bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of foot burns in a Dutch burn centre
Authors: Kılıç Tülay , Krijnen Pieta , Tuinebreijer Wim E , Breederveld Roelf S
Published: June 2015

Background

Although the feet involve a small percentage of the total body surface area, they can have major effects in daily life, caused by prolonged bed rest, hospitalization and high risk of both early and late complications. The aim of this study was to define the aetiology, treatment and outcomes of foot burns, with special interest in paediatric patients, patients with diabetic disease and burns acquired at the workplace.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of 82 patients who were admitted to one of the three burn centres in the Netherlands during the period 2004 to 2013. The patients had a median age of 43.5 years (range 0.01–85.9), and included 14 children and 8 diabetics. Data were collected from the hospital records.

Results

Scalding was the most common cause of the injury. Almost all patients required surgical management. It is notable that most of hospitalized patients (82 %) were not admitted on the day of injury. Children had a significantly shorter length of stay compared to adults (p = 0.01). The eight patients with diabetes had a significantly longer length of hospital stay, more complications and more often residual defects compared to the non-diabetic patients. In 13 patients, the injury took place at work. Half of these burns were caused by scalding, and foot burns caused by chemicals at work were rare (two patients).

Conclusions

Although the incidence of foot burns is low, there is a significant morbidity due to complications and long hospital stay. The following three points are suggested. Immediate referral to a burn centre is essential. It is important to educate diabetic patients on the risk of complications and adverse outcomes after burn injury. Preventative measures at the workplace are worth considering.
Assessment of some demographic risk factors associated with diaphyseal humeral fractures among Nigerians
Authors: Ezeuko Vitalis Chukwuma , Ehimigbai Agbonluai Richard , Esechie Ehijele Loveth
Published: June 2015

Background

The epidemiology of fractures of the humeral shaft has received little attention in Nigeria. This study was aimed at investigating the possible risk factors associated with diaphyseal humeral fractures among Nigerians.

Methods

The study was carried out retrospectively at the Department of Medical Records, National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos State, Nigeria, between 2007 and 2012. Case notes and plain films of X-ray from a total number of 206 patients of ages from birth to one hundred years (0–100 years), comprising of 140 males and 66 females, were used for the study. The analyses were done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 and presented in bar charts. The frequencies were reported as percentages. The differences in frequencies were compared using chi-square test.

Results

The results showed that the percentage frequency of diaphyseal humeral fractures was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in males than in females. The main cause (P < 0.05) of diaphyseal humeral fractures was road traffic accident followed by fall.

Conclusions

The major causes of diaphyseal humeral fractures are road traffic accidents and falls. Since diaphyseal humeral fracture is an issue of harsh economic consequences, adequate measures should be taken by all the parties involved, especially government agencies, to address this menace in term of road maintenance and general well-being of the citizens. Furthermore, since it was observed that different regions of the bones of interest present diverse characteristics with respect to associated risk factors, it is recommended that such studies as this should be region-based rather than whole-bone based.
Integrating phase into the visualization of spectral decomposition attributes
Authors: Wallet Bradley C. , Davogustto Oswaldo
Published: June 2015

Much of the world’s conventional oil and gas production comes from fluvial-deltaic reservoirs. The ability to accurately interpret the architectural elements comprising these systems greatly reduces the risk in exploration and development in these environments. We have evaluated methods for using spectral decomposition attributes to improve the visualization in fluvial-deltaic environments using data from the Middle Pennsylvanian age Red Fork Formation of Oklahoma. We determined how spectral phase and magnitude attributes can be effectively combined using an hue-saturation-value color map to produce images that have considerable interpretational value. Incorporating our methods in the interpretation process has the potential to improve the exploration and development in these systems.
Randomized Phase II Trial of Ridaforolimus in Advanced Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Oza Amit M. , Pignata Sandro , Poveda Andres , McCormack Mary , Clamp Andrew , Schwartz Benjamin , Cheng Jonathan , Li Xiaoyun , Campbell Kristy , Dodion Pierre , Haluska Frank G.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

The prognosis for women with recurrent and metastatic endometrial cancer is poor, and improved therapies are needed. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is an important target, and mTOR inhibitors show clinical activity in endometrial cancer.

Patients and Methods

An open-label, multicenter, randomized, phase II trial of oral ridaforolimus compared with progestin or investigator choice chemotherapy (comparator) was undertaken in women with metastatic or recurrent endometrial cancer who had progressive disease following one or two lines of chemotherapy and no hormonal therapy. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS) assessed by independent radiologic review.

Results

One hundred thirty patients were enrolled (64 received ridaforolimus and 66 received the comparator), and median age was 66 years. Treatment discontinuation as a result of adverse events was 33% with ridaforolimus versus 6% with the comparator, with common (> 10%) grade 3 toxicities being hyperglycemia, anemia, and diarrhea. Thirty-eight percent (ridaforolimus) versus 71% (comparator) of patients discontinued treatment as a result of disease progression. Median PFS at the protocol prespecified interim analysis with 58 PFS events (primary end point) was 3.6 months (95% CI, 2.7 to 7.3 months) for ridaforolimus and 1.9 months (95% CI, 1.9 to 2.3 months) for the comparator (hazard ratio, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.31 to 0.90; P = .008). PFS rate for ridaforolimus versus comparator was 48% versus 18% at 16 weeks and 38% versus 15% at 24 weeks. Objective response rate for ridaforolimus versus comparator was 0% versus 4% (P = .925), and stable disease was achieved in 35% versus 17% of patients (P = .021).

