bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing Gaps in Facilities Safety and Disaster Management: How Personnel Can Move From Muster Point to the Safe Zone in a High H2S Concentration Environment
Authors: Daher E.. , Dowd D.. , Kveps A..
Published: June 2015

The shift towards more challenging gas extraction development projects requires a deep understanding of the risks and challenges of operating in sour gas fields. While facilities are equipped with gas detection monitors, the risk of unexpected toxic gas release, pipe ruptures or leaks will always be greater among plant personnel.

Oil and gas facility personnel are trained to respond to emergencies. They know the layout of the facility and associated emergency procedures to include - escape routes, muster points, communication methods, and appropriate response to alarms. However, small group escape techniques using typical escape equipment may no longer be sufficient. It is imperative that the industry develop additional protection and evacuation methods. A potential solution is to use a highly mobile, self-contained breathing air system with 1000 cubic feet of air. This solution is designed to provide personnel with emergency protection and mobility at the same time. It comes equipped with emergency survival tools such as first aid kit, radio, flashlight, and Emergency Egress Breathing Apparatus (EEBA) to ensure that a team of nine personnel can gather at the muster point and proceed safely to the safe zone during an emergency.

This paper looks at the process, specifications, implementation and usability this solution to safely evacuate plant personnel in the event of a toxic gas release. By having multiple layers of protection and evacuation methods, facilities operators can prevent the loss of human life and update their Emergency Response Plan before a disaster occurs.

This paper also demonstrates that by taking a proactive role, operators and safety providers can pioneer innovative solutions to address safety gaps in sour gas field operation.
Comprehensive Gap Assessment of Complete Safety Management Systems with Systematic Analysis and Recommendations - A Successful Case Study
Authors: Donaldson B.. , Shah B.. , Daher E..
Published: June 2015

A comprehensive assessment of the industrial hydrocarbons production and storage facilities safety management system was conducted to benchmark current practices and systems, identify old and outdated procedures, document the gaps for improvement and provide recommended corrective actions.

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) applied 13 safety management elements and associated sub-elements vital to assessing the safety management system through the Gap Assessment Methodology. The assessment data and analysis were portrayed in a final report and presentation.

The report identified strengths and opportunities for improvement and assigned a Performance Rating against Oil and Gas industry best practices. Furthermore, it provided short, medium and long-term corrective actions and follow-on controls necessary to design strategic, tactical, and operative actions. These actions ensured adequate managerial, administrative, and operative systems for process safety in order to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of the plans and programs.

This paper presents a case study and outlines the details of the comprehensive assessment of the safety management system mainly covering: Management of Process SafetySafety aspects related to engineering, design, transaction and maintenance of facilitiesFactors responsible for incidents and accidentsThe risks associated with potential accidents and how they consequently influence the people, process, installation and environmentPlans and programs for the modification of facilities and work environment
Intelligent Control Techniques Applied to Improve the Performance of Water Treatment Facilities Bring Great Financial Benefits to the Colombian Oil Industry
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez H. R. , Grandas Grandas G.. , Pérez H. D.
Published: June 2015

This paper reports on the benefits of applying Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) over the traditional Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) approach to improve the operation reliability of plant of produced water treatment. Reservoir rocks normally contain both petroleum hydrocarbons and water. This water is frequently referred to as “connate water” or “formation water” and becomes produced water when the reservoir is produced and the fluids are brought to the surface

Produced water is the largest volume waste stream in the oil and gas exploration and production processes. Fluid produced in the Colombian Rubiales and Quifa oil field is composed by approximately 95% of water and 5% of oil. Separation of water from production fluid and its treatment and disposal are critical for the continuous of oil production.

Applying Fuzzy logic as automatic control approach for the facilities that separates the water and treats it has represented a 10% increase in the amount of water treated using the same installed infrastructure. This improvement represents savings in CAPEX of US $ 5.76 per barrel of water that is treated with the previously installed infrastructure. OPEX savings are significant and are related to operating costs that are avoided because (1) by not having to build additional plants to treat water that is processed with the current infrastructure no costs associated with its operation (2) due to the better functioning of treatment plants chemical consumption is reduced and (3) the automation improvement allows much better use of staff assigned to the facilities.

The benefits in operation of the plants associated with fuzzy logic control were achieved (1) on having maintained producing(operating) in more continuous form the water treatment plants, (2) Decreasing the shutdown of the facilities by reducing the variability of the process variables, and (3) by increasing the level of automation of the plants and the reliability in operation.

Application of intelligent control approach is a novelty in the industry of oil fields. The main control approach applied has been Proportional, Integral and Derivative (PID) approach.
Case study of Marquette-Lez-Lille WWTP: application of IFAS and THP for a city of the future
Authors: Zhao Xin , Ji Min , Elliott Mark , Chauzy Julien , Chen Xiaohua
Published: June 2015

The Lille metropolitan area awarded Veolia Water the contract to reconstruct the Marquette-lez-Lille wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in 2010, the biggest such facility in the north of France. The capacity of the new WWTP is 700,000 m³/day, serving a population of 620,000. It will be built on the site of the previous one, which is now obsolete.

