bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the Spatial Distribution of Winter Crops at Sub-Pixel Level Using AVHRR NDVI Time Series and Neural Nets
Authors: Atzberger Clement , Rembold Felix
Published: March 2013

For large areas, it is difficult to assess the spatial distribution and inter-annual variation of crop acreages through field surveys. Such information, however, is of great value for governments, land managers, planning authorities, commodity traders and environmental scientists. Time series of coarse resolution imagery offer the advantage of global coverage at low costs, and are therefore suitable for large-scale crop type mapping. Due to their coarse spatial resolution, however, the problem of mixed pixels has to be addressed. Traditional hard classification approaches cannot be applied because of sub-pixel heterogeneity. We evaluate neural networks as a modeling tool for sub-pixel crop acreage estimation. The proposed methodology is based on the assumption that different cover type proportions within coarse pixels prompt changes in time profiles of remotely sensed vegetation indices like the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Neural networks can learn the relation between temporal NDVI signatures and the sought crop acreage information. This learning step permits a non-linear unmixing of the temporal information provided by coarse resolution satellite sensors. For assessing the feasibility and accuracy of the approach, a study region in central Italy (Tuscany) was selected. The task consisted of mapping the spatial distribution of winter crops abundances within 1 km AVHRR pixels between 1988 and 2001. Reference crop acreage information for network training and validation was derived from high resolution Thematic Mapper/Enhanced Thematic Mapper (TM/ETM+) images and official agricultural statistics. Encouraging results were obtained demonstrating the potential of the proposed approach. For example, the spatial distribution of winter crop acreage at sub-pixel level was mapped with a cross-validated coefficient of determination of 0.8 with respect to the reference information from high resolution imagery. For the eight years for which reference information was available, the root mean squared error (RMSE) of winter crop acreage at sub-pixel level was 10%. When combined with current and future sensors, such as MODIS and Sentinel-3, the unmixing of AVHRR data can help in the building of an extended time series of crop distributions and cropping patterns dating back to the 80s.
Utilizing Joint Routing and Capacity Assignment Algorithms to Achieve Inter- and Intra-Group Delay Fairness in Multi-Rate Multicast Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lin Frank , Hsiao Chiu-Han , Lin Leo , Wen Yean-Fu
Published: March 2013

Recent advance in wireless sensor network (WSN) applications such as the Internet of Things (IoT) have attracted a lot of attention. Sensor nodes have to monitor and cooperatively pass their data, such as temperature, sound, pressure, etc. through the network under constrained physical or environmental conditions. The Quality of Service (QoS) is very sensitive to network delays. When resources are constrained and when the number of receivers increases rapidly, how the sensor network can provide good QoS (measured as end-to-end delay) becomes a very critical problem. In this paper; a solution to the wireless sensor network multicasting problem is proposed in which a mathematical model that provides services to accommodate delay fairness for each subscriber is constructed. Granting equal consideration to both network link capacity assignment and routing strategies for each multicast group guarantees the intra-group and inter-group delay fairness of end-to-end delay. Minimizing delay and achieving fairness is ultimately achieved through the Lagrangean Relaxation method and Subgradient Optimization Technique. Test results indicate that the new system runs with greater effectiveness and efficiency.
A Small and Slim Coaxial Probe for Single Rice Grain Moisture Sensing
Authors: You Kok , Mun Hou , You Li , Salleh Jamaliah , Abbas Zulkifly
Published: March 2013

A moisture detection of single rice grains using a slim and small open-ended coaxial probe is presented. The coaxial probe is suitable for the nondestructive measurement of moisture values in the rice grains ranging from from 9.5% to 26%. Empirical polynomial models are developed to predict the gravimetric moisture content of rice based on measured reflection coefficients using a vector network analyzer. The relationship between the reflection coefficient and relative permittivity were also created using a regression method and expressed in a polynomial model, whose model coefficients were obtained by fitting the data from Finite Element-based simulation. Besides, the designed single rice grain sample holder and experimental set-up were shown. The measurement of single rice grains in this study is more precise compared to the measurement in conventional bulk rice grains, as the random air gap present in the bulk rice grains is excluded.
Dog Poisonings Associated with a Microcystis aeruginosa Bloom in the Netherlands
Authors: Lürling Miquel , Faassen Elisabeth
Published: March 2013

In early autumn 2011, three dogs died after they had been exposed to a Microcystis aeruginosa bloom on Lake Amstelmeer, The Netherlands. The cyanobacterial scum from the lake contained up to 5.27 × 103 μg g−1 dry-weight microcystin, the vomit of one of the dogs contained on average 94 µg microcystin g−1 dry-weight. In both cases, microcystin-LR was the most abundant variant. This is the first report of dog deaths associated with a Microcystis bloom and microcystin poisoning in The Netherlands.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers in Prunus sibirica (Rosaceae)
Authors: Liu Hua‐Bo , Liu Jun , Wang Zhe , Ma Li‐Ying , Wang Si‐Qi , Lin Xing‐Gu , Wu Rong‐Ling , Pang Xiao‐Ming
Published: March 2013

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite loci were developed for Prunus sibirica to investigate genetic diversity, population genetic structure, and marker‐assisted selection of late‐blooming cultivars in the breeding of P. sibirica.