Conclusion

Oral ridaforolimus shows encouraging activity in advanced endometrial cancer but is associated with significant toxicity. Inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway may be a viable therapeutic target.
Presence and Number of Lymph Node Metastases Are Associated With Compromised Survival for Patients Younger Than Age 45 Years With Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Adam Mohamed Abdelgadir , Pura John , Goffredo Paolo , Dinan Michaela A. , Reed Shelby D. , Scheri Randall P. , Hyslop Terry , Roman Sanziana A. , Sosa Julie A.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Cervical lymph node metastases are recognized as a prognostic indicator only in patients age 45 years or older with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC); patients younger than age 45 years are perceived to have low-risk disease. The current American Joint Committee on Cancer staging for PTC in patients younger than age 45 years does not include cervical lymph node metastases. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that the presence and number of cervical lymph node metastases have an adverse impact on overall survival (OS) in patients younger than age 45 years with PTC.

Patients and Methods

Adult patients younger than age 45 years undergoing surgery for stage I PTC (no distant metastases) were identified from the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB; 1998-2006) and from SEER 1988-2006 data. Multivariable models were used to examine the association of OS with the presence of lymph node metastases and number of metastatic nodes.

Results

In all, 47,902 patients in NCDB (11,740 with and 36,162 without nodal metastases) and 21,855 in the SEER database (5,188 with and 16,667 without nodal metastases) were included. After adjustment, OS was compromised for patients with nodal metastases compared with patients who did not have them (NCDB: hazard ratio (HR), 1.32; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.67; P = .021; SEER: HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.56; P = .006). After adjustment, increasing number of metastatic lymph nodes was associated with decreasing OS up to six metastatic nodes (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.25; P = .03), after which more positive nodes conferred no additional mortality risk (HR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.99 to 1.05; P = .75).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that cervical lymph node metastases are associated with compromised survival in young patients, warranting consideration of revised American Joint Committee on Cancer staging. A change point of six or fewer metastatic lymph nodes seems to carry prognostic significance, thus advocating for rigorous preoperative screening for nodal metastases.
Neuronal polarization
Authors: Takano Tetsuya , Xu Chundi , Funahashi Yasuhiro , Namba Takashi , Kaibuchi Kozo
Published: June 2015

Neurons are highly polarized cells with structurally and functionally distinct processes called axons and dendrites. This polarization underlies the directional flow of information in the central nervous system, so the establishment and maintenance of neuronal polarization is crucial for correct development and function. Great progress in our understanding of how neurons establish their polarity has been made through the use of cultured hippocampal neurons, while recent technological advances have enabled in vivo analysis of axon specification and elongation. This short review and accompanying poster highlight recent advances in this fascinating field, with an emphasis on the signaling mechanisms underlying axon and dendrite specification in vitro and in vivo.
Tissue-specific roles of Fgfr2 in development of the external genitalia
Authors: Gredler Marissa L. , Seifert Ashley W. , Cohn Martin J.
Published: June 2015

Congenital anomalies frequently occur in organs that undergo tubulogenesis. Hypospadias is a urethral tube defect defined by mislocalized, oversized, or multiple openings of the penile urethra. Deletion of Fgfr2 or its ligand Fgf10 results in severe hypospadias in mice, in which the entire urethral plate is open along the ventral side of the penis. In the genital tubercle, the embryonic precursor of the penis and clitoris, Fgfr2 is expressed in two epithelial populations: the endodermally derived urethral epithelium and the ectodermally derived surface epithelium. Here, we investigate the tissue-specific roles of Fgfr2 in external genital development by generating conditional deletions of Fgfr2 in each of these cell types. Conditional deletion of Fgfr2 results in two distinct phenotypes: endodermal Fgfr2 deletion causes mild hypospadias and inhibits maturation of a complex urethral epithelium, whereas loss of ectodermal Fgfr2 results in severe hypospadias and absence of the ventral prepuce. Although these cell type-specific mutants exhibit distinctive genital anomalies, cellular analysis reveals that Fgfr2 regulates epithelial maturation and cell cycle progression in the urethral endoderm and in the surface ectoderm. The unexpected finding that ectodermal deletion of Fgfr2 results in the most severe hypospadias highlights a major role for Fgfr2 in the developing genital surface epithelium, where epithelial maturation is required for maintenance of a closed urethral tube. These results demonstrate that urethral tubulogenesis, prepuce morphogenesis, and sexually dimorphic patterning of the lower urethra are controlled by discrete regions of Fgfr2 activity.
An interview with Deepak Srivastava
Authors: Grewal Seema
Published: June 2015

Deepak Srivastava is a Director at the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease and a Distinguished Professor in Paediatric Developmental Cardiology at the University of California, San Francisco. As well as caring for sick children as a physician at the Benioff Children's Hospital in San Francisco, he runs an active research group that studies the biology of heart development and regeneration. In March 2015, we met up with Deepak and asked him about his career.
An interview with Rudolf Jaenisch
Authors: Aguilar Andrea
Published: June 2015

