bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carotid Plaque Calcification Predicts Future Cardiovascular Events in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Vigili de Kreutzenberg Saula , Fadini Gian Paolo , Guzzinati Stefano , Mazzucato Marta , Volpi Antonio , Coracina Anna , Avogaro Angelo
Published: August 2015

OBJECTIVE

The presence of carotid plaques is associated with future cardiovascular events, with local plaque composition being an independent outcome predictor. We examined the association between ultrasonographically determined carotid plaque calcification and incident major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and death in type 2 diabetes (T2D).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We enrolled 581 patients with T2D who underwent routine carotid ultrasonography. Plaques were classified as echolucent (lipid rich), heterogenous, and echogenic (calcific). We collected demographic, anthropometric, and clinical data at baseline and followed the patients for up to 9 years.

RESULTS

Plaques were detected in 81.8% of the patients (echolucent in 16.4%, heterogenous in 43.2%, and echogenic in 22.2%). During follow-up (4.3 ± 0.1 years), 58 deaths (27 cardiovascular) and 236 fatal and nonfatal MACE occurred. In univariate analyses, presence versus absence of any carotid plaque was associated with incident MACE, and the hazard ratio (95% CI) progressively increased from echolucent (1.97 [0.93–3.44]), to heterogeneous (3.10 [2.09–4.23]), to echogenic (3.71 [2.09–5.59]) plaques. Compared with echolucent plaques, echogenic plaques were associated with incident MACE independently from confounders. This association was attenuated after adjusting for the degree of stenosis, but in patients with stenosis ≤30%, echogenic plaque type still predicted total and atherosclerotic MACE, even after further adjusting for mean intima-media thickness.

CONCLUSIONS

In T2D, carotid plaque calcification predicts MACE, especially in patients with a low degree of stenosis. The biology of atherosclerotic calcification in diabetes needs to be further elucidated to understand the basis of this association.
Inhaled Technosphere Insulin Versus Inhaled Technosphere Placebo in Insulin-Naïve Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled on Oral Antidiabetes Agents
Authors: Rosenstock Julio , Franco Denise , Korpachev Vadym , Shumel Brad , Ma Yuhui , Baughman Robert , Amin Nikhil , McGill Janet B. ,   for the Affinity 2 Study Group
Published: August 2015

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of prandial Technosphere inhaled insulin (TI), an inhaled insulin with a distinct time action profile, in insulin-naïve type 2 diabetes (T2D) inadequately controlled on oral antidiabetes agents (OADs).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Subjects with T2D with HbA1c levels ≥7.5% (58.5 mmol/mol) and ≤10.0% (86.0 mmol/mol) on metformin alone or two or more OADs were randomized to add-on prandial TI (n = 177) or prandial Technosphere inhaled placebo (TP) (n = 176) to their OAD regimen in this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Primary end point was change in HbA1c at 24 weeks.

RESULTS

TI significantly reduced HbA1c by −0.8% (−9.0 mmol/mol) from a baseline of 8.3% (66.8 mmol/mol) compared with TP −0.4% (−4.6 mmol/mol) (treatment difference −0.4% [95% CI −0.57, −0.23]; P < 0.0001). More TI-treated subjects achieved an HbA1c ≤7.0% (53.0 mmol/mol) (38% vs. 19%; P = 0.0005). Mean fasting plasma glucose was similarly reduced in both groups. Postprandial hyperglycemia, based on 7-point glucose profiles, was effectively controlled by TI. Mean weight change was 0.5 kg for TI and −1.1 kg for the TP group (P < 0.0001). Mild, transient dry cough was the most common adverse event, occurring similarly in both groups (TI, 23.7%; TP, 19.9%) and led to discontinuation in only 1.1% of TI-treated and 3.4% of TP-treated subjects. There was a small decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s in both groups, with a slightly larger decline in the group receiving TI (TI, −0.13 L; TP, −0.04 L). The difference resolved after treatment discontinuation.

CONCLUSIONS

Prandial TI added to one or more OADs in inadequately controlled T2D is an effective treatment option. Mild, transient dry cough was the most common adverse event.
Differing Roles for TGF-β/Smad Signaling in Osteitis in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with and without Nasal Polyps
Authors: Wang Mingjie , Ye Ting , Liang Na , Huang Zhenxiao , Cui Shunjiu , Li Yunchuan , Huang Qian , Zhou Bing
Published: August 2015

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) and with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is reported to involve different inflammatory processes in sinonasal mucosa and bone tissue, and these processes remain uncharacterized.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of osteitis in Chinese patients with CRS to better understand the pathogenesis of CRS.

Methods

The study included 10 controls, 16 patients with CRSsNP, and 23 patients with CRSwNP. Ethmoid bone tissue samples were evaluated by histologic examination. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to assess expression of transforming growth factor (TGF) β1, TGF-β receptor I and II, Smad2, and Smad3. Immunohistochemical examination of osteoblast expression of TGF-β1, TGF-β receptor I and II, phosphorylated (p) Smad2, and p-Smad3 in ethmoid bone tissue was also performed.