• Methods and Results: Using a magnetic bead enrichment strategy, 19 primer pairs were developed and characterized across 40 individuals from three P. sibirica wild populations and six individuals of P. armeniaca. The number of alleles per locus varied from three to 11 and the observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.063 to 0.917 and 0.295 to 0.876, respectively, in the three P. sibirica wild populations. All primer pairs could be successfully amplified in six individuals of P. armeniaca.

• Conclusions: These microsatellite primer pairs should be useful for population genetics, germplasm identification, and marker‐assisted selection in the breeding of P. sibirica and related species.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers for Canavalia cathartica and C. lineata (Fabaceae)
Authors: Yamashiro Asuka , Yamashiro Tadashi , Tateishi Yoichi
Published: March 2013

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed for the sea‐dispersed legume Canavalia cathartica to investigate its genetic diversity and population structure. We also applied these microsatellite markers to the closely related species C. lineata.

• Methods and Results: Ten primer sets were developed for C. cathartica, and all of the primers were amplified in C. lineata. The number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 13 and one to 10 for C. cathartica and C. lineata, respectively. The expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.375 to 0.870 and from 0.071 to 0.877 for C. cathartica and C. lineata, respectively.

• Conclusions: The 10 microsatellite markers developed in this study can be used to analyze the population genetic structure of C. cathartica and other related taxa.
Annotation and re‐sequencing of genes from de novo transcriptome assembly of Abies alba (Pinaceae)
Authors: Roschanski Anna M. , Fady Bruno , Ziegenhagen Birgit , Liepelt Sascha
Published: March 2013

• Premise of the study: We present a protocol for the annotation of transcriptome sequence data and the identification of candidate genes therein using the example of the nonmodel conifer Abies alba.

• Methods and Results: A normalized cDNA library was built from an A. alba seedling. The sequencing on a 454 platform yielded more than 1.5 million reads that were de novo assembled into 25149 contigs. Two complementary approaches were applied to annotate gene fragments that code for (1) well‐known proteins and (2) proteins that are potentially adaptively relevant. Primer development and testing yielded 88 amplicons that could successfully be resequenced from genomic DNA.

• Conclusions: The annotation workflow offers an efficient way to identify potential adaptively relevant genes from the large quantity of transcriptome sequence data. The primer set presented should be prioritized for single‐nucleotide polymorphism detection in adaptively relevant genes in A. alba.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci for a bioenergy grass, Miscanthus sacchariflorus (Poaceae)
Authors: Zhou Hai‐Fei , Li Shan‐Shan , Ge Song
Published: March 2013

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite loci were developed for the biomass C4 grass, Miscanthus sacchariflorus, and proved to be suitable markers for population genetic studies and germplasm management of this species.

• Methods and Results: Twenty‐three polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified from an enriched genomic library of M. sacchariflorus. The polymorphism was assessed in 50 individuals from two populations in China. The number of alleles per locus varied from two to 18, with a mean of 8.13. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.2 to 1.0 and from 0.198 to 0.898, respectively.

• Conclusions: These new markers will be useful for further investigation of genetic diversity and population genetic structure as well as molecular breeding of Miscanthus species.
First identification of polymorphic microsatellite markers in the Burgundy truffle, Tuber aestivum (Tuberaceae)
Authors: Molinier Virginie , Murat Claude , Morin Emmanuelle , Gollotte Armelle , Wipf Daniel , Martin Francis
Published: March 2013

• Premise of the study: Tuber aestivum, the most common truffle in Europe, plays an important role in the commercial truffle market. For the first time, microsatellite primers were developed to investigate polymorphism within this species.

• Methods and Results: Using direct shotgun pyrosequencing, 15 polymorphic microsatellites were identified out of the 7784 perfect microsatellites present in the 534620 reads obtained. Tested on 75 samples, these microsatellites were highly polymorphic. The number of alleles varied from four to 15, and the expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.266 to 0.620. A multilocus analysis allowed the identification of 63 genotypes over the 75 samples analyzed.

• Conclusions: Direct shotgun pyrosequencing is a fast and relatively low‐cost technique allowing identification of microsatellites in nonmodel species. The microsatellites developed in this study will be useful in population genetic studies to infer the evolutionary history of this species.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the lichen fungus Lobaria pulmonaria (Lobariaceae)
Authors: Werth Silke , Cornejo Carolina , Scheidegger Christoph
Published: March 2013

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite loci were developed for the threatened haploid lichen fungus Lobaria pulmonaria to increase the resolution to identify clonal individuals, and to study its population subdivision.

• Methods and Results: We developed 14 microsatellite markers from 454 DNA sequencing data of L. pulmonaria and tested for cross‐amplification with L. immixta and L. macaronesica. The number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 23. Nei's unbiased gene diversity, averaged over loci, ranged from 0.434 to 0.517 in the three studied populations.

