bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of Insect and Arachnid Behaviours by Vertically Transmitted Endosymbionts: Infections as Drivers of Behavioural Change and Evolutionary Novelty
Authors: Goodacre Sara L. , Martin Oliver Y.
Published: February 2012

Vertically acquired, endosymbiotic bacteria such as those belonging to the Rickettsiales and the Mollicutes are known to influence the biology of their arthropod hosts in order to favour their own transmission. In this study we investigate the influence of such reproductive parasites on the behavior of their insects and arachnid hosts. We find that changes in host behavior that are associated with endosymbiont infections are not restricted to characteristics that are directly associated with reproduction. Other behavioural traits, such as those involved in intraspecific competition or in dispersal may also be affected. Such behavioural shifts are expected to influence the level of intraspecific variation and the rate at which adaptation can occur through their effects on effective population size and gene flow amongst populations. Symbionts may thus influence both levels of polymorphism within species and the rate at which diversification can occur.
Papain Catalyzed (co)Oligomerization of α-Amino Acids
Authors: Schwab Leendert W. , Kloosterman Wouter M. J. , Konieczny Jakob , Loos Katja
Published: February 2012

Four hydrophobic amino acids (Leu, Tyr, Phe, Trp) were oligomerized by the protease papain in homo-oligomerization, binary co-oligomerization and ternary co-oligomerization. After 24 h, solid polydisperse reaction products of the homo-oligomerization were obtained in yields ranging from 30–80% by weight. A DPavg was calculated based on MALDI-ToF MS results using the ion counts for the chains in the product. Based on the DPavg and the yield of the homo-oligomerization it was determined that the amino acids can be ranked according to reactivity in the order: Tyr > Leu > Phe > Trp. Thermal degradation of the homo-oligomers shows two degradation steps: at 178–239 °C and at 300–330 °C. All the products left a significant amount of char ranging from 18–57% by weight at 800 °C. Binary co-oligomers were obtained as a polydisperse precipitate with a compositional distribution of the chains. Both the compositional and chain length distribution are calculated from MALDI-ToF mass spectra. By comparing the amount of each amino acid present in the chains it was determined that the amino acids are incorporated with a preference: Leu > Tyr > Phe > Trp. Ternary co-oligomers were also obtained as a precipitate and analyzed by MALDI-ToF MS. The compositional distribution and the chain length distribution were calculated from the MALDI-ToF data. The quantity of every amino acid in the chains was determined. Also determined was the influence on the DPavg when the oligomers were compared with corresponding binary co-oligomers. From the combined results it was concluded that in the co-oligomerization of three amino acids the reactivity preference is Leu > Tyr > Phe > Trp. Thermal degradation of all the co-oligomers showed a weight loss of 2 wt% before the main oligomer degradation step at 300–325 °C.
Simultaneous Detection of Multiple Fish Pathogens Using a Naked-Eye Readable DNA Microarray
Authors: Chang Chin-I , Hung Pei-Hsin , Wu Chia-Che , Cheng Ta Chih , Tsai Jyh-Ming , Lin King-Jung , Lin Chung-Yen
Published: February 2012

We coupled 16S rDNA PCR and DNA hybridization technology to construct a microarray for simultaneous detection and discrimination of eight fish pathogens (Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda, Flavobacterium columnare, Lactococcus garvieae, Photobacterium damselae, Pseudomonas anguilliseptica, Streptococcus iniae and Vibrio anguillarum) commonly encountered in aquaculture. The array comprised short oligonucleotide probes (30 mer) complementary to the polymorphic regions of 16S rRNA genes for the target pathogens. Targets annealed to the microarray probes were reacted with streptavidin-conjugated alkaline phosphatase and nitro blue tetrazolium/5-bromo-4-chloro-3′-indolylphosphate, p-toluidine salt (NBT/BCIP), resulting in blue spots that are easily visualized by the naked eye. Testing was performed against a total of 168 bacterial strains, i.e., 26 representative collection strains, 81 isolates of target fish pathogens, and 61 ecologically or phylogenetically related strains. The results showed that each probe consistently identified its corresponding target strain with 100% specificity. The detection limit of the microarray was estimated to be in the range of 1 pg for genomic DNA and 103 CFU/mL for pure pathogen cultures. These high specificity and sensitivity results demonstrate the feasibility of using DNA microarrays in the diagnostic detection of fish pathogens.
Sensor Integration in a Low Cost Land Mobile Mapping System
Authors: Madeira Sergio , Gonçalves José A. , Bastos Luísa
Published: March 2012

Mobile mapping is a multidisciplinary technique which requires several dedicated equipment, calibration procedures that must be as rigorous as possible, time synchronization of all acquired data and software for data processing and extraction of additional information. To decrease the cost and complexity of Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS), the use of less expensive sensors and the simplification of procedures for calibration and data acquisition are mandatory features. This article refers to the use of MMS technology, focusing on the main aspects that need to be addressed to guarantee proper data acquisition and describing the way those aspects were handled in a terrestrial MMS developed at the University of Porto. In this case the main aim was to implement a low cost system while maintaining good quality standards of the acquired georeferenced information. The results discussed here show that this goal has been achieved.
Photonic Crystal Fiber Mach-Zehnder Interferometer for Refractive Index Sensing
Authors: Wang Jian-Neng , Tang Jaw-Luen
Published: March 2012