Rudolf Jaenisch is a Professor of Biology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a founding member of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research and the current president of the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR). His contributions to the stem cell field span from making the first transgenic mouse to seminal advances in the reprogramming field, and much more. In recognition of his pioneering research leading to induced pluripotency, he recently received the 2015 March of Dimes Prize in Developmental Biology. At the recent Keystone Meeting on ‘Transcriptional and Epigenetic Influences on Stem Cell States’ in Colorado, we had the opportunity to talk to him about his life and work.
The PDB database is a rich source of alpha-helical anti-microbial peptides to combat disease causing pathogens
Authors: Chakraborty Sandeep , Phu My , de Morais Tâmara Prado , Nascimento Rafael , Goulart Luiz Ricardo , Rao Basuthkar J. , Asgeirsson Bjarni , Dandekar Abhaya M.
Published: June 2015

The therapeutic potential ofα-helical anti-microbial peptides (AH-AMP) to combat pathogens is fast gaining prominence. Based on recently published open access software for characterizingα-helical peptides (PAGAL), we elucidate a search methodology (SCALPEL) that leverages the massive structural data pre-existing in the PDB database to obtain AH-AMPs belonging to the host proteome. We providein vitrovalidation of SCALPEL on plant pathogens (Xylella fastidiosa,Xanthomonas arboricolaandLiberibacter crescens) by identifying AH-AMPs that mirror the function and properties of cecropin B, a well-studied AH-AMP. The identified peptides include a linear AH-AMP present within the existing structure of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PPC20), and an AH-AMP mimicing the properties of the twoα-helices of cecropin B from chitinase (CHITI25). The minimum inhibitory concentration of these peptides are comparable to that of cecropin B, while anionic peptides used as control failed to show any inhibitory effect on these pathogens. Substitute therapies in place of conventional chemotherapies using membrane permeabilizing peptides like these might also prove effective to target cancer cells. The use of native structures from the same organism could possibly ensure that administration of such peptides will be better tolerated and not elicit an adverse immune response. We suggest a similar approach to target Ebola epitopes, enumerated using PAGAL recently, by selecting suitable peptides from the human proteome, especially in wake of recent reports of cationic amphiphiles inhibiting virus entry and infection.
Kvik: three-tier data exploration tools for flexible analysis of genomic data in epidemiological studies
Authors: Fjukstad Bjørn , Standahl Olsen Karina , Jareid Mie , Lund Eiliv , Bongo Lars Ailo
Published: June 2015

Kvik is an open-source framework that we developed for explorative analysis of functional genomics data from large epidemiological studies. Creating such studies requires a significant amount of time and resources. It is therefore usual to reuse the data from one study for several research projects. Often each project requires implementing new analysis code, integration with specific knowledge bases, and specific visualizations. Although existing data exploration tools are available for single study data exploration, no tool provides all the required functionality for multistudy data exploration. We have therefore used the Kvik framework to develop Kvik Pathways, an application for exploring gene expression data in the context of biological pathways. We have used Kvik Pathways to explore data from both a cross-sectional study design and a case-control study within the Norwegian Women and Cancer (NOWAC) cohort. Kvik Pathways follows the three-tier architecture in web applications using a powerful back-end for statistical analyses and retrieval of metadata.In this note, we describe how we used the Kvik framework to develop the Kvik Pathways application. Kvik Pathways was used by our team of epidemiologists toexplore gene expression data from healthy women with high and low plasma ratios of essential fatty acids.
Non-invasive imaging to monitor lupus nephritis and neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Thurman Joshua M. , Serkova Natalie J.
Published: June 2015

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple different organs, including the kidneys and central nervous system (CNS). Conventional radiological examinations in SLE patients include volumetric/ anatomical computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US). The utility of these modalities is limited, however, due to the complexity of the disease. Furthermore, CT and MRI contrast agents are contraindicated in patients with renal impairment. Various radiologic methods are currently being developed to improve disease characterization in patients with SLE beyond simple anatomical endpoints. Physiological non-contrast MRI protocols have been developed to assess tissue oxygenation, glomerular filtration, renal perfusion, interstitial diffusion, and inflammation-driven fibrosis in lupus nephritis (LN) patients. For neurological symptoms, vessel size imaging (VSI, an MRI approach utilizing T2-relaxing iron oxide nanoparticles) has shown promise as a diagnostic tool. Molecular imaging probes (mostly for MRI and nuclear medicine imaging) have also been developed for diagnosing SLE with high sensitivity, and for monitoring disease activity. This paper reviews the challenges in evaluating disease activity in patients with LN and neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE). We describe novel MRI and positron-emission tomography (PET) molecular imaging protocols using targeted iron oxide nanoparticles and radioactive ligands, respectively, for detection of SLE-associated inflammation.
Highlights of the 1st Student Symposium of the ISCB RSG UK
Authors: Rahman Farzana , Farmer Rohit , Das Sayoni , Vayani Fatima , Hassan Mehedi
Published: June 2015

This short report summarises the scientific content and activities of a student-led event, the 1st student symposium by the UK Regional Student Group of the International Society for Computational Biology. The event took place on the 8th of October 2014.
The Religious Other in the Histories of Gregory of Tours
Authors: Choda Kamil
Published: June 2015

