bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reglamento de instalaciones de calefacción, climatización y agua caliente sanitaria con el fin de racionalizar su consumo energético, Real Decreto 1618/1980 de 4 de julio
Authors: Editorial Equipo
Published: March 2013

En agosto de este año se han publicado las instrucciones técnicas complementarias del Reglamento de Instalaciones de Calefacción, Climatización y Agua Caliente Sanitaria con el fin de racionalizar su consumo energético. («B.O.E.», 13 agosto, 1981, Orden de 16 de julio de 1981).
La informática en la empresa constructora
Authors: Ramírez de Dampierre Ramón
Published: March 2013

Al recibir de la revista informes de la Construcción el encargo de escribir un artículo sobre la informática en la empresa constructora no se me ocultó la dificultad del intento.
Por un lado, las estadísticas a nivel nacional sobre informática no son excesivamente fiables y no existen siquiera en el sector de la construcción; por otro, es hoy en día difícil definir dónde termina la máquina de calcular y dónde empieza el micrordenador a la hora de analizar el grado de mecanización de las empresas.
De cualquier forma, acometo la tarea con la ilusión de quien, vinculado a la construcción familiar, profesional y vocacionalmente, lleva doce años volcado en el campo de la informática técnica y de gestión, habiendo introducido ordenadores en más de 100 empresas y vivido la problemática de la mecanización de las mismas, y que tiene aquí la oportunidad de narrar sus experiencias.
Cubierta de red metálica
Authors: Otto Frei
Published: March 2013

Realizada por el mismo equipo que diseñó la cubierta del Estadio Olímpico de Munich, esta obra tiene aún mayores dimensiones siendo, con sus 9.500 m2 la mayor del mundo en su género.
Ocho pilares de 30 m de altura soportan un tejido colgante de cables de acero, sobre y bajo el cual se fijaron membranas de material sintético transparente para permitir la práctica del deporte en pleno desierto.
Un interesante proceso de ejecución por fases permitió elevar la superestructura en un tiempo récord y a bajos costes.
Centro escolar federal en Bludenz/Austria
Authors: Nehrer Manfred , Medek Reinhard
Published: March 2013

Este centro escolar, considerado como uno de los más interesantes de Austria, se compone de cuatro cuerpos en los que se distribuyen, respectivamente, las escuelas, el gimnasio, la vivienda del conserje y el local de transformadores.
En su construcción hay que destacar su adecuada flexibilidad, que permite dar cabida a las distintas funciones que en él se desarrollan, y la correcta adaptación del gran volumen edificado a las especiales características urbanas y arquitectónicas del ámbito circundante.
Reparación de un dique seco en el Ferrol/España
Authors: Navas Gutiérrez Mariano , Blanco González Mariano
Published: March 2013

El dique seco de El Ferrol, construido como dique de gravedad según la técnica de la época (1913), ha sufrido una serie de averías como consecuencia de su envejecimiento, que ha obligado a emprender una obra de reparación según las modernas técnicas de soleras ancladas y drenadas, y pantallas de bentonita-cemento.
Se ha construido una losa de 30 cm en el antedique, anclada con armaduras activas, formado cada anclaje por diez cables según una malla de 3 x 3 m. Para aliviar la subpresión se ha colocado un dren entre la solera permeable actualmente existente y la losa.
Con la pantalla de bentonita-cemento se pretende cerrar la entrada de agua por el relleno permeable del antiguo dique. El terreno natural es prácticamente impermeable.
Algunos aspectos técnicos estructurales que condicionan la realización de una obra de remodelación
Authors: González Valle Enrique
Published: March 2013

El autor esboza una sistemática del estudio previo al que debe ajustarse una obra de remodelación que afecte a los elementos estructurales de una construcción, pasando revista a los problemas que suelen plantearse y a los medios auxiliares que pueden aplicarse para eliminar las incertidumbres que condicionarían la seguridad y durabilidad de los elementos originales afectados por la obra.
Los céspedes deportivos
Authors: Calderón José M.
Published: March 2013

«Nothing is more pleasant to the eye than green grass kept finely shorn» Francis Bacon Essay on Gardenning (1625).
Aparte de algunas citas bíblicas sobre la hierba, relacionadas más bien con los ciclos vegetales de crecimiento y pausa o con el particular simbolismo hebreo, quedan referencias escritas desde Punió el Joven a Bocaccio y Francis Bacon, en las que se alaban las cualidades de belleza del césped en el entorno del hombre, en el jardín o en el medio urbano naciente. Son estas referencias a las cualidades ornamentales del césped apreciaciones cultas, ilustradas, que siguen a los primitivos usos utilitarios de la hierba como alimentación del ganado que conserva junto a sí el hombre agricultor, en su cercado-habitáculo.
El seguro en el campeonato mundial de fútbol de 1982
Authors: Navas Borrego José M.
Published: March 2013

