bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bosch and the Jews
Authors: Hartau Johannes
Published: October 2016

El Nuevo tríptico de Hieronymus Bosch pide una revisión en su interpretación: representa escenas de sensualidad y de cupido, es decir, de esferas con las cuales los judíos estaban especialmente vinculados, en su mayoría de una forma despreciativa. El caminante (Rotterdam), en el recuadro externo, transmite una imagen de trueque que se consideraba típica del judío errante, así como la imagen del peregrino de la vida, de pie entre vita mundi y el castigo eterno. La imagen correspondiente del Nuevo tríptico, el Carro de heno en Madrid, presenta a un buhonero que aparece en un mundo que existe sólo en el placer del dinero, y que no se da cuenta de que esto lo conducirá al infierno. El heno simboliza el interés ascendente que entre los judíos ha tenido el privilegio (y, como ha resultado, el destino) de recolectar. El ensayo discute la pregunta de si las Bodas de Cana (Rotterdam) pudiera ser de hecho la mitad faltante del cuadro Nuevo tríptico. Aquí de nuevo las ideas judías y cristianas están fusionadas. En el pueblo natal de Bosch, 's-Hertogenbosch, el burgués y el rey visitante platican con la gente judía, a la que se espera convertir al cristianismo. En ambos trípticos (el nuevo y el de Madrid), Bosch parece expresar la idea de abundancia. En los dos hay buhoneros que tienen que elegir entre el mundo del pecado y el de la virtud. Parecería que algunos de los símbolos en la obra de Bosch se refieren al miedo cristiano, a la aberración herética y a la seducción de los placeres mundanos, para lo cual el mundo judío sirve como ejemplo de advertencia.
Javier de la Garza and Alejandro Arango: Reevaluating Signs of Identity
Authors: Eckmann Teresa
Published: October 2016

Examinando la obra de arte, las fuentes de inspiración y la filosofía artística de Alejandro Arango y Javier de la Garza, la autora, en este artículo, demuestra que la subversión es el aspecto clave del así denominado neo-mexicanismo, de moda en los años ochenta. La autora se enfoca en una serie de pinturas contenidas en La conquista de Arango e Inocencia perdida de De la Garza, exhibiciones presentadas en la ciudad de México en la Galería omr a mediados de los años ochenta. Lo que motiva a cada artista al tratamiento particular de un tema común —la conquista— es revelado. La autora plantea cómo las obras de Arango y De la Garza sintetizan construcciones de identidad nacional, y propone que el arte neo-mexicanista no exalta ciegamente, y en cambio en ciertos momentos parodia de manera evidente un nacionalismo oficial que glorifica el pasado indígena al tiempo que ignora la gran presencia indígena privada de derechos civiles.
Chavez Morado destructor de mitos. Silencios y aniquilaciones de la ciudad(1949)
Authors: Pérez Gavilán Ana Isabel
Published: October 2016

El arte del siglo xx fue terreno fértil para representaciones míticas de la capital mexicana, llegando incluso a manifestar una presunta destrucción apocalíptica. En este contexto se ubica La ciudad, del pintor José Chávez Morado (1909-2002), óleo que sintetiza una elaborada crítica acerca de la desintegración de los poderes económico, político y religioso yuxtapuestos a los mitos del origen de la ciudad de México. Este artículo explora los actos que desvanecieron tal obra en la historia del arte mexicano, a partir del concurso “La ciudad de México interpretada por sus pintores” a que convocó en 1949 el periódico capitalino Excélsior. La pintura de una mujer desnuda con tres pares de pechos que representaba a la ciudad de México fue soslayada; esto facilitó su ausencia en monografías del artista. Más tarde, La ciudad fue reproducida con este pie de foto: “destruido por su autor”. Sin embargo, La ciudad nunca fue destruida. La pintura resistió el olvido inicial y sobrevivió a su destrucción retórica posterior.
La gran edición del Quijote de Ibarra (1780). Las estampas grabadas por Jerónimo Antonio Gil, Joaquín Fabregat, Rafael Ximeno y Fernando Selma
Authors: Báez Macías Eduardo
Published: October 2016

La Biblioteca Nacional de México, actualmente en custodia en el Instituto de Investigaciones Bibliográficas de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, conserva en su Fondo reservado una valiosa colección de ejemplares de El ingenioso Hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha , entre los cuales reviste especial interés el que editó en 1780, en Madrid, la Imprenta Real de Joaquín Ibarra, acaso la edición más esmeradamente trabajada de la inmortal novela, de cuantas han visto luz, a lo largo del los ya cuatro siglos de su andar por el mundo de la literatura. El interés específico de esta edición, para nosotros, se debe a que, entre los grabadores que intervinieron para ilustrarla, se encuentran Jerónimo Antonio Gil, Rafael Ximeno, Joaquín Fabregat y Fernando Selma, artistas que después vinieron a México y fueron los cimientos de la Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Carlos, hoy Escuela Nacional de Artes Plásticas. La reproducción y estudio de las láminas realizadas por estos artistas son el objetivo de este artículo.
Una estampa apocalíptica de los tiempos de la guerra cristera: El triunfo de Cristo Rey de Gonzalo Carrasco Espinosa SJ
Authors: Hanhausen Cole Margarita
Published: October 2016