The Religious Other in the Histories of Gregory of Tours

The question of the religious other is discussed from the perspective Gregory of Tours himself would have identified with: namely, that of eternal salvation (a necessary prerequisite for which is embracing the Catholic doctrine) or condemnation Arians, Jews and Catholics lapsed into heresy shall eventually face. Gregory’s portrayal of the followers of Arius (who, according to him, not only cannot be called Christians, but follow in footsteps of pagan Roman persecutors of Christianity) is discussed; the futility of theological debate as a mean to influence those non‑Trinitarians is showed and the miraculous is stressed as the only effective tool of gaining them for the Church. Secondly, the question of Jews in Gregory’s narrative: their loss of the chosen people status, their inability to read the Old Testament Christologically and their not partaking in the miraculous that proved so decisive for the conversion of Arians is stressed; the political pressure of secular and ecclesiastical authorities is presented as the only, albeit ineffective, way of integrating members of the Jewish community into the Church. Finally, the learned heresies produced by the Church elite, that can be effectively addressed by employing the theological discourse and hierarchical admonition, are contrasted with the unrest caused among common people by popular prophets challenging the Church authority and her monopoly on the miraculous.
The Sinful Woman as an Example of Metanoia in the Byzantian Poetry
Authors: Heszen Agnieszka
Published: June 2015

Sinful Woman as an Example of Metanoia in the Byzantian Poetry

A story about the sinful woman is told in the Gospel, where she is an example of deep repentance. The Byzantine authors often used this example in their poetic and homiletic works. In this article I juxtapose three genres of Byzantine poetry and I compare the literary motif of the sinful woman which appears in each of them. I choose the most representative genres of Byzantine poetry, as kontakion, kanon and troparion (or sticheron). In the first part I examine Romanos’ kontakion On the sinful woman, in the second one – Andrew of Crete’s the Megas Kanon and in the last part – Kassia’s troparion, commonly called On Mary Magdalene. The works are connected by the common theme, but they are different in respect of the form and the literary genre. In my paper I try to show how the same example of the Gospel parable is used in different ways in literary works.
Penalties in Action in Classical Athens
Authors: Kucharski Jan
Published: June 2015

Penalties in Action in Classical Athens. A Preliminary Survey

This paper attempts to look at the inner workings of the punitive system in ancient Athens. After a brief survey of the range of penalties available in Classical Athens (capital punishment, exile and outlawry, disenfranchisement, financial penalties, imprisonment, corporal penalties), it proceeds first to examine their nature (as they frequently fail to meet our criteria of punishment), and then to map them on the substance vs. procedure controversy regarding the Athenian legal system. The last two sections of the paper are devoted to the manner in which penalties were imposed (summary punishment, punishment by sentence, “automatic” punishment) and executed (private vs. public execution of court verdicts; coercive measures etc.).
The Greek Voice Aspirates and Balkan Indo-European
Authors: Piwowarczyk Dariusz R.
Published: June 2015

Greek Voice Aspirates and Balkan Indo-European

In contemporary Indo‑European linguistics growing attention is given to the issue of the “Balkan Indo‑European” subgrouping of the Indo‑European languages. Different treatment of the Proto‑Indo‑European voiced aspirates in Greek and the Balkan languages presents a difficulty for this specific classification, as both Greek and the Indo‑European languages of the Balkans are members of the subgroup. The problem might be overcome by assuming a longer period of the retention of voiced aspirates in the Balkan region than originally thought of, accounting for inconsistencies in Linear B writing, the medium of the earliest variety of Greek – Mycenaean.
Classical Culture and European Identity: Pagan Antiquity in the Writings of Pope Benedict XVI
Authors: Stróżyński Mateusz
Published: June 2015

Classical Culture and European Identity: Pagan Antiquity in the Writings of Pope Benedict XVI

The paper analyses the attitude of Joseph Ratzinger, pope Benedict XVI, towards classical culture and tradition. A careful analysis of the pope’s writings makes it obvious that he addresses Europe’s classical heritage with respect and deep understanding. A number of case studies analysed in the paper allows the reader to see a variety of perspectives on classical antiquity, present in the writings of Benedict XVI.
Claudianus Mamertus in the eyes of Sidonius Apollinaris
Authors: Styka Jerzy
Published: June 2015

Claudianus Mamertus in the eyes of Sidonius Apollinaris

The present paper discusses the person and literary achievements of Claudianus Mamertus as seen by his fellow writer and friend, Sidonius Apollinaris. In his extant writings, Sidonius presents a sympathetic and, indeed, impressive image of his friend as both a devout member of the Christian community and an outstanding intellectual. Both the letters to Mamertus and the eulogy written after his death testify to the friendship between the two writers, and the intellectual, spiritual, and personal qualities of Claudianus Mamertus. Sidonius’ works concerning Mamertus are often analysed to underscore the philosophical and theological character of Mamertus’ work; yet their elegant form and their deep connection to cultural tradition deserves also an analysis from a more aesthetic, literary point of view.
Military Active and Reserve Component Mix: The Grey Space
Authors: Hannan Saiful , Gallagher Mark A. , Perrin Anna M.
Published: June 2015