Un campeonato mundial de fútbol es un acontecimiento que mueve en torno suyo multitud de actividades, entre las que inevitablemente se encuentra el Seguro, que entra en acción cubriendo las más variadas garantías.
Immigration and Recruitment in an Urban White-Winged Dove Breeding Colony
Authors: Collier Bret A. , Kremer Shelly R. , Mason Corey D. , Stone John , Calhoun Kirby W. , Peterson Markus J.
Published: March 2013

Dove population management necessitates estimates of vital rates for use in mechanistic models used to evaluate and predict population responses to environmental variation and/or alternative harvest scenarios. Estimating recruitment (number of juveniles per adult) is complicated because a compendium of factors drives production in doves. White-winged doves Zenaida asiatica exhibit a fairly unique breeding strategy wherein they commonly return to the same breeding area and reproduce in large breeding aggregations (i.e., colonies). We used an open-population capture–recapture model to estimate annual immigration and in situ recruitment of white-winged doves breeding in an urban colony during 2009 and 2010. We captured 5,101 unique white-winged doves in 2009 (2,894 after hatch year, 2,207 hatch year) and 3,502 unique white-winged doves in 2010 (3,106 after hatch year, 486 hatch year). Immigration of adults into the breeding colony peaked during late April and early May, with in situ recruitment occurring during a 6-wk period from 19 June to 30 July. Our results predicted that >90% of all hatch-year individuals had entered the local population by 1 August. The Jolly–Seber model used allows white-winged dove recruitment values to be estimated directly (rather than as a conglomerate of multiple parameters), separates immigration from in situ recruitment within a season, and can be useful for monitoring recruitment and evaluating alternative recruitment indices for future use in harvest management-planning actions.
White Coat Warm heART
Authors: Courneya Carol Ann
Published: March 2013

In this chapter, the authors explore the concept of excellence in teaching by considering both what has been published in the literature as well as case examples of learner-centered, art-based approaches to medical education. Five issues that relate to using art in medical education discussed include: (1) Learning to Look: visual literacy and its role in developing diagnostic abilities; (2) Building Bridges: the role of art in encouraging inter-disciplinarity; (3) To Cope or Not to Cope: the role of art as a stress-reduction strategy;(4) Death by PowerPoint: transmediation for learning the science of medicine; and (5) Doctor as Artist: the role of art and art-making during professional (medical) identity formation. The authors utilize three case studies to demonstrate 2, 4, and 5.
Mindfulness to Enhance Teaching and Learning
Authors: Chan L. C.
Published: March 2013

This chapter deals with the concept of mindfulness as a skill required both by teachers and by students. This concept is explored by providing a brief review of why the concept of mindfulness is gaining attention in medicine and higher education. As a mindful practitioner, the author describes examples of how mindful practices in his daily life have opened and enriched his teaching experiences and enhanced student learning. Mindful practice has also enabled the author to take a broader perspective of how medical schools can develop “better” doctors. In engaging with colleagues across the university, the author has applied this perspective to develop a medical humanities course for the undergraduate medical curriculum.
Getting the Context Right for Quality Teaching and Learning
Authors: Hunt Lynne , Sankey Michael
Published: March 2013

This is the story of top-down, middle-out, and bottom-up change to promote learning and teaching at a regional university in Australia. The case study documents a whole-of-university change process designed to get the context right to enhance university learning and teaching. It describes the baseline for action, the planning processes, and implementation strategies that adapted a project management approach. The chapter explores contestable issues associated with centralised university change processes versus devolved, faculty initiatives, and it shows how these might be combined. It also outlines the guiding principles of the change process, which was informed by a concern to develop coherent student learning journeys, cross-institutional planning, and a community development approach to engage the hearts and minds of staff. It also featured a systems approach designed to make it difficult for staff to get things wrong.
Achieving Excellence in Teaching
Authors: Doherty Iain
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this chapter is to examine the challenges of achieving systemic change in the teaching culture of a research-intensive university. The chapter makes use of a teaching improvement case study to identify both the challenges and the solutions to engaging academics in a research-intensive university with educational professional development. Ongoing issues are identified and future research directions are presented.
The Single Most Consequential Thing We Do in Universities
Authors: Campbell Grant
Published: March 2013

Assessing students (including giving feedback and making decisions based on assessments) is arguably the single most important thing done in universities in terms of tangible impacts on people’s lives, but assessment is hard to do. Academics are seldom trained in assessment, and for many it is the most worrying aspect of the job. The University of Manchester operates a New Academics Programme for its probationary lecturers, running over three years and encompassing research, teaching, and administrative aspects of academic careers, culminating in a reflective portfolio. This case study describes the introduction of an assessment component into this programme, including its motivation, content, implementation, and evolution, and its reception by the new academics. The assessment component of the New Academics Programme is now delivered in two sessions at different times of the year. The first covers the importance of assessment and gives guidance for designing good assessments and giving feedback. The second session goes more deeply into constructive alignment and learning outcomes, leading on to decision making in exam boards, and ending with a focus on cultivating academic judgement.
Reflections on the Role of Self-Paced, Online Resources in Higher Education or How YouTube is Teaching Me How to Knit
Authors: Ellis Cath
Published: March 2013