Results

The histopathologic evaluation of ethmoid sinus bone tissue showed that eosinophils had infiltrated the periosteum and induced TGF-β1 expression, periosteal thickening, increased osteoblast activity, and neo-osteogenesis. Messenger RNA levels of TGF-β1, TGF-β receptor I, and Smad3 in CRSwNP ethmoid bone tissues were significantly higher than those in ethmoid bone tissues of patients with CRSsNP and the controls. Immunohistochemical staining showed that TGF-β1, TGF-β receptor I, p-Smad2, and p-Smad3 protein expression was upregulated in patients with CRSwNP, consistent with the corresponding messenger RNA levels.

Conclusion

Different signaling pathways are involved in osteitis in CRS and are activated by the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in CRSwNP versus the TGF-β/Smad-independent signaling pathway in CRSsNP. Eosinophil infiltration of the periosteum, along with TGF-β1 expression, in CRSwNP indicates that eosinophils may play an important role in the bone remodeling process in CRSwNP.
Religion, Naturalism, and the Paranormal in Heinrich von Kleist’s “St. Cäcilie” and “Der Zweikampf”
Authors: Spencer Tom
Published: August 2015

I argue that readings of Kleist’s “Die Heilige Cäcilie” and “Der Zweikampf” generally fall into religious, naturalistic, or poststructural camps, all of which fail to appreciate the full strangeness of these texts. Taking my cue from the discourse about the paranormal (spirit-seeing, clairvoyance, magnetic healing, etc.) with which we know Kleist was familiar, I demonstrate that these texts reflect a logical structure peculiar to such phenomena. More specifically, I use Jeffrey Kripal’s recent definition of the paranormal as an empirical “meaning event” grounded in a radical breakdown of the subject-object divide to show why it is easy to develop a “religious” or “naturalistic” reading of these stories, but very hard to make it stick. Like the paranormal, Kleist’s unerhörte Begebenheiten only mimic our cultural imaginary. I conclude by reflecting on what this might mean for religious and scientific experience generally.
An Iterative Method to Derive the Equivalent Centrifugal Compressor Performance at Various Operating Conditions: Part I: Modelling of Suction Parameters Impact
Authors: Albusaidi Waleed , Pilidis Pericles
Published: August 2015

This paper introduces a new iterative method to predict the equivalent centrifugal compressor performance at various operating conditions. The presented theoretical analysis and empirical correlations provide a novel approach to derive the entire compressor map corresponding to various suction conditions without a prior knowledge of the detailed geometry. The efficiency model was derived to reflect the impact of physical gas properties, Mach number, and flow and work coefficients. One of the main features of the developed technique is the fact that it considers the variation in the gas properties and stage efficiency which makes it appropriate with hydrocarbons. This method has been tested to predict the performance of two multistage centrifugal compressors and the estimated characteristics are compared with the measured data. The carried comparison revealed a good matching with the actual values, including the stable operation region limits. Furthermore, an optimization study was conducted to investigate the influences of suction conditions on the stage efficiency and surge margin. Moreover, a new sort of presentation has been generated to obtain the equivalent performance characteristics for a constant discharge pressure operation at variable suction pressure and temperature working conditions. A further validation is included in part two of this study in order to evaluate the prediction capability of the derived model at various gas compositions.
Four New Cyclohexylideneacetonitrile Derivatives from the Hypocotyl of Mangrove (Bruguiera gymnorrhiza)
Authors: Yi Xiang-Xi , Deng Jia-Gang , Gao Cheng-Hai , Hou Xiao-Tao , Li Fei , Wang Zhi-Ping , Hao Er-Wei , Xie Yan , Du Zheng-Cai , Huang Hui-Xue , Huang Ri-Ming
Published: August 2015

Four new cyclohexylideneacetonitrile derivatives 1–4, named menisdaurins B–E, as well as three known cyclohexylideneacetonitrile derivatives—menisdaurin (5), coclauril (6), and menisdaurilide (7)—were isolated from the hypocotyl of a mangrove (Bruguiera gymnorrhiza). The structures of the isolates were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis. Compounds 1–7 showed anti-Hepatitis B virus (HBV) activities, with EC50 values ranging from 5.1 ± 0.2 μg/mL to 87.7 ± 5.8 μg/mL.
Film Tourism: Integrated Strategic Tourism and Regional Economic Development Planning
Authors: Wray Meredith , Croy W. Glen
Published: August 2015

Economic and social changes have had dramatic effects on regional areas. In a search for diversification, tourism and film may be targeted by these regions. Challenges of regional planning, however, include lack of local expertise, decentralized decision making, and diverse stakeholder
groups. Specifically for film tourism this includes anticipating visitation numbers and assessing potential negative impacts. Broken Hill, located in Outback Australia, was used to investigate the complementary integration of film into regional development and tourism strategies. A stakeholder
engagement process that adopted a transactive approach was implemented. The main findings of this process highlighted the need to develop the strong film presence into a visitor-friendly product, coordinating the film product with other destination strengths, establishing an expert and sector-diverse
governance team, and developing a consistent brand with film as a component. Implications for other regional areas include considering how a film presence can be harnessed to develop film tourism experience opportunities, utilizing film tourism and production expertise to develop a coordinated
and sustainable product, and to promote film experiences reflective of their place in the destination hierarchy. Finally, for film tourism, is the need to utilize representations of the range of destination experiences in film in destination marketing.
Revitalization of Historical Heritage Using Pop Culture in Japan: Shiroishi City and the Game/Anime Sengoku Basara
Authors: Yamamura Takayoshi
Published: August 2015