The United States Air Force consists of two primary components: regular active and reserves. As a result of different deployment schedules and skill levels of personnel, these components differ in their associated costs and employee abilities. Although active-component service members are full-time employees, the majority of reserve members serve in the military on a part-time basis until activated by volunteering or mobilization. Before retiring from military service, active-component members often transition to the reserve component, resulting in a higher level of experience in these units. This enables the Air Force to retain experienced personnel at relatively lower costs and preserve its operational capability. Military analysts frequently assess policies regarding funding, resource allocation, and the balance between components using the Total Force Enterprise Analytic Framework. The five drivers of this framework are wartime demand and requirements, weapon system inventory, manpower inventory, employment policies, and cost. To simplify the evaluation and communication of component force mix options, we developed a graphical representation of the five-driver framework, which we called the grey space. This approach creates a visual representation of feasible options subject to the trade-off between cost and supply in terms of force structure size and component mix. Our depictions have enabled political constituents to better understand the feasible region. The United States Army and others analyzing the military have also adopted this approach. In this article, we discuss this graphical approach and its applications.
From California dreaming to California data: Challenging historic models for landfill CH4 emissions
Authors: Spokas Kurt , Bogner Jean , Corcoran Meg , Walker Scott
Published: June 2015

Improved quantification of diverse CH4 sources at the urban scale is needed to guide local GHG mitigation strategies in the Anthropocene. Herein, we focus on landfill CH4 emissions in California, challenging the current IPCC methodology which focuses on a climate dependency for landfill CH4 generation (methanogenesis), but does not explicitly consider climate or soil dependencies for emissions. Relying on a comprehensive California landfill database, a field-validated process-based model for landfill CH4 emissions (CALMIM), and select field measurements at 10 California sites with a variety of methods, we support the contrary position: Limited climate dependency for methanogenesis, but strong climate dependency for landfill CH4 emissions. Contrary to the historic IPCC empirical model for methanogenesis with kinetic constants related to climate, we demonstrate a simpler and more robust linear empirical relationship (r2 = 0.85; n=128) between waste mass and landfill biogas recovery [126 × 10-6 Nm3 CH4 hr-1 Mgwaste-1]. More interestingly, there are no statistically significant relationships with climate, site age, or status (open/closed) for landfill biogas recovery. The current IPCC methodology does not consider soil or climate drivers for gaseous transport or seasonal methanotrophy in different cover soils. On the other hand, we illustrate strong climate and soil dependencies for landfill emissions—e.g., average intermediate cover emissions below 20 g CH4 m-2 d-1 when the site’s mean annual precipitation is >500 mm y-1. Thereby, for the California landfill CH4 inventory, the highest-emitting sites shift from landfills containing the largest mass of waste to sites dominated by intermediate cover types having a reduced rate of soil CH4 oxidation during the annual cycle. These differences have profound implications for developing more realistic, science-based urban and regional scale GHG inventories for landfill CH4 while reducing uncertainties for this important anthropogenic source.
Safe, long-term management of bioburden that helps promote healing Evidence review of DACC technology
Authors: Cutting Keith , McGuire James
Published: June 2015

Unlike common antimicrobial dressings, the Cutimed Sorbact range does not kill pathogens, but instead binds them to its surface, so they can be safely removed at dressing change. As a result, it can be used long term with minimal risk of side effects. This supplement describes the evidence base on the efficacy of DACC technology
Typology in the classroom: Fostering Motion-Event awareness in Spanish-speaking ELLs
Authors: Evans Reid
Published: June 2015

The aim of the present paper is to address the implications of the direct instruction of the linguistic typology of verbs of motion in second-language English learners. Results of a small-scale research study are reported in which students were exposed to typology instruction with the goal of increasing proficiency and target-like production. To these ends, it was hypothesized that pre- and post-intervention writing samples would differ significantly in the appropriate use of expressions of motion, particularly those expressions employing English manner-of-motion verbs. Results confirmed this hypothesis and demonstrated that students achieve greater proficiency in motion-event expression when exposed to explicit instruction including negative evidence and aspects of the Conceptual Approach (White, 2012).
The design process of a reading comprehension manual
Authors: Lopera Medina Sergio Alonso
Published: June 2015

Material design is an important part in the teaching practices. This article describes the process of material design of a foreign language (FL) reading manual for undergraduate students at Universidad de Antioquia (Medellín – Colombia). A case study was used as a research method. Four in-service English teachers based their inquiry following the reflective approach of professional development. They also took into account the guidelines to design teaching materials proposed by Howard and Major (2004).  Some of the results of their inquiry for the design of the manual involve contextualization, personalization, and students’ needs. A sample of a reading strategy is given in order to illustrate how teachers worked and designed the manual as a product of their inquiry. Conclusions suggest that this professional development practice helped teachers become more aware of their own teaching realities and also helped them to understand their beliefs and practice in teaching reading as a foreign language.
Coloración Psicodélica de Imágenes Digitales mediante Lógica Difusa
Authors: Castro Linda Sheriyn Rodríguez , Fajardo Iván Javier Ponce , Cuchango Helbert Eduardo Espitia
Published: June 2015