In higher education sectors around the world, lecturing remains the mainstay of teaching and learning practice (see Bligh, 1998; Jones, 2007). This is despite the fact that countless high-profile and widely read scholars have shown that the pedagogic value of lecturing is questionable (see Bligh, 1998; Gibbs, 1981; Laurillard, 2002). How it has come to be that lecturing persists remains the focus of much speculation (see Jones, 2007). It may be the case, however, that lectures have finally met their match in the form of online, self-paced, on-demand resources. As the availability and number of these resources grows, the viability of face-to-face lecturing as a teaching and learning strategy becomes increasingly tenuous. In this chapter, the authors outline the impact that these resources are having on pedagogy and curriculum design in general and in higher education in particular. They offer a case study of the use of this strategy in a higher education context within an English Literature module. The authors conclude by offering some reflections on their own experiences as on-demand learners and offer some suggestions as to how university teachers and the institutions for which they work may need to rethink the way they operate.
Defining University Teaching Excellence in a Globalized Profession
Authors: Bartlett Kenneth
Published: March 2013

In universities around the world, metrics have been developed to assess research extremely well in the career development of faculty; however, teaching effectiveness has been left to the subjective and usually unreliable evidence of student evaluations, unique or irregular classroom visits, and committee reviews of course syllabi and assignments. There are seldom standards of achievement provided, and each file is usually assessed without reference to others. There is need, then, for a broad set of expectations in the academy for what we call excellence and competence in teaching. This chapter discusses how the authors’ experiences in faculty development in three institutions—in Canada, China, and Oman—reflects both the need for such metrics and the difficulties in establishing procedures in very different contexts. From this, he hopes a debate about how to establish international guidelines for teaching excellence that parallel the rigour given to the assessment of research can be initiated to guide decisions concerning appointment, promotion, and tenure in the modern, internationalized university.
Assembling the Global University
Authors: Kochhar-Lindgren Gray
Published: March 2013

This chapter examines the emergence of the global artistic-entrepreneurial university, the increasing importance of interdisciplinary and innovative pedagogies, and how these new emphases are shaping institutional change. The first section analyzes the global university as an “assemblage,” a process that gathers ideas, materialities, digitized platforms, and human beings into a new form of higher education. Because of the impacts on higher education of the flows of capital, technology, people, and cultural practices in both the “East” and the “West,” this form of the university transcends regional and national boundaries as it builds networks of learning around the world. The second section of the chapter focuses on the increasing importance of interdisciplinarity and developing active and integrative pedagogies organized around fundamental skills and questions. In order to ground the discussion in particular sites, the authors use examples from the University of Hong Kong’s new Core Curriculum and from the University of Washington Bothell’s Discovery Core for first-year students. In the final section, the chapter addresses what the next steps might look like as institutions change themselves to fit a globalized context. This section returns to the idea of the global university as a “hub of an ecology of studio-labs” (Parks, 2005, p. 57) and suggest that the “managerial” university is transitioning into a more flexible model of the “artistic-entrepreneurial” university in order to prosper in an extremely competitive and generative global environment.
Building Scalable, Private RFID Systems
Authors: Lu Li
Published: March 2013

Due to low cost and easy deployment, RFID has become a promising technology in many applications, such as retailing, medical-patient management, logistics, and supply chain management. Although a number of RFID standards have been issued and widely adopted by many off-the-shelf products, those standards, however, scarcely added privacy concerns because of computing and communication patterns. On the other hand, in RFID systems, RF tags emit their unique serial numbers to RF readers. Without privacy protection, however, any reader can identify a tag ID via the emitted serial number. Indeed, a malicious reader can easily perform bogus authentications with detected tags to retrieve sensitive information within its scanning range. The main obstacle to preserving privacy in RFID systems lies in the capability of tags. Due to the cost consideration, common RFID tags have tight constraints on power, computational capacity, and memory. Therefore, the mature cryptographic tools for bulky PCs are not suitable for RFID devices. In this chapter, the author focuses on the privacy issue to establish scalable and private RFID systems. The chapter first discusses the privacy issue in RFID systems; and then correspondingly introduces privacy preserving techniques including privacy-preserving authentication and secure ownership transfer. Finally, the theoretic formal privacy models for RFID systems are given, in which the author formally defines privacy and the behaviors of adversaries in RFID systems. Based on a formal model, say the weak privacy model, the chapter illustrates the methodology for designing highly efficient privacy-preserving authentication protocols.
The Indonesian Overseas Migrant Workers and the Role of E-Counseling in Taiwan
Authors: Aryanto Vincent Didiek Wiet , Santoso Thomas Budi
Published: March 2013