• Conclusions: The new markers will increase the genetic resolution in studies that aim at disentangling clones in L. pulmonaria and may be useful for closely related species within Lobaria sect. Lobaria.
Microsatellite primers in the lichen symbiotic alga Trebouxia decolorans (Trebouxiophyceae)
Authors: Dal Grande Francesco , Beck Andreas , Singh Garima , Schmitt Imke
Published: March 2013

• Premise of the study: Polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed for the symbiotic green alga Trebouxia decolorans to study fine‐scale population structure and clonal diversity.

• Methods and Results: Using Illumina pyrosequencing, 20 microsatellite primer sets were developed for T. decolorans. The primer sets were tested on 43 individuals sampled from four subpopulations in Germany. The primers amplified di‐, tri‐, and tetranucleotide repeats with three to 15 alleles per locus, and the unbiased haploid diversity per locus ranged from 0.636 to 0.821.

• Conclusions: The identified microsatellite markers will be useful to study the genetic diversity, dispersal, and reproductive mode of this common lichen photobiont.
Isolation and molecular characterization of New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-1 producing superbug in Bangladesh
Authors: Farzana Refath , Shamsuzzaman SM , Mamun Kazi Zulfiquer
Published: March 2013

Introduction: New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamse-1 (NDM-1) producing superbugs create a global public health problem because of their resistance to most antibiotics. This study was conducted to determine the presence of MBL producers, including NDM-1 producers, in Bangladesh, along with the antimicrobial resistance patterns of these organisms. Methodology: Thirty-five isolates resistant to imipenem by disk diffusion technique were investigated for MBL production. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of imipenem was determined by agar dilution method. MBL producers were phenotypically detected by double disk synergy test and combined disk assay. Gene encoding blaIMP-1, blaIMP-2, blaVIM-1, blaVIM-2, blaNDM-1 and class 1 integron was identified by PCR. Results: Thirty-one (88.57%) MBL producers were detected by PCR, 24 (68.57%) by double disk synergy test, and 30 (85.71%) by combined disk assay. Eight (22.86%) were positive for blaNDM-1, 13 (37.15%) for blaVIM-1, 21 (60.00%) for blaVIM-2, 18 (51.43%) for blaIMP-1, and 9 (25.71%) for blaIMP-2. More than one blaMBL was present in 23 (65.71%) of the isolates. MIC of imipenem of MBL producers ranged from ≥256 µg/ml to ≤8 µg/ml. All the NDM-1 producing isolates carried class 1 integron. NDM-1 producers were 100% resistant to amoxicillin, cephradine, cefuroxime, ceftazidime, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, aztreonam, gentamicin and piperacillin, 87.5% to amikacin, 75% to ciprofloxacin, and 62.5% to co-trimoxazole and the combination of tazobactam and piperacillin. All were sensitive to colistin. Conclusion: The results of this study provide insight into the presence of blaMBL, including blaNDM-1, in Bangladesh. Urgent epidemiological monitoring of MBL producers in Bangladesh may combat their rapid dissemination.
Low sensitivity of malaria rapid diagnostic tests stored at room temperature in the Brazilian Amazon Region
Authors: Gomes Luciano T , Tada Mauro S , Katsuragawa Tony H , Povoa Marinete M , Viana Giselle MR , Alecrim Maria das Gracas C , De Santana-Filho Frankllin S , Arcanjo Ana Ruth L , Couto Alvaro A.R.A , Calvosa Vanja S.P , Nery Andreia F , Fontes Cor J.F
Published: March 2013

Introduction: In remote areas of the Amazon Region, diagnosis of malaria by microscopy is practically impossible. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of two rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) targeting different malaria antigens stored at room temperature in the Brazilian Amazon Region. Methodology: Performance of the OptiMal Pf/Pan test and ICT-Now Pf/Pan test was analyzed retrospectively in 1,627 and 1,602 blood samples, respectively. Tests were performed over a 15-month period. Kits were stored at room temperature in five community health centres located in the Brazilian Amazon Region. RDT results were compared with thick blood smear (TBS) results to determine sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the RDT. Results: The sensitivities of the OptiMal Pf/Pan test were 79.7% for Plasmodium falciparum malaria diagnosis and 85.7% for non-P. falciparum infections. The results showed a crude agreement of 88.5% for P. falciparum, and 88.3% for non-P. falciparum infections (Kappa index = 0.74 and 0.75, respectively). For the ICT-Now Pf/Pan test (CI 95%), the sensitivities were 87.9% for P. falciparum malaria diagnosis and 72.5% for non-P. falciparum infection. Crude agreement between the ICT-Now Pf/Pan test and TBS was 91.4% for P. falciparum and 79.7% for non-P. falciparum infection. The Kappa index was 0.81 and 0.59 for the final diagnosis of P. falciparum and non-P. falciparum, respectively. Higher levels of parasitaemia were associated with higher crude agreement between RDT and TBS. Conclusions: The sensitivities of RDTs stored at room temperature over a 15-month period and performed in field conditions were lower than those previously reported.
Disseminated tuberculosis masquerading primary myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Shaharir Syahrul Sazliyana , Tumian Nor Rafeah , Yu Lin Andrea Ban , Abdul Wahid S Fadilah
Published: March 2013