Una pintura inédita de Gonzalo Carrasco, realizada en los últimos años de su vida, ofrece interesante material de reflexión sobre la iconografía de este pintor relacionada con el tema de la guerra cristera. En este boceto incorporó, a manera de citas, tanto imágenes representadas en otras obras suyas, como obras reconocidas y elementos del fotoperiodismo contemporáneo, poniendo todo ello al servicio de una “meditación al modo ignaciano”, a manera de homilía pintada. Su forma de componer sus pinturas, refractaria a la incorporación de elementos plásticos de vanguardia, se vio fuertemente influenciada, en las últimas décadas de su vida, por elementos compositivos propios de la prensa ilustrada de su época, así como por una paleta más colorida y libre que la utilizada en sus tiempos de estudiante.
Images of Order. Descriptions of Domestic Architecture in Mission Era California
Authors: Ettinger Catherine R.
Published: October 2016

La colonización y cristianización de la población nativa de la Alta California implicó la imposición de un nuevo orden sobre el territorio que incluyó la modificación de patrones existentes de asentamiento y de formas arquitectónicas. Este artículo observa este proceso a través de las descripciones escritas de asentamientos y vivienda indígenas, antes y durante el periodo misional: la arquitectura tradicional de tule y a los cuartos de adobe proporcionados por la misión. La comparación de las descripciones de los asentamientos nativos dadas por diferentes actores sociales (exploradores, frailes, comandantes y visitantes a la región) reflejan distintas maneras de percibir los asentamientos indígenas, la necesidad de vivienda “europea” y las condiciones de vida que éstas proporcionaban.
Hasta los verdes maizales de México: Rodolfo Halffter y Don Lindo de Almería
Authors: Carredano Consuelo
Published: October 2016

En las primeras décadas del siglo XX se registró en Europa un sorprendente florecimiento del ballet. La propuesta estética de Diaghilev y las reiteradas visitas a España de la compañía de los Ballets Russes, en tiempos de la primera guerra mundial y en posteriores desplazamientos, despertaron especial interés en músicos, artistas y escritores. El ejemplo de Stravinski y la ruta trazada por Manuel de Falla determinaron, entre otros factores, un notorio cambio de orientación en las producciones escénicas españolas. En este contexto surge el ballet Don Lindo de Almería, de José Bergamín y Rodolfo Halffter, autores, respectivamente, del libreto y la música. Este artículo explora las circunstancias que rodearon la génesis y recepción de dicho trabajo en su versión sinfónica y en su modalidad de ballet, y examina algunos recursos de composición empleados por Halffter en esta obra que, por otro lado, supuso la presentación oficial en México de dos notables exiliados llegados a nuestro país tras la derrota de la segunda República española.
Lo caballeresco en la iconografía cristiana medieval
Authors: Vallejo Naranjo Carmen
Published: October 2016

En este artículo, la autora se adentra en los préstamos ideológico-culturales realizados entre la Iglesia y la caballería en la Edad Media, en el marco de la aparición y asimilación de la iconografía e iconología caballerescas que integran el repertorio iconográfico cristiano medieval. Ello revela la importancia y la influencia de que gozó esta ideología laica como depositaria de los valores humanos y cristianos de su tiempo. El caballero y la caballería se convirtieron en todo un ideal estético y moral contenido en el concepto de lo épico, que dará como resultado uno de los temas artísticos más afortunados de la cultura europea.
El obrador de la familia Cuentas en Guadalajara
Authors: Flores Barba María Laura
Published: October 2016

Diego de Cuentas es uno de los pintores más reconocidos de la Guadalajara del siglo xviii. Este artículo aporta noticias sobre él y su familia a partir de un documento encontrado en el Archivo de la Real Audiencia de esa capital, donde se informa del litigio que el nieto del pintor sostuvo contra su tío a causa de la venta de una casa, y donde se descubre la dinámica de trabajo de los pintores coloniales y, en especial, de su familia.
Las misiones católicas en Japón (1549-1639): análisis de las fuentes y tendencias historiográficas
Authors: Arimura Rie
Published: October 2016

Este trabajo presenta las fuentes occidentales y japonesas sobre las misiones católicas de Japón (1549-1639), así como el estado de las investigaciones de la historia y el arte llamado kirishitan o namban que se dio en aquella tierra a consecuencia de la política expansionista de la Iglesia católica y de las monarquías ibéricas. Hasta ahora, en el ámbito académico mexicano se ha dado a conocer muy poco acerca de la evangelización de Japón, debido a la inaccesibilidad de fuentes y bibliografía japonesas. Pese a que en dicha época se dio una gran conexión entre Japón y la Nueva España, la barrera lingüística y la falta de acervo bibliográfico-documental sobre las misiones de Japón en México han impedido ahondar en el tema y actualizar el conocimiento. Este ensayo pretende cubrir esta laguna de investigación.
Tolomeo y Copérnico en el Nuevo Mundo. Juan O’Gorman y el muro sur de la Biblioteca Central de Ciudad Universitaria
Authors: Eder Rita
Published: October 2016

