Patients with SEA alone demonstrated lower odds of developing a deformity compared with patients without SEA. Other analyzed variables, including age, body mass index, time from initial diagnosis to surgery, and comorbidities, were not found to be associated with development of deformity. Surgical intervention resulted in pain improvement.
What clinical factors predict the incidence of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in neurosurgical patients?
Authors: Rolston John D. , Han Seunggu J. , Bloch Orin , Parsa Andrew T.
Published: August 2014

Object

Venous thromboembolisms (VTEs) occur frequently in surgical patients and can manifest as pulmonary emboli (PEs) or deep venous thromboses (DVTs). While many medical therapies have been shown to prevent VTEs, neurosurgeons are concerned about the use of anticoagulants in the postoperative setting. To better understand the prevalence of and the patient-level risk factors for VTE, the authors analyzed data from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP).

Methods

Retrospective data on 1,777,035 patients for the years from 2006 to 2011 were acquired from the American College of Surgeons NSQIP database. Neurosurgical cases were extracted by querying the data for which the surgical specialty was listed as “neurological surgery.” Univariate statistics were calculated using the chi-square test, with 95% confidence intervals used for the resultant risk ratios. Multivariate models were constructed using binary logistic regression with a maximum number of 20 iterations.

Results

Venous thromboembolisms were found in 1.7% of neurosurgical patients, with DVTs roughly twice as common as PEs (1.3% vs 0.6%, respectively). Significant independent predictors included ventilator dependence, immobility (that is, quadriparesis, hemiparesis, or paraparesis), chronic steroid use, and sepsis. The risk of VTE was significantly higher in patients who had undergone cranial procedures (3.4%) than in those who had undergone spinal procedures (1.1%).

Conclusions

Venous thromboembolism is a common complication in neurosurgical patients, and the frequency has not changed appreciably over the past several years. Many factors were identified as independently predictive of VTEs in this population: ventilator dependence, immobility, and malignancy. Less anticipated predictors included chronic steroid use and sepsis. Venous thromboembolisms appear significantly more likely to occur in patients undergoing cranial procedures than in those undergoing spinal procedures. A better appreciation of the prevalence of and the risk factors for VTEs in neurosurgical patients will allow targeting of interventions and a better understanding of which patients are most at risk.
Mountain Bike Tourism and Community Development In British Columbia: Critical Success Factors for the Future
Authors: Freeman Ray , Thomlinson Eugene
Published: August 2014

Mountain bike tourism may provide significant benefit to communities, as shown by economic impacts of $38 (CDN) million realized in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor region of British Columbia, Canada in 2006. This achievement was realized due to regional stakeholder collaboration and
community mountain bike trail planning dating back to the early 1990s. Despite the value and recent growth in mountain bike tourism, formal research into community mountain bike tourism development is still in its infancy. To explore the critical success factors necessary to build sustainable
tourism capacity for the development of mountain bike tourism, a modified Delphi method was utilized to query industry experts in this empirical study. A literature review, followed by online surveys of selected experts, led to the creation of a framework for community-based mountain bike
tourism development to support sustainable community mountain bike tourism strategies. This framework may be beneficial to clusters of tourism stakeholders for mapping-out long-term objectives and to achieve planning and operational efficacy. Utilization of the framework may also assist stakeholders
to more effectively execute a successful community-based mountain bike tourism development strategy while assisting future researchers to delve further into an analysis of the role of critical success factors.
Linking Tourism Products to Enhance Cycle Tourism: The Case of the Taieri Gorge Railway and the Otago Central Rail Trail, New Zealand
Authors: Reis Arianne C. , Lovelock Brent , Jellum Carla
Published: August 2014