En el presente artículo se propone un sistema de inferencia difusa para la manipulación del color en imágenes digitales con el propósito de modificar su estilo artístico. Se genera una combinación de colores diferente a la original de tal forma que produzca una nueva sensación visual. El sistema de lógica difusa propuesto, modela mediante conjuntos y reglas de inferencia difusas, la modificación de color considerando la modalidad artística denominada arte psicodélico, generando como resultado imágenes cuyos colores producen este efecto. En la segunda parte se afina el sistema de inferencia propuesto según datos empíricos determinados junto con expertos en el campo del arte, con el fin de obtener un mejor ajuste a la escala de colores del estilo artístico estudiado. Mediante la presentación de diferentes casos de prueba se evidencian los resultados obtenidos por el sistema antes y después de la optimización. 
Diseño de un dispositivo para la movilidad de personas con discapacidad motriz usando el método función de calidad
Authors: Bravo Leonardo Contreras
Published: June 2015

Este articulo muestra el  desarrollo y selección de  un diseño para generar un dispositivo de movilidad para personas con discapacidad motriz entre  8 a 15 años, con patologías T12 y que no tengan patologías concomitantes en miembros superiores. Inicia con la obtención de los requerimientos del cliente, y la transformación de estas a partir de la herramienta llamada función de calidad (Q.F.D - Quality Function Deployment), y el uso de diferentes métodos evaluación  que finalizan condensando  todos los distintos elementos a favor de las dos partes: la del cliente y la del productor.

 

Después de descifrar de una manera cuantitativa lo cualitativo, se procede a desarrollar un proceso sistémico que genere elementos particulares para llegar a concretar el diseño por medio de pasos que unen los elementos técnicos y los requisitos del cliente (usuario).

 

En la parte final, Se selecciona un modelo, se realiza un bosquejo con el cual represente el resultado de una manera gráfica y clara cuales fueron las elecciones realizadas por medio de la herramienta llamada función de calidad (Q.F.D).
Modelos de inventarios con productos perecederos: revisión de la literatura
Authors: Mantilla Freddy Andres Perez , Delgado Jose Fidel Torres
Published: June 2015

En el presente artículo se lleva a cabo una revisión de las principales características estudiadas por la comunidad científica en el desarrollo de modelos matemáticos que buscan definir una política de inventario óptima para productos que se deterioran. De este modo, se referencian 390 artículos publicados a partir del año 2001 en revistas de gran impacto, teniendo en cuenta: el tipo de demanda y deterioro representado en los modelos matemáticos, el estudio de una política de precio óptima, la inclusión de faltantes y/o valor del dinero en el tiempo, el estudio de múltiples productos y/o dos o más eslabones de la cadena de suministro, y la utilización de parámetros o variables difusas. Finalmente, se identifican oportunidades de investigación que a la fecha no han sido abordadas por la comunidad científica en este campo del conocimiento.
Ratón USB para personas tetrapléjicas controlado con el movimiento de la cabeza
Authors: Soriano Méndez José Jairo , Riaño Gómez Danny Alexander , Salazar Morales Omar
Published: June 2015

Este articulo presenta los resultados del diseño e implementación de un ratón USB (Universal Serial Bus) totalmente hardware destinado a personas que tienen algún tipo de discapacidad en alguno de sus cuatro miembros, con especial utilidad para aquellos que sufren de tetraplejia. La teoría detrás del diseño supone que el usuario puede mover el cursor en la pantalla del computador y hacer clics izquierdo y derecho, utilizando solamente la cabeza. La implementación se realizócon un microcontrolador que dispone de interfaz USB y conversor analógicodigital (ADC). El registro del movimiento de la cabeza del usuario y la posición de la pantalla se hizo mediante tecnología de acelerómetros de tres ejes. Los algoritmos diseñados e implementados en el firmware del microcontrolador realizan todo el trabajo necesario para procesar la información de los acelerómetros y así controlar el cursor en pantalla.

Se observóque el diseño es fácil de usar: el sensor del usuario se pone sobre sus gafas y el sensor de la pantalla se pone sobre ésta con una pinza plástica. La conexión al computador no requiere instalar software adicional, dado que es compatible con la clase HID (Human Interface Devices) que viene por defecto en varias plataformas como Windows ® y Linux. El ratón fue probado en tres sistemas operativos sobre computadores diferentes, a saber, Windows ® XP (32 bit), Windows ® 7 (64 bit) y Ubuntu Linux (32 bit). Se realizóuna prueba de las funciones básicas del ratón sobre siete personas sin entrenamiento previo. Esta prueba mostróla necesidad de una mejor sintonización de los umbrales en los algoritmos propuestos, que puede realizarse como trabajo futuro tomando una muestra representativa de la población objetivo. Se alcanzaron 6%, 3% y 1% de desaciertos en la ejecución del clic derecho, y movimientos arriba y abajo del cursor respectivamente. Por el contrario, se alcanzaron 22%, 12% y 10% de desaciertos en la ejecución del clic izquierdo, y movimientos izquierda y derecha respectivamente.
Modelamiento de estaciones TransMilenio mediante Autómatas Celulares: lecciones aprendidas
Authors: Rodríguez Garzón Camilo Alfonso
Published: June 2015