Tuberculosis is notoriously known to be a great mimicker of other diseases and may cause various haematologic abnormalities, especially with marrow involvement. A 61-year-old man who presented with right empyema and pancytopenia was diagnosed to have disseminated tuberculosis supported by the presence of caseating granuloma with Langhan’s giant cells in the marrow and demonstration of acid-fast bacilli in the pleural fluid. Trilineage dysplasia from marrow aspirate was initially attributed to be reactive to the infection. A cytogenetic study was repeated after he showed poor response to a year of anti-tuberculosis treatment. The underlying primary myelodysplastic syndrome was unmasked when his cytogenetics showed trisomy 8. This case report has demonstrated the various haematological manifestations of tuberculosis and highlighted the importance of cytogenetic study in differentiating between primary and secondary myelodysplastic marrow changes.
Tuberculosis with malaria or HIV co-infection in a large hospital in Luanda, Angola
Authors: Valadas Emília , Gomes Augusto , Sutre Ana , Brilha Sara , Wete Afonso , Hänscheid Thomas , Antunes Francisco
Published: March 2013

Introduction: Three major public health problems, tuberculosis, malaria and HIV/AIDS, are widespread in Angola, often as co-infections in the same individual. In 2009, it was assumed that 44,151 new cases of TB occurred in Angola. Interestingly, interventions such as treatment/prevention of malaria appear to reduce mortality in HIV-infected and possibly TB co-infected patients. However, despite the seriousness of the situation, current data on TB and co-infection rates are scarce. This study aimed to characterize all TB cases seen at the Hospital Sanatório de Luanda, and to determine the co-infection rate with HIV and/or malaria. Methodology: This retrospective study collected demographic, diagnostic and clinical data from all patients admitted during 2007. Results: A total of 4,666 patients were admitted, of whom 1,906 (40.8%) were diagnosed with TB. Overall, 1,111 patients (58.3%) were male and most patients (n=1302, 68.3%) were adults (≥14 years). The rate of HIV co-infection was 37.4% (n=712).  Malaria was diagnosed during admission and hospital stay in 714 patients (37.5%), with Plasmodium falciparum the predominant species. Overall mortality was 15.2% (n=290). Conclusions: Because Luanda does not have the infrastructure to perform culture-based diagnosis of TB, confirmation of TB is problematic. The HIV-co-infection rate is high, with 37.4% of patients requiring integrated approaches to address this problem. With more than 1/3 of the TB patients co-infected with malaria, even during the hospital stay, the prevention of malaria in TB patients appears to be an effective way to reduce overall mortality.
Susceptibility of various corneal fungal isolates and Pseudomonas aeruginosa to contact lens disinfecting solutions
Authors: Pinna Antonio , Usai Donatella , Zanetti Stefania , Thomas Philip A , Kaliamurthy Jayaraman
Published: March 2013

Introduction: We aimed to investigate the susceptibility of a combined inoculum of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and different fungal strains to 6 soft contact lens disinfectants. Methodology: One corneal isolate of P. aeruginosa and 13 corneal fungal isolates (9 Aspergillus spp, 3 Fusarium spp, 1 Curvularia sp.) were used. The following solutions were tested: Arion Cronos, Complete RevitaLens, Dua Elite, Opti-Free Express, Regard, Oxysept Comfort, and Oxysept Comfort without catalase. The effect of the solutions was assessed on a combined inoculum of P. aeruginosa plus 1 fungal strain. Suspensions of P. aeruginosa and fungi were made in the solutions (1x106 colony-forming units/mL). After 1 hour (Arion Cronos only), 6, 8, and 24 hours, aliquots of suspension were removed and seeded on Luria-Bertani and Sabouraud agar plates. Results: After 6 hours’ exposure, all the solutions but Dua Elite and Oxysept Comfort eradicated P. aeruginosa. Conversely, apart from 3% hydrogen peroxide-based Oxysept Comfort without catalase, which eradicated all the fungi tested after 6 hours, all the other solutions were partly ineffective at killing some of the fungal isolates, even after 24 hours’ exposure. Conclusions: Most contact lens disinfectants may be ineffective if contact lens care systems become co-contaminated with P. aeruginosa and fungi. In our experiment, only exposure to 3% hydrogen peroxide without neutralizer for at least 6 hours was always able to kill a combined inoculum of P. aeruginosa and different fungal strains.
Molecular characterization of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus circulating during the 2009 outbreak in Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
Authors: An Le Van , Bao Chi Le Thi , Bach Nguyen Hoang , Hai Duong Huynh Thi , Deligios Massimo , Alberti Alberto , Cappuccinelli Piero
Published: March 2013