This study aims at revealing problems for sending the Indonesian Overseas Migrant Workers (IOMW) in Taiwan. Forty workers who got contract problems at the two shelter houses in Taichung and Taoyuan became respondents of this study. In addition, six resource persons had been interviewed to enrich this study. Findings can be identified as contract breaching between the employers or agencies with the workers, experiencing long work hours, improper working condition, inflicting sexual harassment etc. However, the workers could avail of the facilities provided by the Taiwan government and Indonesian consular office in Taipei in the form of e-counseling.
Global Learning by Distance
Authors: Andrade Maureen Snow
Published: March 2013

The knowledge economy demands a highly skilled and well-rounded work force. However, because traditional institutions cannot meet the demand for post-secondary education, technological innovations, particularly distance learning, are becoming the solution for increased access. As distance programs are developed for global delivery, cultural and linguistic issues must be considered. Pedagogical methods, modes of learning, communication styles, English proficiency, and delivery logistics potentially interfere with the success of such endeavors. This article addresses the opportunities and obstacles of creating distance courses for international learners. It reviews the need for international educational access, provides an overview of the issues, and shares a learner-centered framework to demonstrate principles and practicalities for mitigating potential obstacles to distance learning as a global venture. The framework is illustrated with examples from distance English language learning courses.
Investigations on Materials Used for Manufacturing the Rolling Rolls in Few Durability Experiments
Authors: Kiss Imre
Published: March 2013

The aim of this work is to answer to as many questions possible regarding the quality of rolling rolls. In this sense, durability in exploitation is extremely current, both for immediate practice, and for the scientific research attributed to the rolls materials. This paper presents original experimental equipment for investigations of the durability of hot rolling rolls, which permits the evaluation of exploitation durability by studying the thermal fatigue phenomenon which appears in the case of rolling mills components. The exploitation durability is evaluated through thermal fatigue cycles up to crack point due to thermal fatigue for each condition and each type of studied material (steel and iron grades). The study on the hot rolling rolls thermal regime is a novelty from scientific and experimental viewpoint. In this sense, the purpose of this work is to present few directions concerning the quality improvement of the rolling rolls and suggests solutions meant to increase the durability of the rolls in exploitation and safety in the rolling process.
Non Uniform Grid Based Cost Minimization and Routing in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Swamy Tata Jagannadha , Srivastava Jayant Vaibhav , Ramamurthy Garimella
Published: March 2013

Recent technological advances have facilitated the widespread use of wireless sensor networks in many applications. In real life situations we have to cover or monitor a lot of points/places on plane. Sensor’s range is proportional to their cost, as high cost sensors have higher ranges. In this paper the authors developed a new algorithm for sensor placement for target location with cost minimization and coverage to non-uniform plane. Sensor placement for target location implies that they are given different type of sensors with different cost and range for given points on plane, which are to be covered with minimum cost. Then the authors discuss how information can be passed from one node to another.
Effect of Nodes Mobility on Density-Based Probabilistic Routing Algorithm in Ad-hoc Networks
Authors: Ong Hean-Loong , Natsheh Essam
Published: March 2013

Density-based probabilistic routing algorithm (AODV–Probabilistic) has been introduced for mobile ad hoc networks. Under ideal settings, it has been proven to provide drastic performance improvement over AODV and OLSR routing protocols. In this paper, the authors study the effect of inaccurate location information caused by node mobility under a rich set of scenarios. They identify three different environments: a high density, a variable density and a sparse density. Simulation results show noticeable improvement under the three environments. Under the settings the authors examine, their proposed algorithm achieve up to 22% longer links lifetime than AODV and 45 percent longer links lifetime than OLSR at the three environments, on average, without incurring any additional routing overheads or intense computation.
CSR for Retailers’ Led Channel Relationships
Authors: Musso Fabio , Risso Mario
Published: March 2013

This paper analyses the adoption of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies by small and medium manufacturers which are involved in supplying relationships with large retailers. The purpose of the paper is to examine CSR drivers within large retailers’ supply chains. A quantitative empirical research was conducted focusing on the food sector, as a sector in which traceability, supplier’s coordination and control are critical to the supply chain. Data collection was performed through a questionnaire addressed to 89 Italian SME manufacturers to explore the main factors influencing the adoption of CSR and the level of formalization of the related policies. Findings revealed the key role of large retailers for the establishment of a sustainable/ethical supply chain. An attenuation of the hierarchic/conflictual perspective in buyer-seller relationships emerged, with a reduction of margin-compression effects for smaller suppliers as a consequence of power imbalances. A relevant consequence of CSR is a relationship development model in which all the involved subjects can benefit, including smaller partners inside the supply chains.
Fuzzy ISM for Analyzing the Inhibitors of a Telecom Service Supply Chain
Authors: Pramod V. R. , Banwet D. K.
Published: March 2013