We report on a refractive index sensor using a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) interferometer which was realized by fusion splicing a short section of PCF (Blaze Photonics, LMA-10) between two standard single mode fibers. The fully collapsed air holes of the PCF at the spice regions allow the coupling of PCF core and cladding modes that makes a Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The transmission spectrum exhibits sinusoidal interference pattern which shifts differently when the cladding/core surface of the PCF is immersed with different RI of the surrounding medium. Experimental results using wavelength-shift interrogation for sensing different concentrations of sucrose solution show that a resolution of 1.62 × 10−4–8.88 × 10−4 RIU or 1.02 × 10−4–9.04 × 10−4 RIU (sensing length for 3.50 or 5.00 cm, respectively) was achieved for refractive indices in the range of 1.333 to 1.422, suggesting that the PCF interferometer are attractive for chemical, biological, biochemical sensing with aqueous solutions, as well as for civil engineering and environmental monitoring applications.
Dioxane dibromide mediated bromination of substituted coumarins under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Chaudhuri Subrata Kumar , Roy Sanchita , Bhar Sanjay
Published: February 2012

An efficient solvent-free protocol for regioselective bromination of substituted coumarins has been developed by using dioxane dibromide as the solid brominating agent. The efficacy of the solvent-free protocol has been established. The effects of the electronic nature and location of the substituents on the outcome of the reaction have been rationalized with a proposed mechanism.
A Randomized Comparative 96-Week Trial of Boosted Atazanavir versus Continued Boosted Protease Inhibitor in HIV-1 Patients with Abdominal Adiposity
Authors: Moyle Graeme J , Andrade-Villanueva Jaime , Girard Pierre-Marie , Antinori Andrea , Salvato Patricia , Bogner Johannes R , Hay Phillip , Santos Jesús , Astier Ludovic , Pans Miranda , Balogh Agnes , Biguenet Sophie ,   the ReAL Study Team
Published: March 2012

Background

Abdominal adiposity in HIV-1 patients initiating antiretroviral therapy may be part of a restoration-to-health phenomenon. Lipoatrophy is associated with long-term thymidine analogue therapy. Individual protease inhibitors (PIs) differ in their effects on lipids and insulin resistance.

Methods

A randomized open-label multicentre 96-week trial compared changes in fat distribution in patients with suppressed HIV-1 RNA and abdominal adiposity, who either continued on their current twice-daily ritonavir-boosted PI (PI/r) or switched to once-daily boosted atazanavir (ATV/r). Treatment with two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors was unchanged. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and abdominal computerized tomography (CT) scanning.

Results

In total, 201 patients were randomized; 131 switched to ATV/r. Viral suppression (<50 copies/ml) was similarly maintained (93% ATV/r versus 89% PI/r). Mean changes from baseline in trunk-to-limb fat ratio were similar; difference estimates 0.03 (95% CI -0.06, 0.12; P=0.48 at week 48) and 0.02 (95% CI -0.10, 0.14; P=0.73 at week 96). More patients in the PI/r arm had a decrease of ≥20% in limb fat from baseline at week 96. Significantly greater reductions in proatherogenic lipids occurred following switch to ATV/r. Both treatment regimens were generally well-tolerated; the incidence of grade 3–4 treatment-related clinical adverse events was 34% among ATV/r recipients versus 4% of PI/r-treated patients.

Conclusions

Switching to ATV/r had no demonstrable benefit on abdominal adiposity. Maintenance of efficacy, less limb fat loss and marked reduction in proatherogenic lipids was observed with ATV/r compared with continuing a PI/r regimen.
Sans les classes populaires, des chrysanthèmes pour la gauche en 2012
Authors: Rey Henri
Published: February 2012

Résumé Quel est l’électorat de la gauche aujourd’hui ? Les classes populaires sont-elles un appui pour les candidats de gauche ? Cet article propose d’aborder ce questionnement en répondant par la même occasion à la contribution du think thank Terra Nova qui affirme que l’électorat de gauche a changé et qu’il faut rompre avec la classe ouvrière. Mais la gauche peut-elle réellement exister sans les classes populaires ?
Le consensus de Bruxelles
Authors: Ngoc Liêm Hoang
Published: February 2012

Résumé L’Europe connaît aujourd’hui une crise économique sans précédent, où ce qui réunit les États membres sont avant tout les dettes. Maintenant que l’UE dispose de l’euro, la spéculation sur les dettes a remplacé la spéculation sur les monnaies. La compétitivité est au plus bas, la stabilité est une illusion et les directives de la BCE ne sont pas opposables. Noyés dans ce marasme, où on ne sait pas qui gouverne réellement, les pactes budgétaires et financiers européens sont incapables d’endiguer la multiplication des plans d’austérité lancés par les États membres. Quelle est la réponse libérale ? Quelle est la réponse sociale-démocrate ? À travers cet article, l’auteur propose une relecture critique de l’Europe économique depuis les théories de Maastricht jusqu’aux abîmes du présent, où la déflation guette l’Europe.
Nourrir les virus
Authors: Keck Frédéric
Published: February 2012