Introduction: The influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus arrived in Vietnam in May 2009 via the United States and rapidly spread throughout the country. This study provides data on the viral diagnosis and molecular epidemiology of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus isolated in Thua Thien Hue Province, central Vietnam. Methodology: Nasopharyngeal swabs and throat swabs from 53 clinically infected patients in the peak of the outbreak were processed for viral diagnosis by culture and RT-PCR. Sequencing of entire HA and NA genes of representative isolates and molecular epidemiological analysis were performed. Results: A total of 32 patients were positive for influenza A virus by virus culture and/or RT-PCR; of these 22 were positive both by viral isolation and RT-PCR, 2 only by virus culture and 8 only by RT-PCR. The novel subtype of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was present in 93.4% of the isolates. Phylogenetic analysis of the HA and NA gene sequences showed identities higher than 99.50% in both genes. They were also similar to reference isolates in HA sequences (> 99% identity) and in NA sequences (>98.50% identity). Amino acid sequences predicted for the HA gene were highly identical to reference strains. The NA amino acid substitutions identified did not include the oseltamivir-resistant H275Y substitution. Conclusion: viral isolation and RT-PCR together were useful for diagnosis of the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus. Variations in HA and NA sequences are similar to those identified in worldwide reference isolates and no drug resistance was found.
High throughput genomic and proteomic technologies in the fight against infectious diseases
Authors: Tanca Alessandro , Deligios Massimo , Addis Maria Filippa , Uzzau Sergio
Published: March 2013

New technologies have shown significant promise in the fight against infectious diseases, with the discovery of novel molecular targets for in vitro diagnostics and the improved design of vaccines. In developing countries, especially in areas of neglected diseases and resources-poor settings, a number of technological innovations are further needed, such as the integration of old and new biomarkers in suitable analysis platforms, the simplification of existing analysis systems, and the improvement of sample preservation and management. However, in these areas, identification of new biomarkers for infectious diseases is still a core issue in the diagnostic quest. Similarly, new technologies will allow scientists to design vaccines with improved immunogenicity, efficacy and safety in the local area, according to the circulating pathogenic strains and the genetic background of the population to be immunized. In this work we review the current omics-based technologies and their potential for accelerating the development of next generation vaccines and the identification of biomarkers suitable for point-of-care (POC) diagnostic applications.
Exploiting the mycobacterial cell wall to design improved vaccines against tuberculosis
Authors: Morandi Matteo , Sali Michela , Manganelli Riccardo , Delogu Giovanni
Published: March 2013

The only vaccine available against tuberculosis (TB), the Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG), does not provide effective protection against the most common forms of adult TB and in recent years efforts have been made to develop a new and improved vaccine.  Among the strategies implemented, the generation of a new live attenuated mycobacterial strain is seen as one of the most promising and feasible, for scientific, ethical and practical reasons.  The new understanding of the biology of the tubercle bacilli and of host-pathogen interaction processes, coupled with the possibility to engineer BCG or M. tuberculosis, opened new avenues to design “intelligent” vaccines, capable of eliciting the immune response associated with protection while avoiding the induction of the host immune response associated with immunopathology.  The complex and highly immunogenic mycobacterial cell wall can shape the general and antigen specific immune response elicited following immunization, and the possibility to exploit this knowledge may lead to the development of new vaccines that could help conquer this ancient human disease.
Un droit pour les seniors ?
Authors: Philippe Catherine
Published: March 2013

Le Droit, en ce qu’il est général, accorde des droits identiques à tous et veille à ce que chacun puisse en bénéficier. Le Droit en ce qu’il est réaliste et humaniste tient compte des vulnérabilités et cherche à les compenser. Méconnaître l’un ou l’autre de ces principes est source de discrimination pour les seniors.
Quels enjeux de participation des aînés à la définition de leur milieu de vie en hébergement collectif au Québec ?
Authors: Mascova Elena
Published: March 2013

Depuis une dizaine d’années, au Québec, on assiste à une régulation juridique croissante des milieux de vie résidentiels destinés aux personnes aînées. Cet article propose d’analyser la place que cette régulation de la qualité du milieu de vie fait aux aînés et comment les acteurs collectifs, en particulier les associations de personnes aînées, contribuent à la production des normes dans ce champ. À partir d’une étude des mécanismes participatifs mis en place dans les divers milieux résidentiels et d’hébergement, nous allons interroger les freins et les leviers à l’intégration réelle des usagers dans les décisions qui les concernent.
L'histoire comme projet
Authors: Ratte Philippe
Published: March 2013

Un pays ne peut affronter l’avenir s’il ne sait plus raconter son passé. En Chine comme en Europe, le grand récit demeure un vecteur de puissance. Reste à relever le défi de la complexité pour échapper aux identités supposées éternelles.
L'archéologie virtuelle
Authors: Chanteau Julien
Published: March 2013

L’image d’Épinal de l’archéologue couvert de poussière nettoyant méticuleusement au pinceau les bords d’une jarre millénaire constitue toujours un topos fort de notre imaginaire collectif. Dans le même temps, l’usage de la 3D pour la restitution de sites et de monuments archéologiques, récemment illustré par les modélisations en réalité virtuelle augmentée, créées par la société Dassault Systèmes, du plateau des pyramides de Gizeh et des monuments de la ville de Paris, donne à voir au grand public une archéologie hypermoderne, pouvant même tenir sa place dans les industries du rêve. Faut-il dès lors imaginer que l’archéologue du xxi e siècle travaille avec une truelle dans une main et une tablette numérique dans l’autre ?
Para una teoría de la calidad en construcción
Authors: García Messeguer Álvaro
Published: March 2013