The renovation work comprises four treatment lines, including wastewater, stormwater sludge treatment lines, and a deodorization line. By applying state-of-the-art design and proven technologies, especially Hybas™ and Exelys™-DLD, a sustainable development solution was provided to local communities.

The effluent from the new plant will meet the requirements of the European Water Framework Directive (Directive 2000/60/EC) on ‘good ecological status’ of water, and the treated storm water will be used to irrigate 7 hectares wetland. Compared with conventional digestion, the Exelys™-DLD configuration will further reduce sludge quantities by 30% and increase biogas production by 20%. Thereby, 94% of the power requirements will be supplied from the plant itself.

The water line started operating in February 2013, and commissioning of the sludge line, which started in July 2014, was expected to finish in February 2015. In this paper, the design concept of the sustainable development solution is presented, as well as the application of showcase technologies for wastewater and sludge treatment.
Hydrochemistry of groundwater from loose layer aquifer system in northern Anhui Province, China: source of major ions and hydrological implications
Authors: Sun Linhua
Published: June 2015

Groundwater from the loose layer aquifer system is important in northern Anhui Province, China, because it is an important water supplier for agriculture, industrial and domestic use. However, it is also a threat for the safety of coal mining. In this study, major ion concentrations of 43 groundwater samples from the loose layer aquifer system in Huaibei coalfield, northern Anhui Province, China have been measured and analyzed by EPA Unmix model for tracing their sources. The results suggest that they can be classified to be Na-Cl type according to their major ion concentrations. Statistical analysis (coefficients of variations and the Anderson–Darling normality test) indicates that more than one source is responsible for the major ions. Three sources have been identified by Umix model with different contributions for each sample, and the total dissolved solids contributed by the chloride, silicate-carbonate and sulfate sources are 10%, 47%, and 43%, respectively. The variations of contributions from the three sources for the samples probably relate to: (1) the inhomogeneity of mineral compositions and (2) the different locations (recharge or discharge) of the samples collected.
A low cost, reusable, sustainable, batch water purification system
Authors: Enders D. W. , Zuckerman A. L. , Fisch M. R.
Published: June 2015

There is a well-known water crisis throughout the world. This crisis has serious health implications and is especially severe in developing countries. Even though water is available in many locations, it is often polluted by microorganisms. We describe a system that is made of copper screen or foil in a closed container, either polyethylene or glass bottles that are used for killing microorganisms in batches of water of volume approximately 800 ml. In this system, a volume of microbe contaminated water is exposed to the metal in a container with a head space of air so that a water–air–metal interface is visible. The bottle is capped and agitated, usually by shaking, for 20–30 minutes. Other means of agitation also worked, such as walking with the container as if it were a canteen. By this process a sufficient number of microbes are eradicated and the water is made potable. A particulate filter made of cloth on top of a small gage screen or the like is used to remove large particulates; however, the system works well in its absence.
Point and non-point source nutrient loading simulation for the Takasaki River Basin, Chiba–Japan
Authors: Perera E. D. P. , Iwami Y. , Fukami K.
Published: June 2015

Urbanization, agriculture, fertilization, livestock farming and unprecedented precipitations are presumed to cause augmented loadings of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) to rivers and downstream reservoirs. At present, point source (PS) pollution in watersheds can easily be controlled, and it has been well-managed due to growing awareness and strict low enforcements. However, the control of pollutants from non-point sources (NPS) is still challenging and NPS have been identified as the main cause of water pollution and eutrophication in watersheds at present. Limitations in technical, human and financial resources impede efficient monitoring of those influents at watershed scale. At this end, process-based modelling approaches play an important role in analysis of nutrient loading effects quantitatively and qualitatively. Process-based water and energy processes (WEP) hydrological model with its updated version to couple nutrient loading through the implementation of N and P circulation processes was studied in this paper highlighting the application of the model to the Takasaki River, a tributary to the Inba-numa Lake basin, Chiba prefecture, Japan to understand the impacts of PS and NPS to the river water quality.
Heavy metals in coal mine groundwater responding to mining activity: concentration, temporal variation and speciation
Authors: Gui He-rong , Lin Man-li , Peng Wei-hua
Published: June 2015

Six groundwater samples were collected from four aquifers in Renlou coal mine, northern Anhui Province, China, and concentration, temporal variation and speciation of five heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) were analyzed. The results of physicochemical parameters and major ions showed that the selected groundwater were representative samples of Quaternary aquifer (QA), coal measure aquifer (CA), Taiyuan limestone aquifer (TA) and Ordovician limestone aquifer (OA). Cr, Ni and Zn increased in the four aquifers from 2002 to 2014, but Pb decreased from 2006 to 2014. Cu concentration increased in QA and TA, but decreased in CA and OA. Although all monitoring results met the standards recommended by WHO and GB5749-2006, Cr and Cu in some groundwater samples exceeded GB/T 14848-93, especially in CA. Soluble metallic hydroxides were the dominant species of heavy metals in QA, while free ions were the main species in TA and OA. Excepted Ni2+ and Zn2+, CuCO3(aq) and PbCO3(aq) were the dominant species of Cu and Pb in CA, respectively, indicating more CO2 had been flooded and dissolved in groundwater from ground atmospheric environment. The enhanced concentration and special dominant species of heavy metals revealed that the ‘closed’ characteristics of CA in Renlou coal mine might have been broken due to coal mining activity.
Inventory and recent changes of small glaciers on the northeast margin of the Southern Patagonia Icefield, Argentina
Authors: Masiokas M.H. , Delgado S. , Pitte P. , Berthier E. , Villalba R. , Skvarca P. , Ruiz L. , Ukita J. , Yamanokuchi T. , Tadono T. , Marinsek S. , Couvreux F. , Zalazar L.
Published: June 2015