El tema del debate astronómico entre las teorías de Tolomeo y Copérnico y su resignificación en la pintura  mexicana  moderna es el tema  general de este ensayo. Entre  los pintores que se ocuparon a mediados del siglo XX  de representar la oposición entre geo y heliocentrismo se encuentran Antonio Ruiz y Juan O’Gorman: mientras el pequeño mural con este tema, realizado por el primero, obedeció a una encomienda particular y se resolvió por medio de las convenciones que rigieron los mapas cosmográficos europeos de los siglos XVII y XVIII; el de O’Gorman,  que domina el muro sur de la Biblioteca  Central de Ciudad Universitaria, está inserto en un programa icnográfico complejo dedicado al encuentro o  choque de culturas y valores que caracterizaron el periodo de la colonia. Parte importante de la argumentación de este trabajo se refiere a la intención del arquitecto y pintor de hacer una decoración mexicanista que pusiera en tensión los antiguos libros prehispánicos o códices con las funciones prácticas e intelectuales de una biblioteca moderna.
Pago en Especie: a 55 años de un convenio patrimonializador
Authors: Garduño Ana
Published: October 2016

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El aura de la obra de arte y la desaparición del original
Authors: Grossmann G. Ulrich
Published: October 2016

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Isidro Fabela, una mirada en torno a la Revolución mexicana, de Alberto del Castillo Troncoso
Authors: Dorotinsky Deborah
Published: October 2016

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Barbie en Palenque, o la manufactura de lo intangible
Authors: Carreón Blaine Emilie
Published: October 2016

Un tema importante en los estudios del arte prehispánico es la interconexión entre las diferentes dimensiones de la realidad mexicana, es decir, del México precolombino y del moderno, debido a que revela muchas nociones y conceptos acerca de su pasado prehis-pánico —particularmente en lo que respecta a los mexicas, también conocidos como aztecas en el mundo anglosajón—, y que hoy se tienen como ciertos en la academia americanista. Una vez que el mundo precolombino fue dominado antiguas imágenes codicadas, que poseían un sentido y signicado determinado, fueron traducidas al pensamiento y a la escritura europea para ser adaptadas e incrus-tadas en nociones europeas, hasta ocultanalmente destruir su signicado original. En diferentes grados, con diferentes consecuen-cias, fragmentos de un pasado precolombino han sido reensamblados en una mezcolanza, como se puede ejemplicar en el estudio de la muñeca Barbie como una “princesa azteca” tal y como fue concebida por uno de los principales fabricantes de juguetes estadounidense. Cada elemento y sus ramicaciones —contexto, embalaje, vestido, joyas, postura, entre otros temas— pueden ser diseccionados y analizada la reconguración de elementos en un nuevo contexto para exponer cómo unagura históricacticia se convirtió en una muñeca temática y la manera en la que una serie de antiguos prototipos mexicanos, recopilados de diversas culturas precolombinas (azteca, maya, mixteca), han sido desplazados y reestructurados con la aparición de Barbie como una interpretación incongruente de una princesa azteca que vive en Palenque en el mercado de juguetes contemporáneo, conformando así la imaginación y el conocimiento de niñas y coleccionistas de muñecas de todo el mundo.
Los grabados de Federico Cantú y los dibujos de Juan Nepomuceno Herrera
Authors: Sifuentes Rodríguez María del Carmen
Published: October 2016

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La ruina, el diseño y los materiales en De Re edificatoria de Leon Battista Alberti
Authors: Sverlij Mariana
Published: October 2016

En los diez libros que conforman De re aedificatoria, el tratado de arquitectura de Leon Battista Alberti, la ruina expresa un modelo y una moraleja: es el último reducto donde anidan los rastros de una sabiduría perdida, y la firme consecuencia de un tiempo que todo lo devora, en sintonía con la violencia de la historia. A partir de esta doble enseñanza, Alberti busca instalar en su tratado ciertos principios de estabilidad. Buscando comprender estos principios, en el presente artículo nos proponemos analizar los conceptos de lineamenta (diseño) y materia (materiales) que el humanista nacido en Génova desarrolla en los dos primeros libros de su tratado, y ubicarlos en el marco de una historia construida, destruida, y vuelta a construir.
Los versos instrumentales de Ignacio Jerusalem y Stella: vestigios de un discurso sonoro en la Catedral de México
Authors: Rincón Jazmín
Published: October 2016

En el Archivo de Música de la Catedral de México existe un corpus de composiciones de corta duración, llamadas versos instrumentales y orquestales, que abarcan un periodo que va desde 1750, cuando Ignacio Jerusalem y Stella las introduce al recinto, hasta aproximadamente 1890. En el presente artículo, la autora, mediante un análisis histórico-contextual y discursivo, expone cómo dichas tipologías se alternaban con versos de salmos y versos improvisados para órgano, de acuerdo a una estructura ritual, donde el discurso religioso fue el eje principal de su movilidad. Dicho enfoque no sólo resulta crucial para la comprensión de los versos instrumentales en la Nueva España, sino que, además, nos hace retomar la polémica respecto al aparente anacronismo en el que se encuentra la música colonial perteneciente a los archivos catedralicios frente a la periodización académica de la llamada “historia de la música occidental”.
La mano del monarca grande de las Españas. La muerte de los soldados y el poder del virrey Galve en la Nueva España, 1694.
Authors: Cuesta García de Leonardo María José
Published: October 2016