Para tratar el problema de la calidad en construcción es necesario contemplar simultáneamente todo el proceso, desde la promoción hasta el uso y la demolición, pasando por el proyecto, los materiales y la ejecución. Es necesario igualmente contemplar a todos los sujetos que actúan o Influyen en el hecho constructivo. Entre los requisitos básicos que deben reunir las construcciones no debe olvidarse el de adecuación ambiental. Los diversos modos de control existentes sirven de índice para reflejar el nivel de calidad alcanzado por las distintas fases del proceso y permiten comparar la situación entre países. El concepto de garantía de calidad, más amplio que los de fiabilidad estructural y control de calidad, es una herramienta adecuada para progresar en los conocimientos y las aplicaciones. El factor humano como componente fundamental del problema requiere el traslado, al campo de la construcción, de conocimientos pertenecientes a otras áreas científicas y, en particular, a las ciencias humanas.
Edificio comercial en Dusseldorf República Federal Alemana
Authors: Partner Hentrich-Petschnigg
Published: March 2013

La antieconómica utilización de la construcción, que existía anteriormente en la parcela, justificó su sustitución por este nuevo edificio destinado a comercio y oficinas de alquiler.
Los tres niveles inferiores, que se destinan a tiendas con sus zonas de exposición y venta, tienen su acceso a través de un pasaje central iluminado cenitalmente. Desde este mismo pasaje parte el grupo de ascensor y escalera que conduce a las plantas superiores, en las que se han distribuido oficinas de distintos tamaños. Por último, un ático retranqueado alberga una vivienda de tres dormitorios y grandes terrazas.
Código de ética de la Sociedad Americana de Ingeniero Civiles (ASCE 1976)
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: March 2013

No disponible.
Asilo de ancianos «Hogar Santa Lucía» polígono de Cazoña/Santander/España
Authors: Frutos J. M.
Published: March 2013

Los 25.000 m2 de superficie total construida de este asilo se han distribuido en un edificio de siete niveles, que localiza las dependencias comunes y las comunicaciones verticales en un núcleo central, del que sobresalen dos cuerpos opuestos que albergan 208 dormitorios de distintas clases. Se diferencia de otros edificios de este tipo, de una parte, por su configuración arquitectónica y por su construcción, en las que se ha intentado conjugar una funcionalidad máxima con un mínimo de conservación y mantenimiento y, de otra, por el tratamiento dado a una serie de dependencias e instalaciones especificas, entre las que cabe destacar las salas de ancianos impedidos.
Tres realizaciones prefabricadas en Dinamarca, a una década de su ejecución
Authors: Salas Julián
Published: March 2013

Descripción de tres realizaciones danesas de viviendas prefabricadas: conjuntos, Brondby Strand Nybo, y Vildtbanegaard II en las cercanías de Copenhague. Trata de resaltar el excelente estado de conservación de las mismas después de una década de servicio, así como el buen uso que en las mismas se hizo de las técnicas de prefabricación de grandes elementos.
Programa para el cálculo de los términos de sección y funciones coordenadas de las secciones abiertas basado en la norma MV110-1982
Authors: Arrúe Matilla Ignacio
Published: March 2013

Las piezas de sección abierta de pequeño espesor tienen cada vez un mayor uso en edificación, tanto en acero (piezas de chapa conformada y piezas de chapa laminadas soldadas en sus cantos), como en hormigón armado bajo la denominación de placas plegadas o en otros materiales. La Norma MV 110-1982 se refiere al cálculo de las piezas de chapa conformada en acero, pero, con las modificaciones oportunas, puede aplicarse a piezas de sección abierta fabricadas con otro material. En el Apéndice A de dicha Norma, se presenta un método de cálculo numérico iterativo para obtener los términos de sección y las funciones coordenadas que se requieren en el cálculo de las piezas de sección abierta. El programa para calcular los términos y funciones coordenadas de una sección abierta cualquiera de pequeño espesor, que se expone en el presente artículo, está basado en este método y su empleo se ilustra con cinco ejemplos de aplicación.
Use of Mobile Phone Technology in Agricultural Marketing
Authors: Katengeza Samson P. , Okello Julius Juma , Jambo Noel
Published: March 2013

The mobile phone technology is an important tool to enhance farmers’ access to better paying agricultural markets. The study reports the results of a household study in Mwanza, Dedza and Mzimba Districts of Malawi. The study assesses drivers of adoption of mobile phone technology for agricultural marketing by smallholder farmers. The study used regression techniques to identify drivers and extent of mobile phone use. Results show that use is positively affected by literacy, distance to local market, land size, current value of assets, crop income, and region variations but negatively influenced by access to electricity. Intensity of use is conditioned by gender, participation in agricultural projects, ownership of a mobile phone, current asset value, distance to nearest public phone services, and region variations. Asset endowment plays a critical role in enhancing adoption of mobile phone technology. Gender disparities significantly affect adoption as most women have limited access to assets. The study suggests the need to improve farmers’ access to mobile phones for agricultural marketing. It recommends that government, in collaboration with mobile network operators, should reduce calling tariffs to enhance use, gender disparities in accessing assets should be minimised, and investment in supporting infrastructure must be enhanced.
Uses of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Agriculture and Rural Development in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Maumbe Blessing M. , Okello Julius Juma
Published: March 2013