ISM is well-proven for analyzing the synergic influences of various attributes to the overall system under study. Its unique feature is the competency to analyze the attributes based on their driving power and dependence. In the current research, the ISM has been developed for a leading Indian telecom service provider. The inhibitors in the service supply chain have been identified. Initial reachability matrix and final reachability matrix have been made. In this paper, in addition to the traditional methodology, an attempt to quantify the fuzzy interrelationships has been made. This gave a better representation of the situation than the traditional endeavours, which were based on binary elements. The hierarchy of various inhibitors has been established based on the outcomes of the final reachability matrix. The digraph has been constructed. In order to have a better analysis, the relationships were quantified and plotted. Finally MICMAC analysis has been carried out. The inhibitors have been categorized into four clusters. The paper is concluded with managerial implications and scope for future work.
Developing Service Operations Strategy for Optimal Delivery of Long-Term Service Agreements Using an Integrated Risk Framework
Authors: Gupta Aparna , Lawsirirat Chaipat
Published: March 2013

Long-term service agreements (LTSAs) for the maintenance of capital-intensive products are gaining popularity. Without a thorough understanding of risk exposures and their impact on the service delivery, the providers can be exposed to the possibility of extensive losses and financial ruin, as well as endanger the products’ end-consumers. This article develops a rigorous risk assessment and management framework for developing an optimal service operations strategy for the delivery of LTSAs. The framework includes several important sources of risks, such as, engineering reliability, maintenance, service infrastructure, contract definitions, and the financial structure of the service. The goal of LTSA management is to fulfill the service requirements imposed by the contract while minimizing costs and risk exposures during service delivery. The framework utilizes simulation-based optimization to obtain the optimal service strategy and insights for risk management, which can be used to develop a detailed service delivery plan. The single LTSA based framework will also benefit the management of a portfolio of LTSAs.
ERP Project Success Perception by the Adopters
Authors: Lech Przemyslaw
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this paper is to determine how the context of the deviations from the planned budget and/or schedule affect the success perception of the project in the eyes of the project management and top management of an adopting organization on a basis of three Enterprise System implementation projects, none of which has met the time-budget criterion. The projects are evaluated against the lists of project failure factors commonly cited in the literature. The results of the study show that deviation from the initially planned schedule and/or budget does not affect the success perception, providing that the project was properly managed and its business outcome is achieved.
Theoretical Count of Function Points for Non-Measurable Items
Authors: Serpa Nilo
Published: March 2013

This paper studies and proposes an extended technique of function point counting for items classified as non-measurable. The main objective is to expand the conventional technique of counting to ensure that it comprises consistently the tasks involved in building portals and sites in general. In addition, it also applies to measure the cost of continued activities related to these web applications. The extended technique is potentially useful to measure several products associated with information systems, including periodicals publishable in intranets.
Supplier Selection using NSGA-II Technique
Authors: Rankovic Vladimir , Arsovski Zora , Arsovski Slavko , Kalinic Zoran , Milanovic Igor , Rejman-Petrovic Dragana
Published: March 2013

In modern manufacturing industries, supplier selection is increasingly recognized as a critical decision in supply chain management. Supplier selection problem is a typical multiple criteria decision making problem involving a number of different and usually conflicting objectives. Because of that, modern supplier selection techniques imply solving of multi-objective optimization problems. In this paper supplier selection using evolutionary algorithm (NSGA-II method) is presented. Recent investigations show that quality and costs are among the most important selection factors. In this paper the authors used variance of quality and total costs as criteria for selection optimization. Results show that described methodology can be applicable for the practical purposes.
Meditasie: Bybelgefundeerd of ’n vermenging van gelowe? ’n Pastorale ondersoek
Authors: Du Plessis Amanda L.
Published: March 2013

Meditation: Bible based or a mix of religion? A Pastoral investigation. The influence of other religions on the Christian community was a perceptible trend that cannot be ignored in the realm of spirituality. Meditation was one such example and consequently requires thoughtful investigation. Some Christians found meditation a valuable spiritual discipline that aids their spiritual growth but, in my opinion, also opened up the door for them to become victims of a subtle spiritual deception. The question posed was: how can Christians distinguish between the many and often-conflicting views on meditation found in easily accessible literature? A need therefore exists to define meditation as a possible Christian spiritual expression by distinguishing its uniqueness from the influences of other non-Christian religions and popular opinion.
Construction and immunogenicity of a ∆apxIC/ompP2 mutant of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and Haemophilus parasuis
Authors: Liu Qiong , Gong Yuheng , Cao Yuqin , Wen Xintian , Huang Xiaobo , Yan Qigui , Huang Yong , Cao Sanjie
Published: March 2013