Résumé Cet article compare les pratiques de biosécurité dans une ferme et un laboratoire de Hong Kong, en montrant le lien entre le souci de se protéger contre le vivant comme menace et le soin apporté au vivant comme milieu. Il décrit l’articulation entre les pratiques quotidiennes visant à entretenir un milieu de vie et les crises sanitaires révélant de nouvelles menaces, comme la grippe aviaire et le SRAS. Il met en lumière le rôle des sentinelles dans une conception du vivant comme population virale.
La gestion du secret
Authors: Kessous Emmanuel
Published: February 2012

Résumé Cet article porte sur le management du secret professionnel d’un point de vue pragmatique à partir d’une enquête réalisée dans une grande entreprise de service. Il part de la gestion de l’information prescrite dans l’entreprise concernée, dans la mesure où ces règles communes de management sont un cadre dans lequel les salariés vont pouvoir agir. Il interroge ensuite les opérations de qualification des informations par les acteurs eux-mêmes qu’ils soient spécialistes de l’information confidentielle (juristes, communication, propriété intellectuelle) ou usagers ordinaires (cadres, marqueteurs, chercheurs, secrétaires). Il analyse enfin l’impact des activités de communication, notamment par messagerie électronique, dans ce contexte. Une des conclusions est que la gestion de l’information et sa sensibilité estimée dépendent tout autant de l’activité professionnelle des acteurs que de la nature des liens avec lesquels ils réalisent ces échanges.
L'informatique et sa sécurité
Authors: Denis Jérôme
Published: February 2012

Résumé Cet article propose d’explorer les politiques de sécurité informatique en entreprises en insistant sur deux dimensions : la définition des risques sur laquelle elles s’appuient et l’hybridité sociotechnique que revendiquent certains prescripteurs. Ces dimensions donnent à voir un mode d’existence des technologies qui contraste fortement avec les modèles constructivistes, généralement centrés sur les processus de stabilisation. Proches des domaines de l’entretien et de la maintenance, les politiques ordinaires de sécurité installent une manière distribuée de traiter les technologies qui fait de l’instabilité et de la vulnérabilité des propriétés intrinsèques. Elles s’apparentent ainsi à un care des objets, cherchant à faire de la fragilité technique un souci partagé.
Gestion de la propriété intellectuelle et organisations publiques de recherche : l'éthique à l'épreuve des objectifs de performance
Authors: Chomienne Hervé , Corbel Pascal , Denis Jean-Philippe
Published: February 2012

La cohabitation entre une exigence accrue de performance publique formalisée par des objectifs précis à atteindre et l’éthique traditionnelle du service public à la française ne va pas sans créer des tensions. Celles‑ci s’expriment particulièrement dans le domaine de la recherche publique qui doit démontrer son utilité socio‑économique via des indicateurs de performance qui incitent ses opérateurs à protéger juridiquement et valoriser financièrement leurs résultats scientifiques. Ainsi, l’éthique traditionnelle de « science ouverte » doit‑elle composer avec les impératifs de performance économique. Plutôt que d’opposer ces deux enjeux, nous nous proposons de montrer comment ils pourraient s’articuler en développant des stratégies en matière de propriété intellectuelle équilibrées pour peu que la définition de la performance publique dans ce domaine ne se limite pas à des objectifs trop étroits.
Pour une logique de l'indiscipline – Réflexions sur l'éthique de la décision publique, autour du livre d'Alasdair Roberts. The Logic of Discipline
Authors: Rochet Claude
Published: February 2012

Dans un ouvrage qui fait le bilan de trente ans de réformes de l’administration publique –  The Logic of Discipline  – le professeur Alasdair Roberts, directeur du Centre Rappaport de droit et de politique publique à l’université Suffolk – démonte le système de croyances qui a imprégné ces réformes : la réduction des politiques publiques à la gestion, le transfert des services publics vers des agences autonomes, et montre la faiblesse méthodologique et théorique qui les sous-tendait, « l’institutionnalisme naïf et l’idée qu’il puisse y avoir des règles de gouvernance universelles ». Cet article met en perspective les conclusions de Roberts avec l’ensemble du mouvement d’idées qui a vu un recul du rôle du politique et de l’État depuis trente ans et souligne l’actualité d’un retour du politique et de l’éthique publique qui ne peut être laissée ni au marché ni renvoyée sur l’éthique individuelle.
Typologie des projets et gestion des contributions des acteurs
Authors: Soparnot Richard
Published: March 2012

Résumé Les projets se déclinent désormais à tous les niveaux de l’organisation. Certains auteurs évoquent même la « projectisation » de l’entreprise (Aurégan et Joffre, 2004). Ainsi, le projet présente des caractéristiques particulières : son unicité, son horizon temporel et sa nouveauté. En effet, sa finalité est variable. Il est également limité dans le temps ; il a une date de début et de fin. Enfin, il s’inscrit en rupture par rapport à la gestion permanente de l’entreprise. Conséquence immédiate de ces spécificités, sa gestion présente nombre de difficultés. Celle que nous développons est relative à l’organisation et la gestion des contributions des membres de projet. Cependant, tous les projets nécessitent-ils une coopération de même nature ? Et comment expliquer alors le déficit coopératif de certains projets ? Nous dressons une typologie qui distingue le modèle de coordination, le modèle d’intégration et le modèle de coopération. Afin d’illustrer notre propos, nous nous référons au cas de la gestion de projets de développement de systèmes d’essais dans l’automobile et concluons sur une analyse des problématiques de coopération entre acteurs.
Apports et limites des options réelles a l'évaluation de projets d'investissement
Authors: Schier Guillaume
Published: March 2012