This study, undertaken in rural New Zealand, discusses issues involved in enhancing linkages between an existing rail tourism product and a cycle tourism product. The article assesses demand for such a development and gauges current and potential future connectivity between the two
products. The article draws on a survey of train passengers and rail trail visitors, along with interviews undertaken with key tourism and community stakeholders in relation to the rail trail. The data highlight problems around product development and integration. While participants agree
that an enhanced link between the railway and the rail trail will be of benefit for all those involved with tourism in the region, stakeholders who currently benefit from the current (unenhanced) links between the two tourism products are hesitant about improved connectivity because of concerns
centered around community growth management. Conversely, other stakeholders support enhanced rail/trail connections, lending weight to social exchange premises which infer that attitudes towards a particular issue are influenced by evaluations of the real and expected outcomes for individuals
or their communities. The article highlights the complexities around the multistakeholder nature of managing such linear routes, especially in rural communities where the benefits and drawbacks of tourism developments are strongly felt.
Comparison of Percutaneous and Open Surgical Techniques for First-Time Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Placement in the Unbreached Peritoneum
Authors: Medani Samar , Hussein Wael , Shantier Mohamed , Flynn Robert , Wall Catherine , Mellotte George
Published: August 2014

Background

The percutaneous Seldinger method of peritoneal dialysis catheter (PDC) insertion has gained favor over recent years whereas traditionally it was reserved for patients considered not fit for general anesthesia. This blind technique is believed to be less safe, and is hence avoided in patients with previous laparotomy incisions. Reports on the success of this method may therefore be criticized for selection bias. In those with no prior abdominal surgery the optimal method of insertion has not been established.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of first-time PDC placements comparing the percutaneous (group P) and surgical (group S) insertion techniques in patients without a history of previous abdominal surgery in a single center between January 2003 and June 2010. We assessed catheter survival at 3 and 12 months post-insertion and compared complication rates between the two groups.

Results

A total of 63 percutaneous and 64 surgical catheter insertions were analyzed. No significant difference was noted in catheter survival rates between group P and group S (86.2% vs 80% at 3 months, p = 0.37; and 78.3% vs 71.2% at 12 months, p = 0.42 respectively). Early and overall peritonitis rates were similar (5% vs 5.3%; p = 1, and 3.5 vs 4.9 episodes per 100 patient-months; p = 0.13 for group P and group S respectively). There were also no significant differences between the two groups in exit site leaks (15.9% in group P vs 6.3% in group S; p = 0.15), poor initial drainage (9.5% in group P vs 10.9% in group S, p = 0.34) or secondary drainage failure (7.9% in group P vs 18.8% in group S, p = 0.09).

Conclusion

This study illustrates the success and safety of percutaneous PDC insertion compared with the open surgical technique in PD naive patients without a history of prior abdominal surgery. Catheter survival was favorable with percutaneous insertion in this low-risk patient population but larger prospective studies may help to determine whether either method is superior. The percutaneous technique can be recommended as a minimally invasive, cost-effective procedure that facilitates implementing an integrated care model in nephrology practice.
A new form of shoulder dysplasia in an 11-year-old boy
Authors: Bichler Jennifer , Arbogast Martin , Krumrey-Langkammerer Manuela , Hugle Boris
Published: August 2014

Pain and impaired function in the shoulder can result from a variety of conditions. Dysplasias of the shoulder girdle are usually asymptomatic; previous literature reports on shoulder malformation have focused on glenoid dysplasia or complete agenesis of the clavicle. We report the case of an 11 year old patient with severe shoulder pain after strenuous physical exercise. Physical inspection showed a prominent clavicle and anteriorly displaced humerus. X-ray demonstrated an abnormally shortened clavicle and a hypoplastic acromion; MRI imaging revealed an elongated deltoid muscle leading over the humeral head. The patient recovered with analgesics and careful mobilization. This is the first reported case of a dysplasia of both the acromion and the clavicle. This developmental abnormality can lead to significant pain, but apparently responds well to conservative treatment. It is possible that this condition is underdiagnosed or represents significantly delayed development.
CLAUSTRA. Propuesta metodológica para el estudio territorial del monacato femenino
Authors: Garí Blanca , Soler Sala Maria , Sancho Planas Marta , Nieto Isabel Delfi Isabel , Rosillo Luque Araceli
Published: August 2014