En 1694 el virrey Galve se enfrenta a una situación compleja por la falta de apoyo y el desprestigio, producto de su mal gobierno. Al ofrecer unas honras fúnebres a los soldados fallecidos en las contiendas anteriores, le brinda la oportunidad de afianzarse entre los soldados, el pueblo y la oligarquía virreinal, e incluso reconciliarse con el propio rey en la metrópoli. Ello se logra por medio de una iconografía muy estudiada, desplegada en los jeroglíficos que ilustran el túmulo —levantado para dichos soldados—, inventada y descrita —en el folleto que llegará a la corte— por el jesuita Francisco Méndez. Un túmulo tan decorado será una excepción en este tipo de honras para soldados, en el siglo XVII, y las razones resultan meramente áulicas hacia el poder virreinal.
La colección artística de los palacios episcopales de Andalucía oriental. Análisis y desarrollo
Authors: Luque Rodrigo Laura
Published: October 2016

Si el estudio de los palacios episcopales en cuanto a su arquitectura, significación urbanística y transcendencia histórica ha sido escaso, aún menos se han investigado sus colecciones, en parte por la complejidad de acceso a las fuentes y la inexistencia en ocasiones de las mismas. Sin embargo, proporcionan un conocimiento que completa el campo de estudio de las artes plásticas, especialmente durante el barroco que es cuando se forman las grandes colecciones; pero también hablan de patrocinio episcopal, de gusto estético y sobre todo perfilan otra de las vías empleadas por los poderes para mostrar su magnificencia. En este estudio se analizan la colección artística de los palacios episcopales de Andalucía oriental atendiendo a todo tipo de fuentes, lo que permite hablar de iconografía, técnicas, artistas, la decoración del palacio y el mecenazgo de los prelados.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Mobilization Is Necessary but Not Sufficient for Tolerance in Islet Transplantation
Authors: Stocks Blair T. , Thomas Analise B. , Elizer Sydney K. , Zhu Yuantee , Marshall Andrew F. , Wilson Christopher S. , Moore Daniel J.
Published: October 2016

Overcoming the immune response to establish durable immune tolerance in type 1 diabetes remains a substantial challenge. The ongoing effector immune response involves numerous immune cell types but is ultimately orchestrated and sustained by the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) niche. We therefore hypothesized that tolerance induction also requires these pluripotent precursors. In this study, we determined that the tolerance-inducing agent anti-CD45RB induces HSC mobilization in nonautoimmune B6 mice but not in diabetes-prone NOD mice. Ablation of HSCs impaired tolerance to allogeneic islet transplants in B6 recipients. Mobilization of HSCs resulted in part from decreasing osteoblast expression of HSC retention factors. Furthermore, HSC mobilization required a functioning sympathetic nervous system; sympathectomy prevented HSC mobilization and completely abrogated tolerance induction. NOD HSCs were held in their niche by excess expression of CXCR4, which, when blocked, led to HSC mobilization and prolonged islet allograft survival. Overall, these findings indicate that the HSC compartment plays an underrecognized role in the establishment and maintenance of immune tolerance, and this role is disrupted in diabetes-prone NOD mice. Understanding the stem cell response to immune therapies in ongoing human clinical studies may help identify and maximize the effect of immune interventions for type 1 diabetes.
Enhanced Muscle Insulin Sensitivity After Contraction/Exercise Is Mediated by AMPK
Authors: Kjøbsted Rasmus , Munk-Hansen Nanna , Birk Jesper B. , Foretz Marc , Viollet Benoit , Björnholm Marie , Zierath Juleen R. , Treebak Jonas T. , Wojtaszewski Jørgen F.P.
Published: October 2016

Earlier studies have demonstrated that muscle insulin sensitivity to stimulate glucose uptake is enhanced several hours after an acute bout of exercise. Using AICAR, we recently demonstrated that prior activation of AMPK is sufficient to increase insulin sensitivity in mouse skeletal muscle. Here we aimed to determine whether activation of AMPK is also a prerequisite for the ability of muscle contraction to increase insulin sensitivity. We found that prior in situ contraction of m. extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and treadmill exercise increased muscle and whole-body insulin sensitivity in wild-type (WT) mice, respectively. These effects were not found in AMPKα1α2 muscle-specific knockout mice. Prior in situ contraction did not increase insulin sensitivity in m. soleus from either genotype. Improvement in muscle insulin sensitivity was not associated with enhanced glycogen synthase activity or proximal insulin signaling. However, in WT EDL muscle, prior in situ contraction enhanced insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of TBC1D4 Thr649 and Ser711. Such findings are also evident in prior exercised and insulin-sensitized human skeletal muscle. Collectively, our data suggest that the AMPK-TBC1D4 signaling axis is likely mediating the improved muscle insulin sensitivity after contraction/exercise and illuminates an important and physiologically relevant role of AMPK in skeletal muscle.
Herd effect from influenza vaccination in non-healthcare settings: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials and observational studies
Authors: Mertz Dominik , Fadel Shaza A. , Lam Po-Po , Tran Dat , Srigley Jocelyn A , Asner Sandra A , Science Michelle , Kuster Stefan P , Nemeth Johannes , Johnstone Jennie , Ortiz Justin R , Loeb Mark
Published: October 2016