Most glaciological studies in Argentina have focused on the large outlet glaciers of the Southern Patagonia Icefield (SPI); the numerous smaller neighboring glaciers have received significantly less attention. We present an inventory of 248 medium- to small-size glaciers (0.01–25 km2) adjacent to the northeast margin of the SPI, describe their change over the period 1979–2005 and assess local and regional climatic variations in an attempt to explain the observed glacier changes. Based on an ASTER mosaic from 20 February 2005 and the ASTER Global Digital Elevation Model, we identified a total glacier area of 187.2 ± 7.4 km2 between 600 and 2870 m a.s.l. Glaciers are largely debris-free and are concentrated in the western, more humid sector adjacent to the SPI. Using a 20 March 1979 US military intelligence Hexagon KH-9 satellite photograph, we measured a total areal reduction of ∼33.7 km2 (15.2%) between 1979 and 2005. Ablation season temperatures from the study area have followed a regional warming trend that could partly explain the observed glacier shrinkage. Annual precipitation estimates show a gradual decrease between 1979 and 2002 that may also have contributed to the ice mass loss.
Multiple Paternity and Preliminary Population Genetics of Giant Pacific Octopuses, Enteroctopus dofleini, in Oregon, Washington and the Southeast Coast of Vancouver Island, BC
Authors: Larson Shawn , Ramsay Catherine , Cosgrove James
Published: June 2015

A total of 77 giant Pacific octopus, Enteroctopus dofleini, tissue samples were collected from the Oregon Coast (OR), Neah Bay Washington (NB), Puget Sound Washington (PS) and the southeast coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada (BC) for genetic analyses. A suite of eight variable microsatellite markers developed from giant Pacific octopuses were amplified in these samples to determine population diversity, structure, relatedness and paternity. The majority of loci met Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium expectations within each population. We found moderate genetic diversity (average observed heterozygosity = 0.445, range = 0.307–0.515 and average expected heterozygosity = 0.567, range = 0.506–0.696) and moderate population structuring with distinct separation of groups (FST values ranged from 0.101 between BC and PS to 0.237 between BC and NB). Several egg strings from the BC population were collected from three female octopus dens for relatedness and paternity analyses. Results suggest strong support for multiple paternity within one egg clutch with progeny sired by between two to four males.
Early Diagnosis of Children with Classic Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Due to 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency by Newborn Screening
Authors: Dörr Helmuth , Odenwald Birgit , Nennstiel-Ratzel Uta
Published: June 2015

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) comprises a group of rare autosomal recessively inherited disorders of cortisol biosynthesis in the adrenal cortex. More than 95% are based on a defect in the CYP21A2 gene causing 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Newborn screening (NBS) for CAH by means of 17-hydroxy-progesterone (17-OHP) determination in dried whole blood on filter paper has been introduced as part of the NBS in many countries worldwide. The goals of CAH screening are early detection of the severe, salt-wasting form, therefore prevention of adrenal crisis or death, early detection of the simple virilizing form, and prevention or shortening of the period of incorrect gender assignment in females. Methodological problems of false-positive samples, especially in pre-term infants, can be corrected by adapting the cut-off values for 17-OHP to birth weight, gestational age and age at the time of collection and by performing a second tier screening. Despite a positive voting for newborn CAH screening by the European Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and the Lawson Wilkins Pediatric Endocrine Society, it is obvious that the acceptance of CAH screening varies worldwide.
Structure Transformation among Deca-, Dodeca- and Tridecavanadates and Their Properties for Thioanisole Oxidation
Authors: Kikukawa Yuji , Ogihara Kazuhiro , Hayashi Yoshihito
Published: June 2015

The transformation of three types of polyoxovanadates, {(n-C4H9)4N}3[H3V10O28], {(n-C4H9)4N}4[V12O32] and {(n-C4H9)4N}3[V13O34] have been investigated according to the rational chemical equations, and the best transformation conditions were reported. By the reaction of [H3V10O28]3− with 0.33 equivalents of {(n-C4H9)4N}OH in acetonitrile at 80 °C, [V12O32]4− was formed with 92% yield. The reaction in nitroethane with 0.69 equivalents of p-toluenesulfonic acid gave [V13O34]3− with 91% yield. The 51V NMR observation of each reaction suggests the complete transformations of [H3V10O28]3− to [V12O32]4− and to [V13O34]3− proceeded without the formation of any byproducts and it provides the reliable synthetic route. Decavanadates were produced by the hydrolysis of [V12O32]4− or [V13O34]3−. While the direct transformation of [V13O34]3− to [V12O32]4− partly proceeded, the reverse one could not be observed. For the thioanisole oxidation, [V13O34]3− showed the highest activity of the three.
Role of Neuropilin-1 in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Bondeva Tzvetanka , Wolf Gunter
Published: June 2015