Partiendo del concepto holístico de paisaje, este artículo es una aproximación metodológica a las potencialidades ofrecidas por la catalogación, cartografía y geoposicionamiento de los espacios de espiritualidad femenina de los Reinos Peninsulares para el estudio de los mismos de una forma integrada y sexuada al mismo tiempo. Ya sea mediante bases de datos relacionales o bien mediante los Sistemas de Información Geográfi ca (SIG), se busca una representación sobre el territorio de la distribución de los espacios de espiritualidad conocidos a través de las fuentes. Las cartografías históricas resultantes de este proceso, relacionadas aquí con el caso de estudio de Cataluña, se convertirán no sólo en una fuente elaborada para conocer la distribución de los centros monásticos de cada orden, sino también en una herramienta de conocimiento de las relaciones existentes tanto entre centros, como entre éstos y el territorio inmediato o más lejano, así como en un dispositivo que abre nuevas preguntas, nuevas hipótesis y nuevos horizontes de análisis.
Timolin: un caso de estudio, el patrimonio de un monasterio en la Irlanda tardomedieval
Authors: Collins Tracy
Published: August 2014

Es poco el trabajo arqueológico que se ha realizado en los monasterios de mujeres de la Irlanda tardomedieval en tanto que espacios de espiritualidad femenina. Esto se debe en parte al hecho de que generalmente se han conservado peor que los monasterios masculinos contemporáneos. Todavía más escasas son las investigaciones acerca de las propiedades monásticas masculinas o femeninas, de su topografía y de las redes que representan. La existencia de estas propiedades nos es conocida a través de fuentes documentales y sabemos que incluían gran variedad de tierras y de derechos y beneficios. A través del convento de Santa María de Timolin, Kildare, tomado como caso de estudio, este ensayo evalúa sus dominios y concluye que en su mayor parte, se trataba de un sólido conjunto de tierras situadas a poca distancia del propio monasterio. Basado en evidencias históricas, este estudio pretende resaltar el potencial de la investigación arqueológica y del trabajo de campo realizado sobre las explotaciones de Timolin y abrir perspectivas de futuro para el estudio en esta misma dirección de otros monasterios.
¿Favoritas de la corona? Los amores del rey y la promoción de la orden de Santa Clara en Castilla (ss. XIII-XIV)
Authors: Graña Cid María del Mar
Published: August 2014

En la política de promoción de las monjas mendicantes que desarrollaron los reyes de Castilla se percibe una tipología de “fundaciones en relación” con mujeres. Alfonso X y Pedro I colaboraron con sus amantes, Mayor Guillén y María de Padilla, y el segundo también con sus hijas, Beatriz e Isabel, para dar origen a monasterios de la Orden de Santa Clara o de sus formas previas. Estas páginas analizan unos procesos de fundación que enlazan lo personal y lo familiar con lo político, visibilizan formas de interacción entre los sexos y desvelan algunas de las fisonomías adoptadas por las religiosas que constituyeron la institución clarisa, una orden religiosa exclusivamente femenina en la que tuvieron gran peso las mujeres como agentes históricos.
Capitalidad autonómica y proceso de terciarización: el caso de Barcelona
Authors: Alberich González Joan , Muro Morales José Ignacio , Roquer Soler Santiago
Published: August 2014

Barcelona es desde hace muchos años el centro funcional de un extenso territorio, que va más allá del ámbito estricto de Cataluña. A partir de esta realidad, el objetivo del trabajo es conocer si la capitalidad autonómica de Barcelona y el proceso general de terciarización, dos fenómenos casi contemporáneos, han reforzado su centralidad y si lo han hecho con mayor intensidad que en otras ciudades del sistema urbano catalán. De acuerdo con este planteamiento, hemos dividido este trabajo en dos apartados. El primero analiza la evolución de los puestos de trabajo y su distribución por ramas de actividad de Barcelona y las ciudades catalanas de más de 50.000 habitantes entre finales de la década de 1980 y la primera década del siglo XXI . La segunda parte, como un ejemplo de este proceso de terciarización, analiza el cambio funcional y la puesta en valor de un antiguo espacio industrial barcelonés en desuso, para su reconversión en uso del terciario avanzado, el llamado distrito 22@.