Résumé Cet article traite des limites de la valeur actuelle nette (VAN) et de l’apport des options réelles à l’évaluation de projets. En particulier, il est souligné le fait que la VAN repose sur une analyse statique du projet tandis que les options réelles permettent de mieux valoriser la flexibilité managériale. Les avantages et inconvénients des deux approches sont systématiquement analysés. Enfin, il est proposé une classification des modèles d’options réelles en fonction de leur capacité de mise en œuvre opérationnelle au sein des entreprises
Les pôles de compétitivité du point de vue de l'aménagement du territoire
Authors: Loinger Guy
Published: March 2012

Résumé Cet article pose la question de la localisation des pôles de compétitivité. Le choix de localisation des pôles n’est pas la conséquence d’une politique volontaire d’aménagement du territoire « a priori ». Elle résulte de la forme administrative à l’origine de la sélection des projets, à savoir un « appel à projet » qui a mis tous les candidats sur un pied d’égalité. Le résultat est d’autant plus intéressant. Quelle est la « carte » des pôles de compétitivité qui en résulte ? C’est l’objet de cet article. Les conséquences de cette nouvelle géographie des territoires et du territoire national, à un horizon d’une dizaine d’années, sont considérables, si l’on veut bien admettre que l’économie de la connaissance, de la recherche et de l’innovation est la pierre d’achoppement du développement de demain.
Évaluation des travaux de recherche : les sept questions incontournables pour les jurys
Authors: Flouzat Denise
Published: March 2012

Résumé L’Association Nationale des Docteurs es Sciences Économiques et en Sciences de Gestion, l’ANDESE, organise traditionnellement chaque année un prix de thèse qui fait l’objet d’une remise de prix solennelle. C’est une joie aujourd’hui, pour son Président, pour moi et pour tous les membres de l’ANDESE de le voir remis par le Président Pébereau dans cette prestigieuse Orangerie de BNP-PARIBAS qui a vu tant de manifestations importantes de la place financière de Paris. Je tiens, Monsieur le Président, à vous exprimer toute notre reconnaissance et celle tout particulièrement des étudiants qui se trouvent honorés par votre présence et par ces lieux. Ceci constituera pour eux un grand souvenir. Nous savons toute l’importance que vous accordez à l’enseignement de l’économie, à celle dispensée dans le second degré et pour laquelle vous faites de grands efforts ainsi qu’à l’enseignement supérieur comme en témoigne cette manifestation.
Loi des trois âges et épistémologie chez Henri Guitton
Authors: Devoue Elina Marie
Published: March 2012

Résumé La loi des trois âges a été analysée par de nombreux économistes. H. Guitton, doté d’une grande culture philosophique, se distingue de ses prédécesseurs en proposant « une nouvelle expression de la loi des trois âges ». Pour lui, il existe trois sortes de logiques de croissance. La conjugaison des forces motrices et des forces de freinage se fait par la prédominance des forces motrices dans une première phase chronologique. C’est la phase de la croissance accélérée correspondant à une phase de jeunesse. Ensuite, les forces de freinage prennent plus d’importance. C’est la phase de la croissance linéaire, l’âge adulte. Enfin, les forces de freinage dominent. C’est la phase de la croissance ralentie. Dans ce travail, nous examinons l’énoncé de la loi des trois âges dans l’œuvre d’H. Guitton, ses implications et sa confrontation avec les faits. Notre objectif est de voir si son analyse est conforme à son épistémologie.
Une dynamique d'apprentissage organisationnel dans les PME technologiques : un soutien à l'innovation
Authors: Chauvet Vincent
Published: March 2012

Résumé Les PME 2 intensives en technologie ont un rôle fondamental dans le paysage économique mondial car elles constituent un véritable relais de croissance et qu’elles diversifient les sources d’innovation. Ces entreprises peuvent être également considérées comme intensives en connaissances, une ressource clé pour le développement de nouveaux produits et services (Starbuck, 1992 ; Spender, 1996). A ce titre, une politique d’apprentissage, source d’avantage concurrentiel à travers l’acquisition et l’exploitation de connaissances favorisant l’innovation (Cohen et Levinthal, 1990 ; Grant, 1996 ; Spender, 1996 ; Teece, Pisano et Shuen, 1997), apparaît comme une stratégie pertinente pour ces structures. Bien que ce champ d’investigation ait fait l’objet d’un intérêt réel dans la communauté académique, peu de recherches se sont intéressées aux activités du dirigeant en termes de développement de l’apprentissage. A travers une collaboration étroite avec 10 PME technologiques de la région PACA, un modèle, testé par la méthode des équations structurelles, révèle le rôle fondamental et contrasté du dirigeant dans les activités d’apprentissage de son organisation. En s’appuyant sur la dynamique initiée par ce dernier à travers l’acquisition de connaissances externes et leur transfert par des mécanismes formels, cette recherche parvient à expliquer plus de 30% de la performance d’innovation des PME technologiques.
Hemodynamically Unstable Pelvic Fracture Management by Advanced Trauma Life Support Guidelines Results in High Mortality
Authors: Hou Zhiyong , Smith Wade R. , Strohecker Kent A. , Bowen Thomas R. , Irgit Kaan , Baro Susan M. , Morgan Steven J.
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute outcomes and mortality rates of an Advanced Trauma Life Support guideline approach for managing hemodynamically unstable pelvic ring injuries.