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) often develops in patients suffering from type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. DN is characterized by renal injury resulting in proteinuria. Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is a single-pass transmembrane receptor protein devoid of enzymatic activity. Its large extracellular tail is structured in several domains, thereby allowing the molecule to interact with multiple ligands linking NRP-1 to different pathways through its signaling co-receptors. NRP-1’s role in nervous system development, immunity, and more recently in cancer, has been extensively investigated. Although its relation to regulation of apoptosis and cytoskeleton organization of glomerular vascular endothelial cells was reported, its function in diabetes mellitus and the development of DN is less clear. Several lines of evidence demonstrate a reduced NRP-1 expression in glycated-BSA cultured differentiated podocytes as well as in glomeruli from db/db mice (a model of type 2 Diabetes) and in diabetic patients diagnosed with DN. In vitro studies of podocytes implicated NRP-1 in the regulation of podocytes’ adhesion to extracellular matrix proteins, cytoskeleton reorganization, and apoptosis via not completely understood mechanisms. However, the exact role of NRP-1 during the onset of DN is not yet understood. This review intends to shed more light on NRP-1 and to present a link between NRP-1 and its signaling complexes in the development of DN.
The Use of Quaternary Ammonium to Combat Dental Caries
Authors: Ge Yang , Wang Suping , Zhou Xuedong , Wang Haohao , Xu Hockin , Cheng Lei
Published: June 2015

Resin composites and adhesives are increasingly popular in dental restorations, but secondary caries is one of the main reasons for restoration failure. Quaternary ammonium monomers (QAMs) have an anti-microbial effect and are widely used in many fields. Since the concept of the immobilized antibacterial effect was put forward, dental restorations containing QAMs have been studied to reduce secondary caries. Previous studies have been struggling to develop novel anti-caries materials which might have triple benefits: good mechanical properties, antibacterial effects and remineralization potentials. Different kinds of QAMs have been proven to be effective in inhibiting the growth and metabolism of biofilms. Combination of QAMs and other nanoparticles in resin composites and adhesives could enhance their anti-caries capability. Therefore, QAMs are promising to show significant impact on the future of restorative and preventive dentistry.
An Efficient Single Phase Method for the Extraction of Plasma Lipids
Authors: Alshehry Zahir , Barlow Christopher , Weir Jacquelyn , Zhou Youping , McConville Malcolm , Meikle Peter
Published: June 2015

Lipidomic approaches are now widely used to investigate the relationship between lipid metabolism, health and disease. Large-scale lipidomics studies typically aim to quantify hundreds to thousands of lipid molecular species in a large number of samples. Consequently, high throughput methodology that can efficiently extract a wide range of lipids from biological samples is required. Current methods often rely on extraction in chloroform:methanol with or without two phase partitioning or other solvents, which are often incompatible with liquid chromatography electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC ESI-MS/MS). Here, we present a fast, simple extraction method that is suitable for high throughput LC ESI-MS/MS. Plasma (10 μL) was mixed with 100 μL 1-butanol:methanol (1:1 v/v) containing internal standards resulting in efficient extraction of all major lipid classes (including sterols, glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids and sphingolipids). Lipids were quantified using positive-ion mode LC ESI-MS/MS. The method showed high recovery (>90%) and reproducibility (%CV < 20%). It showed a strong correlation of all lipid measures with an established chloroform:methanol extraction method (R2 = 0.976). This method uses non-halogenated solvents, requires no drying or reconstitution steps and is suitable for large-scale LC ESI-MS/MS-based lipidomic analyses in research and clinical laboratories.
Autogenous Tumbling Media Assessment to Clean Weathered Surfaces of Waste-Rock Particles from a Basalt Quarry
Authors: Tufan Baran
Published: June 2015

In this study, the optimum feed composition in autogenous tumbling of basalt waste-rock particles to clean their weathered surface was determined. The weathered surfaces of basalt are generally cut out consequent to extraction of basalt columns in quarry operations. The inefficiently cut out portions of basalt cause formation of huge quarry waste dumps causing visual pollution on roadsides. Mixtures of different particle size fractions of basalt waste-rock particles were experimented to achieve the optimum feed material composition. The minimum loss of commercially available basalt particles and maximum clear surface was intended. The results were compared with respect to weight loss (%) and reflectance values of used and generated samples.
The Non-Coding RNA Journal Club: Highlights on Recent Papers
Authors: Ferracin Manuela , Gautheret Daniel , Hubé Florent , Mani Sendurai , Mattick John , Andersson Ørom Ulf , Santulli Gaetano , Slotkin R. , Szweykowska-Kulinska Zofia , Taube Joseph , Vazquez Franck , Yang Jian-Hua
Published: June 2015