The apxIC genes of the Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae serovar 5 (SC-1), encoding the ApxIactivating proteins, was deleted by a method involving sucrose counter-selection. In this study, a mutant strain of A. pleuropneumoniae (SC-1) was constructed and named DapxIC/ ompP2. The mutant strain contained foreign DNA in the deletion site of ompP2 gene of Haemophilus parasuis. It showed no haemolytic activity and lower virulence of cytotoxicity in mice compared with the parent strain, and its safety and immunogenicity were also evaluated in mice. The LD50 data shown that the mutant strain was attenuated 30-fold, compared with the parent strain (LD50 of the mutant strain and parent strain in mice were determined to be 1.0 × 107 CFU and 3.5 × 105 CFU respectively). The mutant strain that was attenuated could secrete inactivated ApxIA RTX toxins with complete antigenicity and could be used as a candidate live vaccine strain against infections of A. pleuropneumoniae and H. parasuis.
Regional hydrothermal alteration and 18O-depletion of the ca. 620 Ma Huntington Mountain pluton and related rocks, Cape Breton Island, Canada
Authors: Petts Duane C. , Longstaffe Frederick J. , Potter Joanna , Barr Sandra M. , White Chris E.
Published: March 2013

The ca. 620 Ma Huntington Mountain pluton and East Bay Hills Group, which comprise part of the Avalonian Mira terrane, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada, are characterized by pervasive propylitic alteration (chlorite, epidote, sericite, and Fe-Ti oxides) and low δ18O values (–3.8 to +6.2‰). This alteration is a product of interaction with hydrothermal fluids of meteoric and/or meteoric-seawater mixed origin at ~300 °C over a range of water/rock (w/r) ratios. Locally, the propylitic alteration was further overprinted by quartz-calcite-sericite alteration. Such samples have generally higher δ18OWR values (up to +9.5‰), reflecting interaction with evolved meteoric water at lower temperatures (~200 °C) and very low w/r ratios. The hydrothermal fluids responsible for widespread propylitic alteration of the Huntington Mountain-East Bay Hills complex (and regions beyond) likely entered the crust during initial rifting of the Mira terrane from Gondwana at ca. 575–550 Ma.RÉSUMÉLe pluton du mont Huntington, apparu il y a quelque 620 Ma et la succession volcanique des collines East Bay, qui font partie du terrane Mira d’Avalon, sur l’île du Cap-Breton, en Nouvelle-Écosse, au Canada, se caractérisent par une altération propylitique envahissante (chlorite, épidote, séricite, et oxydes de fer et de titane), et des teneurs faibles en δ18O (−3,8 à +6,2‰). Cette altération est le résultat de l’interaction de fluides hydrothermaux d’origine mixte météorique ou météorique et d’eau de mer, ou des deux, à une température d’environ 300 °C, selon divers rapports eau/roche. Au plan local, une altération de quartz-calcite-séricite s’est superposée à l’altération propylitique. Ces échantillons ont en règle générale des valeurs de δ18OWR supérieures (qui peuvent atteindre +9,5‰), ce qui rend compte de l’interaction de l’eau météorique évoluée à de basses températures (environ 200 °C) et de rapports eau/roche très faibles. Les fluides hydrothermaux à l’origine de l’altération propylitique très étendue du complexe du mont Huntington et des collines East Bay (et des régions au-delà) ont probablement pénétré la croûte terrestre au cours du soulèvement initial du terrane Mira, à l’époque du continent de Gondwana, il y a de cela entre 575 et 550 Ma.[Traduit par la redaction]
Chemical characterization and stable carbon isotopic composition of particulate Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons issued from combustion of 10 Mediterranean woods
Authors: Guillon A. , Le Ménach K. , Flaud P.-M. , Marchand N. , Budzinski H. , Villenave E.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. The objectives of this study were to characterize polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from particulate matter emitted during wood combustion and to determine, for the first time, the isotopic signature of PAHs from nine wood species and Moroccan coal from the Mediterranean Basin. In order to differentiate sources of particulate-PAHs, molecular and isotopic measurements of PAHs were performed on the set of wood samples for a large panel of compounds. Molecular profiles and diagnostic ratios were measured by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and molecular isotopic compositions (δ13C) of particulate-PAHs were determined by gas chromatography/combustion/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS). Wood species present similar molecular profiles with benz(a)anthracene and chrysene as dominant PAHs, whereas levels of concentrations range from 1.8 to 11.4 mg g−1 OC (sum of PAHs). Diagnostic ratios are consistent with reference ratios from literature but are not sufficient to differentiate the species of woods. Concerning isotopic methodology, PAH molecular isotopic compositions are specific for each species and contrary to molecular fingerprints, significant variations of δ13C are observed for the panel of PAHs. This work allows differentiating wood combustion (with δ13CPAH = −28.7 to −26.6‰) from others origins of particulate matter (like vehicular exhaust) using isotopic measurements but also confirms the necessity to investigate source characterisation at the emission in order to help and complete source assessment models. These first results on woodburnings will be useful for the isotopic approach to source tracking.
Contribution from the ten major emission sectors in Europe and Denmark to the health-cost externalities of air pollution using the EVA model system – an integrated modelling approach