Partiendo de un modelo que permite simular el congestionamiento en una estacio ́n de TransMilenio, se presenta una reflexio ́n acerca de las consecuencias del uso del paradig- ma utilizado (auto ́matas celulares), as ́ı como de aspectos idiosincra ́ticos que repercuten en el modelo. Se discuten simulta ́neamente los desaf ́ıos te ́cnicos e intelectuales que ello implica: simular las complejidades de un sistema en apariencia simple, pero que exhibe una enorme diversidad de comportamientos y variables plantea afrontar nuevos enfoques y te ́cnicas. El Ingeniero, bajo su status quo en la sociedad, debe replantear sus esque- mas y combinar disciplinas tradicionales y emergentes para enfrentar dichos retos. La experiencia que se recopila, da cuenta de ello. 
Aspectos técnicos y normativos para el monitoreo y medición de armónicos
Authors: Rojas Cubides Herbert Enrique , Rivas Trujillo Edwin , Jaramillo Matta Adolfo Andrés
Published: June 2015

En este artículo se presenta un análisis acerca de los parámetros requeridos para un adecuado proceso de monitoreo y medición de armónicos presentes en las redes de energía eléctrica, para estudios de calidad de potencia. Inicialmente se introducen conceptos básicos de los armónicos presentes en las redes de energía eléctrica, posteriormente se mencionan las normas y recomendaciones de regulación para la calidad de energía eléctrica en el marco colombiano. Seguido a esto se presentan algunos parámetros importantes que deben ser tenidos en cuenta para una adecuada adquisición y tratamiento de las señales de tensión y corriente tanto a frecuencia fundamental como a frecuencias armónicas, donde se hace énfasis en puntos como: medición de armónicos, determinación del punto de acople o conexión común (PCC),  correcta ubicación de los sensores y registradores, equipos de medición de calidad de potencia, frecuencia de muestreo, intervalos de observación, transductores, medición de armónicos de tensión, medición de armónicos de corriente y condiciones del sistema durante la medición..
Aplicación móvil de realidad aumentada para la enseñanza de la clasificación de los seres vivos a niños de tercer grado
Authors: Solano Cesar Augusto , Casas Díaz Johan Fabiel , Guevara Bolaños Juan Carlos
Published: June 2015

Las tecnologías de la información y las comunicaciones (TIC) ha tenido un gran auge en lo los últimos años y es debido a este auge que se han ido introduciendo en el aula de clase con resultados prometedores. Por esta razón es indispensable crear herramientas innovadoras que fortalezcan los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje de los estudiantes, además de motivarlos a usar este tipo de herramientas tanto dentro como fuera del aula. El presente documento tiene como objetivo presentar al lector la problemática existente en la enseñanza de las ciencias naturales, específicamente en el tema de la clasificación de los seres vivos para los niños de tercer grado, así como la solución propuesta a partir de las TIC.
Simulaciones ambientales para la selección de materiales en diseño de alojamientos temporales en climas tropicales.
Authors: Luciani Mejia Sara
Published: June 2015

Con el fin de mitigar el impacto que causa la pérdida del hogar debido a los constantes eventos naturales, se propone el diseño de un sistema constructivo adecuado que permita el alojamiento temporal de los afectados; para esto, se desarrollaron una serie de simulaciones ambientales con medios digitales, que permitieron conocer el desempeño térmico de materiales seleccionados previamente según lineamientos del Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), en relación con los componentes de edificio como cimentación, estructura, envolvente y cubierta, en climas tropicales, aplicado a Bogotá y Girardot. Asimismo, se explora la relación entre los materiales con cuatro configuraciones de diseño y siete tipos de ventilación, a fin de obtener una respuesta multidimensional y sostenible. Como resultado se encontróque materiales como guadua, fibras vegetales y fibras sintéticas, sumado a estrategias de aislamiento y configuraciones de ventilación, pueden aportar al confort térmico en el diseño de alojamientos temporales en el contexto colombiano.
La habitabilidad como variable de diseño de edificaciones orientadas a la sostenibilidad.
Authors: Cubillos González Rolando Arturo , Trujillo Johanna , Cortés Cely Oscar Alfonso , Rodríguez Álvarez Claudia Milena , Villar Lozano Mayerly Rosa
Published: June 2015

Hoy, el crecimiento poblacional y el cambio climático afectan la óptima habitabilidad de las edificaciones. Por tanto, un mal diseño ocasiona que la habitabilidad no responda a los requerimientos de los usuarios y a las condiciones climáticas actuales. A partir del análisis del crecimiento poblacional y de los cambios climáticos que se están presentando en Bogotá, ¿es posible evaluar la calidad de la habitabilidad de las edificaciones y, por consiguiente, generar diseños óptimos que permitan que su uso sea sostenible en el tiempo y se adapten de manera adecuada a los cambios climáticos actuales? A fin de lograr esto, el análisis de la habitabilidad debe estar dirigido a diseñar edificaciones resilientes. Para ello, se propuso un Sistema de Gestión de la Información, que pretende generar modelos que estimen en el tiempo la adaptabilidad y la sostenibilidad de una edificación. La aproximación al concepto de habitabilidad plantea la interrelación de variables desde las visiones sociocultural y ambiental, entendida esta última como un sistema. Finalmente, se concluye que el prototipo de software en este momento se convierte en un laboratorio de exploración para la generación de otro software que pueda conducir a una patente de utilidad y aplicarlo en el ejercicio profesional.
La sostenibilidad de la vivienda tradicional : una revisión del estado de la cuestión en el mundo.
Authors: Lárraga Lara Rigoberto , Aguilar Robledo Miguel , Reyes Hernández Humberto , Fortanelli Martínez Javier
Published: June 2015