The number of papers dealing with new modus operandi or new biological functions of non-coding RNAs published in recent years has indeed exploded. A simple search for ‘non-coding RNA’ in Pubmed on 10 June 2015 yielded 128,649 articles, half of which were published in the last 10 years [1]. Every researcher in this field knows that he has something to learn and can discover new ideas, new concepts or new tools from studies made in models others than the ones used in its lab. The Scientific board of Non-Coding RNA publishes here its first Journal Club and highlights, in about hundred words, a selection of the most interesting papers published recently. We hope we will tease your curiosity and encourage you to read full papers outside of your research area that you may not have read otherwise. [...]
Electrical Characterization of 3D Au Microelectrodes for Use in Retinal Prostheses
Authors: Lee Sangmin , Ahn Jae , Seo Jong-Mo , Chung Hum , Cho Dong-Il
Published: June 2015

In order to provide high-quality visual information to patients who have implanted retinal prosthetic devices, the number of microelectrodes should be large. As the number of microelectrodes is increased, the dimensions of each microelectrode must be decreased, which in turn results in an increased microelectrode interface impedance and decreased injection current dynamic range. In order to improve the trade-off envelope between the number of microelectrodes and the current injection characteristics, a 3D microelectrode structure can be used as an alternative. In this paper, the electrical characteristics of 2D and 3D Au microelectrodes were investigated. In order to examine the effects of the structural difference, 2D and 3D Au microelectrodes with different base areas but similar effective surface areas were fabricated and evaluated. Interface impedances were measured and similar dynamic ranges were obtained for both 2D and 3D Au microelectrodes. These results indicate that more electrodes can be implemented in the same area if 3D designs are used. Furthermore, the 3D Au microelectrodes showed substantially enhanced electrical durability characteristics against over-injected stimulation currents, withstanding electrical currents that are much larger than the limit measured for 2D microelectrodes of similar area. This enhanced electrical durability property of 3D Au microelectrodes is a new finding in microelectrode research, and makes 3D microelectrodes very desirable devices.
The Promise of Preventive Cancer Vaccines
Authors: Lollini Pier-Luigi , Cavallo Federica , Nanni Patrizia , Quaglino Elena
Published: June 2015

Years of unsuccessful attempts at fighting established tumors with vaccines have taught us all that they are only able to truly impact patient survival when used in a preventive setting, as would normally be the case for traditional vaccines against infectious diseases. While true primary cancer prevention is still but a long-term goal, secondary and tertiary prevention are already in the clinic and providing encouraging results. A combination of immunopreventive cancer strategies and recently approved checkpoint inhibitors is a further promise of forthcoming successful cancer disease control, but prevention will require a considerable reduction of currently reported toxicities. These considerations summed with the increased understanding of tumor antigens allow space for an optimistic view of the future.
Using Pressure and Alteration Indicators to Assess River Morphological Quality: Case Study of the Prahova River (Romania)
Authors: Ioana-Toroimac Gabriela , Zaharia Liliana , Minea Gabriel
Published: June 2015

River morphological quality assessment, derived from quantification of human pressures as well as river channel alteration, is a demand of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) in terms of integrating hydromorphological elements in defining ecological status. Our study’s aim is to contribute to the hydromorphological evaluation by proposing indicators and separating classes, based on a revisited Morphological Quality Index (rMQI) protocol. The rMQI is based on 12 indicators of human pressures, 10 indicators of channel form adjustments, and 11 indicators of functionality. The rMQI scoring system allows for the quantification of changes when compared to reference conditions, be they undisturbed or nearly undisturbed by human interventions, with absent channel adjustments and a functioning natural river style. We used the lower, meandering sector of the Prahova River to demonstrate our assessment methodology. The Lower Prahova River suffers from a minor local intervention and a diminishing intensity of fluvial processes specific to a meandering style. Meanders geometry was affected by significant changes that included a decrease in the radius of curvature, width and width–to–mean–depth ratio. We concluded that the Lower Prahova River has a good morphological quality, which is rated as second class on a scale of five levels, from natural to severely modified. We recommend an improvement in the hydromorphological evaluation protocol in Romania by additional indicators for morphological alterations specific to each channel pattern.
Aménagement des campagnes tunisiennes. Enjeux et contradictions (Countryside planning in Tunisia. Stakes and contradictions)
Authors: Cherif Abdallah , Kassah Abdelfettah
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Les campagnes tunisiennes ont connu après l'Indépendance d'importantes mutations. L'évolution du système foncier et le développement de l'agriculture irriguée ont constitué deux axes majeurs de l'intervention de l'Etat et symbolisent à la fois les enjeux et les contradictions de l'aménagement de l'espace rural.
Les aspects financiers, bancaires et monétaires de la position suisse face à l'intégration européenne (The swiss financial, banking and monetary position in the context of the european integration)
Authors: Dérobert Michel Y.
Published: June 2015

Zusammenfassung. - Der eidgenössische Finanzplatz muss mit einer strengeren Konkurrenz innerhalb Europas rechnen. Die schweizer Finanzinstitutionen müssen immer mehr in der Europäischen Gemeinschaft vertreten sein. Sie und die schweizer Wirtschaft treten positiv fur eine Annäherung ein. Die Entscheidung ist jedoch eine Staatssache.
Les entreprises suisses face au marché unique (The swiss enterprises in the context of the european integration)
Authors: Wackermann Gabriel
Published: June 2015