Authors: Brandt J. , Silver J. D. , Christensen J. H. , Andersen M. S. , Bønløkke J. H. , Sigsgaard T. , Geels C. , Gross A. , Hansen A. B. , Hansen K. M. , Hedegaard G. B. , Kaas E. , Frohn L. M.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. We have developed an integrated model system, EVA (Economic Valuation of Air pollution), based on the impact-pathway chain, to assess the health-related economic externalities of air pollution resulting from specific emission sources or sectors, which can be used to support policy-making with respect to emission control. Central for the system is a newly developed tagging method capable of calculating the contribution from a specific emission source or sector to the overall air pollution levels, taking into account the non-linear atmospheric chemistry. The main objective of this work is to identify the anthropogenic emission sources in Europe and Denmark that contribute the most to human health impacts using this tagging method. In this study, we applied the EVA system to Europe and Denmark, with a detailed analysis of health-related external costs from the ten major emission sectors and their relative contributions. The paper contains a thorough description of the EVA system, the main results from the assessment of the main contributors and a discussion of the most important atmospheric chemical reactions relevant for interpreting the results. The main conclusion from the analysis of the ten major emission sectors in Europe and Denmark is that the major contributors to health-related external costs are major power production, agriculture, road traffic, and non-industrial domestic combustion, including wood combustion. We conclude that when regulating the emissions of ammonia from the agricultural sector, both the impacts on nature and on human health should be taken into account. This study confirms that air pollution constitutes a serious problem to human health and that the related external costs are considerable. The results in this work emphasize the importance of defining the right questions in the decision making process, since most of the atmospheric chemical compounds are linked via non-linear chemical reactions, which are important to take into account. The results from assessing the impacts from each emission sector depend clearly on the assumption that the other emission sectors are not changed, especially emissions changing concentrations of atmospheric OH and therefore live times of other chemical species.
Identification of glacial melt water runoff in a karstic environment and its implication for present and future water availability
Authors: Finger D. , Hugentobler A. , Huss M. , Voinesco A. , Wernli H. , Fischer D. , Weber E. , Jeannin P.-Y. , Kauzlaric M. , Wirz A. , Vennemann T. , Hüsler F. , Schädler B. , Weingartner R.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Glaciers all over the world are expected to continue to retreat due to the global warming throughout the 21st century. Consequently, future seasonal water availability might become scarce once glacier areas have declined below a certain threshold affecting future water management strategies. Particular attention should be paid to glaciers located in a karstic environment, as parts of the melt water can be drained by souterrain karst systems. In this study tracer experiments, karst modeling and glacier melt modeling are combined in order to identify flow paths in a high alpine, glacierized, karstic environment (Glacier de la Plaine Morte, Switzerland) and to investigate current and predict future downstream water availability. Flow paths through the karst underground were determined with natural and fluorescent tracers. Subsequently, tracer results and geologic information were assembled in a karst model. Finally, glacier melt projections driven with a climate scenario were performed to discuss future water availability in the area surrounding the glacier. The results suggest that during late summer glacier melt water is rapidly drained through well-developed channels at the glacier bottom to the north of the glacier, while during low flow season melt water enters into the karst and is drained to the south. Climate change projections reveal that by the end of the century glacier melt will be significantly reduced in the summer, jeopardizing water availability in glacier-fed karst springs.
Productivity Analysis in Power Generation Plants Connected to the National Grid: A New Case of Bio Economy in Nicaragua
Authors: Blanco-Orozco N. V. , Zúniga-González C. A.
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this paper was to study the productivity where renewable energy resources and non-renewable resources for generating electricity in power plants connected to the national grid of Nicaragua were used.  This article analyzed the total factor productivity of Bioeconomy for the generation of electricity from plants using sugarcane bagasse (biomass) as a renewable resource and petroleum. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) and the Malmquist index were used to measure the total factor productivity of power generation utilities connected to the national grid of Nicaragua. The results obtained by comparing sugar mills connected to the SIN was that Monte Rosa mill has a higher rate of increase in productivity due to the change of total factor productivity and when comparing thermal plants that employ petroleum products in power generation, the more efficient were ALBANISA, GECSA and TIPITAPA POWER; but when comparing thermal plants and some using renewable energy San Antonio sugar mill and ALBANISA were more efficient.
Acute Postoperative Staphylococcus Schleiferi Endophthalmitis following Uncomplicated Cataract Surgery: First Report in the Literature
Authors: Tzamalis Argyrios , Chalvatzis Nikolaos , Anastasopoulos Eleftherios , Tzetzi Despina , Dimitrakos Stavros
Published: March 2013

Purpose

We report a rare case of acute postoperative Staphylococcus schleiferi endophthalmitis following an uneventful cataract extraction.

Methods

An 83-year-old woman underwent uneventful phacoemulsification without receiving the usual intracameral cefuroxime solution due to cephalosporin intolerance. Two days postoperatively, she presented with acute ocular pain and blurred vision in the operated eye. Ophthalmic examination revealed signs of acute keratitis and endophthalmitis. Corneal scrapes and vitreous taps were sent for cultivation and analysis. The patient received intravitreal antibiotics at the same time.