We retrospectively reviewed the acute outcomes of 48 consecutive patients with hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures. Patients underwent treatment via the advanced trauma life support protocol, with primary angiography based on trauma surgeon preference. Mean patient age was 51.2 years, with a mean injury severity score of 43.2±14.3. Mean systolic blood pressure was 74.8±16.1 mm Hg at presentation. Patients received an average of 7.0±6.6 units of red blood cells and 4.2±2.3 units of fresh frozen plasma in the first 6 hours. Fourteen patients underwent emergent angiography, and 12 patients were treated with embolization. Mean time to angiography was 3 hours and 55 minutes (range, 2–19 hours). Twenty patients died during hospitalization, with an overall mortality rate of 41.7%; 13 (27.1%) of them died within 24 hours.

Advanced Trauma Life Support guidelines with angiography are not adequate for the management of hemodynamically unstable pelvic ring injuries and result in unacceptably high mortality rates compared with more specific approaches using transfusion protocols and interventions, such as pelvic packing.
Adolescent Femoroacetabular Impingement From Malunion of the Anteroinferior Iliac Spine Apophysis Treated With Arthroscopic Spinoplasty
Authors: Matsuda Dean K. , Calipusan Charito P.
Published: March 2012

This article describes a case of an acute anterior inferior iliac spine apophyseal avulsion fracture in an adolescent athlete progressing to secondary symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement from an inferiorly displaced malunion and its arthroscopic management. A 13-year-old boy with an acute minimally displaced avulsion fracture of the anterior inferior iliac spine apophysis had initial symptomatic improvement with conservative treatment and a 3-month symptom-free period but then developed flexion-induced deep anterior groin pain and mechanical symptoms. Radiographs confirmed an inferiorly displaced malunion of the ipsilateral anterior inferior iliac spine apophysis in addition to acetabular retroversion and cam deformity. Surgical treatment, including arthroscopic spinoplasty, was performed. Despite some nonrestrictive heterotopic ossification, the patient had a successful clinical outcome at 18 months, with return to football, and a nonarthritic hip score of 98. Although anterior inferior iliac spine avulsion fractures have historically been considered relatively self-limiting injuries, their malunion may be a previously missed cause of unrelenting or bimodal pain from secondary femoroacetabular impingement with possible degenerative consequences in young athletic patients. Anterior inferior iliac spine avulsion fractures may merit a lower degree of tolerance for displacement in the acute setting and a higher degree of clinical and radiographic scrutiny with surgical intervention, possibly in the form of arthroscopic spinoplasty in the more chronic one.
Scheimpflug Camera Measurement of Anterior and Posterior Corneal Curvature in Eyes With Previous Radial Keratotomy
Authors: Camellin Massimo , Savini Giacomo , Hoffer Kenneth J. , Carbonelli Michele , Barboni Piero
Published: March 2012

PURPOSE:

To compare the anterior and posterior corneal curvature in eyes with previous radial keratotomy (RK) to normal unoperated eyes.

METHODS:

In this retrospective observational case series, 29 eyes from 29 consecutive patients were analyzed and compared to a control group of 71 unoperated eyes. Corneal imaging was obtained by a rotating Scheimpflug camera (Pentacam, Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH). Anterior and posterior corneal curvature radii were measured at the 3-mm zone.

RESULTS:

The mean anterior and posterior corneal radii were 9.54±0.89 and 8.54±1.01 mm, respectively, both values being significantly higher than in the control group (7.81±0.28 and 6.40±0.24 mm, respectively,
P
<.0001). The mean anterior-to-posterior corneal curvature ratio was 1.12±0.07, a value significantly lower than in the control group (1.22±0.03,
P
<.0001). Mean corneal flattening was more evident in the posterior (33.44%) than in the anterior (22.15%) corneal curvature. The mean keratometric index, as calculated with the Gullstrand equation for thick lenses, was 1.3319±0.0026, a value significantly higher than in the control group (1.3281±0.0011,
P
<.0001). Linear regression detected a significant and directly proportional relationship between the number of radial incisions and flattening of both corneal surfaces (
P
<.0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

After RK, both corneal surfaces flatten but do not deform in parallel as commonly accepted, as shown by the fact that the anterior-to-posterior corneal curvature ratio decreases. This finding invalidates the standard keratometric index and thus has relevant implications for intraocular lens power calculation in RK eyes.
Designing Simulations for Professional Skill Development in Distance Education
Authors: Murdoch Deborah , Bushell Chris , Johnson Stephanie
Published: February 2012