Zusammenfassung. - Obwohl die Schweiz nicht Mitglied der Europäischen Gemeinschaft ist, ist ihre eigne Entwicklung auf dem Kontinent und insgesamt in der Welt so dynamisch, dass die mannigfaltige Verknüpfungen verursacht hat und somit eng am Aufbau des vereinten Marktes mitbeteiligt ist : Ihre Firmen haben wichtige internationale Verflechtungen bewirkt, welche in unserem neuen Wirtschaftszeitalter — auf überwiegend Dienstleisfungsstrukturen und Kommunikationsnetze aufgebaut - stark auf die europäische Entwicklung auswirken. Diesen Einflusverdankt das Land nicht nur der Synergie seiner Unternehmen innerhalb und ausserhalb des Staates, sondern auch seiner kulturellen Verwurzelung und Viel- fältigkeit.
Les Romanches ou la quatrième Suisse. Une minorité historique de l'arc alpin (The Rumantsch people or the fourth Switzerland. An historical minority in the Alps)
Authors: Rougier Henri , Sanguin André-Louis
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Les Romanches constituent l'une des minorités ethniques les moins connues en Europe malgré son ancienneté. Localisée dans le canton suisse des Grisons, cette minorité fait aujourd'hui face à des défis politico-géographiques de grande ampleur. Soumis à une germanisation accélérée depuis deux siècles, les Romanches sont confrontés à différents obstacles rendant difficile la résolution de la question romanche dans le sens d'un plein épanouissement culturel, économique et politique.
L'individualité helvétique à la lumière de la géographie des frontières (The Rhine as a swiss frontier)
Authors: Deïcha Igor
Published: June 2015

Zusammenfassung. - Während von Basel ab der Rhein eine natürliche Grenze darstellt, deren geopolitischer Wert oft bestritten wurde, bildet dieser europäische Fluss, in seinem alpinen Teil, die seit langem friedlichen Grenzen der Schweizerischen Eidgenossenschaft. Die folgende Studie setzt sich mit den historischen Gründen (religiösen, kulturellen und ökonomischen) dieser Situation auseinander, insbesondere betreffend den schweizer Bezirk Werdenberg, Liechtenstein und Vorarberg. Die heutigen Gründe des harmonischen Bestehens dieser Grenzen, welche ihre Wurzeln in der Zeit des Rheinbundes finden, könnten die Arbeiten des Strasburger Parlaments glücklich beeinflussen und somit zu einer besseren übergrenzlichen Kooperation führen.
A l'Est, des agricultures en transition : la question de la réversibilité (East central european agricultures in transition)
Authors: Maurel Marie-Claude
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - La transition des agricultures est-européennes vers l'économie de marché pose la question de la réversibilité du processus de collectivisation des terres, des moyens de production, mais également de l'organisation du travail agricole. Après un hiatus de plusieurs décennies le retour des terres dans les mains des anciens propriétaires ne peut être envisagé sans entraîner de redoutables problèmes juridiques. L'élaboration de nouvelles lois constitue un enjeu politique de première importance. Dans quelles conditions la reconstitution d'une agriculture de producteurs indépendants est-elle possible ? En transformant les agriculteurs en quasi-salariés, l'organisation collective du travail n'a-t-elle pas détruit le rapport à la terre ?
L'agriculture polonaise et le choc du marché (Familial holdings and the market in the polish agriculture)
Authors: Maurel Marie-Claude
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - L'agriculture polonaise, en majorité constituée d'exploitants familiaux, peut faire l'économie d'une décollectivisation à grande échelle. Cependant, du fait de son insertion dans une économie dirigée, l'agriculture paysanne a subi de graves déformations. Les premiers effets du marché ont été brutaux pour les exploitants privés.
Les scrutins de 1990 à la campagne en Bulgarie (Rural vote in Bulgaria in 1990)
Authors: Billault M.
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Lors du premier scrutin pluraliste, la Bulgarie a voté massivement (46 %) pour l'ex-Parti Communiste. Ce choix reflète les pesanteurs sociologiques et le conservatisme des campagnes face aux villes qui ont voté pour l'U.F.D.
Chronique d'un village de Valachie, Poeni (A village in central Wallachia, Poeni)
Authors: Sivignon Michel , Trebucq Laurence
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Poeni est le chef-lieu d'une commune de Valachie Centrale. Promis à la «systématisation», le village y a échappé grâce aux événements de 1989. Des lopins de terre ont été redistribués aux coopérateurs en 1990, mais déjà la nouvelle Loi Foncière du 14 février 1991 prévoit le démantèlement total des coopératives, la constitutions d'une nouvelle société de petits exploitants familiaux. Son succès dépend de la capacité des campagnes roumaines à reconstituer leur tissu social.
Mutations et incertitudes des campagnes yougoslaves. L'exemple d'une coopérative croate (Changes and uncertainties in Yugoslavian countries. A case study)
Authors: Zrinscak Georgette
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - La Yougoslavie connaît depuis 1989 de nombreux changements étudiés à travers le cas de la coopérative agricole Puris, située en Istrie, tournée vers l'élevage des volailles. Elle a été touchée par les réformes. La structure foncière reste stable. On examine leurs effets sur l'organisation et la direction de l'entreprise modifiées dans le sens d'une meilleure efficacité. L'ouverture sur les marchés extérieurs reste faible.
Évaluer pour faire apprendre : l’évaluation formative différée en EPS
Authors: Mougenot Lucie
Published: June 2015