Influenza vaccination programmes are assumed to have a herd effect and protect contacts of vaccinated persons from influenza virus infection. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Global Health and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) from inception to March 2014 for studies assessing the protective effect of influenza vaccination vs no vaccination on influenza virus infections in contacts. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effects model. Of 43,082 screened articles, nine randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and four observational studies were eligible. Among the RCTs, no statistically significant herd effect on the occurrence of influenza in contacts could be found (OR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.34–1.12). The one RCT conducted in a community setting, however, showed a significant effect (OR: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.26–0.57), as did the observational studies (OR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.43–0.77). We found only a few studies that quantified the herd effect of vaccination, all studies except one were conducted in children, and the overall evidence was graded as low. The evidence is too limited to conclude in what setting(s) a herd effect may or may not be achieved.
Comparison of Ultrasonic Imaging Techniques for Full-Scale Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Choi Hajin , Bittner James , Popovics John S.
Published: October 2016

Recent developments in ultrasonic testing hardware, such as air-coupled sensors and multielement shear wave dry-point contact arrays, have brought about a new capability to image the interior of reinforced concrete structures. Data acquired from air-coupled transducers are often reconstructed by using tomographic algorithms, especially when a through-thickness configuration is used to collect data. Data acquired from multielement shear wave arrays are normally reconstructed with the synthetic aperture focusing technique (SAFT), under which the data are collected by using a one-sided pitch-catch configuration. Both approaches are helpful in characterizing full-scale reinforced concrete structures, although each produces a different type of image with distinct characteristics. The differences between the two test methods and data inversion schemes are investigated. Ultrasonic data are collected from a full-scale reinforced concrete column specimen by using air-coupled P-wave transducers and a multielement shear wave array unit. The through-thickness P-wave data are interpreted through tomographic inversion and multielement shear wave data through SAFT reconstructions. The sample column contains embedded artificial defects, including Styrofoam and precracked concrete blocks. The results indicate that both ultrasonic methods produce meaningful internal images with different perspectives. The tomographic reconstructions are insensitive to small cracks and the presence of internal steel bars. The SAFT reconstructions are limited by energy penetration into the structure. On the basis of the comparison study, appropriate applications of ultrasonic imaging tests for each method are suggested.
Narrating the Second World War
Authors: Klymenko Lina
Published: October 2016

This article explores the theoretical understanding of the relation between school history textbooks and the state-led construction of national identity. It does this by conceptualizing a history textbook as an assembly of historical narratives that provide young readers with an opportunity to identify with the national community in which they live. By focusing on narrative techniques, including plot, concepts of time and space, and the categorization of characters as in- and out-groups, this article shows how narratives of the Second World War in Belarusian, Russian, and Ukrainian textbooks contribute to nation-building.
Detection and Differentiation between Laurel Wilt Disease, Phytophthora Disease, and Salinity Damage Using a Hyperspectral Sensing Technique
Authors: Abdulridha Jaafar , Ehsani Reza , De Castro Ana
Published: October 2016

Laurel wilt (Lw) is a fatal disease. It is a vascular pathogen and is considered a major threat to the avocado industry in Florida. Many of the symptoms of Lw resemble those that are caused by other diseases or stress factors. In this study, the best wavelengths with which to discriminate plants affected by Lw from stress factors were determined and classified. Visible-near infrared (400–950 nm) spectral data from healthy trees and those with Lw, Phytophthora, or salinity damage were collected using a handheld spectroradiometer. The total number of wavelengths was averaged in two ranges: 10 nm and 40 nm. Three classification methods, stepwise discriminant (STEPDISC) analysis, multilayer perceptron (MLP), and radial basis function (RBF), were applied in the early stage of Lw infestation. The classification results obtained for MLP, with percent accuracy of classification as high as 98% were better than STEPDISC and RBF. The MLP neural network selected certain wavelengths that were crucial for correctly classifying healthy trees from those with stress trees. The results showed that there were sufficient spectral differences between laurel wilt, healthy trees, and trees that have other diseases; therefore, a remote sensing technique could diagnose Lw in the early stage of infestation.
A Mathematical Spline-Based Model of Cardiac Left Ventricle Anatomy and Morphology
Authors: Pravdin Sergei
Published: October 2016

Computer simulation of normal and diseased human heart activity requires a 3D anatomical model of the myocardium, including myofibers. For clinical applications, such a model has to be constructed based on routine methods of cardiac visualization, such as sonography. Symmetrical models are shown to be too rigid, so an analytical non-symmetrical model with enough flexibility is necessary. Based on previously-made anatomical models of the left ventricle, we propose a new, much more flexible spline-based analytical model. The model is fully described and verified against DT-MRI data. We show a way to construct it on the basis of sonography data. To use this model in further physiological simulations, we propose a numerical method to utilize finite differences in solving the reaction-diffusion problem together with an example of scroll wave dynamics simulation.
Condensation Risk Due to Variations in Airtightness and Thermal Insulation of an Office Building in Warm and Wet Climate
Authors: Cho Wanghee , Iwamoto Shizuo , Kato Shinsuke
Published: October 2016