Designing simulations for higher education requires planning. This chapter explores the use of a design process of an iterative model with frequent evaluation of the process to ensure strong design in blended and flexible learning. Two case studies are used to demonstrate how the ADDIE process is used in an iterative method to develop simulations to teach and refine professional practice in distance learning situations, from both a course and subject perspective. The authors argue that if a strong development and evaluation process is followed, sustainable simulations can be developed. Results show that students have a positive response to simulation use in learning and appreciate a well structured simulation to aid in professional practice development.
Blended Learning Designs Facilitated by New Media Technologies Including E-Simulations for Pharmacy and Other Health Sciences
Authors: Duncan Gregory , Larson Ian
Published: February 2012

This chapter explores the use of innovative technologies that facilitate blended learning approaches to meet contemporary educational challenges and the modern learning needs of a new generation of students. An underpinning framework for development and delivery of these contemporary programs is applied consistently across them. This framework is represented as Pedagogy > Space >Technology (Radcliffe, 2008), a guiding principle which reinforces the essential educational design with space and technology considered as supporting tools not as driving forces for course design. Three case studies describe the development, design, and delivery of innovative curricula framed round this model. Case 1 demonstrates the enhancement of an existing space to deliver an existing curriculum and to improve the experience of students, with inherent capacity for adaptation to other professional environments. Case 2 represents a functional response to an essentially logistical problem of lack of space, resources, and time to deliver a process-oriented activity. Case 3 is unique in that it describes a new curriculum to be delivered entirely in a new “space” with a broad set of objectives that go beyond mere functionality. In each case, while the technology enhances the overall experience for both educators and learners, the technology is not the focus for either, nor is it the point of the spaces and activities. Significant benefits are gained in terms of student experiences and outcomes, efficiencies in delivery and overcoming a range of barriers such as class sizes. There are also significant challenges to be faced in development and implementation as well, including a potentially large financial burden, need for expertise, ongoing support, and changing technologies. An important caveat is to not let the technologies distract from the educational goals and student needs.
A Multi-Linear Statistical Method for Discriminant Analysis of 2D Frontal Face Images
Authors: Thomaz Carlos Eduardo , do Amaral Vagner , Giraldi Gilson Antonio , Kitani Edson Caoru , Sato João Ricardo , Gillies Duncan
Published: February 2012

This chapter describes a multi-linear discriminant method of constructing and quantifying statistically significant changes on human identity photographs. The approach is based on a general multivariate two-stage linear framework that addresses the small sample size problem in high-dimensional spaces. Starting with a 2D data set of frontal face images, the authors determine a most characteristic direction of change by organizing the data according to the patterns of interest. These experiments on publicly available face image sets show that the multi-linear approach does produce visually plausible results for gender, facial expression and aging facial changes in a simple and efficient way. The authors believe that such approach could be widely applied for modeling and reconstruction in face recognition and possibly in identifying subjects after a lapse of time.
Fuzzy Methods of Multiple-Criteria Evaluation and Their Software Implementation
Authors: Holecek Pavel , Talašová Jana , Müller Ivo
Published: February 2012

This chapter describes a system of fuzzy methods designed to solve a broad range of problems in multiple-criteria evaluation, and also their software implementation, FuzzME. A feature common to all the presented methods is the type of evaluation, well suited to the paradigm of fuzzy set theory. All evaluations take on the form of fuzzy numbers, expressing the extent to which goals of evaluation are fulfilled. The system of fuzzy methods is conceived to allow for different types of interaction among criteria of evaluation. Under no interaction, the fuzzy weighted average, fuzzy OWA operator, or WOWA operator are used to aggregate partial evaluations (depending on the evaluator’s requirements regarding type of evaluation). If interactions appear as redundancy or complementarity, the fuzzified discrete Choquet integral is the appropriate aggregation operator. Under more complex interactions, the aggregation function is defined through an expertly set base of fuzzy rules.
Realizing Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Systems with Type-1 Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Khosla Mamta , Sarin R K , Uddin Moin , Singh Satvir , Khosla Arun
Published: February 2012

In this chapter, the authors have realized Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Logic Systems (IT2 FLSs) with the average of two Type-1 Fuzzy Logic Systems (T1 FLSs). The authors have presented two case studies by applying this realization methodology on (i) an arbitrary system, where an IT2 FLS is considered, in which its footprint of uncertainty (FOU) is expressed using Principal T1 FS+FOU approach, and the second (ii) the Mackey-Glass time-series forecasting. In the second case study, T1 FLS is evolved using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm for the Mackey-Glass time-series data with added noise, and is then upgraded to IT2 FLS by adding FOU. Further, four experiments are conducted in this case study for four different noise levels. For each case study, a comparative study of the results of the average of two T1 FLSs and the corresponding IT2 FLS, obtained through computer simulations in MATLAB environment, is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the realization approach. Very low values of Mean Square Error (MSE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) demonstrate that IT2 FLS performance is equivalent to the average of two T1 FLSs. This approach is helpful in the absence of the availability of development tools for T2 FLSs or because of complexity and difficulty in understanding T2 FLSs that makes the implementation difficult. It provides an easy route to the simulation/realization of IT2 FLSs and by following this approach, all existing tools/methodologies for the design, simulation and realization of T1 FLSs can be directly extended to T2 FLSs.
Comparative Analysis of Random Forests with Statistical and Machine Learning Methods in Predicting Fault-Prone Classes
Authors: Malhotra Ruchika , Kaur Arvinder , Singh Yogesh
Published: February 2012