[fr] Barcelone a été pendant de nombreuses années le centre fonctionnel d’un vaste territoire, au-delà du territoire strict de la Catalogne. De ce fait, l’objectif de l’étude était de déterminer si le nouveau rôle de capitale administrative régionale de Barcelone et le processus général de tertiarisation , les deux phénomènes presque contemporains, ont renforcé sa centralité et si ils l’ont fait avec plus d’intensité que dans d’autres villes du système urbain catalan . Selon cette approche, nous avons divisé ce travail en deux sections. La première analyse l’évolution des emplois et leur répartition par secteur de Barcelone et les villes catalanes de plus de 50.000 habitants de la fin des années 1980 à la première décennie du siècle XXI. La deuxième partie, comme un exemple de ce processus de tertiarisation, nous analysons l’évolution fonctionnelle et l’amélioration d’un ancien espace industriel désaffecté de Barcelone pour sa conversion en usage tertiaire avancé, ce qu’on appelle le District 22 @.
Cultura, imagen y espacios para el poder como referentes del nuevo estatuto de capitalidad en Mérida, Santiago de Compostela y Toledo
Authors: Barrado Timón Diego Antonio , Vázquez Varela Carmen
Published: August 2014

Una vez establecidas las comunidades autónomas fue necesario escoger una ciudad como capital y como sede de las nuevas instituciones de gobierno. En la mayoría de los casos la elección recayó en aquellas ciudades que ostentaban la primacía funcional dentro de los respectivos sistemas urbanos regionales. Sin embargo, en algunas comunidades la competencia entre ciudades de peso relativamente cercano llevó a optar por soluciones que pretendían mantener una cierta equidad, privilegiando los aspectos históricos frente a los urbanísticos, demográficos y económicos. Este es el caso de Castilla La Mancha, Extremadura y Galicia, en donde no se eligió la principal ciudad de cada sistema urbano sino aquellas que acumulaban mayor capital cultural y simbólico, más o menos conectado, a su vez, con la identidad regional. Una vez realizada la elección, estas tres capitales han debido construir un espacio para la administración, al mismo tiempo que han iniciado procesos más o menos claros de reforzamiento simbólico de su papel como capital de los nuevos organismos autonómicos.

[fr] Depuis l’établissement des communautés autonomes, il était donc nécessaire de choisir une ville comme capitale et siège des nouvelles institutions du gouvernement. Dans la majorité des cas, le choix s’est porté sur ces villes qui ont montré la primatie fonctionnelle au sein des systèmes urbains régionaux respectifs. Toutefois, dans certaines communautés la compétition entre villes avec un poids assez proche dans l’organisation hiérarchique a abouti à choisir des solutions qui visent à maintenir une certaine équité, favorisant des aspects historiques urbains, au détriment des questions démographiques et économiques. C’est le cas de Castilla-La Manche, Extremadura et Galice, où la ville principale du réseau urbain n’a pas été retenue, mais ceux qui ont accumulé un capital culturel et symbolique plus élevé, plus ou moins connecté, en même temps, avec l’identité régionale. L’élection ayant eu lieu, ces trois capitales ont dû bâtir un espace urbain pour l’Administration et en même temps mettre en place des processus plus ou moins clairs de renfort symbolique de son rôle de capitale de nouvelles institutions autonomes.
Evaluation of the fatigue macro-cracking behavior of crumb rubber modified bituminous mixes
Authors: Moreno-Navarro F. , Rubio-Gámez M. C. , Tomás-Fortún E. , Valor-Hernández F. , Ramírez-Rodriguez A.
Published: August 2014

The use of crumb rubber modified bitumen (CRMB) in asphalt mixes is a road engineering technology that has become increasingly important in recent years. Given the many economic and environmental benefits of this type of binder, the goal is to give CRMB the same level of performance as conventional polymer-modified bitumen. The appearance and propagation of cracks due to fatigue phenomena is one of the most common distresses affecting road pavements. Since crumb rubber enhances the mechanical properties of asphalt mixes, it can provide a viable solution for fatigue cracking. This paper presents the results of a comparative analysis of the fatigue-cracking behavior of asphalt mixtures manufactured with crumb rubber modified bitumen and polymer-modified bitumen.
Nuevas aportaciones al estudio del recinto de la judería de Valencia delimitado en 1244
Authors: López González M. Concepción
Published: August 2014