This research note examines the processes of tourism promotion and local cultural heritage revitalization using the video game/anime Sengoku BASARA, focusing on the case of Shiroishi city in Miyagi prefecture, Japan. Through interviews with people directly involved in the tourism
sector and local media or online sources, the unfolding of the tourism boom is described. The article looks especially at the involvement of three groups—fans (tourists), local community, and the anime/game production company—and divides the processes of tourism development and
promotion into five stages. Participatory events are flourishing through the efforts of local citizens and fans, who join together in appreciating the historical heritage of the local region. These findings suggest that a key to the successful use of game contents to promote historical tourism
for the game/anime to be treated as an opportunity, and to have the fans of the game/anime become fans of the local region. Such a process encourages local residents to feel pride towards the history. An important factor in achieving this is to connect the present-day contents depicted in
the game/anime with the authentic historical contents in the local region. Finally, the attractiveness as well as the depth of the local region must be shown to the fans. It must be presented to the local residents that the fans of the game/anime are not just admirers of the work, but that
they are actually admiring the historical character of the local region and the history of the local region. These suggestions imply the possibility of a new form of tourism where new cultures can be created by revitalizing the local heritage.
Ordering the Disordered Subject: A Critique Of Chinese Outbound Tourists as New Zealand Seeks to Become China Ready
Authors: Zhang Jundan (Jasmine) , Shelton Eric J.
Published: August 2015

Currently, expanding Chinese outbound tourism attracts significant practical research effort utilizing various conceptual approaches in many countries. In this Review Article, J. Zhang and Shelton note that this form of tourism to New Zealand is notably increasing and the nature of
the experience is accordingly changing from group coach travel to FIT. In their critique, J. Zhang and Shelton argue that despite the increased and careful scrutiny of both the tourism industry and the tourism studies academia on this development, most of the analytic effort (such as that
on push/pull factors) is founded upon a dominant and unchallenged Western discourse around self and subject. They maintain that the term “subject position” might be a concept that is common across the broader social sciences but is uncommon in outbound tourism research itself.
In this Review Article, the authors are interested in the extent to which, in a Chinese cultural setting, Western formulations of self and subjectivity are actually appropriate, and, they question whether “Chinese outbound tourism to New Zealand” indeed acts to produce the ordered
subject. In this light, they critique the very demand that New Zealand becomes China Ready, and they contend that, before their arrival, the Chinese outbound tourist to New Zealand already will have been hailed by a set of subjectivities operating in China, which will act to
significantly disorder their touristic performances. Thus, Zhang and Shelton suggest that New Zealand policymakers and tourism product providers must understand these multiple and discursive subjectivities, which are likely to be barriers for any prescriptive reading of the individual tourist.
This review is thus intended to help both operational practitioners and field researchers realize that New Zealand—and, indeed, each and every large international destination—must produce compelling/relevant/satisfying supply-side subject positions that may profitably be
mapped onto such individual tourists both before and during their visits. (Abstract by Reviews Editor)
What causes female bias in the secondary sex ratios of the dioecious woody shrub Salix sitchensis colonizing a primary successional landscape?
Authors: Che‐Castaldo Christian , Crisafulli Charlie M. , Bishop John G. , Fagan William F.
Published: August 2015

• Premise of the study: Females often outnumber males in Salix populations, although the mechanisms behind female bias are not well understood and could be caused by both genetic and ecological factors. We investigated several ecological factors that could bias secondary sex ratios of Salix sitchensis colonizing Mount St. Helens after the 1980 eruption.

• Methods: We determined whether S. sitchensis secondary sex ratios varied across disturbance zones created by the eruption and across mesic and hydric habitats within each zone. For one population, we tracked adult mortality, whole‐plant reproductive allocation, the number of stems, and plant size for 2 years. In a field experiment, we created artificial streams to test whether vegetative reproduction via stem fragments was sex‐biased.

• Key results: We found a consistent 2:1 female bias in S. sitchensis secondary sex ratios across all disturbance zones and habitats. Despite female plants sometimes allocating more resources (in terms of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus) to reproduction than males, we found no evidence of sex‐biased mortality. The establishment rate of S. sitchensis experimental stems did not differ between the sexes, indicating that vegetative reproduction was not distorting secondary sex ratios.