Le rôle actif de l’évaluation scolaire dans l’apprentissage, par le biais des évaluations formatives, est aujourd’hui démontré (Allal, 1991 ; Scallon, 2000). Cependant, les effets réels de tels dispositifs sont difficilement mesurables au quotidien. Nous nous sommes intéressés ici à l’impact de l’évaluation formative différée sur la progression des élèves en EPS, dans le but de préciser les domaines spécifiques de progression. Cet article présente une étude de terrain menée dans le secondaire en EPS (n = 50). Deux classes ont suivi une séquence d’apprentissage identique en jeu collectif, mais chacune a vécu un dispositif formatif spécifique. Les principaux résultats montrent que seul le groupe ayant vécu des évaluations formatives différées, avec recours à la verbalisation, progresse de façon significative. Les élèves prennent des décisions plus pertinentes, ce qui entraîne une forte progression dans l’efficacité des actions motrices engagées.
Prespawning Movements and Spawning Distribution of Sockeye Salmon in an Urbanizing Alaskan Lake
Authors: Ray James D.M. , Sethi Suresh A. , Eiler John H. , Joyce John E.
Published: June 2015

The efficacy of fish habitat conservation in land planning processes in Alaska is often constrained by the extent of current knowledge of fish distributions and habitat use. In response to requests for information from land and salmon resource management stakeholders regarding Auke Lake sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) status and life history, we examined the prespawning movements and spawning distribution of adult sockeye salmon to provide ecological information needed for Auke Lake watershed management. We used radiotelemetry to track the movements of 80 fish in the Auke Lake watershed during 2012. The prespawning distribution of the fish was not random, indicating five spatially and temporally distinct high-use staging areas within the lake. The Auke Lake sockeye salmon population was dominated by stream-spawning fish (98.5%), with minimal lakeshore spawning (1.5%) observed in association with a small intermittent tributary of the lake. The prespawning distribution patterns identified in this study corroborate observations from Auke Lake 20 y ago, indicating consistent habitat use patterns by sockeye salmon in the lake. Telemetry data also indicate 12% of sockeye salmon expired in Auke Lake without spawning and that 14% of stream-spawning fish were preyed upon by black bear (Usrus americanus). The prespawning and spawning behavior by Auke Lake sockeye salmon suggest that discrete lake staging areas and stream spawning beds are important candidate habitats for protection during the land planning process for shoreline development surrounding the lake.
A Framework of Brand Strategy and the “Glocalization” Approach
Authors: Japutra Arnold , Nguyen Bang , Melewar T. C.
Published: June 2015

Indonesia is one of the stars among emerging market countries. As these markets are growing, Indonesia stands out for having a very diverse culture (i.e. ranked 6th within Asia for ethnic fractionalization and cultural diversity score). In this chapter, we develop a branding strategy framework to successfully operate in such market since a successful strategy in one country may not be applicable in another country. A brand thus needs to understand the glocal approach. Reviewing extant literature and focusing on Indonesia as the international market setting, this chapter offers several contributions: First, it identifies challenges that companies face in building a strong international brand. Second, it offers a framework of brand strategy that is prominent in order to build and/or strengthen brand in a culturally diverse market. To successfully develop a brand in such market, three important factors need attention: (1) glocalization, (2) consumer-brand relationships, and (3) societal marketing.
Adoption of Biomass Heating Systems
Authors: García-Maroto Inmaculada , Muñoz-Leiva Francisco
Published: June 2015

During the past decade, the European directives have been taking into consideration some compulsory objectives concerning the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (including biomass) within the European Union and its Member States. This chapter identifies the main socio-economic determinants that affect the adoption of biomass heating systems, as well as a description and listing of potential adopters of this type of systems in the European market. Based on the theories of adoption of innovations or of new systems and their personal factors, the practical was focused on potential adopters of biomass heating systems living in Spain, Germany, UK, France, Norway and Sweden. In particular, we conducted a cross-market segmentation of these countries. This study also includes interesting recommendations related to the commercialization and development of this type of heating for end-consumers.
Foreign Language Display in Advertising from a Psycholinguistic and Sociolinguistic Perspective
Authors: Hornikx Jos , van Meurs Frank
Published: June 2015