Condensation in a building encourages microbial growth, which can have an adverse effect on the health of occupants. Furthermore, it induces the deterioration of the building. To prevent problems caused by condensation, from the design step of a building, predictions of the spatial, temporal and causation for condensation occurrences are necessary. By using TRNSYS simulation coupled with TRNFLOW, condensation assessment of an entire office building in Tokyo, Japan, was conducted throughout the year, including when the air-conditioning system was not operated, by considering the absorption-desorption properties of the building materials and papers in the office and the airflow within the entire building. It was found that most of the condensation occurred during winter and was observed mainly in the non-air-conditioned core parts, especially the topmost floor. Additional analyses, which identified the effect of variations in the thermal insulation of the external walls, roof and windows and the airtightness of the windows on condensation, showed that the lower airtightness of windows resulted in decreased condensation risks, and condensation within the building was suppressed completely when the thermal insulation material thickness of the external walls was greater than 75 mm, that of the roof was greater than 105 mm and the windows had triple float glass.
An Interoperable Approach for Energy Systems Simulation: Electricity Market Participation Ontologies
Authors: Santos Gabriel , Pinto Tiago , Praça Isabel , Vale Zita
Published: October 2016

Electricity markets are complex environments with very particular characteristics. Some of the main ones for this complexity are the need for an adequate integration of renewable energy sources and the electricity markets’ restructuring process. The growth of simulation tool usage is driven by the need to understand those mechanisms and how the involved players’ interactions affect the markets’ outcomes. Several modelling tools directed to the study of restructured wholesale electricity markets have emerged. Although, they share a common limitation: the lack of interoperability between the various systems to allow the exchange of information and knowledge, to test different market models and to allow players from different systems to interact in common market environments. This paper proposes the use of ontologies for semantic interoperability between multi-agent platforms in the scope of electricity markets simulation. The achieved results allow the identification of the added value gained by using the proposed ontologies. They facilitate the integration of independent multi-agent simulators, by providing a way for communications to be understood by heterogeneous agents from different systems.
Study on the Kinetics and Removal Formula of Methanethiol by Ethanol Absorption
Authors: Jiang Yinghe , Lin Xuejun , Li Wenhan , Liu Xiaoying , Wu Yuqi
Published: October 2016

Biological filtration is widely used for deodorising in wastewater treatment plants. This technique can efficiently remove soluble odour-causing substances, but minimally affects hydrophobic odorants, such as methanethiol (MT) and dimethyl sulfide. Ethanol absorption capacity for MT (as a representative hydrophobic odorant) was studied, and the MT removal rate formula was deduced based on the principle of physical absorption. Results indicated that the MT removal rate reached 80% when the volume ratio of ethanol/water was 1:5. The phase equilibrium constant was 0.024, and the overall mass transfer coefficient was 2.55 kmol/m2·h in the deodorisation tower that functioned as the physical absorption device. Examination results showed that the formula exhibited adaptability under changing working conditions. These findings provide a reference for engineering design and operation of a process for the removal of MT by ethanol absorption.
Preoperative 3D FSE T1-Weighted MR Plaque Imaging for Severely Stenotic Cervical ICA: Accuracy of Predicting Emboli during Carotid Endarterectomy
Authors: Ogasawara Yasushi , Sato Yuiko , Narumi Shinsuke , Sasaki Makoto , Fujiwara Shunrou , Kobayashi Masakazu , Yoshida Kenji , Terayama Yasuo , Ogasawara Kuniaki
Published: October 2016

The aim of the present study was to determine whether preoperative three-dimensional (3D) fast spin-echo (FSE) T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) plaque imaging for severely stenotic cervical carotid arteries could accurately predict the development of artery-to-artery emboli during exposure of the carotid arteries in carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Seventy-five patients underwent preoperative MR plaque imaging and CEA under transcranial Doppler ultrasonography of the ipsilateral middle cerebral artery. On reformatted axial MR image slices showing the maximum plaque occupation rate (POR) and maximum plaque intensity for each patient, the contrast ratio (CR) was calculated by dividing the internal carotid artery plaque signal intensity by the sternocleidomastoid muscle signal intensity. For all patients, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC)—used to discriminate between the presence and absence of microembolic signals—was significantly greater for the CR on the axial image with maximum plaque intensity (CRmax intensity) (0.941) than for that with the maximum POR (0.885) (p < 0.05). For 32 patients in whom both the maximum POR and the maximum plaque density were identified, the AUCs for the CR were 1.000. Preoperative 3D FSE T1-weighted MR plaque imaging accurately predicts the development of artery-to-artery emboli during exposure of the carotid arteries in CEA.
Comparative Proteomic and Physiological Analysis Reveals the Variation Mechanisms of Leaf Coloration and Carbon Fixation in a Xantha Mutant of Ginkgo biloba L.
Authors: Liu Xinliang , Yu Wanwen , Wang Guibin , Cao Fuliang , Cai Jinfeng , Wang Huanli
Published: October 2016