• Conclusions: We hypothesize that S. sitchensis secondary sex ratios depend on either early‐acting genetic factors affecting the seed sex ratio or sex‐specific germination or survival rates before maturity, as opposed to factors associated with reproduction in adult plants.
Distribution of gelatinous fibers in seedling roots of living cycads
Authors: Magellan Tracy M. , Griffith M. Patrick , Tomlinson P. Barry
Published: August 2015

• Premise of the study: The presence of gelatinous (tension) fibers (GFs) in the roots of two extant cycadales (Cycas and Zamia) in a recent publication raises interesting issues of GF distribution in seed plants. An immediate question that arises from this discovery is whether GFs occur consistently in the radicle of all extant cycad genera and therefore might have a similar role in root contraction. We present results of a survey of nursery‐grown material of all 10 genera.

• Methods: We sequentially sectioned seedling root material and used simple staining and histochemical methods to follow anatomical changes along the radicle of all 10 genera.

• Key results: We found GFs in nine genera; Stangeria appears to be the only genus without them. In all genera, there is a wide variation in the number of GFs and also variation in the development of thickened, fleshy roots. “Tertiary expansion” is a useful term to describe late cell division and enlargement of both primary and secondary parenchyma, the latter produced by the vascular cambium. Certain other histological features can be diagnostically useful at the generic level.

• Conclusions: The functional interpretation of GFs as being wholly responsible for apparent tissue contraction is now somewhat compromised, especially as distortion of tracheary elements by changes in dimensions of parenchyma cells can falsely suggest root contraction when it may not occur. These preliminary results point the way to a more precise investigation of study material grown in more uniform environments using advanced technological methods.
Using Machine Learning and Probabilistic Frameworks to Enhance Incident and Problem Management
Authors: Sailer Anca , Mahindru Ruchi , Song Yang , Wei Xing
Published: August 2015

Problem determination and resolution (PDR) is at the core of Incident and Problem Management. PDR is the process of detecting an anomaly in a monitored system, identifying the nature of the anomaly in view of routing to the appropriate support team, determining the root cause responsible for the anomaly and fixing or eliminating the cause of the problem. The cost of PDR represents a substantial part of operational costs, and faster, more effective PDR can contribute to a substantial reduction in system administration costs. The methodologies described by the authors in this chapter relate to automation of critical aspects of PDR, such as problem classification for targeted diagnosis and structuring of solved problem tickets for offering systematized resolution to the support personnel.
Business Models for Social Entrepreneurs
Authors: Shiri Alphonce Tavona
Published: August 2015

Social Entrepreneurs creatively contribute towards the welfare of marginalized members of society by availing affordable products and services. The objective of this chapter is to critically discuss the concept of social entrepreneurship and provide some theoretical lens through which one can understand the activities that are carried out by social entrepreneurs. This chapter describes social entrepreneurs from a bricolage and a social constructionist perspective. While a plethora of definitions of social entrepreneurship exists, this chapter filters a few definitions and elaborates on common elements that increase our understanding of the concept of social entrepreneurship. Various models of social entrepreneurship serve different social goals and these are discussed with aid of examples. Factors that determine the adoption of a model range from the scale of the social mission, characteristics of the clients to the type of intended social beneficiaries of the venture.
A Discussion on Social Entrepreneurship in South Africa
Authors: Krige Kerryn
Published: August 2015

This chapter explores the literature on social entrepreneurship and civil society in South Africa, with a brief look on the country context and the need to fast track socio-economic change. It presents weaknesses in the current ability of civil society to function well and argues that social entrepreneurship offers opportunity to strengthen traditional methods of delivering social value, whilst introducing new aproaches. The chapter provides brief insights on where social entrepreneurs require greater support to be effective and looks at where there are quick wins to enable them to thrive.
Colocalization of a CD1d-Binding Glycolipid with a Radiation-Attenuated Sporozoite Vaccine in Lymph Node–Resident Dendritic Cells for a Robust Adjuvant Effect
Authors: Li Xiangming , Kawamura Akira , Andrews Chasity D. , Miller Jessica L. , Wu Douglass , Tsao Tiffany , Zhang Min , Oren Deena , Padte Neal N. , Porcelli Steven A. , Wong Chi-Huey , Kappe Stefan H. I. , Ho David D. , Tsuji Moriya
Published: August 2015

A CD1d-binding glycolipid, α-Galactosylceramide (αGalCer), activates invariant NK T cells and acts as an adjuvant. We previously identified a fluorinated phenyl ring-modified αGalCer analog, 7DW8-5, displaying nearly 100-fold stronger CD1d binding affinity. In the current study, 7DW8-5 was found to exert a more potent adjuvant effect than αGalCer for a vaccine based on radiation-attenuated sporozoites of a rodent malaria parasite, Plasmodium yoelii, also referred to as irradiated P. yoelii sporozoites (IrPySpz). 7DW8-5 had a superb adjuvant effect only when the glycolipid and IrPySpz were conjointly administered i.m. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of distinctly different biodistribution patterns of αGalCer and 7DW8-5 on their respective adjuvant activities. Although both glycolipids induce a similar cytokine response in sera of mice injected i.v., after i.m. injection, αGalCer induces a systemic cytokine response, whereas 7DW8-5 is locally trapped by CD1d expressed by dendritic cells (DCs) in draining lymph nodes (dLNs). Moreover, the i.m. coadministration of 7DW8-5 with IrPySpz results in the recruitment of DCs to dLNs and the activation and maturation of DCs. These events cause the potent adjuvant effect of 7DW8-5, resulting in the enhancement of the CD8+ T cell response induced by IrPySpz and, ultimately, improved protection against malaria. Our study is the first to show that the colocalization of a CD1d-binding invariant NK T cell–stimulatory glycolipid and a vaccine, like radiation-attenuated sporozoites, in dLN-resident DCs upon i.m. conjoint administration governs the potency of the adjuvant effect of the glycolipid.
Osteoprotegerin-Mediated Homeostasis of Rank+ Thymic Epithelial Cells Does Not Limit Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cell Development
Authors: McCarthy Nicholas I. , Cowan Jennifer E. , Nakamura Kyoko , Bacon Andrea , Baik Song , White Andrea J. , Parnell Sonia M. , Jenkinson Eric J. , Jenkinson William E. , Anderson Graham
Published: August 2015