There are available metrics for predicting fault prone classes, which may help software organizations for planning and performing testing activities. This may be possible due to proper allocation of resources on fault prone parts of the design and code of the software. Hence, importance and usefulness of such metrics is understandable, but empirical validation of these metrics is always a great challenge. Random Forest (RF) algorithm has been successfully applied for solving regression and classification problems in many applications. In this work, the authors predict faulty classes/modules using object oriented metrics and static code metrics. This chapter evaluates the capability of RF algorithm and compares its performance with nine statistical and machine learning methods in predicting fault prone software classes. The authors applied RF on six case studies based on open source, commercial software and NASA data sets. The results indicate that the prediction performance of RF is generally better than statistical and machine learning models. Further, the classification of faulty classes/modules using the RF method is better than the other methods in most of the data sets.
A New Optimization Approach to Clustering Fuzzy Data for Type-2 Fuzzy System Modeling
Authors: Zarandi Mohammad Hossein Fazel , Avazbeigi Milad
Published: February 2012

This chapter presents a new optimization method for clustering fuzzy data to generate Type-2 fuzzy system models. For this purpose, first, a new distance measure for calculating the (dis)similarity between fuzzy data is proposed. Then, based on the proposed distance measure, Fuzzy c-Mean (FCM) clustering algorithm is modified. Next, Xie-Beni cluster validity index is modified to be able to valuate Type-2 fuzzy clustering approach. In this index, all operations are fuzzy and the minimization method is fuzzy ranking with Hamming distance. The proposed Type-2 fuzzy clustering method is used for development of indirect approach to Type-2 fuzzy modeling, where the rules are extracted from clustering fuzzy numbers (Zadeh, 1965). Then, the Type-2 fuzzy system is tuned by an inference algorithm for optimization of the main parameters of Type-2 parametric system. In this case, the parameters are: Schweizer and Sklar t-Norm and s-Norm, a-cut of rule-bases, combination of FATI and FITA inference approaches, and Yager parametric defuzzification. Finally, the proposed Type-2 fuzzy system model is applied in prediction of the steel additives in steelmaking process. It is shown that, the proposed Type-2 fuzzy system model is superior in comparison with multiple regressions and Type-1 fuzzy system model, in terms of the minimization the effect of uncertainty in the rule-base fuzzy system models an error reduction.
Amazon Mechanical Turk
Authors: Strain Amber Chauncey , Booker Lucille M.
Published: February 2012

One of the major challenges of ANLP research is the constant balancing act between the need for large samples, and the excessive time and monetary resources necessary for acquiring those samples. Amazon’s Mechanical Turk (MTurk) is a web-based data collection tool that has become a premier resource for researchers who are interested in optimizing their sample sizes and minimizing costs. Due to its supportive infrastructure, diverse participant pool, quality of data, and time and cost efficiency, MTurk seems particularly suitable for ANLP researchers who are interested in gathering large, high quality corpora in relatively short time frames. In this chapter, the authors first provide a broad description of the MTurk interface. Next, they describe the steps for acquiring IRB approval of MTurk experiments, designing experiments using the MTurk dashboard, and managing data. Finally, the chapter concludes by discussing the potential benefits and limitations of using MTurk for ANLP experimentation.
Multiple Influences on the Use of English Spatial Prepositions
Authors: Feist Michele I. , Gentner Dedre
Published: February 2012

What do people know when they know a word? Previous accounts of the semantics of spatial locatives suggest that spatial meaning is based on both geometric and extra-geometric aspects of spatial scenes. However, attempts to explicitly delineate different sources of extra-geometric influences are still comparatively rare; even more rare are attempts to combine these different sources so as to examine their interactions. This chapter presents four studies examining the ways in which three classes of attributes – geometric, functional, and qualitative physical – influence speakers’ uses of the English spatial prepositions in and on. The experiments show that all three kinds of factors play roles in English speakers’ choice between these prepositions. The chapter concludes that the semantics of spatial locatives must take into account a complex set of interacting factors.
Using Ontology Languages for Conceptual Modeling
Authors: Bera Palash , Krasnoperova Anna , Wand Yair
Published: February 2012

Conceptual models are used to support understanding of and communication about application domains in information systems development. Such models are created using modeling grammars (usually employing graphic representation). To be effective, a grammar should support precise representation of domain concepts and their relationships. Ontology languages such as OWL emerged to define terminologies to support information sharing on the Web. These languages have features that enable representation of semantic relationships among domain concepts and of domain rules, not readily possible with extant conceptual modeling techniques. However, the emphasis in ontology languages has been on formalization and being computer-readable, not on how they can be used to convey domain semantics. Hence, it is unclear how they can be used as conceptual modeling grammars. We suggest using philosophically based ontological principles to guide the use of OWL as a conceptual modeling grammar. The paper presents specific guidelines for creating conceptual models in OWL and demonstrates, via example, the application of the guidelines to creating representations of domain phenomena. To test the effectiveness of the guidelines we conducted an empirical study comparing how well diagrams created with the guidelines support domain understanding in comparison to diagrams created without the guidelines. The results indicate that diagrams created with the guidelines led to better domain understanding of participants.
Representing Classes of Things and Properties in General in Conceptual Modelling
Authors: Shanks Graeme G. , Moody Daniel , Nuredini Jasmina , Tobin Daniel , Weber Ron
Published: February 2012