A raíz de la conquista de la ciudad, el rey Jaime I delimita en 1244 en Valencia un espacio para los judíos. Con esta finalidad, hace referencia a cinco puntos de los que, hasta el momento, solo se conocía la ubicación exacta de la puerta de la Xerea. El análisis de las propiedades limítrofes con estos hitos en los listados de los registros I y III del Llibre del Repartiment ha permitido determinar la ubicación de los otros cuatro puntos, pudiendo comprobar que los baños de Amnalmelig se encontraban al sur del barrio judío contrariamente a lo que, hasta ahora, se había pensado. Los resultados de la investigación se han plasmado sobre planos actuales, reconstruyendo el urbanismo de la época basándose en la cartografía más antigua de la ciudad (Mancelli [1608] y Tosca [1704]), en informes arqueológicos y en los vestigios de calles actualmente desaparecidas que han pasado a formar parte de propiedades privadas.
Judeus de Castela em Portugal no final da Idade Media: onomástica familiar e mobilidade
Authors: Ferro Tavares María José
Published: August 2014

Judíos de Castilla en Portugal a finales de la Edad Media: onomástica familiar y movilidad

Mediante el recurso a documentación en buena medida inédita de la cancillería real y procesos inquisitoriales, la autora realiza una lectura diacrónica de la presencia y establecimiento de judíos de origen hispánico en Portugal desde la instauración de la Casa de Avís y hasta después del bautismo forzado de 1497. La primera parte del estudio está dedicada al análisis de la onomástica hispano-judía, partiendo de la premisa de que el sobrenombre de algunos judíos puede indicar su naturalidad u origen toponímico (o el de sus antepasados inmediatos), con especial detenimiento en las familias Navarro, Menir (desmiente la tradicional identificación entre ambos linajes) y Abravanel. En la segunda parte se exponen ejemplos de la movilidad de los judíos llegados al reino como consecuencia de la inestabilidad social y las políticas regias.
Las dos versiones de la De Psalterii Anglicani exemplari animaduersio de Benito Arias Montano en la Biblia Políglota de Amberes
Authors: Dávila Pérez Antonio
Published: August 2014

En el octavo y último volumen de la Biblia Regia de Amberes Benito Arias Montano publicaba un breve texto titulado De Psalterii Anglicani exemplari animaduersio. En el marco de su defensa del original hebreo del Antiguo Testamento, su autor consideraba necesario advertir al lector de que algunos de los manuscritos más apreciados por los llamados «misohebreos» de su tiempo carecían de todo valor. Para ello, Arias Montano examinó un manuscrito hebreo del salterio elogiado como muy antiguo y relevante por el poderoso obispo Guillermo D. Lindano, y concluía que el códice era reciente y de escaso valor, cargando de paso contra la reputación científica de este. El ataque, fundamentado en parte en una falsa denuncia, sería el punto de partida de una controversia personal y científica que se extiende durate más de quince años. El presente artículo llama la atención sobre el hecho de que en los ejemplares conservados de la Políglota se pueden leer dos versiones de la Animaduersio montaniana muy diferentes entre sí. Con objeto de aclarar las circunstancias y motivos que las originaron, el autor propone: (1) reunir en un único estudio, por vez primera, el texto latino y la traducción al español de las dos versiones de la Animaduersio; (2) investigar, a la luz de la correspondencia privada de Arias Montano y de Lindano, las razones que propiciaron la existencia de dos versiones tan distintas de este prefacio; (3) y conjeturar una datación aproximada para cada una de las versiones.
Musique improvisée et technologies numériques
Authors: Rudy Dario
Published: August 2014