In the thymus, medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTEC) regulate T cell tolerance via negative selection and Foxp3+ regulatory T cell (Treg) development, and alterations in the mTEC compartment can lead to tolerance breakdown and autoimmunity. Both the receptor activator for NF-κB (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG) axis and expression of the transcriptional regulator Aire are involved in the regulation of thymus medullary microenvironments. However, their impact on the mechanisms controlling mTEC homeostasis is poorly understood, as are the processes that enable the thymus medulla to support the balanced production of mTEC-dependent Foxp3+ Treg. In this study, we have investigated the control of mTEC homeostasis and examined how this process impacts the efficacy of Foxp3+ Treg development. Using newly generated RANK Venus reporter mice, we identify distinct RANK+ subsets that reside within both the mTEChi and mTEClo compartments and that represent direct targets of OPG-mediated control. Moreover, by mapping OPG expression to a subset of Aire+ mTEC, our data show how cis- and trans-acting mechanisms are able to control the thymus medulla by operating on multiple mTEC targets. Finally, we show that whereas the increase in mTEC availability in OPG-deficient (Tnfrsf11b−/−) mice impacts the intrathymic Foxp3+ Treg pool by enhancing peripheral Treg recirculation back to the thymus, it does not alter the number of de novo Rag2pGFP+Foxp3+ Treg that are generated. Collectively, our study defines patterns of RANK expression within the thymus medulla, and it shows that mTEC homeostasis is not a rate-limiting step in intrathymic Foxp3+ Treg production.
La trayectoria de mujeres investigadoras en revistas científicas en español
Authors: Del Valle Rojas Carlos , Caldevilla Domínguez David , Pacheco Silva César
Published: August 2015