When targeting consumers on a global scale, companies make strategic use of languages in their advertising campaigns. This chapter presents an overview of theories and research regarding the effectiveness of the use of foreign languages (foreign language display, FLD) in advertising. The aim is to bring together theories and empirical studies from various domains, and to show principled explanations for the effectiveness of FLD from two perspectives. The first, psycholinguistic perspective examines the way in which foreign languages in advertising are mentally processed; the second, sociolinguistic perspective links the foreign language use to characteristics of the country where the foreign language is typically spoken. This chapter presents empirical evidence for the benefits and drawbacks of FLD, and identifies areas for further research.
The Moderating Role of Language on Perceived Risk and Information-Processing Online
Authors: Alcántara-Pilar Juan Miguel , del Barrio-García Salvador , Crespo-Almendros Esmeralda , Porcu Lucia
Published: June 2015

The present study analyzes whether the cultural values associated with a given language affect perceived risk online and information-processing by website users. We propose an information-processing model for the online context in which perceived risk online is an antecedent and consumer loyalty towards the service is the ultimate outcome. We chose a processing language (Spanish vs. English) between-subjects experimental design. The final sample comprised 227 individuals, 52% of whom browsed the site in their mother tongue, and 48% in a second language. The results demonstrated that the cultural dimension ‘uncertainty avoidance' moderates the effect of perceived risk on perceived ease of use and usefulness. Attitude towards the website is influenced by perceived ease of use or perceived usefulness, depending on whether the language used to process the information on the site conveys cultural values with a shorter or longer-term orientation.
Cultural and Collective Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Venezuela
Authors: García-Lozano Soledad Torrecuadrada , Castro Vladimir Aguilar , Lorente Carlos Grimaldo
Published: June 2015

In this chapter, the authors attempt to demonstrate that respect for cultural identity of all human groups should be seen as a fundamental right. Ignoring Collective rights of indigenous peoples, those related to their cultural traditions, generally causes the lack of respect. Thus, knowledge of the cultural manifestations and their origin and meaning (as part of the history of the territories they inhabit) can conquer this respect on a par with its defense. This obviously with comprehensive training aimed to sensitize the general population in the positive assessment it deserves it different. The actions of nation-states governments with strong indigenous population has been characterized, until recently, by a remarkable disregard for indigenous cultures, having as a result the result of which such attitude, today from the non - indigenous perspective indigenous cultural manifestations are reduced to colorful folklore shows, when not seen as backward and primitive traditions. This chapter delves deeply into the legal framework for the protection of collective and cultural rights of indigenous peoples. The authors also attempt to show the weaknesses of the law and how states should act to strengthen them. Proposed article does emphasis on indigenous traditional knowledge and not in a wider debate on the topic of knowledge in general.
Open Modelling for Simulators
Authors: Edmonds Bruce , Polhill Gary
Published: June 2015

This chapter motivates and discusses the process of making a simulation model available for others to freely inspect and use. Firstly, it outlines the three reasons why this is necessary: democratic right, scientific scrutiny, and public value extraction. Then it describes the basic steps for doing this, including: making code comprehensible, documentation and licensing. It then describes some further things one might do when releasing a complex model to help ensure it is understood and re-used appropriately. It briefly looks as some tools and approaches to help in all this, and ends with a discussion about the change in underlying “modelling culture” that is needed.
Invisible Community?
Authors: Bonnand Sheila , Hansen Mary Anne
Published: June 2015

In this chapter, Montana State University librarians share how they have expanded efforts to reach out to and provide equitable instruction services for its online graduate students, a population often underserved. After piloting a synchronous, online instruction program using web conferencing, librarians surveyed a targeted graduate program to determine if underserved students became more efficient researchers as a result of library instruction participation via web conferencing and if they are now taking fuller advantage of library resources and services. Students and faculty surveyed were positive about the newly created connection to the MSU community. However, findings revealed that many online graduate students work in research environments lacking the breadth and depth of resources they need. Further, many lack a connection to the MSU community and do not know that their institution's library resources are available to them. This discovery means that academic libraries should strengthen activities designed to build community among online students.
Building a Scholarly Network in Learning Communities at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln
Authors: Maxey-Harris Charlene , Dawes Lorna M.
Published: June 2015

In 2011 the Chancellor at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) charged each department and academic unit within the university to create programs and strategies to increase student enrollment within the next six years. The UNL Libraries embraced this goal by becoming more involved in the first-year experience programs and the first-year learning communities. This chapter will outline how the UNL Libraries gained library administration support to hire a Learning Communities/First-Year Experience Librarian and describe how they applied the theory of threshold concepts to develop a series of workshops and e-booklets to teach information literacy skills to students affiliated with the William H. Thompson Scholars Learning Community. These two initiatives will demonstrate how UNL Libraries built connections with campus units and services to become actively involved in student enrollment and retention.
“Everything to Gain”
Authors: De Jager-Loftus Danielle P. , Moore Abby
Published: June 2015

This chapter seeks to provide an overview of how academic librarians at the University of South Dakota's (USD) University Libraries are making steps to impact pre-college information literacy instruction and college preparation through collaborative outreach. There is much to be gained from establishing an ongoing dialog and formal relationships between academic librarians, campus programs, high school teachers, and school librarians. Using the existing literature and examples of partnership experiences, this chapter identifies best practices, which can improve student information literacy skills upon arrival at college, ensure students' academic success, increase student retention rates and increase exposure of the institution.