En la búsqueda de los componentes de la sostenibilidad de la vivienda tradicional se indagósobre los conceptos y la evidencia empírica de la utilidad, lo que permitiótener un panorama organizado y crítico del conocimiento acumulado, a fin de contribuir con la comprobación de la hipótesis y adecuación de métodos a las diferentes ramas del saber. En este ejercicio de investigación se encontróun camino muy mencionado pero poco explorado; al estudiar los conceptos en sus discursos originales se hallóuna interesante gama de enfoques, críticas y debates, los cuales se clasificaron con base en los enfoques asociados de sostenibilidad ambiental, económica, social, cultural e institucional. Tal diversidad permitiódefinir criterios para cada uno de los enfoques y reconocer técnicas a fin de medir la sostenibilidad de la vivienda tradicional. Al mismo tiempo, se detectóuna infinidad de discursos vacíos que utilizan el concepto como una moda, sin ninguna aportación significativa.
Ciudad y compromiso ciudadano en la historia de occidente.
Authors: Ospina Hernandez Carlos Arturo
Published: June 2015

En este artículo se plantea el problema de la necesidad de contar con una síntesis de la ciudadanía derivada del proceso histórico del compromiso ciudadciudadano en sus diversas manifestaciones, a fin de tonificar la conciencia ciudadana de modo que enfoque la urbe como el entretejido de los ciudadanos y las aspiraciones éticas, políticas, jurídicas y socioeconómicas que solamente la civilidad les puede proporcionar. La investigación está enmarcada en la metodología de historia de las ideas, que consiste en un análisis crítico de las fuentes documentales, a la luz de la doxografía de las ideas en la historia, previamente ordenadas por temas, subtemas y categorías. Los resultados y las conclusiones apuntan a pensar el alcance real del problema de ciudadciudadano, entre otros.
Caracterización del modelo de aprendizaje a partir de laboratorios de diseño con énfasis en factores sociales.
Authors: Bolaños Palacios Alvaro Javier , Aguilera Martínez Fabián Adolfo
Published: June 2015

Actualmente, los procesos y las metodologías para la enseñanza de la arquitectura se orientan desde los enfoques transdisciplinares. Los distintos procedimientos para abordar los problemas en el ejercicio profesional, no solamente nos llevan al diseño individual y desde las aulas, sino que se justifican los escenarios de empoderamiento en comunidades a través del diseño participativo con técnicas aplicadas desde los "laboratorios de diseño" a partir de la experiencia. En este artículo se revisan los métodos de la enseñanza dentro del contexto, en escenarios de proyecto colectivo y experimental, entendiendo que el "rol del diseñador" se orienta a la creatividad para convertirse en facilitador de acciones y métodos, y a la vinculación de distintos agentes que participen en la construcción de su entorno. Se busca entender el diseño participativo, enfatizando la necesidad de formular estrategias que orienten la enseñanza de la arquitectura desde los procesos de participación social y la formulación de modelos a partir de la experiencia con comunidades. En conclusión, se intenta caracterizar distintos instrumentos para la instrucción como respuesta a problemas de contextos con necesidad de habitabilidad urbana, dimensión socioeconómica y medioambiental.
Análisis urbano y formal del edificio Miguel de Aguinaga.
Authors: Villa Montoya Felipe , Correa Velásquez Leonardo
Published: June 2015

El artículo tiene como objetivo formular pautas de análisis entre el edificio Miguel de Aguinaga y su entorno urbano, para indagar sobre las estrategias proyectuales del arquitecto a través de algunos de los edificios más representativos de su ejercicio profesional, en el marco de la tipología de edificios de oficinas. La construcción del estado del arte y la estructura del texto, dan cuenta de dos partes. La primera corresponde a dos temas: revisión bibliográfica sobre la consolidación de la arquitectura moderna en la ciudad de Medellín y la utilización de categorías de análisis formal de la arquitectura en torno a los temas de: emplazamiento, programa y secciones; la segunda, desarrolla el análisis formal del edificio en su estado original por medio de planimetrías y fotografías de la época. Estas dos partes se cruzan a manera de conclusiones en donde se expone el edificio como estrategia formal de conexión entre el interior y el exterior.
Crítica sistémica : un enfoque hermenéutico del fenómeno arquitectónico.
Authors: Solano Meneses Eska Elena
Published: June 2015

La crítica sistémica analiza bajo tres enfoques: cognitivo, semiótico y simbólico, la manera como el destinatario interpreta un fenómeno arquitectónico. Esta tiene como objetivo proponer una visión de crítica bajo un enfoque transdisciplinario, abierto y holístico, apegado al contexto en el que el objeto de diseño se genera actualmente. Retoma de la hermenéutica, la concepción de una interpretación apoyada en tres etapas: prefiguración, configuración y refiguración, esta última a partir de tres dimensiones: lógica, ética y estética, para incorporar un nuevo paradigma, en el que el fenómeno arquitectónico ha trascendido lo tectónico (formal y funcional) para acercarse al terreno de lo antropológico. Este estudio concluye con la implementación de la propuesta, cuyos resultados evidencian la riqueza de una hermenéutica que trasciende al objeto y lo percibe como fenómeno.