Se describe y analiza las actuales condiciones en las cuales las mujeres acceden a los espacios de publicación científica y las características, posibilidades y limitaciones que las propias investigadoras atribuyen a las distintas instancias del proceso de investigación y acceso a las publicaciones científicas, especialmente las condiciones de igualdad de género. Metodología: Primero se revisó exhaustivamente una muestra de publicaciones que potencialmente podrían incluir trabajos de investigadoras; y luego se analizó un corpus de 29 Encuestas y 3 Entrevistas en Profundidad a mujeres investigadoras chilenas. Resultados y Conclusiones: la situación actual de las investigadoras chilenas, sin ser negativa, es manifiestamente mejorable, y para ello se requieren acciones conjuntas de las investigadoras, junto al compromiso de las correspondientes administraciones académicas y políticas, de modo que se generen las condiciones adecuadas para fortalecer el desempeño de las investigadoras, especialmente en el proceso de difusión del conocimiento.
Procedural modelling for reconstruction of historic monuments
Authors: Koehl M. , Roussel F.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The reconstruction of historic or archaeological monuments bases on the architectural knowledge of the architects and the archaeologists. For the 3D modelling, we can use several technologies as the meshing of point clouds, reconstruction by geometrical primitives and more often the completely manual reconstruction based on a geometry measured on the field. The procedural methods of modelling also allow to build, even to reconstruct historic buildings. They are very effective when several primitives are repeated in regular structures. In this paper, we tested the efficiency of a procedural modelling within the framework of the modelling of the church of Turckheim, Haut-Rhin - France. This church has been built around an older chapel of the XIIth century of which there exists no more than a bell tower. The procedural modelling allowed to reconstruct the church in the current style borrowed from that of the XIIth century. The architectural elements built on the basis of rules were then able to be resumed to propose hypotheses of reconstruction of the anterior chapel. Even if the procedural modelling is not the most adapted to this kind of reconstruction, nevertheless it allowed to offer methods of original modelling in an open environment (Esri's CityEngine 2014.0) and, what is here the most important, interoperable with other 3D products.
An Interactive Immersive Serious Game Application for Kunyu Quantu World Map
Authors: Peng S-T. , Hsu S-Y. , Hsieh K-C.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. In recent years, more and more digital technologies and innovative concepts are applied on museum education. One of the concepts applied is “Serious game.” Serious game is not designed for entertainment purpose but allows users to learn real world’s cultural and educational knowledge in the virtual world through game-experiencing. Technologies applied on serious game are identical to those applied on entertainment game. Nowadays, the interactive technology applications considering users’ movement and gestures in physical spaces are developing rapidly, which are extensively used in entertainment games, such as Kinect-based games. The ability to explore space via Kinect-based games can be incorporated into the design of serious game. The ancient world map, Kunyu Quantu, from the collection of the National Palace Museum is therefore applied in serious game development. In general, the ancient world map does not only provide geological information, but also contains museum knowledge. This particular ancient world map is an excellent content applied in games as teaching material. In the 17th century, it was first used by a missionary as a medium to teach the Kangxi Emperor of the latest geologic and scientific spirits from the West. On this map, it also includes written biological knowledge and climate knowledge. Therefore, this research aims to present the design of the interactive and immersive serious game based installation that developed from the rich content of the Kunyu Quantu World Map, and to analyse visitor’s experience in terms of real world’s cultural knowledge learning and interactive responses.
Documentation for emergency condition mapping of Decorated historic surfaces at the Caid Residence, the Kasbah of Taourirt (Ouarzazate, Morocco)
Authors: Percy K. , Ouimet C. , Ward S. , Santana Quintero M. , Cancino C. , Wong L. , Marcus B. , Whittaker S. , Boussalh M.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. As it is broadly understood, recording serves as a basis for the diagnosis, treatment and preservation of historic places and contributes to record our built cultural heritage for posterity. This work is not a stand-alone practice but a part of the overall conservation process of cultural heritage at imminent risk of irreversible damage. Recording of heritage places should be directly related to the needs, skills and the technology that are available to the end users that are responsible for the management and care of these sites. They should be selected in a way that the future managers of these sites can also access and use the data collected. This paper explains an innovative heritage recording approach applied by the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) and Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS) in the documentation of historic decorated surfaces at the Caïd Residence, located at Tighermt (Kasbah) Taourirt in Ouarzazate, Morocco; as part of a collaborative project between the GCI and the Centre de Conservation et Réhabilitation du Patrimoine Architectural des Zones Atlasiques et Sub-Atlasiques (CERKAS) to rehabilitate the entire architectural ensemble. The selected recording techniques were used for the rapid mapping of conditions of the decorated surfaces at the Caïd Residence using international standards. The resulting work is being used by GCI staff, consultants and CERKAS team to conduct emergency stabilization and protection measures for these important decorated surfaces.
Innovative and applied research on big data platforms of smart heritage
Authors: Qiu J. , Li J. , Sun H.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Big data has huge commercial value and potential. Under the background of big data, a heritage site is faced with a number of questions and challenges such as, how to accelerate industrial innovation, benign competition and the creation of new business value. Based on the analysis of service data from the national archaeological site and park, Yuan Ming Yuan, this paper investigates the common problems of site management operations such as, inappropriate cultural interpretation, insufficient consumer demand and so on. In order to solve these operational problems, a new service system called the "one platform - three systems" was put forward. This system includes the smart heritage platform and three management systems: the smart heritage management system, the 3-O (Online-Offline-Onsite) service system and the digital explanation system. Combined with the 3-O marketing operation, the platform can realize bidirectional interaction between heritage site management units and tourists, which can also benefit visitors to the heritage site by explaining the culture and history of the heritage site, bring about more demand for cultural information and expand the social and economic benefits.
Digitalized preservation and presentation of historical building – taking traditional temples and dougong as examples
Authors: Yang W. B. , Yen Y. N. , Cheng H. M.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The integration of preservation of heritage and the digital technology is an important international trend in the 21st century. The digital technology not only is able to record and preserve detailed documents and information of heritage completely, but also brings the value-added features effectively. In this study, 3D laser scanning is used to perform the digitalized archives for the interior and exterior body work of the building which contains integration of 3D scanner technology, mobile scanning collaboration and multisystem reverse modeling and integration technology. The 3D model is built by combining with multi-media presentations and reversed modeling in real scale to perform the simulation of virtual reality (VR). With interactive teaching and presentation of augmented reality to perform the interaction technology to extend the continuously update in traditional architecture information. With the upgrade of the technology and value-added in digitalization, the cultural asset value can be experienced through 3D virtual reality which makes the information presentation from the traditional reading in the past toward user operation with sensory experience and keep exploring the possibilities and development of cultural asset preservation by using digital technology makes the presentation and learning of cultural asset information toward diversification.
The Application of Regulating Plant Growth into Protective Engineering of The Western Mansions Area in The Old Summer Palace
Authors: Cong W. , Song Y.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The Western Mansions (Xīyáng Lóu) in the Old Summer Palace (Yuánmíngyuán ) are extremely valuable set of heritage. When it was first conceived and constructed, it was an important part of the successful exchange between Chinese and the Western cultures. It marked the entry of European architecture and the art of gardening into Chinese royal gardens. Therefore, the Western Mansions occupies a vital position in the garden history of China and even the world. Since the 1980s, the Administrative Office of the Old Summer Place (Yuánmíngyuán) had cleared and reorganized the Western Mansions relics. But currently, both the protection and display of the Western Mansions are far from satisfactory. With regards to the outlook of the cultural relics, there is cracking and collapses, relics are damaged by tourists, there is rainwater erosion, plant aggression, pollutants, weathering, crumbling and other threats. This is caused by the improper protective measures and the yearslong erosion through natural causes. Therefore, in order to protect the important heritage and show people the situation of the plant growth，As the basis of the copper planting, the historical conditions of planting can be speculated at the time of the western building, which become an important basis for the recovery of history. This paper also further researches on the informationg of plant form in history,to avoid destabilising the heritage.Some destruction from plant growth can be controled.
Rancho, plomo y candela. Crónica y ficción en Salsa y Control de José Roberto Duque
Authors: Chehin Ana María
Published: August 2015