This paper presents a framework of the evolution of information and communication technology (ICT) applications in agriculture and rural development based on comparative experiences of South Africa and Kenya. The framework posits that full deployment of ICT in agriculture and rural development will be a culmination of several phases of changes that starts with e-government policy design, development and implementation. The paper argues that ICT use in agriculture and rural development is a powerful instrument for improving agricultural and rural development and standards of living throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. However, success in greater application of ICT in agriculture will require addressing impediments to adoption and diffusion. Such impediments include the lack of awareness, low literacy, infrastructure deficiencies (e.g. lack of electricity to charge electronic gadgets), language and cultural barriers in ICT usage, the low e-inclusivity and the need to cater for the special needs of some users. The paper reviews successful applications of ICT agriculture and urges greater use of ICT-based interventions in agriculture as a vehicle for spurring rural development in Africa.
Effect of Access to Formal Market Information on Prices Received by Smallholder Farmers in Uganda
Authors: Kiiza Barnabas , Mugisha Johnny , Lwasa Stephen
Published: March 2013

Much work has been done to improve smallholder farmers’ adoption of new agricultural technology packages in Uganda; however, little commensurate effort has been made to improve their access to formal market information channels like mobile telephony, FM radio stations, Internet, and other information centers. This study is based on data obtained in 2006 from farmers affiliated to Uganda Cooperative Alliance and those who are not; however, both cohorts are located in the districts of Mukono and Masaka. Findings show that households in more remote locations are less likely to use formal channels, and conversely, perception of reliability of the information, membership in a farmers’ group and commercial orientation of the farmer, all increase the likelihood of their use. The authors’ findings indicate that farmers who have access to information from formal channels consistently obtain higher farm-gate prices than those who obtain information from informal channels.
An Overview of Internet Developments and their Impact on E-Government in South Africa
Authors: Naidoo Goonasagree , Singh S. , Levine Niall
Published: March 2013

The usage of the internet has grown over recent years in South Africa but at a very slow rate. This is the result of several challenges facing the growth of the Internet in South Africa. These challenges are mostly related to the lack of infrastructure for the Internet, high cost of computer technology and service provider challenges. The paper provides an overview of the Internet usage and its impact on E-Government in South Africa. It examines regulatory issues pertaining to the Internet. It also examines Internet growth in the business and government sectors. In the government sector, the Cape Online Strategy, is an initiative by the provincial government of the Western Cape in SA, is an example of a global trend towards greater levels of interactivity between government and citizens. This initiative is an excellent example of how Web-based solutions can be used to deliver certain services to citizens. Another excellent example is an E-justice initiative undertaken by the Department of Justice. The initiative aims at promoting a more efficient system of Justice in SA. The paper also provides an overview of the challenges to Internet adoption in South Africa.
International Collaboration in Distance Education in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Adekanmbi Gbolagade , Boitshwarelo Bopelo
Published: March 2013

This chapter examines international collaboration in distance education in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), focusing on efforts aimed at utilizing technology. It identifies a number of significant collaborative endeavors. The collaborative efforts observed have a similar goal of pooling together ICT resources and expertise towards improving educational outcomes. The prevalence of teacher education and training across the initiatives, in the context of the Millennium Development Goals, is noted. Institutions outside Africa are actively involved in the funding and provision of expertise. Also, the AVU consortium model seems to be a viable approach to collaboration, with notable results seen. With the challenges facing technology-focused collaboration, such as a lack of enabling policies and the digital divide, the chapter suggests that African countries and institutions should pursue a culture of change and be more flexible. More formal training in distance education, utilizing Africans in the Diaspora and promoting dialogue across international spectrums are also recommended.
ICT Policy Development Process in Africa
Authors: Chavula Hopestone Kayiska , Chekol Abebe
Published: March 2013

This chapter reviews the information and communication technology (ICT) policy development process in Africa and assesses to what extent African countries have taken on board ICT issues in their overall national development policies and plans. It is argued that African countries lag behind in technological issues hence negatively affecting the overall development of the continent due to their inability to recognize the critical role played by ICTs in overall national development issues. The chapter emphasizes the significance of mainstreaming ICT policies and strategies in the overall development process, so that African countries remain competitive on the global market. This is done by taking into consideration the development and implementation of the National Information and Communication Infrastructure (NICI) policy and plans in different African countries initiated by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) after recognizing the little emphasis placed on the significance of ICTs in national development policies by African countries. The chapter assesses also to what extent these NICI policies and plans have impacted on ICT and economic development, and tries to propose the way forward for the continent.
Mobile Agriculture in South Africa
Authors: Maumbe Blessing
Published: March 2013