L’article suivant se propose de faire tenir ensemble les éléments récoltés pendant la durée d’une enquête réalisée avec une douzaine de musiciens et de chercheurs quant à leurs usages, leurs compréhensions et leur appréciations des outils numériques impliqués dans la production musicale actuelle et plus spécifiquement dans la situation d’improvisation. Il s’agira ici, en procédant par points successifs de questionner les changements épistémologiques de la situation d’improvisation qu’entérinent ces nouveaux outils (ordinateur, pédale de boucle, synthétiseurs ainsi que les diverses interfaces qui les prolongent, les complètent ou les déclenchent), les processus d’individuation qu’ils permettent tout autant que les types de réflexes musicaux qu’ils sollicitent.
Indigenous media: from transference to appropriation
Authors: Font Laura Cardús i
Published: August 2014

Les productions audio visuelles produites et créées par les membres des communautés labélisées « communautés indigènes ou communautés autochtones  » offrent un champ d’étude particulièrement intéressant pour observer tant le phénomène défini par José Bengoa comme « Intervention d’urgence indigène » (200-2009), que la mise en scène des processus d’identification ethnique. Cet article aborde différentes expériences de production audio visuelles qui ont eu lieu au Brésil, au Chili, en Bolivie, et s’attarde plus particulièrement à l’exemple de Mexico. La littérature existante sur les « medias autochtones » décrit les films produits par les communautés autochtones comme des productions soutenant la politique gouvernementale. Malgré cela, cette étude, qui s’appuie sur des recherches menées sur le terrain, au Sud Est de Mexico, retrace différentes expériences et exemples issus de projets autonomes qui remettent en cause les définitions des structures ethniques de l’état, construites par des politiques indigénistes mises en place dernièrement.
Innovation disruptive et naissance d’un écosystème : voyage aux origines de l’internet
Authors: Barbaroux Pierre
Published: August 2014

À partir d’une étude de cas historique, cette contribution explore les conditions d’émergence du premier « écosystème d’affaires » : l’écosystème des technologies de l’information et de la communication (TIC). Le cas concerne le projet de déploiement du premier réseau de communication et de partage de ressources numériques entre ordinateurs géographiquement distants : ARPANET (pour « ARPA NETwork »). Contrairement à la majorité des travaux qui considèrent que les écosystèmes d’affaires sont le résultat de l’action stratégique de « firmes pivots », l’hypothèse défendue dans cette contribution est que l’écosystème des TIC est né d’une rupture technologique portée par une communauté d’organisations publiques et privées, notamment des chercheurs, les grandes firmes commerciales étant reléguées à la périphérie.
Innovation stratégique et mutations de l’architecture de valeur dans les modèles d’affaires
Authors: Lambert Gilles , Schaeffer Véronique
Published: August 2014

Les stratégies d’innovation se jouent autant dans l’adaptation des produits aux lois de la concurrence que dans la proposition de nouvelles architectures de valeur qui transforment les modèles d’affaires. L’audace dans les coopérations externes et la mise en relation de connaissances disjointes constituent le fondement de ces stratégies.
The Rise and Fall of an Open Business Model
Authors: Demil Benoît , Lecocq Xavier
Published: August 2014

Les business models ouverts (Chesbrough, 2006) font référence à des modèles qui promeuvent une division du processus d’innovation et de l’organisation du partage de connaissance avec des parties prenantes, et éventuellement des concurrents. Dans cet article, nous tentons de répondre à la question suivante : quelles sont les conséquences, en termes de performance dans le temps, de l’adoption d’un business model ouvert ? NouSs étudions le secteur du jeu de rôle aux Etats-Unis dans lequel le leader est passé d’un business model propriétaire à un business model ouvert avant de revenir à une approche plus fermée. Plusieurs leçons peuvent être tirées de cette étude de cas. Particulièrement, nos contributions portent sur la dynamique des mécanismes de la création et de la capture de valeur, les effets imprédictibles d’un business model ouvert et les risques et faiblesses associés à un tel choix.
Innovation ouverte et évolution des business models dans les pôles de compétitivité : le rôle des intermédiaires dans la création variétale végétale
Authors: Leroux Isabelle , Muller Paul , Plottu Béatrice , Widehem Caroline
Published: August 2014