Yellow-green leaf mutants are common in higher plants, and these non-lethal chlorophyll-deficient mutants are ideal materials for research on photosynthesis and plant development. A novel xantha mutant of Ginkgo biloba displaying yellow-colour leaves (YL) and green-colour leaves (GL) was identified in this study. The chlorophyll content of YL was remarkably lower than that in GL. The chloroplast ultrastructure revealed that YL had less dense thylakoid lamellae, a looser structure and fewer starch grains than GL. Analysis of the photosynthetic characteristics revealed that YL had decreased photosynthetic activity with significantly high nonphotochemical quenching. To explain these phenomena, we analysed the proteomic differences in leaves and chloroplasts between YL and GL of ginkgo using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) coupled with MALDI-TOF/TOF MS. In total, 89 differential proteins were successfully identified, 82 of which were assigned functions in nine metabolic pathways and cellular processes. Among them, proteins involved in photosynthesis, carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, carbohydrate/energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and protein metabolism were greatly enriched, indicating a good correlation between differentially accumulated proteins and physiological changes in leaves. The identifications of these differentially accumulated proteins indicates the presence of a specific different metabolic network in YL and suggests that YL possess slower chloroplast development, weaker photosynthesis, and a less abundant energy supply than GL. These studies provide insights into the mechanism of molecular regulation of leaf colour variation in YL mutants.
4,4′-Bis[4-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)phenylazo]diphenyl Ether
Authors: Rahman Rahima , Gul Asghari , Akhter Zareen
Published: October 2016

4,4′-Bis[4-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)phenylazo]diphenyl ether (3) was prepared by diazotization coupling of 4,4′-oxy dianiline (1) and biphenyl-4-ol (2). The synthesized compound (3) was characterized by elemental analysis, UV-Visible, FTIR and 1H-NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopic studies.
Paper Sludge Reuse in Lightweight Aggregates Manufacturing
Authors: Chen How-Ji , Hsueh Ying-Chih , Peng Ching-Fang , Tang Chao-Wei
Published: October 2016

The lightweight aggregates used by the civil engineering market are sintered at a high temperature, about 1200 °C. In times of high energy prices and regulation of carbon dioxide emissions, lightweight aggregate products of the high-temperature process in sales marketing are not readily accepted. This study developed a sintered-type paper sludge lightweight aggregate. In order to reduce energy consumption, substitution of some reservoir sediment clay in paper sludge substitutes is to be expected. The study used two types of paper sludge (green clay paper sludge and paper pulp sludge). The sintering temperature was reduced effectively as the green clay paper sludge was substituted for some of the reservoir sediment clay, and the optimum substitute ranges of green clay paper sludge were 10%–50%. The optimum substitute ranges of the paper pulp sludge were 10%–40%. Test results show that the properties of aggregates have a particle density of 0.66–1.69 g/cm3, a water absorption of 5%–30%, and a loss on ignition of 10%–43%. The loss on ignition of aggregate became greater with the increase in paper sludge content. This means that the calorific value provided by the paper sludge will increase as paper sludge content increases. Paper sludge can therefore be considered a good material to provide heat energy for sintering lightweight aggregate.
First-Principles Investigation of Phase Stability, Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of MgZnO Monolayer
Authors: Tan Changlong , Sun Dan , Tian Xiaohua , Huang Yuewu
Published: October 2016

MgZnO bulk has attracted much attention as candidates for application in optoelectronic devices in the blue and ultraviolet region. However, there has been no reported study regarding two-dimensional MgZnO monolayer in spite of its unique properties due to quantum confinement effect. Here, using density functional theory calculations, we investigated the phase stability, electronic structure and optical properties of MgxZn1−xO monolayer with Mg concentration x range from 0 to 1. Our calculations show that MgZnO monolayer remains the graphene-like structure with various Mg concentrations. The phase segregation occurring in bulk systems has not been observed in the monolayer due to size effect, which is advantageous for application. Moreover, MgZnO monolayer exhibits interesting tuning of electronic structure and optical properties with Mg concentration. The band gap increases with increasing Mg concentration. More interestingly, a direct to indirect band gap transition is observed for MgZnO monolayer when Mg concentration is higher than 75 at %. We also predict that Mg doping leads to a blue shift of the optical absorption peaks. Our results may provide guidance for designing the growth process and potential application of MgZnO monolayer.
Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of the Marine Pyrroloiminoquinone Makaluvamines
Authors: Alonso Eva , Alvariño Rebeca , Leirós Marta , Tabudravu Jioji , Feussner Klaus , Dam Miriam , Rateb Mostafa , Jaspars Marcel , Botana Luis
Published: October 2016

Makaluvamines are pyrroloiminoquinones isolated from Zyzzya sponges. Until now, they have been described as topoisomerase II inhibitors with cytotoxic effects in diverse tumor cell lines. In the present work, seven makaluvamines were tested in several antioxidant assays in primary cortical neurons and neuroblastoma cells. Among the alkaloids studied, makaluvamine J was the most active in all the assays. This compound was able to reduce the mitochondrial damage elicited by the well-known stressor H2O2. The antioxidant properties of makaluvamine J are related to an improvement of the endogenous antioxidant defenses of glutathione and catalase. SHSY5Y assays proved that this compound acts as a Nrf2 activator leading to an improvement of antioxidant defenses. A low concentration of 10 nM is able to reduce the reactive oxygen species release and maintain a correct mitochondrial function. Based on these results, non-substituted nitrogen in the pyrrole plus the presence of a p-hydroxystyryl without a double bond seems to be the most active structure with a complete antioxidant effect in neuronal cells.
Human Lactobacillus Strains from the Intestine can Suppress IgE-Mediated Degranulation of Rat Basophilic Leukaemia (RBL-2H3) Cells
Authors: Harata Gaku , He Fang , Takahashi Kyoko , Hosono Akira , Miyazawa Kenji , Yoda Kazutoyo , Hiramatsu Masaru , Kaminogawa Shuichi
Published: October 2016