Salsa y Control, texto híbrido, fragmentario, trabaja con el cancionero popular y relatos de la vida cotidiana de Caracas. Desdibuja límites entre cultura oral y cultura escrita, sujeto autorizado y sujeto representado. La vida urbana, el exceso de los cuerpos y de la violencia, se traman entre ficción y crónica adoptando el gesto costumbrista e innovándolo con letras de salsa. Abordaré los usos de la misma en la representación de los cuerpos de sujetos, atravesados por el ritmo urbano violento y la relación entre la salsa- que involucra  libertad corporal, erotismo - y el control, de ciudad que los vigila a través de sus instituciones.
Reseña. Patricia Espinosa, "Los detectives salvajes de Roberto Bolaño: la posibilidad de una comunidad". Santiago: Editorial Recortes críticos, 2014.
Authors: Corro Penjean Pablo
Published: August 2015

Reseña de Patricia Espinosa
Palabra travesti en Pedro Lemebel
Authors: Morales Hernán José
Published: August 2015

En los textos de Lemebel, la palabra se funda en una concepción del travestismo en la que se patentiza la disolución de fronteras como emblema de los cruces de los sujetos urbanos de la ciudad contemporánea. En ese sentido, dichos cruces construyen texturas del desplazamiento desde lo genérico, lo textual y lo temático que hacen de esa escritura una poética desestabilizadora, exótica y neobarroca.
Reseña. Javier Guerrero, Tecnologías del cuerpo. Exhibicionismo y visualidad en América Latina. Iberoamericana-Vervuert. Madrid/Fankfurt, 2014.
Authors: Barrientos Mónica
Published: August 2015

Reseña de Javier Guerrero
Individual and Family Factors That Decrease Depression in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean Youth
Authors: Boeckel Jennifer Ann , Laser Julie Anne
Published: August 2015

This study examined the risk and promotive factors that contribute to or decrease depression in late adolescents. Chinese, Japanese and Korean adolescents were surveyed in order to examine the individual and family factors influencing adolescents. Correlation and regression were used to examine the relationship among variables. Findings from the analysis revealed that promotive factors: autonomy, easy temperament, emotional intelligence, humor, moral development, optimism and physical beauty decreased depression. Risk factors that increased depression were history of physical abuse, history of sexual abuse, domestic violence, favoritism of siblings, parental depression and parent not aware. Implications of these findings for theory, research, policy and clinical practice are explored.
Time Matters: Effectiveness of Steaming Times on Forage for Animal Consumption
Authors: Serrano Leslie , Dodd Leslie , Wood Bethanie , D'Antoni Jeremy , Mehlhorn Joey
Published: August 2015

The goal of this research is to determine the effectiveness of portable hay steamer equipment for horse owners averaging 1-15 head.  Hay is a large portion of horses’ diets, but it has a short shelf life.  Dust from hay also becomes a problem due to respiratory diseases. There is a need for a healthier alternative for storing and feeding hay in order to promote optimum animal health.  This study tests the effectiveness of four steaming times on the cleanliness of high-quality, Bermuda hay in the portable steamer.  Swabs were taken from pre and post steaming hay samples and incubated on nutrient agar plates at 37 degrees Celsius for 24 hours. After incubation, bacterial colonies were counted to compare the change in bacteria present from before and after the steaming process. Using two-sample mean differences tests, we found steaming time had a significant impact on the cleanliness of hay.
An Examination of the Various Ways Teachers Become Leaders: A Blended Process
Authors: Bundy Anthony Stephan , Walsh Kevin J. , Mongillo Geraldine
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this exploratory study was to identify leadership factors that teachers viewed as most influential in their development as teacher leaders, and to generate suggestions to assist in the selection and cultivation of teacher leaders. This research employed a small sample of six teachers who were pursuing leadership roles and were identified as teacher leaders within their respective schools. Data collection was conducted through structured interviews, review of school documents, and a survey instrument. Teachers’ interview data were coded based on key teacher leader qualities and behavioral characteristics identified in current literature. Analysis and subsequent findings concluded that teacher leader development is a blended process involving multiple key factors such as: self-reflection, teacher expertise, student-advocacy, professional development experiences, organizational empowerment for teachers, opportunities for job embedded collaboration with peers, teacher passion, and vision.
The Effect of Metacognitive Instruction on L2 Learners’ Listening Abilities and Beliefs about Listening
Authors: Shabani Karim , Heidarian Mahsa
Published: August 2015