The rapid diffusion of mobile and wireless technologies is transforming agricultural development globally. In South Africa, rural e-government service delivery has been hampered by low Internet penetration. Mobile government offers a promising alternative to deliver public services to remote rural communities. In this regard, the author examines the potential of mobile and wireless technologies to deliver value-added services to rural communities in South Africa. An implementation framework comprising a multi-functional agro-portal and mobile agriculture services is proposed. The benefits and barriers of using mobile and wireless technologies in rural areas are examined, while key considerations and policy implications for mobile agriculture are discussed. The author advocates the development of “value-based” and “demand-driven” mobile agriculture services for the future growth and survival of mobile agriculture, which requires greater competition among service providers, use of multi-lingual e-content, integration of indigenous knowledge, mobile agriculture curriculum, mobile cyber-security, and customized value-added services for rural communities.
Knowledge Acquisition Process for Intelligent Decision Support in Critical Health Care
Authors: Portela Filipe , Cabral Alexandra , Abelha António , Salazar Maria , Quintas César , Machado José , Neves José , Santos Manuel Filipe
Published: March 2013

An efficient triage system is a good way to avoid some future problems and benefit the patient. However, a limitation still exists. The triage system is general and not specific to each case. Manchester Triage System is a reliable known system and is focused in the emergency department of a hospital. When applied to specific patients’ conditions (such as pregnancy), it has several limitations. To overcome those limitations, an alternative triage system, integrated into an intelligent decision support system, was developed. The system classifies patients according to the severity of their clinical condition, establishing clinical priorities and not diagnosis. According to the urgency of attendance or problem type, it suggests one of three possible categories of the triage. This chapter presents the overall knowledge acquisition cycle associated with the workflow of patient arrival and the inherent decision making process. Results show that this new approach enhances the efficiency and the safety through the appropriate use of resources and by assisting the right patient in the right place, reducing the waiting triage time and the number in general urgency.
Patient Centered Design
Authors: Reis Catarina I. , Freire Carla S. , Fernández Joaquin , Monguet Josep M.
Published: March 2013

Patient-Centered Design (PCD) is a particular type of User-Centered Design (UCD), where the end-user is a patient that will use an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) solution for healthcare. It focuses on needs, wants, and skills of the product’s primary user and implies involving end-users in the decision-making and development process of the solution. e-Therapy aims to provide support to therapy sessions through ICT solutions. It has grown in the last years, and in the mental health arena is being used for specific therapeutic contexts. It is an especially difficult environment due to specificities of the patients’ conditions and the physical access to patients being restricted and, sometimes, not even possible. Thus, a PCD approach can be accomplished through the health professionals involved, applying some of the most well known methods of UCD: interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, and participatory design. eSchi is an e-Therapy tool that complements traditional practices for the cognitive rehabilitation and training of schizophrenic patients. It was successfully developed using a PCD approach.
Proposal for Interactive Anonymization of Electronic Medical Records
Authors: Millán Carlos Andrés Moque , Quimbaya Alexandra Pomares , Gonzalez Rafael A.
Published: March 2013

One of the most important inputs for medical research is the information registered in electronic medical records. This information typically contains sensitive data that must be preserved in order to be used for research or educational purposes, and protected depending on the regulations of each country and institution. In order to assure confidentiality of data, different techniques can be used to remove basic identifiers (e.g. names, IDs); however, these techniques can be easily bypassed by attackers who know the information that can act as pseudo-identifiers of patients (e.g. birthdates, gender). Although these pseudo-identifiers can also be removed, the information they contain is valuable for medical research. To face this problem, different methods that allow minimizing the risk of sharing confidential information have been proposed. The interactive use of anonymization algorithms for electronic medical records is the main contribution of this chapter, dubbed AnonymousData.co: a proposal for anonymization of electronic health records.
Advantages, Limitations, and Solutions in the Use of ERP Systems
Authors: Azevedo Paula Serdeira , Romão Mário , Rebelo Efigénio
Published: March 2013

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have emerged as solutions oriented to manage organizations’ resources in an integrated way. They allow the automation of department activities, make information available to users at the right time, and support more accurately their decision-making needs. However, although the implementation of these systems has brought considerable benefits to users, they do not cover all processes from all industries. Many organizations have recognized this limitation and consequently felt the need to implement specific solutions to their industry, sector, or line of business. From the collected case study business drivers and objectives, the authors analyze the advantages and limitations of ERP Systems in the hospitality industry in order to understand how this industry uses ERP Systems and solves the challenge of integrating information spread through several heterogeneous information systems.
Automated Generation of SNOMED CT Subsets from Clinical Guidelines
Authors: Rodríguez-Solano Carlos , Lezcano Leonardo , Sicilia Miguel-Ángel
Published: March 2013

Recently, there has been a growing body of literature on how the large SNOMED CT (SCT) terminology could be implemented and used in different clinical settings. Its complexity and size is a major impediment for coding clinical information in practical applications. Therefore, it is sometimes necessary to define subsets for various use cases and specific audiences. Subsets are clusters of SNOMED CT terms that share a specified common characteristic. The automated generation of subsets from clinical document corpora have been proposed elsewhere, but they still require a collection of documents that is representative for the targeted domain. In this chapter the authors extend the research described in Rodríguez-Solano, Cáceres, and Sicilia (2011), where clinical guidelines’ glossaries are used as seed terminologies to automatically generate subsets by traversing SNOMED relationships. In the current research, further results have been obtained considering additional clinical guidelines; the application of quantitative analysis to the generated Snomed CT subsets, derived as result of implementing the proposed techniques, has allowed the evaluation of them.