Mast cells play a critical role in immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergic diseases, and the degranulation of mast cells is important in the pathogenesis of these diseases. A disturbance of the intestinal microflora, especially of endogenous lactic acid bacteria, might be a contributing factor for IgE-mediated allergic diseases. Additional knowledge regarding the interaction of human intestinal Lactobacilli with mast cells is still necessary. Twenty-three strains of Lactobacilli, including commercial and reference strains and strains from the human intestine, were tested for their ability to regulate degranulation of cells from rat basophilic leukemia RBL-2H3 cells (RBL-2H3) in vitro based on a β-hexosaminidase release assay. Each of the tested Lactobacilli characteristically suppressed IgE-mediated degranulation of RBL-2H3 cells, and Lactobacillus GG showed the strongest inhibitory effect on the cells. Furthermore, the bacteria isolated from the human intestine significantly suppressed degranulation of RBL-2H3 cellsin comparison with the reference strains. These results suggest that Lactobacilli, particularly those from the human intestine, can affect the activation of mast cells in a strain-dependent manner. Further study should be conducted to analyse the understanding mechanism.
In-Line Sorting of Harumanis Mango Based on External Quality Using Visible Imaging
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd , Ahmad Sa’ad Fathinul , Zakaria Ammar , Md Shakaff Ali
Published: October 2016

The conventional method of grading Harumanis mango is time-consuming, costly and affected by human bias. In this research, an in-line system was developed to classify Harumanis mango using computer vision. The system was able to identify the irregularity of mango shape and its estimated mass. A group of images of mangoes of different size and shape was used as database set. Some important features such as length, height, centroid and parameter were extracted from each image. Fourier descriptor and size-shape parameters were used to describe the mango shape while the disk method was used to estimate the mass of the mango. Four features have been selected by stepwise discriminant analysis which was effective in sorting regular and misshapen mango. The volume from water displacement method was compared with the volume estimated by image processing using paired t-test and Bland-Altman method. The result between both measurements was not significantly different (P > 0.05). The average correct classification for shape classification was 98% for a training set composed of 180 mangoes. The data was validated with another testing set consist of 140 mangoes which have the success rate of 92%. The same set was used for evaluating the performance of mass estimation. The average success rate of the classification for grading based on its mass was 94%. The results indicate that the in-line sorting system using machine vision has a great potential in automatic fruit sorting according to its shape and mass.
An Optical Fiber Sensor and Its Application in UAVs for Current Measurements
Authors: Delgado Felipe , Carvalho João , Coelho Thiago , Dos Santos Alexandre
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we propose and experimentally investigate an optical sensor based on a novel combination of a long-period fiber grating (LPFG) with a permanent magnet to measure electrical current in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The proposed device uses a neodymium magnet attached to the grating structure, which suffers from an electromagnetic force produced when the current flows in the wire of the UAV engine. Therefore, it causes deformation on the sensor and thus, different shifts occur in the resonant bands of the transmission spectrum of the LPFG. Finally, the results show that it is possible to monitor electrical current throughout the entire operating range of the UAV engine from 0 A to 10 A in an effective and practical way with good linearity, reliability and response time, which are desirable characteristics in electrical current sensing.
The Use of Recombinant Feline Interferon Omega Therapy as an Immune-Modulator in Cats Naturally Infected with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus: New Perspectives
Authors: Leal Rodolfo , Gil Solange
Published: October 2016

Type I interferons (IFNs) are well-known cytokines that, among their main functions, are key components of the host immune response against viral infections. Due to its immune modulation properties, they are commonly used in the therapeutic approach of various retroviral infections, namely human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). In HIV infection, it has been shown that IFN therapy limits early viral replication, particularly useful on post-exposure prophylaxis. In veterinary medicine, recombinant feline interferon omega (rFeIFN-ω) was the first interferon licensed for use in cats. Several studies have recently shown that this compound seems to stimulate the innate immunity, decreasing clinical signs and co-infections in naturally FIV-infected cats. More than summarizing the main conclusions about rFeIFN-ω in cats, this review emphasizes the immune-modulation properties of IFN therapy, opening new perspectives for its use in retroviral infections. Either in FIV-infected cats or in HIV individuals, type I IFNs seem to induce an innate immune-modulation and should not be overlooked as a therapeutic option in retroviral infections.
THE EFFECTS OF INWARD AND OUTWARD FDI ON DOMESTIC INVESTMENT: EVIDENCE USING PANEL DATA OF ASEAN–8 COUNTRIES
Authors: TAN Bee Wah , GOH Soo Khoon , WONG Koi Nyen
Published: October 2016

In view of the changing FDI landscape, in particular, a drastic increase in out-ward FDI from developing and transition economies in recent years, this paper attempts to explore the possible impacts of outward FDI other than domestic savings and inward foreign direct investment on domestic investment. The major contribution of this study is that it is the first effort to empirically analyse the short- and long-run effects of the outward FDI using panel data of ASEAN–8 countries, which could provide useful policy implications for governments at both regional and international levels to achieve inclusive growth and sustainable development. Using pool mean group analysis, this paper finds that the gross domestic saving, inward FDI and outward FDI have a positive long-run impact on the gross domestic investment even though their long-run estimates are inelastic. The empirical study reveals that both inward FDI and outward FDI, to some extent, are complementary to the gross domestic investment.