Framed in metacognition and sociocultural theory, the present study aims at probing the effect of metacognitive instruction on the learners’ perceptions about listening in one hand, and examining whether this pedagogical sequence of teaching listening may lead to the learners’ listening development in the course of one semester on the other. To gather desirable data, 90 (50 males and 40 females) young Iranian EFL (English as a foreign language) learners, who were studying English in a private language institute, were the potential participants of the study. Data was gathered through semi-structured interview, open-ended questionnaire, as well as KET (Key English Test) listening test. Findings highlighted the occurrence of changes in the learners’ beliefs about listening at the end of the term after they received metacognitive listening instruction. Similarly, quantitative data analysis of the pre-and post-test indicated that the participants in the experimental group outperformed those of the control group. Results revealed that metacognitive listening instruction seems to be more beneficial for less-skilled (novice) listeners to take advantage of a process-based listening instruction to improve their listening abilities.
Building Affordable Touchpad Tablets and Integrating it within Undergraduate Students’ Curriculum
Authors: Tabbara Mohamad
Published: August 2015

This research paper will discuss the process and consequences of allowing undergraduate students to build their own touchpads and integrate it within their daily learning activities. The paper will try to capture the student’s acceptance level toward the procedure and its anticipated academic results. The level of student’s acceptance will be measured based on a group of statistical questions such as the amount of time and level of difficulties encountered during the assembly process. Moreover, the discussion will elaborate toward the opportunities that can be achieved in terms of students’ learning mobility and overall enhancements of their educational performance. At this point, a group of survey questions will investigate the affiliation between allowing the student’s to build their own touchpads and the fact of achieving better academic results. In this respect, a group of 39 students currently studying at the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), in Abu Dhabi Women’s College (ADWC), will be asked to be part of a questionnaire to record their behaviour and overall impression in relation to the touchpad assembly and its usage.
The Impact of Halfway Houses on Parole Success and Recidivism
Authors: Costanza S. E. , Cox Stephen M. , Kilburn John C.
Published: August 2015

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This article seeks to identify short and long term effects of halfway house completion on parole success and subsequent recidivism from a sample of offenders released from a northeastern state’s correctional facilities between 2004 and 2008.  Using propensity score matching techniques, we compare parolees released to parole after successfully completing a residential treatment program to a matched group of parolees released directly into the community from a correctional facility.  Analyses show that parolees who successfully complete a halfway house program are more likely to successfully complete parole but the effect on residential programming on long-term recidivism are negligible.   

Keywords: Alternative Corrections, Community Corrections, Halfway Houses, Parole, Recidivism
In their own words:Unemployed young people on tackling youth labour market constraints in Botswana
Authors: Sechele Latang
Published: August 2015

Drawing on focus group discussions with unemployed young people in Gaborone and Mogoditshane, Botswana, this paper seeks to capture the ideas of young people regarding how labour market entry constraints could be weakened to provide an enabling environment for wage employment and self-employment. The research is framed on the interpretive paradigm that conceives of youth as agents that are skilled, knowledgeable and capable of reflecting on matters that affect their existence. This is contrary to other studies of the labour market that privilege expert knowledge, presenting young people as voiceless, less knowledgeable and overwhelmed by structures. The suggested employment strategies by the unemployed youth were found to be feasible and matching expert knowledge. This justifies a call to pay attention to the voices of youth in the design of youth labour market policies and programmes.

Keywords: Youth voice, labour market constraints, employment strategies, Botswana
Foreword
Authors: Yusuf Almannai Aisha
Published: August 2015

In the foreword, Dr Almannai stresses the importance of knowing the other and understanding religious differences. Pluralism is a core principle of democracy and its value is acknowledged by Islam
Disagreeing to Agree: A Christian response to a common word
Authors: Cutsinger James
Published: August 2015

Dr Cutsinger argues that in order to realize the essential unity of the great world religions but also to remain mindful of their intrinsic differences, the search for a common ground should be conducted at a metaphysical rather than a theological level. The focus of the present article is the apparent contradiction between the Christian Mystery of the Incarnation and the Islamic Tawhid.
Vrijwilligheid, vertrouwelijkheid en onpartijdigheid
Authors: De Mesmaecker Vicky
Published: August 2015

Confidentiality, impartiality and voluntariness Participants opinions on victim-offender mediation in Flanders

This article considers the fundamental restorative justice principles of voluntary participation, the impartiality of the facilitator and the confidentiality of the restorative process from the point of view of participants to victim-offender mediation in Flanders, Belgium. These principles have remained relatively theoretical; little is known about how they are perceived by the participants to restorative practices. Results of our study show that whereas victims and offenders unequivocally support the principles of voluntariness and impartiality, the principle of confidentiality causes dissatisfaction and frustration when they believe it hinders the judge trying the case in court from establishing the truth about the facts.