How classes of things and properties in general should be represented in conceptual models is a fundamental issue. For example, proponents of object-role modelling argue that no distinction should be made between the two constructs, whereas proponents of entity-relationship modelling argue the distinction is important but provide ambiguous guidelines about how the distinction should be made. In this paper, the authors use ontological theory and cognition theory to provide guidelines about how classification should be represented in conceptual models. The authors experimented to test whether clearly distinguishing between classes of things and properties in general enabled users of conceptual models to better understand a domain. They describe a cognitive processing study that examined whether clearly distinguishing between classes of things and properties in general impacts the cognitive behaviours of the users. The results support the use of ontologically sound representations of classes of things and properties in conceptual modelling.
Maintaining Mappings between Conceptual Models and Relational Schemas
Authors: An Yuan , Hu Xiaohua , Song Il-Yeol
Published: February 2012

This paper describes a round-trip engineering approach for incrementally maintaining mappings between conceptual models and relational schemas. When either schema or conceptual model evolves to accommodate new information needs, the existing mapping must be maintained accordingly to continuously provide valid services. In this paper, the authors examine the mappings specifying “consistent” relationships between models. First, they define the consistency of a conceptual-relational mapping through “semantically compatible” instances. Next, the authors analyze the knowledge encoded in the standard database design process and develop round-trip algorithms for incrementally maintaining the consistency of conceptual-relational mappings under evolution. Finally, they conduct a set of comprehensive experiments. The results show that the proposed solution is efficient and provides significant benefits in comparison to the mapping reconstructing approach.
Exploring the critical moments when the Baptist denomination divided: Does revisiting these moments give hope to reconciliation between the ‘Union’ and ‘Convention’?
Authors: Ntombana Luvuyo , Perry Adam
Published: March 2012

This article evaluated interpretations between members of the Baptist Union of South Africa (BUSA) and the Baptist Convention of South Africa (BCSA), revisiting a particular moment, the merger talks of 1980s, at the time when the Baptist Church further entrenched these divisions. The Baptist Church has a crippling historical relationship to the present, particularly as members of the faith interpret their sides of the story as being the ‘right’ ones. This article grew out of the ethnographic work undertaken by the primary author, Luvuyo Ntombana (2007), and his involvement with the Baptist Church. It is felt that in order to create a sacred Church, congregations ought to move away from arguing about past events toward a more positive rethinking of what lessons can be learned from the past. Therefore, this article argued that by revisiting critical moments for the Church, such as the period of reconciliation between denominations within South Africa, conversations can be reinvigorated to help reconcile and unite current factions which currently harbour animosity and weigh down the faith through unnecessary infighting.
18FDG PET Imaging can Quantify Increased Cellular Metabolism in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Proof‐of‐Principle Study
Authors: Hagan Guy , Southwood Mark , Treacy Carmen , Ross Robert MacKenzie , Soon Elaine , Coulson James , Sheares Karen , Screaton Nicholas , Pepke‐Zaba Joanna , Morrell Nicholas W. , Rudd James H. F.
Published: March 2012

The past decade has seen increased application of 18‐flurodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18FDG‐PET) imaging to help diagnose and monitor disease, particularly in oncology, vasculitis and atherosclerosis. Disordered glycolytic metabolism and infiltration of plexiform lesions by inflammatory cells has been described in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). We hypothesized that increased 18FDG uptake may be present in the lungs, large pulmonary arteries and right ventricle of patients with pulmonary hypertension, and that this uptake would be related to markers of immune activation. We imaged the thorax of 14 patients with pulmonary hypertension (idiopathic and chronic thromboembolic) and six controls by 18FDG‐PET/computed tomography (CT) and measured uptake in the lung parenchyma, large pulmonary arteries and right ventricle. 18FDG uptake in the lungs and pulmonary arteries was normalized for venous blood activity to give a target‐to‐background ratio (TBR). Blood was contemporaneously drawn for high‐sensitivity CRP – C‐reactive protein (CRP) (hsCRP), N‐Terminal Probrain natriuteric peptide (NT‐ProBNP) and other inflammatory cytokines. IPAH patients had significantly higher lung parenchymal TBR (P =0.034) and right ventricle FDG uptake (P=0.007) than controls. Uptake in the main pulmonary arteries was similar in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, IPAH and controls. There were no correlations between 18FDG uptake and hsCRP or inflammatory cytokine levels. NT‐ProBNP correlated with RV uptake in those with pulmonary hypertension (r=0.55, P =0.04). In this pilot study, we found increased 18FDG uptake in the lung parenchyma and right ventricle of subjects with IPAH. The lung uptake might be useful as a surrogate marker of increased cellular metabolism and immune activation as underlying mechanisms in this disease. Further evaluation of the impact of targeted therapies in treatment‐naïve patients and the significance of right ventricular uptake is suggested.