Par le financement de projets collaboratifs, la politique française des pôles de compétitivité implique une approche particulière de l’innovation ouverte portant principalement sur la co-construction et le partage d’une ressource commune aux partenaires du projet. Ceci peut impliquer une remise en question des pratiques d’innovation ouverte et de nouvelles contraintes et opportunités amenant les entreprises à envisager une évolution de leur business model. Cependant, de telles évolutions peuvent être entravées par des freins internes et externes. Le rôle d’intermédiation joué par les instances d’animation, de coordination et de transfert des pôles de compétitivité est essentiel pour les lever.
Probabilistic Modeling for Detection and Gender Classification
Authors: Taffar Mokhtar , Miguet Serge , Benmohammed Mohammed
Published: August 2014

In this paper, the authors contribute to solve the simultaneous problems of detection and gender classification from any viewpoint. The authors use an invariant model for accurate face localization based on a combination of appearance and geometric. A probabilistic matching of visual traits allows to classify the gender of face even when pose changes. The authors deal with the local invariant features whose performances have already been proved. Each facial feature retained in the detection step will be weighted by a probability to be male or female. This feature contributes to determine the gender of the face. The authors evaluate our model by testing it in experiments on different databases. The experimental results show that the face model performs well to detect face and gives a good gender recognition rate in the presence of viewpoint changes and facial appearance variability.
Registry for Medical Devices
Authors: Pappous George , Giannouli Tarsi , Saratsioti Evi
Published: August 2014

Through the past two decades numerous efforts were undertaken towards a digital convergence in the Greek National Healthcare system. E-Health in Greece was initially perceived and developed locally (per healthcare institution) without accrediting the capability of digital technology. This together with the lack of a unified coding and classification system for medical devices not only created system interoperability failures, but also procurement, financial and BIT management issues. Registry of medical devices is a web based application, which has been developed by the National Evaluation Center of Quality & Technology in Health to fill the existing gap and is continuously updated during the last five years in close collaboration with medical device's market and healthcare professionals. Today the Registry is in a mature phase and ready for widespread use. By this way, it is possible to conduct electronic auctions widely, gained complete and accurate picture of the types, quantities and prices of products and mainly made possible the real needs assessment and early planning
Automated Evaluation of Interest Point Detectors
Authors: Lang Simon R. , Luerssen Martin H. , Powers David M. W.
Published: August 2014

Interest point detectors are important components in a variety of computer vision systems. This paper demonstrates an automated virtual 3D environment for controlling and measuring detected interest points on 2D images in an accurate and rapid manner. Real-time affine transform tools enable easy implementation and full automation of complex scene evaluations without the time-cost of a manual setup. Nine detectors are tested and compared using evaluation and testing methods based on Schmid, Mohr, and Bauckhage (2000). Each detector is tested on the BSDS500 image set and 34 3D scanned, and manmade models using rotation in the X, Y, and Z axis as well as scale in the X,Y axis. Varying degrees of noise on the models are also tested. Results demonstrate the differing performance and behaviour of each detector across the evaluated transformations, which may assist computer vision practitioners in choosing the right detector for their application.
Effect of Cinnamic Acid and Modified Atmosphere Packaging on Storage Life of Pleurotus Ostreatus (Oyster Mushrooms)
Authors: Jayawardena Bimali , Silva H. Anusha Priyadarshani
Published: August 2014