Results

Cultivation grew S schleiferi, a pathogen commonly found in dogs. Following microbiological report, the patient received a repeated intravitreal injection of 1 mg/0.1 mL vancomycin combined with fortified topical vancomycin drops. One week later, the inflammation subsided completely while the corneal ulcer healed and visual acuity improved dramatically. Further examination revealed the existence of the same pathogen in a specimen obtained from the dog owned by the patient's family.

Conclusions

This description of S schleiferi endophthalmitis highlights the need to provide alternative intracameral antibiotic solution in the operating room and avoid direct contact with dogs during the first postoperative period after intraocular surgery.
Treatment of Macular Edema Associated with Retinal vein Occlusion Using Sustained-release Dexamethasone Implants in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Merkoudis Nikolaos , Granstam Elisabet
Published: March 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical effect, safety, and administration procedure of slow-release dexamethasone implants (Ozurdex®) for macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion in clinical praxis.

Methods

Data from 11 patients (4 eyes with central vein occlusion and 7 eyes with branch vein occlusion) were reviewed. Data were compiled and analyzed with respect to best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), intraocular pressure (IOP), and adverse events. Follow-up was 10 months. Changes in BCVA ≥ logMAR 0.2, IOP ≥5 mm Hg, and CMT ≥100 μm were considered clinically relevant.

Results

Two months after the first dexamethasone implant, BCVA improved from logMAR 0.65 ± 0.2 to logMAR 0.34 ± 0.1. All patients demonstrated a decrease in CMT from an initial average value of 632 ± 178 μm to 229 ± 34 μm. However, in 10 out of 11 eyes, macular edema recurred by month 4 through 5 and a second dexamethasone implant was administered. Two and 4 months after the second implant, BCVA was logMAR 0.36 ± 0.2 and logMAR 0.40 ± 0.2 and the CMT was 254 ± 61 μm and 357 ± 81 μm, respectively. The IOP increased 5.1 ± 1.5 mm Hg 1 month after the first implant compared to baseline. In eyes with an IOP above 25 mm Hg (4 out of 11), pressure-lowering eyedrops were administered.

Conclusions

Administration of dexamethasone implants induced a clinically relevant increase in visual acuity and a decrease in central macular thickness. In 91% of patients, macular edema recurred within 5 months and a second implant was administered. Adverse events, primarily increased IOP, were manageable. The injection procedure was relatively simple and uncomplicated.
Ectopia Lentis Associated with Primary Congenital Glaucoma
Authors: Azar Georges , Dureau Pascal , Barjol Amandine , Edelson Catherine , Bergès Olivier , Caputo Georges
Published: March 2013

Purpose

To describe 3 cases of ectopia lentis (EL) associated with primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) and differentiate between primary and secondary EL regarding pathogenesis.

Methods

We reviewed the clinical charts of 3 children previously diagnosed with congenital glaucoma who developed secondary EL. The following points were noted: medical and surgical history, refraction, keratometry, corneal diameter, axial length (AL), intraocular pressure, and cup/disc ratio.

Results

The 3 patients were respectively aged 12, 3, and 4 months. A trabeculectomy was performed in both eyes at 1-week interval in all cases. The EL was noted during follow-up controls. Lensectomy/vitrectomy was performed in 2 patients, in case of high astigmatism (>5.00 D) and/or the lens border visible in the pupillary area. Postoperative refraction was hyperopic.

Conclusions

Ectopia lentis secondary to PCG should be differentiated from primary EL regarding pathogenesis. Anterior segment distension appears to be the principal mechanism in these cases. Postoperative hyperopia is observed despite the increased AL secondary to PCG. These biometric results are due to global distension of the globe, which also flattens the cornea with consequently lower refractive effect.
Circular and temporary migration regimes and their implications for family
Authors: Wickramasekara Piyasiri
Published: March 2013

The focus on migrant workers in discussions of international migration has tended todetract attention from the role of migrant families. There is consensus that family unificationis important for migrants because it helps to promote their effective integration in hostcountries. Further, family fragmentation has adverse impacts on all family members, and there isconsiderable research to show that the social cost of migration on families left behind, especiallychildren, can be high. Different migration regimes and policies have different implications for theunity and integrity of migrant families. This paper considers the implications of circular migrationregimes (which have become increasingly popular in the discourse on international migrationand development) for migrant families.
Child migrants in the labour market: Not a good deal for them or their families
Authors: Glind Hans van de
Published: March 2013

Around the world, millions of children are migrating, both within and between countries—a
significant number with their families, others alone. They are part of large-scale population
movements currently taking place in many parts of the world. These broader population
movements include an estimated 214 million international migrants (Zukang, 2009) and 740
million internal migrants (UNDP, 2009).

In the coming years an unprecedented number of young people are expected to migrate and
shift population dynamics further. They’ll be driven by demographic factors, perceived economic
disparity, youth unemployment [ILO estimated youth unemployment of over 80 million in 2010
(ILO, 2010a)], violent conflict and state failure, natural disasters, and environmental issues.