In Sri Lanka Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)  is a popular cultivated variety of mushrooms.  It is considered   as a good source of proteins and fiber. The shelf life of Pleurotus ostreatus is short and deteriorates rapidly due to browning and microbial infestations.  In Sri Lanka Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is a popular cultivated variety of mushrooms.  It is considered   as a good source of proteins and fiber. The shelf life of Pleurotus ostreatus is short and it deteriorates rapidly due to browning and microbial infestations.  Polyphenol oxidae is the enzyme responsible for enzymatic browning. Polyphenol oxidase inhibitors are used to inhibit the browning reaction. Cinnamic acid is an inhibitor of polyphenol oxidase of mushroom. In the current study cinnamic acid treatment and modified atmosphere packaging were used to extend the storage life of Pleurotus ostreatus. The ID50 value of cinnamic acid for polyphenol oxidase of Pleurotus ostreatus was 3.42 mM.  Mushrooms were dipped in 0.50 mM, 1.25 mM and 2.00 mM  solutions of   cinnamic acid and stored in polyethylene bags for 4,7, 11 and 14 days at 4°C . After the storage period the organoleptic properties were evaluated. After 07 days of storage product started to deteriorate in the controls and some treated samples. Mushrooms treated with a cinnamic acid concentration of 1.25 mM and packed in polyethylene bags and stored at 4°C maintained the organoleptic properties up to 11 days. The storage life of Oyster mushroom can be extended up to 11 days at 4°C using 1.25 mM cinnamic acid dipping and packaging in 150 gauge (38 µm) polyethylene  bags with 3:1   surface area to weight  ratio.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/josuk.v8i0.5230J. Sci. Univ. Kelaniya 8 (2013): 19-32
Translational Medicine in Action: Anti-CD20 Therapy in Lymphoma
Authors: Lim Sean H. , Levy Ronald
Published: August 2014

The introduction of rituximab for B cell lymphoma in the late 1990s inaugurated a new era of cancer therapy showcasing mAbs. mAbs are in principle an amalgamation of two characteristics of a perfect anticancer drug. First, rituximab is a therapy targeted to the tumor cell, but it carries fewer side effects than does chemotherapy. Second, with its ability to directly engage the host immune system, it could potentially elicit longer lasting anticancer immunity, although this remains to be proven. This review highlights the fundamental scientific discoveries that allowed the development of clinically successful anti-CD20 mAbs. Since the approval of rituximab, a considerable amount of work has been undertaken by different groups trying to understand the workings and limitations of anti-CD20s. All of these efforts will be critical in designing new mAbs to CD20 and other targets and, ultimately, of anticancer mAbs that will improve on, or even replace, chemotherapy.
The prevalence of undiagnosed abnormalities on non-contrast-enhanced computed tomography compared to contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the brain
Authors: Minné Cornelia , Kisansa Margaret E. , Ebrahim Nazeema , Suleman Farhana E. , Makhanya Nonjabulo Z.
Published: August 2014

Background: Even though magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard investigation for intracranial pathology, it is not widely available in developing countries and computed tomography (CT) of the brain remains the first-line investigation for patients with suspected intracranial pathology. It is generally accepted that certain intracranial pathology can be missed on non-contrast-enhanced CT (NECT) of the brain if a contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) is not done. We have to consider on the one hand the risk of delayed or missed diagnosis and on the other hand the cost, increased radiation exposure and contrast-induced reactions. Advances in CT technology have also improved the resolution of CT scan images, making it easier to identify pathology on an NECT of the brain. To date, no study comparing NECT to CECT of the brain, utilising 64-slice CT technology, has been published.Objectives: To determine the prevalence of undiagnosed abnormalities on non-contrast-enhanced computed tomography (NECT) scans of the brain reported as normal, on a 64-slice CT scanner.Method: A descriptive retrospective study was undertaken of CT brain scans done during a 12-month period at a tertiary provincial hospital in the Northern Tshwane district of Gauteng, South Africa. The CT brain scans were evaluated by three reviewers (general radiologists). The NECT and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scans of the brain were reviewed independently on separate occasions. Reviewers were blinded to patient history, each other’s interpretation, and to their own interpretation of the NECT when evaluating the CECT and vice versa. Discrepancies in interpretation were resolved during a consensus meeting between all three reviewers. The reviewers also re-evaluated the NECT scans of the cases with undiagnosed abnormal findings during this session. A decision was made pertaining to the visibility of the abnormal findings on the NECT scan.Results: In this study, 3.28% of cases had abnormal findings undiagnosed by three reviewers on the NECT scans. Re-evaluation by the panel reduced this to 1.42%, indicating a reading error of 1.85%.Conclusion: There is a small prevalence of missed abnormal findings on the NECT scan when using only NECT. Omitting unnecessary CECT will reduce the radiation exposure to the patient and reduce the risk of adverse events from the use of intravenous iodinated contrast. Alternatively, doing only a CECT scan would reduce the risk of missing abnormal findings and would also decrease the patient’s exposure to radiation.